What type of maintenance is required for fire extinguishers?

Fire extinguishers are crucial safety devices in any building, and maintaining them is essential to ensure they function properly in an emergency. Annual testing is required for fire extinguishers to confirm that they are in good working condition and comply with safety standards. This testing typically involves a thorough inspection by a certified professional, ensuring that the extinguishers are not only fully charged but also free from damage, corrosion, and other issues that could impair function.

In addition to annual testing, fire extinguishers must be subjected to regular monthly checks by personnel on site to ensure they are easily accessible, have not been discharged, and are free of visible damage. While bi-annual cleaning and only visual inspections might seem useful, they do not fulfill the comprehensive testing requirements established by fire safety codes. Therefore, the necessity for annual testing reinforces the importance of regular maintenance to ensure readiness for emergencies.