Many New Jersey business owners and building managers take a “set and forget” approach to fire extinguishers. However, installing a fire extinguisher in New Jersey code compliance is only one part of the solution to keeping buildings safe.
Monthly inspections of workplace fire extinguishers are critical to ensure that the extinguishers work when you need them. The easiest way to ensure your fire extinguishers are up to par is to trust the experts at ABC Fire & Safety.
We not only use the highest quality products on the market, but we can train and educate your employees on the best ways to use and maintain them. Learn why monthly inspections are important and how to perform monthly inspections on your workplace fire extinguishers.
Why Monthly Inspections Are Important
A fire extinguisher is one of your most useful tools when a fire breaks out. However, it’s only useful if it’s in good working order and can function correctly when needed.
Over time, fire extinguishers can experience corrosion, decay, leaks, and other issues. Furthermore, the pressurized extinguishing agent in a fire extinguisher isn’t designed to last forever. Low pressure will significantly decrease the device’s effectiveness.
Without a monthly inspection, you run the risk that your extinguishers won’t work properly in the event of an emergency.
Businesses Are Responsible for Inspections
Inspecting your workplace fire extinguishers isn’t just good practice — it’s required by law. The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that businesses regularly inspect their fire extinguishers. If a business fails to perform the required inspections, it can open itself up to liability.
Beyond legality, business owners should always take responsibility for their employees’ safety. Failure to conduct these important inspections can put both employees and customers at risk of severe injury or worse.
How to Perform Monthly Inspections
The steps to perform a monthly inspection are relatively simple. First, check that the extinguisher has a valid maintenance tag. A valid, up-to-date maintenance tag is required by law.
Second, check that the pressure gauge is in the green position. If the extinguisher doesn’t have a pressure gauge, you’ll need to weigh it to ensure it’s the same weight as recorded on the maintenance tag.
Next, confirm that the tamper seal is holding the pin in place and that it hasn’t been moved or damaged. Once you’ve done this, make sure that the extinguisher is full. You can check this by lifting the extinguisher or weighing it.
Moving on, survey the area to see whether the extinguisher and its surroundings are in overall good condition. Look for signs of damage to the extinguisher and its case, and make sure the extinguisher it’s not inaccessible or blocked from view.
Finally, you’ll update the maintenance tag and complete an inspection report. Sign and date the maintenance tag after recording the required information. Afterward, draft a report of the inspection detailing exactly what was inspected and noting any errors, deficiencies, or compliance problems.
For most businesses, hiring a professional company to conduct inspections is the easiest solution, one that provides much-needed peace of mind.
Trust ABC Fire & Safety for Your Fire Protection Needs
If you’re like many business owners, ensuring that your business is protected in case of a fire emergency is simply too much to take on in addition to your other duties. If you need a fire extinguisher inspection in NJ, turn to the experts at ABC Fire & Safety.
We’ve been helping business owners keep their property and employees safe for over 35 years. We also provide fire sprinkler systems and other fire safety solutions. Contact us today to get help with all of your fire protection needs.
