How often should fire extinguishers be inspected?

Fire extinguishers play a critical role in fire safety and must be maintained properly to ensure they function effectively when needed. The requirement for fire extinguishers is to be inspected monthly by the building owner or designated personnel, which helps ensure that they are in good working order and readily accessible. This monthly inspection typically includes checking for accessibility, visibility, and physical condition, as well as ensuring that the pressure gauge is in the operable range and that the extinguisher is not blocked or damaged.

In addition to this monthly inspection, fire extinguishers are required to undergo a more thorough professional inspection at least once a year. This annual inspection is performed by a certified technician to assess the overall functionality of the extinguisher, checking for issues that may not be visible during a standard monthly inspection.

This combination of frequent inspections ensures that fire extinguishers are always ready to use and meet safety regulations, highlighting the importance of both routine checks and professional servicing.