What are My Fire Extinguisher Signage Requirements?

Fire extinguisher signage requirements are detailed in National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards along with requirements listed by Occupational Safety and Hazard Association (OSHA).  OSHA standard 1910.57 states that portable fire extinguishers are required to have visual inspections performed every month, along with a required annual inspection by a certified fire extinguisher professional.  

NFPA10 is the standard that outlines fire extinguisher signage and inspection requirements, including four inspection categories consisting of monthly, annually, hydrostatic and six-year testing inspection requirements.

Fire Extinguisher Monthly Visual Inspections

Monthly visual inspections may be performed on portable fire extinguishers by the business owner or homeowner, it must be recorded on the extinguisher tags. Every fire extinguisher has tags to record the annual maintenance along with a backside that has spaces to record all 12 monthly visual inspections. Maintaining these visual inspections is important for the safety of your building occupants as well as to maintain OSHA compliance.  

Monthly visual inspections should include checking the following:

• Ensure the safety seal is not broken
• Be sure the hose is not blocked
• Make sure instructions are still legible
• Check the pressure gauge to be sure the extinguisher is fully charged

Fire Extinguisher Annual Inspection Requirements

Only certified, licensed and trained professional fire extinguisher personnel can perform annual inspections, this in-depth inspection requires checking the delivery system of the fire suppressing agent and the mechanical parts of the portable extinguisher itself.  Evidence of these annual inspections is required to be shown on the tag itself to verify compliance.

Licensed Fire Extinguisher Companies in Chicago

High Rise Security Systems is a licensed and professional fire extinguisher service Company, offering professional fire and safety services for all types of commercial buildings.  We ensure that your building is compliant to all fire extinguisher signage requirements and protected beyond code regulations.

HRSS offers decades of experience in protecting commercial properties with code compliant fire and safety systems and inspections. Contact us today to learn more and to speak with a professional fire alarm system specialist.