Fire Extinguisher Inspection Requirements

Portable fire extinguishers are the first line of defence against a small fire, and almost every commercial, industrial and multifamily building is required to have them. To make sure they work when needed, fire codes require regular checks and professional service. In the United States the schedule comes from NFPA 10. In Ontario, the Ontario Fire Code sets similar monthly and annual requirements.

Monthly checks

Once a month, someone at the building should check each extinguisher. This is a quick visual check that the unit is in its place, nothing blocks access to it, the pressure gauge is in the operable range, the safety pin and tamper seal are intact and there is no obvious damage. Many businesses initial and date a tag or a log each time.

Annual inspection and maintenance

Once a year, a qualified fire extinguisher service company must inspect and maintain every unit. The technician checks the cylinder, hose, nozzle and labels, confirms the right type is in the right place, and attaches a new service tag. Units that are damaged or past their service life are replaced.

Six-year maintenance and hydrostatic testing

• Six-year maintenance: stored-pressure dry chemical extinguishers are emptied and given internal maintenance every six years.
• Five-year hydrostatic test: water, foam, wet chemical and carbon dioxide extinguishers are pressure tested every five years.
• Twelve-year hydrostatic test: stored-pressure dry chemical extinguishers are pressure tested every twelve years.

Your service company should track these dates for you and let you know when units are due.

Choosing the right extinguisher

• Class A: ordinary combustibles such as paper, wood and fabric.
• Class B: flammable liquids and gases.
• Class C: energized electrical equipment.
• Class K: cooking oils and fats in commercial kitchens, usually alongside a kitchen hood suppression system.

Many buildings use multipurpose ABC dry chemical units, but kitchens, server rooms and labs often need something more specific. A good service company will recommend the right type and placement for your hazards.

Tips for owners and managers

• Ask for a list of every extinguisher with its location and next service date.
• Recharge or replace any extinguisher right after it is used, even if only a little was discharged.
• Train staff on where extinguishers are and how to use them.
• Book extinguisher service on the same visit as your emergency lighting or kitchen suppression inspection.

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