Guides & Toolkits

7 © 2011, Safe Workplace Promotion Services Ontario, publicly known as Workplace Safety & Prevention Services. 1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | www.wsps.ca Fire Extinguishers Maintenance Extinguishers must be properly maintained to ensure that they will work when needed, and that they are safe to use. A carbon dioxide extinguisher, for example, can build up a high static charge if it is used when there is a breakdown of the insulation around the discharge horn. This can cause electric shock. Adequate maintenance of extinguishers consists of regular inspections, recharging as needed, and a complete annual checkup and servicing. Records must be kept of all maintenance work carried out, including inspections. Testing and servicing is usually carried out by a service agency. If employees in your company look after testing and servicing, they must be trained and fully qualified to do so. Inspections Fire extinguishers must be inspected at least once a month and more often where needed. Inspections are visual checks to determine that: The extinguisher is well supported: – Hangers are fastened solidly It is accessible: – Can be easily reached – Location signs are clear – Class markings are clear – Operating instructions are clear It is in working condition: – Discharge opening is clear – Is fully charged – Has not been tampered with – Is not damaged – Hydrostatic testing has been done The ring pin is in place The seal is intact Recharging Recharge spent extinguishers immediately and return them to their locations. Follow manufacturer's instructions for recharging. Servicing Completely examine each extinguisher at least once a year, and whenever your monthly inspections indicate that this may be needed. Replace defective parts and extinguishers, recharge extinguisher as needed, and ensure that hydrostatic tests are carried out according to the manufacturer's instructions. Set up a maintenance schedule for extinguishers so that they are not all out of service at the same time. Record Keeping Attach a durable tag to each extinguisher that shows: Dates of monthly inspections, recharging, and servicing Name of servicing agency Signature of person who performed the service Maintain a permanent record for each fire extinguisher that shows: Serial number and type of extinguisher Location of extinguisher Inspection date Description of maintenance work or hydrostatic tests carried out Date of next inspection Date of scheduled annual servicing Inspector's comments Inspector's signature

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