Portable fire extinguishers are some of the most important pieces of equipment owned by any business. The quality and condition of your business’s fire extinguishers can make the difference between a minor inconvenience and a catastrophe involving injuries, loss of life and property damage.
The best way to cut down and even eliminate the danger of fire in the workplace is to have fire extinguishers that are properly installed and maintained by a professional.
Basic requirements for a fire extinguisher
Fire extinguishers in a place of business are used as the first line of defense in an early response to a developing fire. They can put out a small fire or help to control a fire until help arrives.
There are many things that can take your business’s fire extinguisher out of commission without you even knowing it. In order for them to do their job properly in case they are needed, they must be taken care of and even replaced when necessary.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) require monthly inspections of portable fire extinguishers. They also recommend adding these steps to your monthly inspection.
Easy access. The fire extinguisher in your business must be accessible and visible. Make sure there are no obstructions blocking access.
Seals. The safety and tamper seal must be intact.
Pressure. Most fire extinguishers come with a pressure gauge which will indicate if it remains in the correct range of operation. Press the test indicator (if there is one) to see if the pressure reading is in the correct range.
Physical damage. A fire extinguisher may become corroded or there may have been a leak and the nozzle may become clogged. If this is the case you will need to have the equipment replaced.
Keep records of fire extinguisher inspections
As an employer, you will need to keep records of your monthly inspections and maintain them for 12 months. You have the option of keeping a master record at the business or include the testing information on a tag attached to the fire extinguisher.
Inspections that take place in your business must also be followed up by experts and their recommendations need to be precisely followed.
Fire extinguishers must be used properly
As an employer, you need to keep the work environment safe for workers. In order for your employees to understand the correct way to use a fire extinguisher, educational training must be provided in the correct way to use the fire extinguisher.
Contact Jasperwood Fire Equipment Company Today
Jasperwood Fire Equipment Company has been providing fire equipment sales and service to the Texas Panhandle since 1953. Jasperwood Fire Equipment Company provides complete fire protection services for restaurants, commercial kitchens and other industries in the Texas Panhandle including Plainview TX, Amarillo TX and Lubbock TX as well as the surrounding areas. Jasperwood Fire Equipment Company is your best solution for all fire protection and fire suppression system products and services. Don’t gamble with the safety of your business, your employees, your valuable assets or your guests.
Request Information, Service, Training Or A Quote or call Jasperwood Fire Equipment Company TODAY. In Amarillo TX call (806) 373-0000, in Lubbock TX call (806) 793-3000 and in Plainview TX call (806) 296-9789.