Fire Extinguisher Inspection vs. Maintenance: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to fire protection, fire extinguisher inspection and maintenance are often misunderstood or used interchangeably. While both are essential for safety and compliance, they serve different functions in ensuring that your fire extinguishers are ready when you need them most.

Fire Extinguisher Inspection

Fire extinguisher inspections are a visual check conducted to ensure each extinguisher is in its designated location, accessible, properly charged, and free from obvious damage. This quick check should be done monthly and typically by someone on-site who has received basic training. The technician should confirm the pressure gauge is in the proper range, the safety pin is intact, the hose is undamaged, and the inspection tag is up to date. These inspections should be logged and kept for reference.

Maintenance

In contrast, fire extinguisher maintenance is a more thorough and technical process that needs to be performed annually by a certified professional. Maintenance includes checking internal components, verifying the integrity of the cylinder, and ensuring the extinguisher is pressurized and operational. This might also involve replacing expired extinguishing agents or recharging the unit after use or over time. Maintenance records are typically attached directly to the extinguisher and are important for regulatory compliance with OSHA and NFPA standards.

Understanding the distinction between fire extinguisher inspection and maintenance can protect your business from liability and help save lives. A missed inspection or delayed maintenance could result in a failed extinguisher during an emergency, putting your property and people at serious risk.

At Service Fire Equipment, we offer both services to businesses across the Dallas-Fort Worth area. We’ll help you stay safe, meet local fire code requirements, and ensure peace of mind with professional support.

Don’t wait for an emergency—schedule your fire extinguisher for inspection or maintenance today! Contact Service Fire Equipment for expert inspection, maintenance, and all your fire protection needs.