Testing Fire Extinguishers: Frequency and Methods
Ensuring the safety and readiness of fire extinguishers is a critical responsibility in both residential and commercial settings. While regular inspections are paramount, fire extinguishers also require periodic tests to ensure they can perform their critical role in mitigating potential fire hazards. This article will explore the types of tests, their frequency, and the regulatory framework that governs these tests.
Types of Fire Extinguisher Tests
Fires can be categorized into different types based on the substance involved. Therefore, different types of fire extinguishers are used, each requiring specific testing procedures. Common types of tests for fire extinguishers include pressure tests, discharge tests, and hydrostatic tests.
Pressure and Discharge Tests
For water, powder, and foam fire extinguishers, pressure and discharge tests are conducted every five years. These tests are essential to evaluate the integrity and functionality of the extinguisher. A qualified individual must conduct a hydrostatic test, which involves subjecting the fire extinguisher to a high-pressure water test to check if the cylinder is safe for continued use. For dry chemical fire extinguishers, this schedule is extended to every twelve years. These tests ensure that the extinguishers can withstand the necessary pressure and deliver the required discharge.
Hydrostatic Testing
Hydrostatic testing is a critical procedure for reducing the risk of accidental discharge and ensuring the structural integrity of the fire extinguisher. This test involves subjecting the extinguisher to a known hydrostatic pressure for a set period. The test determines if there are any leaks or weaknesses in the cylinder that could compromise the fire-extinguishing efficacy. According to OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) regulations, dry chemical fire extinguishers must undergo a hydrostatic test every twelve years, while water, powder, and foam fire extinguishers need these tests every five years, and CO2 extinguishers every ten years.
Quarterly Maintenance for Fire Extinguishers
Even with yearly inspections, some fire extinguishers require additional regular maintenance. For instance, ABC portable fire extinguishers, including stored and modular types, as well as CO2 portable fire extinguishers, must be maintained quarterly. This involves several procedures to ensure their continued integrity and readiness for use.
Quarterly Maintenance Procedures
Examine Externally: Check the extinguisher body for any damage or corrosion. Damaged or corroded extinguishers should be replaced. Stored Pressure Extinguishers: Check the pressure for any drop. If the pressure drops, send the cylinder for recharging. Weight of CO2 Extinguishers: Weigh each CO2 extinguisher to ensure it is at or above the actual fully charged weight. If it is 10% less, send for recharging. Inspect Hosepipes, Horn Handle, Grip, Locking Pin, and Valve: Ensure that these components are free of blockages or damages and clean them thoroughly. Examine Trolley-Mounted Extinguishers: Check the wheels and carriage for free movement and clean the cylinder externally. Record Details: Fill in the details on the inspection card with the service date, next due date, service type, capacity, and location.OSHA Regulatory Standards
Under the OSHA regulations, fire extinguishers must be visually inspected monthly and the attached card signed off by a licensed and certified fire protection specialist. Annual maintenance checks are also mandatory, where stored pressure extinguishers do not require an internal examination. After the annual maintenance check, record the date and retain the record for one year after the last entry or the life of the shell, whichever is less. If dry chemical extinguishers require a hydrostatic test every twelve years, they must be emptied and maintained every six years, with the six-year requirement starting from the date of recharging or testing. Alternate equivalent protection must be provided when portable fire extinguishers are removed for maintenance and recharging.
Conclusion: Ensuring the readiness and safety of fire extinguishers is non-negotiable in any environment. Following the recommended testing schedules and regulatory standards can significantly enhance safety measures and readiness to respond to fire emergencies effectively.