How often should fire extinguishers be inspected?

Fire extinguishers should be inspected monthly to ensure they are in proper working condition and ready for use in case of an emergency. Monthly inspections typically involve checking for visible signs of damage or corrosion, ensuring that the pressure gauge is in the operational range, confirming that the extinguisher is fully charged, and verifying that the labels and operating instructions are legible.

This routine is in accordance with fire safety standards, which emphasize that regular checks contribute significantly to fire safety compliance and preparedness. Monthly inspections allow for the timely identification of any issues that may compromise the functionality of the extinguishers, ensuring that they will operate effectively when needed.

While daily or weekly inspections may be necessary in certain high-risk environments, and yearly maintenance and servicing are vital to ensuring the equipment's overall reliability, the standard guideline for general inspection frequency is monthly. This strikes a balance between maintaining readiness and the practicalities of carrying out these checks.