5 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Fire Extinguisher in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, & Delaware

When was the last time you replaced your fire extinguisher?

While fire extinguishers are essential life-saving devices, they have a limited lifespan.

According to OSHA Standard 1910.157, the employer must check, maintain, and test all portable fire extinguishers.

Regular fire extinguisher inspections and maintenance are crucial for avoiding OSHA violations and, more importantly, protecting your employees and business.

Learn five critical signs it’s time to replace your fire extinguisher.

1. The Expiration Date of Your Fire Extinguisher Has Passed

The first sign is simple enough: Your fire extinguisher has expired.

Your fire extinguisher tag indicates the expiration dates. It is vital to adhere to this date and replace the fire extinguisher promptly. Learn how to check your fire extinguisher tag.

Using an expired fire extinguisher can significantly reduce its effectiveness and put lives and property at risk.

The Fire Extinguisher Has Damage or Corrosion

Physical damage can compromise the integrity of your extinguisher and render it ineffective when needed. Inspect your fire extinguisher regularly for any of the following signs:

• Dents
• Cracks
• Leaks
• Corrosion
• Rust

If you notice any of the above concerns, replacing your fire extinguisher immediately is best. Even minor dents can weaken the unit’s structure, making it prone to failure during use.

3. The Fire Extinguisher Is Showing Low Pressure

You should pressurize and keep fire extinguishers ready for use at all times.

If the pressure gauge is low or empty, it may mean the fire extinguisher lost pressure. A broken tamper seal may also indicate that the fire extinguisher has lost pressure.

In such cases, a qualified professional should replace or recharge the extinguisher according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

4. The Fire Extinguisher Has Inadequate Service History

Proper maintenance and regular inspections are crucial to keep fire extinguishers in optimal condition.

Every fire extinguisher requires a tag that shows the last check date and whether it is new or refilled. Your fire extinguisher is good for one year past inspection.

Kistler O’Brien Fire Protection performs all required inspections yearly.

5. Changes in Fire Extinguisher Regulations or Environment

Authorities periodically update fire safety regulations and standards to improve safety measures.

Staying up-to-date with the latest standards ensures your fire extinguisher meets the requirements and maximizes effectiveness in fire emergencies.

Designers create different types of fire extinguishers to combat specific types of fires. If there have been changes in your environment or fire hazards, you may need a different kind of fire extinguisher.

For example, if your workplace has flammable liquids or electrical equipment, you might need a different fire extinguisher to deal with these dangers.

Check if your fire extinguisher suits the types of fires that could occur in your surroundings. If it is not, replace it.

Fire Safety FAQ

What are the types of fire extinguishers commonly used in businesses?

Businesses often use a variety of fire extinguishers based on their specific needs. Some examples include CO2 extinguishers for electrical fires and wet chemical extinguishers for kitchen fires.

How can business owners effectively operate a fire extinguisher during a small fire incident?

Remember the PASS method: Pull the pin, Aim at the fire’s base, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep side to side. We also recommend training employees on proper fire extinguisher use.

Are there specific considerations for business owners regarding fire safety and protecting their commercial premises?

Business owners must have suitable fire extinguishers for their fire risks and follow local fire regulations. Regularly check and change fire extinguishers, and update fire alarms.

Why is it important for business owners to prioritize fire extinguisher maintenance and replacement?

Fire extinguishers are crucial for protecting businesses, employees, and property during a fire emergency.

Regularly maintaining and replacing fire extinguishers ensures their reliability, compliance with regulations, and effectiveness in extinguishing fires promptly.

This proactive approach helps minimize potential damages and ensures the safety of everyone within the business premises.

Can business owners in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, & Delaware refill or recharge fire extinguishers, or should they always replace them?

In PA, NJ, & DE, business owners can refill or recharge fire extinguishers if they are still usable and meet safety standards.

The certified professionals at Kistler O’Brien Fire Protection can do this for you.

Check local fire safety rules and contact our authorized fire protection service company to see if refilling or recharging is possible.

Fire Extinguisher Service in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, & Delaware

Fire extinguishers play an integral role in fire safety, but they become useless if they deteriorate.

Regular inspections, adherence to expiration dates, and proper maintenance are essential for maintaining the effectiveness of your fire extinguishers.

To make sure your fire extinguishers work well during a fire, be aware of the signs mentioned above.

Remember, it’s always better to be proactive and replace a fire extinguisher than to put your employees and business at risk.

Contact Kistler O’Brien Fire Protection for fire prevention services in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.