Is Your Fire Extinguisher Prepared for a Fire Emergency?
It’s important to have a fire safety plan ready for your business in case of an emergency. However, you also need to make sure your fire extinguishers are ready to work properly in case of such an emergency. With fire extinguishers placed strategically around your building, your employees can put any fires out before they become larger. The important issue is: will they work as intended when it counts? At Getz Fire Equipment Company, we can help you prepare your facility for a fire emergency.
There are several items you need to assess in order to ensure your fire extinguishers are ready for service when needed.
Make Sure Your Fire Extinguisher is Accessible and Visible
Your fire extinguisher must be visible and accessible for those who may need to use the device in a fire emergency. These devices should be placed in strategic locations and stored in fire extinguisher cabinets that are clearly marked.
The access to the fire extinguisher should be free from obstructions. Avoid placing these units in difficult to reach locations or areas that are hidden behind furniture or other obstacles. An individual should have an easy time reaching and accessing the extinguisher from its location or cabinet. Regular checks should be made around your facility to ensure that all extinguishers are easily accessible.
Check the Pressure Gauge
On your fire extinguisher you will probably notice a pressure gauge indicator. The pressure reading on this gauge should be in the green area indicating the unit has a proper level of pressure. It’s important to have your fire extinguishers recharged after each use. A low pressure reading could indicate that the extinguisher was previously used but never recharged. In any event, it is important to have a professional recharge the fire extinguisher or repair it if the pressure is not in the acceptable range.
Make Sure the Safety Pin is Unmoved
The safety pull pin is found in the handle of a fire extinguisher. The user pulls the pin to enable the unit to function. If your fire extinguisher does not have a pull pin, this may indicate it has been used or tampered with previously. If this is the case, it’s important to have a professional inspect your extinguisher and replace the pin.
Check the Tamper Seal
Before a fire extinguisher can be used, the tamper seal must be removed. If the seal is not present, the extinguisher should be replaced or inspected by a professional to ensure it is ready for proper use.
Check for Physical Damage
It’s important to check your fire extinguisher for any signs of damage including dents, rust or corrosion. Any debris in the nozzle or hose should be cleared out as well. A damaged fire extinguisher may be dangerous.
Therefore, OSHA requires employers to visually inspect the condition of your portable fire extinguishers on a frequent basis – at a minimum, once per month. OSHA also requires a yearly maintenance inspection of your portable fire extinguishers. This maintenance inspection should be performed by a licensed professional fire protection company.
You can count on our team at Getz Fire Equipment Company to help you get your fire extinguishers ready to battle any potential fire emergency. Contact us today for more information.