A fire extinguisher inspection, including testing and maintenance, is conducted monthly by an organization’s safety officer or an external safety professional. It is done as part of the overall fire safety plan. Fire extinguishers are utilised by the public to extinguish over 90% of commercial building fires in the initial stages.
Many lives may be lost due to one fire extinguisher being out of order. To safeguard buildings and tenants from any risk, one of the responsibilities of a safety officer is to check fire extinguisher pressure gauges regularly and maintain up-to-date records. This article will highlight how to Check a fire extinguisher’s Pressure Gauge. Let’s begin.
What is a Fire Extinguisher Pressure Gauge?
- A fire extinguisher pressure gauge displays the internal pressure of the extinguisher.
- It ensures there is enough force to discharge the extinguishing agent effectively during a fire emergency.
- The gauge indicates that the extinguisher is unused, uncompromised, and in proper working condition when combined with other inspections.
- Most fire extinguishers have a pressure gauge, except CO₂ extinguishers, which are tested by weighing rather than pressure measurement.
Step-by-Step Guide to Checking a Fire Extinguisher Pressure Gauge
You must be able to complete your inspection safely within three minutes if you have an idea of what to do. Check out this fire extinguisher inspection guide to help you with the same:
Confirm availability: Check its visibility and accessibility.
Ensure there is a fire extinguisher and mark whether it can easily be seen, especially where there is extremely combustible material.
Fire extinguishers should always be easily accessible in an emergency and must not be blocked by any equipment or objects.
Wheeled fire extinguishers should be securely stored in a designated area, such as a wooden box or an open glass cabinet, to prevent unintended movement.
Inspect the physical condition.
Next, thoroughly examine the fire extinguisher for physical imperfections, labeling, and overall condition.
- Verify that the fire extinguisher label is clear and legible, and locate the serial number.
- Inspect the cylinder and external metal parts for dents, rust, or any signs of damage.
- Ensure the pipeline and cylinder are securely connected.
- Check for leaks in the nozzle or cracks in the pipe.
- Confirm that the locking pin is firmly held by the seal and properly fits through the holes in the handle and discharge lever, preventing accidental activation.
Check the pressure gauge.
Check the pressure gauge by observing the position of the needle. If it is in the green zone, the fire extinguisher is properly charged and ready for use. If the needle points to the left red zone, the extinguisher is undercharged and needs to be refilled. However, if the needle is in the right red zone, it is overcharged and could pose a safety risk.
Look for the inspection tag and record if one is there.
A fire extinguisher tag should indicate that it is inspected regularly.
Generate a report and recommend one or more action plans.
Brief the findings and action plan after inspection.
If you have a fire extinguisher inspection tag, be sure to sign your name, signature, and the date of inspection.
That’s all!
Common Fire Extinguisher Pressure Gauge Issues & How to Fix Them
It is important to know how to identify a working fire extinguisher. But, equally important is knowing what the common issues are and how to deal with them:
The fire extinguisher is obstructed.
Problem: A clogged fire extinguisher may be a thin line between life and death. Stay vigilant for portable fire extinguishers that may be concealed behind sink cabinets, office desks, doors, or hidden by office furniture and equipment.
Action: You should relocate the fire extinguisher or remove any obstructions immediately. Make sure that all people can easily see it. Position it along a corridor or an entrance/exit that is a natural path of travel. Position it under a noticeable fire extinguisher sign.
The cylinder is rusty and/or dented.
Problem: Since fire extinguishers are often kept unused, they can physically get weakened due to corrosive or moist conditions, frequent handling, or accidental hits. Physical imperfections can cause dangerous explosions or malfunction.
Action: Right away send the cylinder to be replaced by the manufacturer.
Overcharged or undercharged fire extinguisher
Problem: A fully charged extinguisher will have sufficient velocity to push the chemical 10–20 feet. Leakage or, worse yet, a cylinder explosion could be caused by an overcharged fire extinguisher. An undercharged one could be equally fatal and unable to extinguish a fire.
Action: Take the cylinder to the manufacturer immediately so that it can be replaced or recharged.
Why Choose Aims Controls for High-Quality Fire Extinguisher Pressure Gauges?
AIMS Controls provides more than just equipment; we also deliver reliability, experience, and exceptional value. Here’s why we’re the preferred choice for businesses globally:
Economical solutions
Receive world-class quality at much lower prices than industry leaders. We provide better prices without compromising on standards or features.
Customer-centric Approach
We are dedicated to your success. From advice to launch, our staff is alongside you every step of the way to guarantee that your project runs smoothly and to your expectations.
Premium Product Standards
Regarding performance and reliability, our instruments equal the world’s best brands. Enjoy best-in-class solutions tailored to your requirements.
Get a Quote for Fire Extinguisher Pressure Gauges Today!
- Ensure your fire safety equipment is always in top condition.
- Contact Aims Controls for a free consultation and competitive pricing.
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