EC.02.03.05 EP 15 & 16 call for monthly inspections and annual tests respectively for portable fire extinguishers. I believe there is similar language in each accreditation manual for other programs as well, therefore, such inspections and tests are required, no matter what the occupancy type is. Local and state fire marshals would also expect compliance with NFPA 10 Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers (see below).
6.2 Inspection
6.2.1* Frequency. Fire extinguishers shall be inspected when initially placed in service and thereafter at approximately 30-day intervals. Fire extinguishers shall be inspected, manually or by electronic monitoring, at more frequent intervals when circumstances require.
6.2.2* Procedures. Periodic inspection of fire extinguishers shall include a check of at least the following items:
(1) Location in designated place
(2) No obstruction to access or visibility
(3) Operating instructions on nameplate legible and facing outward
(4)* Safety seals and tamper indicators not broken or missing
(5) Fullness determined by weighing or “hefting”
(6) Examination for obvious physical damage, corrosion, leakage, or clogged nozzle
(7) Pressure gauge reading or indicator in the operable range or position
(8) Condition of tires, wheels, carriage, hose, and nozzle checked (for wheeled units)
(9) HMIS label in place
6.3* Maintenance.
6.3.1 Frequency. Fire extinguishers shall be subjected to maintenance at intervals of not more than 1 year, at the time of hydrostatic test, or when specifically indicated by an inspection or electronic notification.
Is this the regulation for a types of fire extinguishers or are Co2 and Foams different?
ReplyDeletePer the 2010 NFPA 10: Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers, it appears as though the inspection requirements are for all portable fire extinguishers but do not apply to permanently installed systems for fire extinguishment. See Scope below.
ReplyDeleteNFPA 110
1.1 Scope.
The provisions of this standard apply to the selection, installation, inspection, maintenance, and testing of portable extinguishing equipment.
1.1.1 Portable fire extinguishers are intended as a first line of defense to cope with fires of limited size.
1.1.2 The selection and installation of extinguishers is independent of whether the building is equipped with automatic sprinklers, standpipe and hose, or other fixed protection equipment. (See 5.5.5, 6.1.1.1, 6.2.1.1, and 6.2.1.5.)
1.1.3 The requirements given herein are minimum.
1.1.4 The requirements do not apply to permanently installed systems for fire extinguishment, even where portions of such systems are portable (such hose and nozzles attached to a fixed supply of extinguishing agent).