If you are a business owner located in areas such as New Jersey, Delaware, or Philadelphia, it is likely that you have at least one fire extinguisher stationed within your establishment. But is your fire safety equipment compliant with regulations? To ensure compliance, here are five critical aspects regarding fire extinguishers you should familiarize yourself with.
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1. Fire Extinguishers Cater to Specific Fire Types
Different fire types, such as grease fires and electrical fires, require unique approaches to extinguishment. Hence, it’s vital to obtain extinguishers that are appropriate for the types of fires that are most likely to occur in your business environment. Here are the primary varieties of fire extinguishers you should consider:
- Multi-purpose ABC dry chemical extinguishers effective against Class A (ordinary), Class B (flammable liquid), and Class C (electrical) fires, commonly used in various settings.
- Water mist extinguishers specifically designed for areas housing sensitive equipment where chemical damage from ABC extinguishers could be a concern.
- Class K wet chemical extinguishers suitable for addressing grease fires commonly found in commercial kitchens.
- Carbon dioxide extinguishers ideal for managing Class B and C fires, often utilized in laboratory settings.
- Sodium chloride extinguishers effective for tackling Class D (flammable metal) fires in industrial environments.
2. Monthly Inspection is Mandated by OSHA
While annual inspections conducted by professional fire protection services are essential, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates that you also perform visual inspections on a monthly basis. Fortunately, these assessments don’t require extensive training and can be conducted by any staff member. Your monthly inspections should include:
- Verifying the availability and correct location of all fire extinguishers.
- Inspecting the canister for any damage or evidence of tampering.
- Checking pressure gauge readings.
- Ensuring that operational instructions remain clearly visible.
3. Recharge Extinguishers Post-Use
To uphold a robust fire safety protocol, it is imperative to maintain fully charged fire extinguishers. Should you use an extinguisher, either partially or entirely, whether to combat a fire or due to accidental discharge, prioritize recharging it. Fire extinguisher recharging is an economical and necessary service for reusable canisters.
4. Fire Extinguishers Have Lifespans
Although there is no explicit expiration date on most fire extinguishers, regular testing and adherence to replacement guidelines are crucial. Rechargeable extinguishers can last for decades, but they do need to pass a hydro test every 12 years to remain compliant. Non-rechargeable extinguishers, however, must be replaced every 12 years per standards set forth by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
5. Proper Disposal of Extinguishers is Necessary
When it comes time to dispose of outdated extinguishers, throwing them away in the regular trash isn’t an option. For extinguishers that are mostly or entirely full, contact your local fire department to see if you can responsibly drop them off at a firehouse. If this policy does not apply, take your extinguisher to a hazardous waste disposal facility.
For near-empty extinguishers, start the disposal process by squeezing the lever to release any remaining pressure. Detach the extinguisher head to signify that it's empty. Finally, reach out to a local steel recycling center to determine if they accept exteriors of extinguishers.
Schedule Your Fire Extinguisher Services Across New Jersey, Delaware, or Philadelphia
Confires is here to deliver the fire extinguisher services required for maintaining the safety and compliance of your building. Whether you aim to purchase new extinguishers, set up an annual inspection, or recharge your existing units, we are ready to assist.
The next time you require fire extinguisher services in New Jersey, Delaware, or Philadelphia, connect with Confires online or call us at 888-228-.
Category: Fire Extinguishers
Data from the NFPA indicates that up to 30% of portable fire extinguishers in operation may not function properly, meaning they could fail you during critical moments.
Reach out to discuss your needs regarding extinguisher filling. Our knowledgeable sales team is ready to assist you in selecting options that best meet your requirements.
If you have been hesitant about performing maintenance on your fire extinguishers, consider these five compelling reasons why they require regular servicing.
1. Hidden Damage May Occur
Over time, deterioration can occur in less visible areas. For instance, corrosion might develop on the inside of aluminum or steel extinguishers, compromising the cylinder's integrity over time.
2. Risk of Hose Blockage
Another issue that can remain unnoticed is potential blockage or damage to the hose. Debris or insects might enter the hose, hindering functionality. Additionally, the O-rings attached may degrade and compromise the entire extinguisher’s effectiveness.
3. Potential for Leaks
Deceptive leaks can occur within extinguishers and render them ineffective. While some extinguishers come equipped with pressure gauges, not all have them, making leak detection increasingly difficult.
4. Deterioration of Important Labels
Even if a fire extinguisher is left unused, natural wear can take a toll over time, particularly for those kept outside or in bustling warehouse environments. One glaring impact of this is the fading or illegibility of critical maintenance labels.
These labels contain essential instructions for usage as well as information necessary for service personnel.
5. Certain Extinguishers May Require Recharging
If extinguishers have been activated, even in part, they must be recharged immediately to ensure their readiness for future use.
Recommended Servicing Schedule for Your Extinguishers
Per NFPA guidelines, fire extinguishers should undergo monthly inspections. Additionally, annual maintenance checks are required for all portable extinguishers, with 5-year hydrostatic tests for carbon dioxide and water-based extinguishers, 6-year maintenance for stored-pressure extinguishers, and a 12-year hydrostatic test for stored-pressure and cartridge-operated extinguishers.
Should you notice any signs of damage or tampering, or if the pressure gauge needle is out of the green zone, contact your fire protection service immediately to arrange for an inspection.
Be sure that your fire extinguishers are dependable when it matters most. The team at Koorsen is prepared to provide top-notch products, training, and services to meet all your fire extinguisher needs. Call us today to begin the process.
If you wish to learn more, please explore our website for fire extinguisher refilling equipment.
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