Fire Extinguisher Inspection and Maintenance Procedures

This document outlines the procedures for the routine inspection and maintenance of fire extinguishers. Regular inspection and maintenance are crucial for ensuring that fire extinguishers are functional and ready for use in an emergency. These procedures include visual checks, maintenance steps, and documentation requirements to maintain a safe environment.

General Safety Guidelines

Before servicing any equipment, including fire extinguishers, it is important to:

• Read the entire maintenance procedure section.
• Familiarize yourself with all safety precautions.
• Pay close attention to all safety alert symbols.
• Ensure you understand the procedures.
• Wear personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Remove rings and jewelry.
• Move the machine to a safe, level workplace.
• Lower and support all raised equipment.
• Shut down the machine.
• Remove the key from the ignition.
• Be careful not to spill fuels and lubricants.
• Do not fill or refuel the tank while the engine is running or hot.
• Do not smoke while refueling or working with fuel.
• Clean up any spilled fuel and/or lubricants.

Routine Inspection Procedures

Regular visual inspections of fire extinguishers are essential. These inspections should be performed at least monthly, and more frequently in areas with a higher risk of fire or vandalism.

Inspection Checklist:

• Location: Verify that each fire extinguisher is in its designated location and is clearly visible and accessible.
• Obstructions: Ensure that there are no obstructions blocking access to the fire extinguisher.
• Signage: Check that the signage indicating the location of the fire extinguisher is in place and legible.
• Physical Condition: Inspect the fire extinguisher for any signs of physical damage, such as dents, rust, corrosion, or other visible defects.
• Pressure Gauge: Verify that the pressure gauge is within the operable range. The needle should be in the green zone. If the gauge indicates over or under pressure, the extinguisher should be removed from service and inspected by a qualified technician.
• Hose and Nozzle: Check the hose and nozzle for any cracks, blockages, or damage. Ensure that the hose is securely attached.
• Pin and Tamper Seal: Ensure that the safety pin is in place and the tamper seal is intact. If the tamper seal is broken or missing, the extinguisher may have been used or tampered with.
• Operating Instructions: Confirm that the operating instructions are legible and facing outward so they can be easily read.
• Inspection Tag: Check the inspection tag to ensure that the extinguisher has been inspected within the required interval. Initial and date the inspection tag after completing the inspection.

Maintenance Procedures

In addition to routine inspections, fire extinguishers require periodic maintenance to ensure proper function. Maintenance should be performed by trained and certified personnel.

Maintenance Schedule:

• Annual Maintenance:
• Visual inspection of all components.
• Check the weight of the extinguisher.
• Examine the cylinder for damage or corrosion.
• Ensure the operating instructions are legible.
• Six-Year Maintenance:
• Discharge the extinguisher and conduct a thorough internal examination.
• Replace any worn or damaged parts.
• Recharge the extinguisher.
• Hydrostatic testing of the cylinder (as required).
• Hydrostatic Testing:
• Hydrostatic testing is required every 5 to 12 years, depending on the type of extinguisher. This test ensures that the cylinder can withstand the internal pressure.
• The test must be performed by a certified testing facility.

Defect Reporting and Corrective Actions

Any defects or issues identified during inspection or maintenance must be reported immediately. Remove the fire extinguisher from service and replace it with a functional one until the defective unit is repaired or replaced.

Reporting Procedures:

• Document the defect, including the date, location, and description of the problem.
• Notify the designated safety personnel or fire safety manager.
• Attach a tag to the extinguisher indicating that it is out of service.
• Keep a record of all reported defects and corrective actions taken.

Documentation

Accurate record-keeping is essential for tracking inspections, maintenance, and defect reporting. All records should be kept in a designated location and be readily available for review.

Required Documentation:

• Inspection logs, including dates, inspector's initials, and any findings.
• Maintenance records, including dates, services performed, and the technician's signature.
• Defect reports and corrective actions taken.
• Records of hydrostatic testing.
• Certifications of maintenance personnel.

Training

All personnel who are expected to use, inspect, or maintain fire extinguishers must receive proper training. Training should include:

• The proper use of fire extinguishers.
• The different types of fire extinguishers and their applications.
• Inspection procedures.
• Maintenance requirements.
• Defect reporting procedures.

General Safety Procedures

It is important to follow general safety procedures, including wearing eye protection and personal safety equipment, and being a fully trained and qualified operator. Before start-up or machine operation, the operator must learn the location and purpose of the controls, instruments, indicator lights, and safety and instruction labels. Protective clothing and safety equipment such as gloves, safety boots, safety hard hats/goggles, and ear protection should be used when necessary. Wear protective clothing that is snug and belted where required.

Install a first-aid kit and fire extinguisher in the operator's cab and keep them properly maintained. Follow the instructions provided with the first-aid kit and fire extinguisher. [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [10] [11] [12] [13]

Before Servicing

Before servicing, read the entire Maintenance Procedure Section, familiarize yourself with all safety precautions, pay close attention to all safety alert symbols, and be sure you understand the procedures detailed in this section. Wear personnel protective equipment and remove rings and jewelry. Move the machine to a safe level work place, lower the boom and support all raised equipment, shut down the machine, and remove the key from the ignition. Be careful not to spill fuels and lubricants. Do not fill or refuel the tank while the engine is running or hot, and do not smoke while refueling or working with fuel to avoid a fire and/or explosion. Always clean up spilled fuel and/or lubricants to avoid polluting the earth. [15] [14] [16]

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