Commercial Fire Extinguisher Inspection Requirements

Fire extinguishers are a critical piece of an overall fire alarm and safety system as they provide the first line of defense to extinguish a fire before it becomes uncontrollable, dangerous and deadly. It is important for all commercial properties to maintain recommended extinguisher inspection requirements so that your extinguisher will be ready when needed.  

All fire extinguishers are required to be inspected internally on a monthly basis and annually by a professional and licensed fire extinguisher service company.  Monthly inspections should be recorded on the back of the tag with the initials of the person doing the internal inspection. Fire extinguisher professionals should record their inspection on the tag with their annual inspections.

Monthly internal extinguisher inspections must include:

• checking the pressure gauge to be sure it is pointed to green and ready to go
• a visual inspection to be sure there is no rust or corrosion on the extinguisher
• verification of overall readiness and easy access

Annual extinguisher inspection requirements from a licensed professional must include:

• Overall visual inspection of the unit and components for readiness
• Verifying the pressure is adequate with the pressure gauge
• Locking pins and valves are in place and undamaged
• Verification of the chemical compound and weight of the extinguisher
• Any required six-year inspections on extinguishers six years old from the manufacture date
• 12 year required inspections that include in-depth service and recharging

High-Rise Security Systems Offers Licensed Extinguisher Inspections

HRSS provides licensed fire extinguisher inspections for all types of commercial properties in and around the Chicago area. We offer professional extinguisher services for all types of extinguishers including those rated for class A, B, C, D, and class K fires.  We make sure that your fire protection system is ready to use and provides a reliable protection intended to contain any fires before they become an uncontrollable.

HRSS is recognized as a leading fire and safety systems provider, offering professional and licensed inspection and testing services of your fire alarm system including portable extinguishers. Contact us today to learn more and to speak with a fire protection specialist for all your extinguisher inspection requirements.

Help with Fire Extinguisher Installation Requirements

Portable fire extinguishers are an important part of your fire and safety system, providing the first line of defense when a fire erupts often preventing escalation to a dangerous and uncontrollable blaze. Installing fire extinguishers, however, requires some knowledge of the regulations regarding insulation and placement of portable extinguishers.

That National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) details the recommended guidelines for installation and use of fire extinguishers in NFPA10.  The NFPA is nationally recognized as the leading source of fire and safety plan requirements, with most local and state jurisdictions requiring adherence to the standards for code compliance.

Fire Extinguisher Service Companies in Chicago

High-Rise Security Systems is an experienced and licensed fire and safety consulting firm, offering comprehensive fire alarm services including proper placement and installation of fire extinguishers. We begin with a thorough design to ensure your extinguishers are installed in the right location for code compliance and fire protection safety.  

We can help to answer any questions you may have regarding proper placement and use of your fire extinguishers and offer ongoing fire extinguisher inspections, testing and maintenance.

Our licensed and experienced technicians follow a comprehensive checklist during your annual inspections of portable fire extinguishers. Our annual inspections include checking the following:

• Visual inspections to check for rust, dust or corrosion    
• Proper placement as all portable fire extinguishers must be mounted properly and easily accessible
• Visually check to be sure the safety pin is not damaged and still in the proper place
• Inspect the pressure gauge to be sure the unit is charged with full pressure
• Verify the manufacture date of all extinguishers which require additional service at six and 12 years
• Inspect the lever and handle for smooth operation
• Be sure the discharge hose and nozzle is in good working order and free of cracks
• Review the testing history to determine whether additional maintenance or hydrostatic testing is required
• Update all inspection tag requirements

High-Rise Security Systems is and experienced and licensed fire safety consulting firm offering comprehensive services to commercial properties in and around Chicago. We provide complete fire alarm system design, code compliance and data sheets for permit approval. Contact us today to learn more about our fire extinguisher installation and inspection services.

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.

What Type of Fire Extinguisher Do I Need?

