How can you determine if a fire extinguisher needs servicing?

The correct approach to determining if a fire extinguisher needs servicing involves inspecting for missing tags or damage. Regular inspections are essential for ensuring the extinguisher is both functional and compliant with safety regulations. Tags indicate maintenance history and whether the extinguisher has undergone the required service checks. Damage could affect its ability to function properly in an emergency, so looking for physical signs like dents, corrosion, or other wear and tear is critical.

While checking the expiration date is important, it should not be the sole factor in determining the need for servicing. An extinguisher might be within its date but could still be unserviceable due to physical damage or other issues. Ensuring a fire extinguisher is filled at all times is also important, but it does not encompass the full scope of safety checks. Moreover, relying solely on the color of the extinguisher is insufficient, as color alone does not provide enough information regarding its condition or operational status. Regular thorough inspections that include checking for damage and verifying maintenance tags are vital steps in maintaining fire safety equipment.