Your Complete Guide to Fire Extinguisher Servicing and Maintenance
Regular fire extinguisher servicing and maintenance is essential for keeping your workplace safe and compliant with fire safety regulations. Whether it’s ensuring your extinguishers are in working order or checking they meet UK standards, a well-maintained extinguisher could be the difference between a minor incident and a disaster.
If you’re wondering how often should fire extinguishers be serviced, what is fire extinguisher maintenance, or searching for fire extinguisher service near me, we’ve got all the answers in this guide.
What Is Fire Extinguisher Servicing?
A fire extinguisher service involves a professional inspection and maintenance process to ensure your extinguishers are fully functional and ready for emergencies. It’s not just about ticking a compliance box—it’s about protecting lives and property.
Fire Extinguisher Maintenance: What’s Involved?
Fire extinguisher maintenance includes several essential steps to guarantee the equipment is in optimal condition:
- Carrying Out a Visual Inspection: Checking for visible damage, corrosion, or signs of wear and tear.
- Checking for Use or Tampering: Ensuring the extinguisher has not been discharged or tampered with.
- Taking a Pressure Gauge Reading: Verifying the pressure is within the acceptable range on the gauge.
- Removing the Discharge Hose: Inspecting for blockages or corrosion that could prevent proper use.
- Weighing and Cleaning the Extinguisher: Ensuring it is at the correct weight and free from dirt or debris.
- Checking Wall Mountings: Confirming the extinguisher is securely mounted and easily accessible.
These checks form part of any professional fire extinguisher servicing and ensure your extinguishers remain in top working order.
How Often Should Fire Extinguishers Be Serviced?
If you’re asking how often do fire extinguishers need to be serviced, the answer depends on the type of service required:
Annual Basic Service: Every extinguisher must undergo a basic service at least once a year by a qualified professional.
Extended Service: For water, foam, and powder extinguishers, an extended service, including discharge testing, is required every five years. For CO2 extinguishers, this extended service should be carried out every ten years, including pressure testing.
Regular servicing ensures compliance with British Standards BS 5306 and guarantees your extinguishers are ready to use when needed.
Why Is Fire Extinguisher Maintenance Important?
Neglecting regular fire extinguisher servicing and maintenance can lead to:
- Equipment failure during emergencies.
- Non-compliance with fire safety regulations, resulting in fines.
- Increased risk to people and property in the event of a fire.
By investing in fire extinguisher services, you’re ensuring safety, peace of mind, and legal compliance.
How to Spot Issues Between Services
In addition to annual servicing, you should conduct regular visual checks to identify any issues. Look out for:
- Signs of tampering or accidental discharge.
- Damage to the cylinder or hose.
- Incorrect pressure readings on the gauge.
- Loose or broken wall brackets.
If you notice any issues, schedule a fire extinguisher service near me immediately to address potential problems.
Why Choose J.S.O Fire Safety Consultants?
At J.S.O Fire Safety Consultants, we offer comprehensive fire extinguisher servicing and maintenance tailored to your needs. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Certified technicians with years of experience.
- Thorough inspections, including pressure readings, hose checks, and wall mount verifications.
- Flexible servicing plans to suit businesses of all sizes.
- Clear guidance on compliance and legal requirements.
Whether you’re searching for fire extinguisher servicing near me or need advice on how often do you have to service fire extinguishers, we’re here to help.
Conclusion
Regular fire extinguisher maintenance is essential to ensure your extinguishers are ready to protect your workplace when it matters most. By keeping them serviced and compliant, you’re safeguarding lives and reducing risks.
? Contact us today to schedule your fire extinguisher servicing or learn more about our full range of fire safety services.