Fire extinguishers provide the first line of defense and controlling flames before they turn into an uncontrollable, destructive or deadly blaze.  They are a critical component of any fire prevention system but battling a fire with the wrong type of extinguisher could be completely ineffective and a dire mistake. Know exactly what type of fire extinguisher you need for the type of fires that could erupt in your building or on your property based on a thorough risk analysis.

A knowledgeable fire and safety systems provider can help in your risk analysis and determination of the correct type of extinguishers needed, and the proper locations according to code requirements.

Classes of Fires

The various types of fires are referred to as classes and are as follows:

·         Class A fires erupting from ordinary combustibles such as paper, cloth, wood, rubber and many plastics are labeled as class A fires.

·         Class B fires include flammable liquids such as oil, gasoline, oil-based paints, petroleum greases, alcohol, solvents, and flammable gases such as butane and propane. Class B fires do not include fires from cooking grease and oils.

·         Class C fires involve energized electrical equipment such as motors, transformers, appliances, and computers.

·         Class D fires include combustible metals such as lithium, titanium, zirconium, magnesium, sodium and potassium.

·         Class K fires referred to fires starting from hot grease or oil in a commercial kitchen setting

Types of Extinguishers for the Different Classes of Fires

• Dry Chemical fire extinguishers are the most widely used type of portable extinguisher found in businesses and public places, and is effective on Class A, B and C fires. The dry chemical extinguisher is effective by creating a barrier between the fuel elements and oxygen. Be sure your dry chemical extinguisher is rated for class A, B and C, as some ordinary dry chemical extinguishers are effective on only class B and C fires.
• Water and Foam extinguishers are effective on Class A fires only and will not be effective and should not be used on Class B or C fires.
• Carbon Dioxide extinguishers work by removing the oxygen elements and also removing the heat with an extremely cold discharge. I went outside extinguishers are effective and can only be used on Class B and C fires and are ineffective on Class A fires.
• Dry Powder fire extinguishers should be used for Class D combustible model fires only and will be ineffective on all other classes of fire.
• Wet Chemical fire extinguishers are typically used in commercial cooking facilities and kitchens were deep fat fryers are used. These are effective by removing the heat in creating a barrier between the fuel and oxygen elements.

It is vitally important to use the correct type of fire extinguisher for the class of fire creating potential risk. Contact an experienced and knowledgeable fire and safety systems expert for the proper type of extinguisher and correct placement to meet all code regulations.

High-rise security systems is and experienced and knowledgeable fire and safety system design, integration and consulting firm offering high-performing, reliable equipment and monitoring 24/7/365. We are knowledgeable on all classes of fires and proper portable extinguisher placement. Contact us today to speak with a fire detection and prevention specialist experienced in all commercial applications.

Fire Extinguisher Inspection Companies in Chicago

If you need a fire extinguisher inspection company near Chicago, High Rise Security Systems is a leading fire and safety system specialists serving the Chicagoland and surrounding areas for over 15 years. HRSS understands the importance of prompt and knowledgeable attention, excelling in customer service and value-added services.

Portable fire extinguishers are a critical component of fire detection and protection systems, providing the means to extinguish flames before they become an uncontrollable, costly or deadly blaze.  

High-Rise Security Systems Provides Fire Extinguisher Inspections

HRSS employees only licensed field and factory trained technicians to provide thorough inspections as mandated by local municipalities.  We are experienced in NFPA 10 which is recognized as the portable fire extinguishers standards required by most authorities having jurisdiction and local municipalities as the guidelines required to provide optimum performance.

Our fire extinguisher inspection checklist includes:

• Visual inspection of entire unit, checking for rust or corrosion
• Location and placement of the extinguisher must be easily accessible and properly mounted
• Safety pin must be in place and not damaged
• Pressure gauge must show an agreement and not pointed to recharge and should be fully pressurized
• The discharge hose and nozzle must be free of cracks and in good working order
• The lever and handle should operate smoothly and be clean and free from dust or debris
• The manufacture date must be tracked is all extinguishers need additional service at six years and again at 12 years from date of manufacture
• Additional maintenance such as hydrostatic testing is performed when required
• Proper identification and certification tags are provided on all extinguishers

High Rise Security Systems is certified to the national Institute for engineering technologies, NICET, and knowledgeable of all code requirements for any type of commercial structure including the city ordinances of Chicago, local and state regulations and federal code requirements.

