Common Issues Found During Fire Extinguisher Services
Did you know that 94% of the time, a portable fire extinguisher puts out a fire within the first two minutes? This quick response can make all the difference in minimizing fire damage in your workplace and ensuring the safety of everyone.
However, without proper maintenance, even the best extinguishers can fail when every second counts. Regular fire extinguisher service is the key to ensuring your equipment works when you need it.
In this post, our team at Kistler O’Brien Fire Protection highlights the seven common issues that could prevent your fire extinguisher from working correctly.
Top Issues Found During a Fire Extinguisher Service
Corroded or rusted extinguishers
The period between fire safety inspections presents an unwanted opportunity for rust and corrosion to appear on the extinguisher. This can be due to several reasons, ranging from environmental factors such as humidity to chemical exposure.
Corroded or rusted extinguishers can cause the metal to deteriorate and weaken the equipment’s body, which may lead to leaks or failure. A professional fire extinguisher technician will identify signs of rust or corrosion and recommend a replacement if necessary. They will also clean minor rust spots and apply protective coatings to prevent further damage.
Expired inspection tags
One of the most common issues found during a fire extinguisher service is expired inspection tags. The NFPA recommends that certified technicians inspect your fire extinguishers annually to ensure they’re in good condition.
However, this doesn’t always happen.
Maybe you forgot to schedule the inspection, or the service was delayed. Whatever the reason, an outdated inspection tag might signal your extinguisher is non-compliant with safety regulations. This leaves your business vulnerable and can even lead to fines and increased legal liability in the event of a fire.
Low or no pressure
Your extinguisher needs to be at the proper pressure to work effectively.
If the pressure is too low, the extinguisher won’t release the agent needed to extinguish a fire. This can cause a dangerous situation. Leakages, damaged valve components or pressure gauges, temperature fluctuations, or improper storage conditions may cause low or no pressure.
During your fire extinguisher service, your technician will check the pressure gauge to ensure it’s within the proper range. If the extinguisher has low or no pressure, it will be refilled, recharged, or replaced as needed.
Obstructed nozzles
Over time, dust, dirt, or even debris can clog the nozzle of a fire extinguisher. This could be due to various environmental factors or improper storage, making regular inspections all the more important.
An obstructed nozzle can prevent the extinguishing agent from releasing properly, even if the extinguisher is fully charged.
During a fire extinguisher service, technicians double-check to ensure that nozzles are clear and readily usable in an emergency. They’ll clean and test the nozzles to guarantee optimal performance when it matters most.
This helps prevent costly delays during a fire, which otherwise lead to greater damage.
Missing or damaged safety pins
A fire extinguisher’s safety pin prevents accidental discharges. If it’s missing or damaged, your extinguisher could accidentally release its contents or fail to function properly during an emergency.
As part of your fire extinguisher service, the technician will inspect and replace the pin if necessary so that your extinguisher stays safe and functional. A simple inspection can often reveal if the pin is compromised or improperly secured.
The technicians can also guide you on how to handle and use the extinguisher properly to minimize the risks associated with faulty pins.
Physically damaged cylinders
Fire extinguishers are made from solid materials like steel, stainless steel, or aluminum. However, they’re still prone to physical damage, like dents, cracks, bent handles, damaged hoses, or broken gauges. This damage can weaken the extinguisher’s integrity and affect its performance.
In a fire extinguisher service, technicians carefully inspect the cylinder for any signs of dents or cracks. Even minor damage can prevent the extinguisher from handling the pressure needed to work properly, making it unreliable in an emergency.
Regular inspections catch these issues early, allowing for timely repairs or replacements before they become dangerous.
Improper placement and accessibility
One way to protect your people and property is by strategically placing fire extinguishers in easily accessible areas throughout the workplace. According to OSHA (29 CFR 1910.157), fire extinguishers should be located in clearly marked spots where employees can quickly reach them during an emergency.
Fire extinguisher technicians can help check and improve where you place your extinguishers. They will ensure the extinguishers are away from obstructions and in visible, open areas that aren’t hidden or blocked.
Schedule Your Fire Extinguisher Service
Fire extinguishers are one of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect your business from fire damage.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Ensure your extinguishers are inspected, maintained, and always ready for action with Kistler O’Brien Fire Protection.
Contact us today for a comprehensive fire extinguisher service. Whether you’re in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, or Delaware, we’re here to help keep your business safe and protected from the unexpected.