The requirements recommended practices for Fire Extinguishers are listed in the National and Provincial Fire Codes. They further reference NFPA 10 – Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers for more specific information on use, types, distance, inspection, testing and maintenance procedures.
Approved Fire Extinguishers must be designed and located according to the following factors:
Design & Operation
- Should be available and accessible at all times
- Fire Extinguishers come in many different designs and types based on occupancy and area of operation.
- It is recommended that only multi-purpose Dry Chemical, Class A, B, C Fire Extinguishers be used in multi-use buildings
- Signage should be provided
- Training is recommended
Location
- Travel distance should be no further than 75′ (25 Meters) from any point within a school.
Inspection & Testing
- Is the fire extinguisher located in its designated place?
- Is the fire extinguisher unobstructed?
- Is the pressure gauge reading in the optimal range?
- Does the fire extinguisher appear to be the same weight?
- Are the hose and nozzle clear and in good condition?
- Is the pin in place and is it sealed?
- Are inspection tags attached to the fire extinguisher up-to-date?
- Are signs posted?
Thank you for reading, we hope you enjoyed this blog by our resident Risk Management & Loss Prevention Expert:
Alan Kavanaugh, CRM, CCPI
Director of Loss Control, Noratek Solutions Inc.
1-866-264-2236
Please watch for future blogs with more great tips and info!