We ensure that your building is up to code for all NFPA regulations, International Building Code, IBC, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, OSHA, Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA, and all local and state requirements. We are familiar with low-rise and high-rise structures, multi-unit structures and sprawling campuses.

High Rise Security Systems is recognized as a leading fire and safety systems expert, often called upon for our input and guidance in the design and integration of intelligent fire detection and prevention systems. Contact us today to learn more about our fire system services including fire extinguisher inspections.

Are You Looking for a Fire Extinguisher Service Company?

Maintaining your fire extinguishers is a critical component of an effective fire prevention plan and is mandated by code regulations. Fire extinguishers provide the first response to extinguishing a fire before it erupts into an uncontrollable blaze.  It is vitally important to have the proper fire extinguisher in good working order in the right location to control a fire, thus saving property, equipment and lives.

Fire Extinguisher Service for All Types

Make sure that your portable fire extinguisher company has experience and knowledge with various types of fire extinguishers rated for all types of fires including Class A, B, C, D or K fires. The most common type of portable fire extinguishers located in businesses and public places are rated for Class A, B and C fires. These are dry chemical, multi purpose extinguishers that work by interrupting the chemical reaction occurring in the fire.

Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers are ineffective for class A fires and are only rated for Class B and C fires. The guidelines for maintenance and use of carbon dioxide extinguishers are detailed in NFPA 12, issued by the National Fire Protection Association.

Class D fire extinguishers are effective only on class D fires and would be ineffective on any other type of fire. Class D extinguishers operate with a dry powder rather than a dry chemical, and work by separating the oxygen from the fuel source which removes the heat.

Wet chemical fire extinguishers are effective in treating class K fires which occur when a hot oil or grease is ignited such as in the kitchen of a restaurant. Class K extinguishers are often located in an overhead kitchen hood as part of an automatic extinguisher system. NFPA 17A details the recommended guidelines when using my chemical extinguishers.

NFPA 10 contains the guidelines for all portable fire extinguishers and recommendations to maintain maximum working performance.

High Rise Security Systems, HRSS, is a leading fire and safety system specialist offering licensed fire extinguisher services in the state of Illinois. Contact us today to speak with a knowledgeable technician for help with your fire extinguisher maintenance program.

Best Available Fire Extinguisher Inspection Cost

When you’re looking for the best available fire extinguisher inspection cost, you should consider using this checklist to verify that you are getting the overall best value for your money.  Here are some things to consider when evaluating your fire extinguisher inspection costs:

                1.  Check for an experienced and established fire and safety system provider – an experienced fire and safety system provider will have knowledge of the various requirements that your fire system must adhere to.  

                2.  Ask about knowledge of required codes and compliance issues with fire extinguishers -  your fire extinguisher provider should be aware of NFPA code requirements, IBC and ADA regulations as well.  

                3.  Ask about the level of choices and control that you have – learn your options with system design, upgrades, maintenance and service.  

                4.  Make sure your provider knows which type of extinguisher to use in your application – with various types of extinguishers used for different classes of fires, make sure your fire extinguisher inspection company know the best type of portable extinguisher to use in your environment.

With an experienced fire and safety service provider, one that has vast knowledge of all necessary codes requirements and regulations, you will have a well thought out plan for your fire and safety system.  

High Rise Security Systems Provides Fire Extinguisher Service

High Rise Security Systems is a leading fire and safety consulting firm with vast experience in designing, maintaining, repairing and even monitoring 24/7/365.  We employ skilled designers trained in AutoCAD and fire safety codes to develop your ideal fire safety system solution.  We have experience in building code requirements including the American with Disabilities Act (ADA), the International Building Code (IBC) and all applicable standards from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

For experienced and knowledgeable fire and safety system design, including proper placement and maintenance of your portable fire extinguisher system, contact High Rise Security Systems today.

