I'll also go into a bit more detail and introduce a few other issues you should be thinking about when it's time to service your own extinguishers.
In addition to this I'll go over the suitable BSI standards and why you ought to be familiar with them.
Maintenance is not something you'll want to cut corners with. Hopefully you will not ever have to use your extinguishers but if/when you are doing, you should make certain they are safe and sound and available right away.
Relevant BSI Codes of Practice
Even before you contemplate selecting someone to complete your extinguisher maintenance, you'll want to make certain they work in compliance with British Standard Code of Practice 5306 Part 3 - 2009.
BS 5306 is the combination of BSIs British Standards regarding fire extinguishing installations and related equipment. Section 3 is the Code of Practice for any commissioning and maintenance of mobile fire extinguishers.
Since many individuals use mobile units, this is the part which is likely to be the most relevant to your fire extinguisher maintenance needs.
Assessments Carried Out During Maintenance
Choosing a person that works inside the BSI Code of Practice helps you to meet the health and safety regulations in your work environment.
It's also great to learn a little bit about what sort of work needs to be completed on your own units.
Virtually all fire extinguisher types really should be examined for pressure, weight and also for any visible warning signs of problems, for example dents or deterioration.
Pretty much all components, pipes and hoses have to be examined to ensure they operate correctly and labeling really should be checked to make sure they're still quickly readable. Cartridge based units can also be examined internally by opening them up, but don't do this by yourself.
If all of the above are checked at least once a year your maintenance should have done it's job. You're safe knowing if you happen to want to use your units they're going to be available as well as in excellent working order.
Other Relevant Issues to Consider
One thing that's easily overlooked is the fact that water and foam type units which aren't in a heated location through the winter can freeze.
Such models must contain a low temperature additive to stop them from freezing up.
Carbon dioxide extinguishers require traditional maintenance for a decade. After that a hydro-static test must then be caried out.
After this period of time though it's usually a good plan to change the extinguisher for a another one. As your units age there comes a point where it's better and cost efficient to switch them.
Remember that your unwanted fire extinguishers can usually be recycled too.
Ask the local authority or your fire extinguisher servicing company for information regarding recycling your older units.
If you are seeking fire extinguisher servicing, refilling, items or perhaps more free facts, go to: Fire Extinguisher Servicing
A fire extinguisher is something that every home should have simply for peace of mind. There are many areas of the home in which fires could start very easily.
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