WHAT IS AN ANNUAL INSPECTION ON A PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHER

Fire extinguishers need maintenance and inspections to ensure they are ready for a fire emergency. In the State of Texas portable fire extinguishers being used in a commercial/business environment is required by OSHA and the Fire Marshall to be inspected annually. This inspection must only be performed by a licensed technician. The Annual Inspection (also called Annual Maintenance) in Texas, is a thorough examination of each fire extinguisher’s essential components to ensure proper operation.

Play Video

STEPS TO PERFORMING AN ANNUAL INSPECTION ON A PROTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHER

CHECK PRESSURE GAUGE – to ensure that unit is fully pressurized to manufacturer’s specifications.
CHECK MOUNTING - remove fire extinguisher from mounting bracket to ensure unit is installed securely on correct mounting hook or bracket.
VISUAL EXAMINATION - is performed on entire unit carefully inspecting for dents, rust, corrosion, pitting or other physical shell damage.
CHECK FULLNESS – Determine by hefting or weighing.
LOCATE MOST RECENT TEST / MAINTENANCE DATE – to determine need of internal maintenance for required hydrostatic testing and six-year maintenance.
REMOVE LOCKING PIN - locking pin must be easily removed in the event of an emergency.
CHECK HANDLE / LEVER – check handle levers for broken or missing parts; levers must operate smoothly.
SECURE NEW TAMPER SEAL WITH CURRENT DATE – during annual maintenance a new date-coded tamper seal shall be installed.
EXAMINE DISCHARGE HOSE OR NOZZLE - to inspect for signs of damage, cracking or blockage.
CLEAN FIRE EXTINGUISHER - to verify that the operating instructions are present, legible, and facing forward. Grease & grime prevent safe operation of fire extinguisher.
CHECK HAZARD APPLICATION - to be sure that the fire extinguisher is the right one for the potential fire hazard in the area.
ATTACH ANNUAL SERVICE TAG – GOOD FOR 1 YEAR - records shall be attached to the fire extinguisher.

Lone Star Fire & First Aid, 449 Culebra Rd. San Antonio, Texas 78201

WHAT IS AN ANNUAL INSPECTION ON A PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHER

STEPS TO PERFORMING AN ANNUAL INSPECTION ON A PROTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHER

Services Quick link