High Rise Security System is licensed in the state of Illinois for portable fire extinguisher service, and has vast knowledge of all applicable code requirements including local building codes enforced in the city of Chicago.  Contact us today to speak with a knowledgeable fire and safety system specialists to learn how to get the best available fire extinguisher inspection cost.

Fire Extinguisher Alarm System Inspection Services

Are you looking for an experienced fire extinguisher alarm system inspection company?  Portable fire extinguishers are an important part of your fire alarm safety system, and must be inspected by a licensed fire extinguisher service company to maintain their readiness to extinguish a fire, before developing into an uncontrollable blaze.  

Fire Extinguisher Inspection Requirements

Portable fire extinguishers must be inspected each month internally, and inspected by a licensed fire protection service company annually.  These inspections should be documented on the tag supplied on each fire extinguisher, after each inspection. 

Monthly inspections should include:      

• Verifying that the extinguisher has not been used
• Checking the pressure
• Visual inspection checking for corrosion or defects
• Verifying easy access and readiness of the extinguisher

Annual Inspections by licensed fire protection companies should include:

• Visual inspection
• Check locking pins and valves
• Checking pressure gauges
• Check the weight and presence of chemical compound
• Perform all annual testing requirements and document tag compliance
• 6-year maintenance inspections required on the 6^th year of manufacture date
• 12-year recharge services and in-depth service checks

High Rise Security Systems Provides Licensed Fire Extinguisher Service

HRSS is licensed fire extinguisher alarm system provider, servicing the state of Illinois with experienced fire alarm service for all commercial fire alarm systems, including portable fire extinguisher systems.   

We provide service for fire extinguishers designed for all types of fires which are rated as Class A, B, C, D or K fires.  HRSS ensures full compliance and readiness of your fire extinguishers, providing a reliable first line of defense with effective fire extinguishers to contain and control a fire before it rages out of control.  

HRSS Services All Types of Portable Fire Extinguisher Systems

The most common type of portable fire extinguishers utilize a dry chemical compound that are rated for and effective only on Class A, B, and C fires.  Dry chemical extinguishers stop a fire by interrupting the chemical reaction in the fire. 

Carbon dioxide portable fire extinguishers remove the heat from fires by emitting a very cold discharge and removing oxygen from the flames, and are effective only on Class B and C fires.  Carbon dioxide extinguishers are not effective on Class A fires, and must adhere to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 12 which outlines the criteria for carbon monoxide fire extinguishers.  

High Rise Security Systems is an experienced and trusted fire and safety systems provider, servicing all types of commercial structures in and around the Chicago area.  Contact us today for more information on servicing your portable fire extinguisher alarm system.  

What are Fire Extinguisher Inspection Tag Requirements?

OSHA requirements for portable fire extinguishers are detailed in standard 1910.57 which states that a visual inspection is required on all portable fire extinguishers monthly, and a mandatory inspection performed by a certified and trained fire extinguisher professional annually.

NFPA10 also details the requirements for fire extinguishing systems as outlined by the National Fire Protection Association.  NFPA 10 outlines four categories of portable fire extinguisher inspections; monthly, annually, 6-year testing and hydrostatic inspections.  

Monthly Visual Fire Extinguisher Inspections

The monthly inspections may be performed by the homeowner or building owner, and should be recorded on the tags on the extinguisher.  Each fire extinguisher will have a tag for the annual maintenance check to be recorded, with the back of the tag showing a 12-month grid for recording monthly inspections, usually with the initials of the person doing the inspection.  It is important to be very diligent about the recording of these inspections, as OSHA will cite a company for lackluster record keeping.

Your monthly internal visual inspections should include checking the following:

• Hose to be sure it is not blocked
• Safety seal to ensure it is unbroken
• Pressure gauge to verity that your extinguisher is fully charged
• Instructions are still legible

Annual Fire Extinguisher Inspections

Annual fire extinguisher inspections are required to be performed by a certified professional licensed in your state to service portable fire extinguishing systems.  This annual inspection is more in depth than the monthly visual inspections with a professional required to check the mechanical parts of the extinguisher, the delivery system and the fire-suppression agent.  

