Do you know what happens during the servicing of Fire Extinguishers? Professional fire extinguisher maintenance and servicing is an essential part of any fire protection system. It is the responsibility of a business owner or responsible person to arrange the regular service.

Basic Fire Extinguisher Servicing

Fire extinguisher servicing should be carried out once a year in compliance with British Standards. The basic service procedure involves:

1. Visually checking the fire extinguisher(s) for any signs of damage, corrosion, partial or complete discharge and any other wear and tear

 

2. Checking that the extinguisher has not been used by assessing the following:

~ Safety pin and tamper seal are in place (Fig. 1)

~ Pressure gauge reading (the indicating needle should be in the green area (Fig. 2)

Note: this is not applicable for CO2 extinguishers

 

3. Checking that the operating instructions on the unit are still clear and easily readable

 

4. Removing the discharge hose and checking for any corrosion or blockages (Fig. 3)

 

5. Weighing the extinguisher and recording its weight on the service label. If there is more than a 10% weight loss, this should be investigated into and the unit recharged.

6. Wiping down the extinguisher

7. Ensuring that the wall mountings are secure and in good condition before replacing the appliance back on the wall

 

Extended Service

Every 5 years water, foam, powder and wet chemical extinguishers require a more detailed examination including a test discharge of the extinguisher and subsequent recharging.

Here is an overview of what’s involved:

–          Discharging the extinguishers

–          Unscrewing the headcap and checking all removable parts for any signs of corrosion or any blockages

–          Examining the extinguisher body internally for any signs of corrosion

–          Rinsing water-based extinguishers out with clean water

–          Replacing all ‘O’ rings and hose rings

–          Refilling the extinguisher

–          Refitting the headcap

–          Re-pressurising the extinguisher

–          After a refill with generic chemicals (not the original chemicals used by the manufacturer), the extinguisher must receive a label with the new chemical specification)

Note: the above only applies to pressurised extinguishers.

Due to the amount of work involved in carrying out an extended service, it is often cheaper to purchase a new extinguisher rather than carry out the service.

Is your fire extinguisher maintenance up to date? Contact our team today to book in your extinguisher servicing!