Inspections usually cost between $40 to $100 dollars depending on the immediacy and size of business. During inspections, making sure you have a code-compliant setup and working fire extinguishers is the biggest aim. Inspectors can guide you to recharge or replace your fire extinguishers.
$40 – $100 average cost for professional inspection.
Some local fire stations offer fire extinguisher inspections alongside other safety services. However, each fire department is different and some may not offer this service due to liability concerns. Check with your local fire department to see what fire safety services they offer.
Fire extinguisher servicing needs to be done annually and every 5 years by a professional, to ensure you receive a safety certificate. Servicing your fire safety equipment keeps people safe and ensures each piece of equipment can be used, in case of an emergency.
Servicing Requirements
All extinguishers have to be inspected at six monthly intervals and if they don't have a pressure gauge, they may need to be weighed to check they are still full. Some extinguisher types may require additional tasks to be carried out annually.
You are able to conduct fire extinguisher maintenance yourself on a monthly basis - you would check to see whether the apparatus is still in good condition and the pressure gauge is showing there is sufficient pressure.
The basic inspection involves visually checking the unit for signs of damage. The inspector will also ensure that no one has used the device, as used extinguishers must always be replaced. They'll also check the hose for blockages. The inspection for stored pressure extinguishers includes checking the pressure gauge.
When do fire extinguishers expire? Although they don't have a true "expiration date," traditional fire extinguishers generally have a 10-12 year life expectancy. Disposable (non-rechargeable) fire extinguishers should be replaced every 10 years.
To keep your fire extinguishers operational and legal, you should inspect them monthly and annually. OSHA (29 CFR 1910.157(e)(3) also requires an annual fire extinguisher maintenance inspection which a professional fire extinguisher company must perform.
Fire extinguishers are required in most commercial, industrial and residential buildings. The only buildings where fire extinguishers are not mandated are family homes.
Average Costs for Fire Extinguisher Recharging
On average, you can anticipate a recharge to cost between $25 to $50. However, this range can fluctuate based on the size and type of extinguisher. For instance, with specialized technology like Halotron, it is pricier than your standard 10lb ABC extinguisher.
Depending on the size and layout of your building, fire alarm inspection could take a few hours or several days. In addition, the inspection findings could add more time if your technician finds repairs or replacements necessary.
Yes anyone can inspect a fire extinguisher it's just a matter of checking the hose or nozzle for anything blocking the hole and check the pressure by looking at the glass gauge. also give the entire extinguisher a check for any damage to the handles have the safety pin place.
Recharging is generally more economical for larger, well-maintained extinguishers. However, replacing a small or damaged extinguisher might be more cost-effective in the long run, especially if frequent recharging is required.
Once you have learned what to look out for, you should expect to safely complete your inspection in 3 minutes. Here's the complete guide on how to inspect a fire extinguisher: 1.
You are not required to be certified in order to perform an inspection; any knowledgeable, competent person should be able to do it. NFPA 10 requires extinguishers be inspected when they are initially installed and once a month after that.
Does the Fire Department recharge or maintain portable fire extinguishers? No. However the Fire Department administrative office serves as a drop-off point for citizens requiring the services of a fire extinguisher maintenance company.
Check these details during a monthly fire extinguisher inspection. Confirm the extinguisher is visible, unobstructed, and in its designated location. Verify the locking pin is intact and the tamper seal is unbroken. Examine the extinguisher for obvious physical damage, corrosion, leakage, or clogged nozzle.
Generally, a fire extinguisher has an expected service life of between 5 and 25 years from the date of manufacture. The environment has much to do with how well the extinguisher holds up. Also, how diligent has the owner been with required annual preventative maintenance?
In addition to having your extinguisher inspected annually, you should have it hydrotested every 12 years. A fire extinguisher hydrotest is the best way to check for any cracks or degradation of the fire extinguisher shell and will help you tell whether your old fire extinguishers are up to the task.
How long do fire extinguishers last? The average lifespan of a powder, foam or water extinguisher is usually between 10 and 12 years. This is based on the extinguisher being in good condition with no corrosion or damage. After this time, the fire extinguisher should be replaced with a new one.
If the fire extinguisher is partially or fully charged, call your fire department to ask if they accept drop-offs. If not, take the canister to a hazardous waste disposal facility.
Your fire extinguishers should only be recharged by a certified fire equipment dealer or fire protection company. Once a year, a certified fire equipment dealer, in accordance with the service manual identified on the product label, should perform maintenance on the fire extinguisher.