Annual inspections are required to be recorded on the accompanying tag as evidence of compliance to these inspections.  

Fire Extinguisher Service Companies in Chicago

High Rise Security Systems is a fire extinguisher service and supply company licensed in the state of Illinois, providing experienced service for any type of commercial building and structure.  We have in depth knowledge of all national and local codes and requirements, ensuring that your building is protected above and beyond the required regulations.  

HRSS will design your fire and safety system, with the proper placement of sensors, alarms, evacuation procedures and location of portable fire extinguishers.  Servicing fire safety systems for commercial property in cities like Chicago requires additional experience in regulations required of high rise buildings and campuses.  

High Rise Security Systems is an experienced and knowledgeable fire and safety system consulting firm, providing system design, implementation, maintenance, repair and monitoring 24/7/365 to any size of structure in and around the Chicago area.  Contact us today for all your fire and safety system needs, including fire extinguisher inspection tag requirements.  

Fire Extinguisher Maintenance Companies

Fire extinguisher maintenance companies provide a valuable service, ensuring the safety of your portable fire extinguisher system.  Portable fire extinguishers can be the difference between life and death, containing a fire before it has time to turn into a deadly inferno.

When you need a fire extinguisher maintenance company you can count on to provide fast and affordable service, you only need to call HRSS.  HRSS is a leading commercial fire and safety systems specialist, providing design, equipment, monitoring and consultation for businesses large and small with total fire safety compliance.  

Is My Building up to Code with Fire Extinguisher Maintenance?

When you need maintenance on your fire extinguisher system, you need a company that understands the whole system and how it relates to your building and industry, with in-depth knowledge of all required fire safety regulations.

NPFA10 are the guidelines established by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and are the most widely accepted regulations for fire safety in the United States.  A reputable fire extinguisher maintenance company will have full knowledge of NFPA10, and how to inspect and maintain a portable fire extinguisher system that is compliant to all regulations.  

HRSS Fire Extinguisher Maintenance Checklist

HRSS is a leading fire a safety company, with full system design, development, implementation and 24/7/365 monitoring.  We employ leading fire safety specialists with in-depth knowledge of all required codes and the experience to make recommendations beyond mandated regulations.  Our fire safety specialists are prepared to offer recommendations to keep your occupants safe, above and beyond fire regulations.  

Our annual portable fire extinguisher inspection checklist includes the following:

• Check entire unit visually for dust, corrosion or rust
• Location of all fire extinguishers should be properly mounted and easily accessible
• Verify placement of safety pin
• Inspect nozzle and hose for good working order free of cracks
• Lever and handle should be clean for smooth operation
• Pressure gauge must show in the green and not on “recharge”
• Review of testing history and maintenance, perform hydrostatic testing as required
• Check manufacture date and perform additional testing as required on extinguishers at six years and twelve years from date of manufacture
• Provide certification tags upon inspection completion
• HRSS provides certification tags as required upon inspection completion

For a qualified and experienced fire extinguisher maintenance company, contact High Rise Security Systems.  We service much more than high rise buildings.  Our client list includes a variety of low-rise buildings, campuses and high-rise structures.  We are often called upon by electrical contractors and building owners for our expertise and in-depth knowledge of fire system regulations and inspection requirements.  

High Rise Security Systems, LLC is a fire and safety systems company, providing fire safety system design and implementation, with licensed and skilled technicians.  Contact us today to learn how HRSS can assist you with your fire and safety system for total code compliance and ultimate occupant safety.  

Fire Extinguisher Testing Requirements

Fire extinguisher service companies must be licensed in the state they operate in, and have experience with portable fire extinguisher testing requirements.  There are different types of extinguishers to put out specific types of fires, and some portable fire extinguisher require additional testing.  

