Fire Extinguisher Inspection Checklist

Why Use Fire Extinguisher Checklists?

Fire extinguisher checklists help inspectors proactively identify signs of issues that may render extinguishers unfit for use in an actual emergency. Employers are required by law to have the portable fire extinguishers visually inspected monthly. Failure to comply can lead to penalties and puts the employees and the workplace in serious risk in the event of an incident.

In this article

• Why Use Fire Extinguisher Checklists?
• Fire Extinguisher Self Inspection Checklist
• What Should be Done During Monthly Fire Extinguisher Inspections?
• What Should be Recorded on a Fire Extinguisher Inspection Checklist?
• How to Conduct Regular Fire Extinguisher Inspections Efficiently?
• Powerful Tool to Ensure Regular and Efficient Fire Extinguisher Inspections
• Fire Extinguisher Inspection Checklists

Fire Extinguisher Self Inspection Checklist

In order to meet requirements related to annual or monthly fire extinguisher inspections, individuals also have the option to utilize a fire extinguisher self-inspection checklist or a general fire self-inspection checklists that include a review of extinguishers. Similar to this Gates Fire District Self-Inspection Form Checklist which reviews grounds, interior doors, stairways, heating, air conditioning equipment, electrical equipment, control panels, housekeeping, and fire protection.

What Should be Done During Monthly Fire Extinguisher Inspections?

The following parts are checked and tasks are completed during monthly fire extinguisher inspections. These are done not only for compliance with the law but also because employers need to ensure that the extinguishers are going to work in case of a fire.

1. Make sure that the maintenance tag is valid.
2. The fire extinguisher is mounted in an easily accessible place with no debris or material stacked in front of it.
3. Safety pin is in place and intact. Nothing else should be used in place of the pin.
4. Label, extinguisher type, and instructions should be easy to read.
5. Extinguisher handle is intact and not bent or broken.
6. Pressure gauge is in the green and is not damaged or showing “recharge.”
7. The discharge hoses/nozzle is in good shape and not clogged, cracked, or broken.
8. Make sure it is full by turning it upside down at least three times.
9. Location of extinguisher is easily identifiable by signs.
10. Dust and wipe down the extinguisher.
11. Indicate the overall condition of the extinguisher if pass or fail.
12. Sign and enter the date of the monthly inspection on the annual maintenance tag.

These 12 steps are found on this fire extinguisher checklist that can be downloaded for free.

What Should be Recorded on a Fire Extinguisher Inspection Checklist?

Fire extinguisher inspection checklists help inspectors conduct and record their monthly and yearly checks with due diligence, preventing them from missing crucial points in checking if fire extinguishers are in good working condition. Here are what a checklist typically contains based on a monthly fire extinguisher inspection form:

• Information about the fire extinguisher

Inspectors need to know and record the exact location of the extinguisher as well as the following—serial number, manufacture and expiry date, type, size, and rating of the fire extinguisher.

• Details of the visual inspection

Does the extinguisher have a valid maintenance tag that is signed and dated? Is the extinguisher accessible and its safety pin is intact with the handle not bent or broken? Other information to note are—label should be clear, pressure gauge as at green, hoses in good condition, and if the extinguisher is full.

• Confirmation of inspection

The inspector should sign and include the date on the fire extinguisher inspection checklist to confirm the completion of the inspection. Also, if applicable, sign the inspection tag of the fire extinguisher.

How to Conduct Regular Fire Extinguisher Inspections Efficiently?

Crucial in maintaining the safety of the workplace and complying with regulations, regular fire extinguisher inspections need not be too tedious or time-consuming. Follow these 5 key steps in inspecting fire extinguishers and conduct your checks with efficiency.

1. Check the accessibility

Do a visual check and assess the visibility and accessibility of the fire extinguisher:

• Fire extinguishers should not be blocked by other objects so that they’re easy to see and access in case of an emergency.
• Secure portable fire extinguishers in a specific location to prevent them from being relocated when not in use.

2. Check the physical state of the fire extinguisher

Pick up the fire extinguisher and check for physical defects or anything that your checklists instructs to look for such as:

• The cylinder’s external metal parts should have no signs of damage or corrosion.
• The connection between the cylinder and the hose should be secure.
• The locking pin is secure and goes through the holes of the discharge lever and handle.

3. Check the pressure gauge

The needle of the pressure gauge should be within the green zone. A needle in the left red zone means the fire extinguisher is undercharged while a needle in the right red zone means the cylinder is overcharged. Take care when handling pressure vessels such as fire extinguishers.

4. Check the inspection tag

The inspection tag should be available and shows the signature and date/s when the fire extinguisher is inspected.

5. Corrective action taken for issues found should be included in the inspection report

Summarize observations, record corrective actions, and sign the fire extinguisher inspection tag (if available) with your name/signature and date of inspection.

(Want to learn more about fire extinguisher inspections such the most common issues identified? Click here.)