Fire Extinguisher Inspection Checklist

Why Use a Fire Extinguisher Checklist?

These checklists enable inspectors to proactively identify any issues that could compromise the effectiveness of fire extinguishers during emergencies. Employers must adhere to legal requirements that mandate monthly visual inspections of portable fire extinguishers. Non-compliance with these regulations not only exposes businesses to penalties but may also jeopardize the safety of employees and the workplace in the event of a fire incident.

To meet the obligations for annual or monthly fire extinguisher inspections, individuals have the option to employ a fire extinguisher self-inspection checklist or a comprehensive fire self-inspection checklist that encompasses an evaluation of fire extinguishers. These self-inspection checklists, such as the Gates Fire District Self-Inspection Form Checklist, cover various aspects, including the following:

• Condition of grounds
• Interior doors
• Stairways
• Heating and air conditioning equipment
• Electrical equipment,
• Control panels
• Housekeeping
• Fire protection measures

By utilizing these checklists, businesses and individuals can proactively contribute to a safer work environment and ensure compliance with fire safety regulations.

What to Do During Monthly Fire Extinguisher Inspections?

The following parts are checked and tasks are completed during monthly fire extinguisher inspections. These are done not only for compliance with the law but also because employers need to ensure that the extinguishers are going to work in case of a fire. Using a comprehensive fire extinguisher checklist, check the following:

1. Make sure that the maintenance tag is valid.
2. Confirm that the fire extinguisher is mounted in an easily accessible place with no debris or material stacked in front of it.
3. Ensure that the safety pin is intact and in place, and nothing else is used in place of the pin.
4. Verify that the label, extinguisher type, and instructions are clear and easy to read.
5. Check that the handle is intact, not bent or broken.
6. Inspect the pressure gauge to ensure it is in the green zone and not damaged or indicating “”recharge.””
7. Examine the discharge hose/nozzle to ensure it is in good condition, not clogged, cracked, or broken.
8. Confirm that it is full by turning it upside down at least three times.
9. Identify the location of the extinguisher by checking that signs clearly mark its position.
10. Dust and wipe down the extinguisher to keep it clean.
11. Indicate the overall condition of the extinguisher as either pass or fail.
12. Sign and enter the date of the monthly inspection on the annual maintenance tag.

These 12 steps are found in this fire extinguisher checklist format that can be downloaded for free.

What Should be Recorded on a Fire Extinguisher Inspection Checklist?

Fire extinguisher inspection checklists help inspectors conduct and record their monthly and yearly checks with due diligence, preventing them from missing crucial points in checking if fire extinguishers are in good working condition. Here are what a checklist typically contains based on a monthly fire extinguisher inspection form:

Information about the fire extinguisher

Inspectors need to know and record the exact location of the extinguisher as well as the following—serial number, manufacture and expiry date, type, size, and rating of the fire extinguisher.

Details of the visual inspection

Does the extinguisher have a valid maintenance tag that is signed and dated? Is the extinguisher accessible and its safety pin is intact with the handle not bent or broken? Other information to note are—label should be clear, pressure gauge as at green, hoses in good condition, and if the extinguisher is full.

Confirmation of inspection

The inspector should sign and include the date on the fire extinguisher inspection checklist to confirm the completion of the inspection. Also, if applicable, sign the inspection tag of the fire extinguisher.

How to Conduct Regular Fire Extinguisher Inspections Efficiently?

Crucial in maintaining the safety of the workplace and complying with regulations, regular fire extinguisher inspections need not be too tedious or time-consuming. Follow these 5 key steps in inspecting fire extinguishers and conduct your checks with efficiency.

1. Check the accessibility

Do a visual check and assess the visibility and accessibility of the fire extinguisher:

• Fire extinguishers should not be blocked by other objects so that they’re easy to see and access in case of an emergency.
• Secure portable fire extinguishers in a specific location to prevent them from being relocated when not in use.

2. Check the physical state of the fire extinguisher

Pick up the fire extinguisher and check for physical defects or anything that your checklists instructs to look for such as:

• The cylinder’s external metal parts should have no signs of damage or corrosion.
• The connection between the cylinder and the hose should be secure.
• The locking pin is secure and goes through the holes of the discharge lever and handle.

3. Check the pressure gauge

The needle of the pressure gauge should be within the green zone. A needle in the left red zone means the fire extinguisher is undercharged while a needle in the right red zone means the cylinder is overcharged. Take care when handling pressure vessels such as fire extinguishers.

4. Check the inspection tag

The inspection tag should be available and shows the signature and date/s when the fire extinguisher is inspected.

5. Corrective action taken for issues found should be included in the inspection report

Summarize observations, record corrective actions, and sign the fire extinguisher inspection tag (if available) with your name/signature and date of inspection.

Want to learn more about fire extinguisher inspections such as the most common issues identified? Click here. We also prepared a PDF guide to show you what a completed monthly fire extinguisher inspection looks like.