At the very minimum, your fire extinguishers must be inspected monthly and recorded on the fire extinguisher tags.  All portable fire extinguishers should be inspected annually by a certified fire and safety company.  

Locating a fire extinguisher in proper working order during an immediate need is crucial to extinguishing a fire before it becomes uncontrollable and even deadly.  Maintaining your fire extinguishers along with your entire fire and safety plan is the responsibility of all building owners and engineers to protect buildings, equipment and save lives.  

Fire Extinguisher Types and Fire Classes

There are different classes of fires, each requiring a specific type of portable fire extinguisher, some with specific testing regulations.  Experienced fire extinguisher supply companies will have in-depth knowledge of the various classes of fires, and the optimum extinguisher to use for each situation.   Proper placement of portable extinguishers is important, and having the correct type on hand is vital.  

The typical fire extinguisher used in most public places and business is rated for Class A, B or C fires.  These are multi-purpose dry chemical extinguishers that work by interrupting the chemical reaction within the fire.  

Carbon Dioxide fire extinguishers are rated for Class B and C fires only, as they will be ineffective on a Class A fire.  While NFPA 10 details the standards for all portable fire extinguishers as published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), NFPA 12 details the guidelines for carbon dioxide extinguishers.  

Class D fire extinguishers are a dry powder rather than dry chemical, and are effective by separating the fuel source from oxygen thus removing the heat.  Class D fire extinguishers are only effective on Class D fires and will not work on any other class of fire.  

Wet chemical fire extinguishing systems are used to treat class K fires, and are usually used in an automatic system such as in restaurants over a kitchen hood.  Wet chemical extinguishing guidelines are detailed in NFPA17A.  

High Rise Security Systems is a leading fire and safety consulting firm providing design, inspection, maintenance, testing and monitoring 24/7/365.  Contact us today for professional and reliable fire extinguisher testing services.  

Fire Extinguisher Suppliers in Chicago

Fire extinguishers serve a critical role in the safety of building occupants and can be the difference between life and death in controlling and eliminating a potentially deadly fire.  When you consider which fire extinguisher supplier to service your building, make sure that you use a company with experience, references and all required certifications.  

Fire extinguisher suppliers must be licensed in the state they operate, certifying that they are qualified to work on your portable fire safety system.  These certifications ensure that your fire safety supplier is knowledgeable of all required safety codes as enforced by your local Fire Marshall or any other Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).

NFPA 10 is the Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers

NFPA 10 is the standard published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) applying to the selection, installation, maintenance, inspection, and testing of portable fire extinguishing equipment.  NFPA is recognized in most jurisdictions as the required standards for building owners to adhere to.  

Fire extinguisher suppliers must possess in-depth knowledge of NFPA10 in all elements to provide adequate protection to commercial properties and patrons.   Fire safety companies in Chicago must be exceptionally informed of additional building codes applying to high-rise structures and mass complexes.  

High Rise Security Systems is a Qualified Fire Safety Company in Chicago

High Rise Security Systems (HRSS) is a full-service fire and safety service company providing design with AutoCAD software for accurate placement of all devices including portable fire extinguishers.  HRSS provides ongoing maintenance, service and support for fire safety systems in commercial buildings including 24/7 monitoring of your fire alarm system.

We are certified by the National Institute for Certification of Engineering Technologies (NICET), and UL certified ensuring quality equipment with consistent and reliable service you can count on.  HRSS is experienced with protecting buildings and occupants of all sizes, low or high-rise, campuses, and mass complexes.  

High Rise Security Systems is a leader among fire extinguisher suppliers satisfying the requirements of commercial high-rise properties with professional and experienced technicians.  Contact us today for more information on how we can assist with your fire and safety system services.     

What You Need to Know for 15 Lb. CO2 Fire Extinguishers

As a 15 lb. CO2 fire extinguisher is the most common carbon dioxide portable fire extinguisher used, you should know how to use one and in what type of fire situation a CO2 extinguisher is applicable.  A carbon Dioxide fire extinguisher works by emitting a very cold discharge that puts out a fire by removing heat and also by removing the element of oxygen from the fire triangle.  

