How should a CE fire extinguisher be maintained to ensure its performance during an emergency?

Conducting routine inspections is a fundamental part of maintaining a fire extinguisher's readiness. On a monthly basis, perform a thorough visual inspection to check for any obvious damage, such as dents, cracks, rust, or signs of leakage. It's also essential to check the pressure gauge, if present, to ensure the needle is within the green zone, indicating the extinguisher is adequately pressurized. Additionally, verify that the tamper seal is intact and that the pin is securely in place to ensure the extinguisher hasn’t been tampered with.

Every fire extinguisher has a defined lifespan, between 5 to 15 years, depending on the model and its type. Always check the manufacturing date or the expiry label to ensure the extinguisher is still within its usable life. If the extinguisher has surpassed its expiry or is approaching the expiration date, it is crucial to replace it with a new unit or have it professionally serviced and recharged.

The pressure gauge is one of the most important indicators of an extinguisher's readiness. Make it a habit to check the gauge to ensure the needle points to the green zone, which indicates that the extinguisher is properly pressurized. If the needle is in the red zone, it signifies that the extinguisher has either lost pressure or is defective. In such cases, the extinguisher should be recharged or replaced immediately to avoid any risk during an emergency.

Examine the extinguisher’s body, nozzle, and valve for any signs of physical damage. The body should be free from significant dents, cracks, or rust, as these can compromise the integrity of the unit and affect its performance during use. The nozzle should be clear of any obstructions or blockages, ensuring that it can discharge the contents without interruption. Additionally, check the handle for any breaks or looseness that could affect the ease of use, especially in a high-pressure situation.

The tamper seal is a critical security feature designed to prevent unauthorized use or tampering with the fire extinguisher. Ensure that the tamper seal is intact. If the seal is missing or broken, this could indicate that the extinguisher has been used or tampered with, which compromises its effectiveness. In such cases, the extinguisher should be inspected and recharged, and the tamper seal should be replaced to ensure it’s secure before it’s put back into service.

After a fire extinguisher has been used, even if only partially, it must be recharged by a professional service technician. Even a slight discharge can reduce the extinguisher’s ability to perform effectively in an emergency. Extinguishers that have been discharged should not be put back into service until they have been re-pressurized, as they may not be able to handle a future fire event. This is especially important in high-risk environments where a second chance to act may be critical.

While monthly inspections can catch obvious issues, an annual professional inspection ensures that the fire extinguisher is functioning optimally. During these annual checks, certified technicians will assess the internal components, test the discharge pressure, and perform any necessary maintenance or recharging. Professional servicing may also involve replacing internal seals or O-rings and verifying the overall performance to make sure the extinguisher will work effectively in an emergency.