Expert Fire Extinguisher Inspection in Clayton NC
Take care of your fire extinguishers and they'll take care of you in an emergency. On the other hand, if you neglect their inspections or go with a disreputable company that will simply update the tag without actually performing the inspection, your fire extinguishers might malfunction when they are needed most.
For trustworthy, reliable fire extinguisher testing and recharging in Clayton and the Triangle, call Safeguard at 984-226-4879 or contact us online today!
Fire Extinguisher Services You Can Count On
If you're lucky, you'll never need to use your fire extinguishers at all. However, if you do, you'll want to be confident that they'll perform their function properly.
That confidence comes from strict adherence to your fire extinguisher inspection schedule and knowing that your fire protection company is doing a thorough inspection. At Safeguard, our techs use electronic documentation and record-keeping methods.
Recording your inspection data electronically helps us give you the most accurate, trackable, and thorough inspection possible. We never cut corners, and that's why our clients trust us and recommend us to friends and associates. Call today to schedule your fire extinguisher inspection.
Hydrostatic Testing for Fire Extinguishers
Hydrostatic testing for fire extinguishers is a process that determines whether or not the extinguisher can withstand the immense pressure they are subjected to. A hydrostatic test is designed to ensure that the extinguisher's pressure vessel is free of leaks and defects that could potentially render it useless when it's needed the most. It's most important after fire extinguishers have been used.
During the test, the extinguisher is filled with water, pressurized until it reaches twice its intended operating pressure, and then monitored for any loss of pressure or signs of weakness. By undergoing this test, you can rest assured that your fire extinguishers are up to the task of keeping you and your property safe in the event of a fire emergency.
Fire Extinguisher Problems to Look Out For
In between your required annual professional fire extinguisher inspections, you should be doing monthly checks to make sure there are no obvious problems or excessive signs of damage or wear. Some of the things you should look out for include:
- Pressure gauge shows that it is not charged
- Safety pin is missing or damaged
- Nozzle is clogged or damaged,
All of these signs could mean that your fire extinguisher is not functioning correctly and may not be able to save you in a fire emergency. Call Safeguard right away if you notice any of these problems.
We'll perform a professional inspection and advise you as to whether repair or replacement is needed. That way, we can work with you to keep your establishment safe in the event of a fire.
North Carolina Fire Extinguisher Inspection Requirements
As per Section 906 of the North Carolina Fire Code, the requirements for fire extinguisher inspections include:
- Fire extinguishers must be visually inspected monthly to ensure they are in their designated location, are accessible, and have not been damaged or blocked.
- They must be inspected and maintained annually by a qualified person to ensure they are fully charged and ready to use in case of a fire emergency.
- Fire extinguishers must be hydrostatically tested based on their type and usage. For example, a dry chemical extinguisher must be hydrotested every 12 years, while a carbon dioxide extinguisher must be hydrotested every 5 years.
- Fire extinguishers must be clearly identified with their type, rating, and instructions for use. The tag on the extinguisher must indicate the date of the last inspection and maintenance activity.
Safeguard is certified as an authorized inspector for hydrostatic testing, 5-year and 12-year fire extinguisher inspections, and recharging on all types of fire extinguishers. Whatever your needs are, we're here to help keep you compliant and stress-free.
Professional Fire Extinguisher Recharging
As a vital component in fire safety, fire extinguishers require proper care and maintenance. One important aspect of this maintenance is recharging them. A fire extinguisher needs to be recharged whenever it has been used, even if only partially.
The recharge process involves refilling fire extinguishers with the necessary suppressant chemical or gas, and the pressure level is checked to make sure the device is functioning properly.
Extinguishers must also be recharged after visual inspections if the gauge pressure is below the recommended level. Additionally, fire extinguishers should be recharged every few years to ensure they are always filled to capacity and ready for use in the event of an emergency.
Regular recharging helps increase the lifespan of fire extinguishers, allowing them to continue to serve as an effective tool for extinguishing fires and keeping people safe. Call Safeguard today at 984-226-4879 to schedule your fire extinguisher recharge in Clayton, NC, and the surrounding communities.
Fire Extinguisher FAQs
Fire extinguishers with metal valves are typically refillable, but those with plastic valves are commonly not. A regular checkup by a qualified expert is necessary for refillable or rechargeable fire extinguishers used in homes and businesses. You should never try to refill a fire extinguisher on your own.
If your fire extinguisher gauge is red, it indicates that the unit needs immediate attention or is not in proper working condition. Check for other signs of damage or expiration. If you're uncertain about the extinguisher's functionality, it's crucial to replace or recharge it promptly. Contact a certified professional or the manufacturer for guidance. A non-functional fire extinguisher poses a safety risk, and ensuring that it's in good working order is essential for effective fire protection in your home or business.
To dispose of an old or expired fire extinguisher, follow these steps:
- Check with Local Waste Management: Contact your local waste disposal facility to find out their specific requirements for disposing of fire extinguishers.
- Discharge the Extinguisher: If safe, discharge the extinguisher completely by pointing it into an open area and squeezing the handle until it stops.
- Remove the Head: Unscrew and remove the head to indicate that it is empty.
- Recycle the Canister: Take the canister to a recycling center that accepts metal, or dispose of it according to local hazardous waste guidelines.
These steps help ensure safe and environmentally responsible disposal.