Types of Fires for CO2 Fire Extinguishers

A CO2 fire extinguisher will only be effective on Class B and Class C fires, they will typically be ineffective for Class A fires.  You should never try to use a CO2 fire extinguisher on a Class A fire, which is a fire that is caused from ordinary combustible material like paper, wood or plastics.  

A fire is classified as a Class B fire if it originates from flammable liquids which would be petroleum oil, gasoline, and paint, or from flammable gases which include butane and propane.  (Cooking oils and grease are not included in Class B fire descriptions, these types of fires are designated as Class K fires, and would be common in restaurants).

Class C fires are caused from energized electrical equipment which would be appliances, transformers and motors.  Without the power, the Class C fire becomes another class of fire.

NFPA 10 covers the requirements for all portable fire extinguishers, while NFPA12 details the guidelines on portable carbon dioxide equipment.  For guidelines on using carbon dioxide as an inerting agent see NFPA 69.  

Inerting is the process of minimizing the level and amount of oxygen in a defined space, or preventing oxygen or moisture from contacting with absorptive or reactive products. Carbon dioxide is used for this purpose occasion, but the gas most commonly used for inerting is Nitrogen.  

NFPA 10 covers only the minimum requirements and necessary essential guidelines for proper performance from those trained on the use of a portable a CO2 fire extinguisher.  

High Rise Security Systems is a leader among professional fire and safety companies, providing full comprehensive services including system design, equipment, testing, inspection, and monitoring.  Our services include all fire extinguisher inspection requirements performed by licensed technicians.  Contact us today for professional fire extinguisher service, including CO2 fire extinguishers.

What are My Fire Extinguisher Inspection Requirements?

Portable fire extinguishers are a vital part of your fire, life and safety protection system, providing the means to extinguish a fire before it develops into a raging deadly catastrophe. Using fire extinguishers can prevent extensive damage to property and save lives.

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has established NFPA10, which are the guidelines to be applied to portable fire extinguishers.  A reputable fire safety company will have in-depth knowledge of NFPA10, and all required inspection services.  

Fire Extinguisher Inspection Checklist

Professional fire extinguisher companies will have a detailed checklist on which to inspect and test portable fire extinguishers, ensuring they are in good working condition.  Annual inspections are required, and should include the following:

• Visual Inspection checking entire unit for rust, dust, and corrosion.
• Placement of all portable fire extinguishers must be easily accessible and mounted properly.
• Nozzle and discharge hose should be free from cracks and in good working condition.
• Safety Pin must be in place and undamaged.
• Pressure Gauge should be fully pressurized and showing in the green, not pointed to “recharge”.
• Handle and lever should be clean and operate smoothly.
• Testing history should be reviewed and maintenance or hydrostatic testing performed as required
• Date of manufacture must be checked as all portable fire extinguishers require additional service at six years from manufacture date, and then again at twelve years.
• Certification tags will be provided upon completion identifying your fire extinguishers as in good working condition.

Fire Extinguisher Inspection Services

High Rise Security System are leading experts in designing a safe and effective fire detection and prevention system regardless of your building structure.  Our skilled designers use AutoCAD to create a 2D design unique to your building, whether a simple low-rise building, high-rise commercial properties and complex systems spread out over campuses or hospital grounds.  

We provide equipment sales of state-of-the-art fire safety systems such as Notifier® by Honeywell, and dependable monitoring 24/7/365.  We employ skillful design engineers, and licensed field trained service technicians.  HRSS is often called upon for our expertise by building owners and electrical contractors for our expertise and professional fire safety consultation, which includes all fire extinguisher inspection requirements.

High Rise Security Systems, LLC is a leading fire and safety systems company, providing comprehensive system design and preparation of all required data sheets for permit approval.  Our services include all fire extinguisher inspection requirements by licensed technicians. Contact us today for professional fire safety service for your commercial property.