Frequently Asked Questions
We have simplified some frequently asked questions and their answers below. One version provides a straightforward explanation, while the other includes the official response from the NFPA code book. If you have any further questions, please contact us.contact us.
Yes. State and federal fire code requires that all business locations have their fire extinguishers inspected at least ANNUALLY by a certified company.
7.1.2.1 A trained and certified individual, who has received the necessary instructions and possesses the manufacturer’s service manual, should service the fire extinguishers at intervals not exceeding one year, as specified in Section 7.3.
State and federal fire codes mandate that all business locations have their fire extinguishers inspected at least once a year by a certified company.
The law requires that all compressed gas cylinders be serviced at specified intervals. Fire extinguishers are compressed gas cylinders. Generally, they fall under a 5,6 and 12-year service cycle. This one is very hard to be specific due to the many different regulations.
7.3.1.2.1* Six-Year Maintenance. Stored-pressure fire extinguishers that need a hydrostatic test every 12 years must be emptied and undergo the relevant maintenance procedures specified in the manufacturer’s service manual every six years.
8.1.1 Pressure vessels and specified components of fire extinguishers must undergo hydrostatic testing as outlined in this chapter.
Yes and no. Yes, you can perform the required monthly checks on your extinguisher. No, you must have a certified company conduct the annual inspection. We hope you consider our services for this requirement.
7.1.2.1 A qualified and certified individual, having completed the required training and equipped with the manufacturer’s service manual, must service the fire extinguishers at intervals of no more than one year, as specified in Section 7.3.
Without delving into technical details, as a compressed cylinder is transported in a vehicle, the D.O.T. requires all cylinders to be serviced and safe. If they are not, they rely on companies like ours to perform the necessary service and repairs in accordance with CFR 49, a code book we adhere to.
The CO2 in the extinguisher remains in a liquid form due to the pressure it exerts while attempting to transition to a gas. Even with only half the required amount of CO2, it maintains the same pressure in the cylinder. For this reason, CO2 extinguishers are weighed during monthly inspections. Refer to the nameplate label for the correct fill weight.
During extreme temperatures, Buckeye often receives inquiries about extinguishers appearing to leak or be over-pressurized, with the gauge indicator positioned on the low or high side of the green “charged” zone. This typically happens because the extinguisher has been exposed to heat or cold during transit, storage, or at its mounting location. Extinguishers are loaded with firefighting agents and then pressurized with expellant gas at room temperatures of 68-70°F, with the pressure gauge set to display normal pressure at this temperature. When exposed to temperature extremes, the gas expands or contracts, shifting the pressure indicator left or right of center. The green zone on the gauge indicates a charged condition across the extinguisher’s rated temperature range, ensuring it will function properly as long as the indicator remains within this zone.
For optimal clean-up, use a vacuum or a wet sweeping method combined with a shovel, as both approaches help reduce dust formation. Collect the product in bags or drums for proper disposal. If the product has been exposed to fire or contaminated, ensure you use suitable personal protective equipment and containment measures appropriate to the mixture’s composition.
Dry chemical fire extinguishing agents are typically not considered hazardous and are not classified as hazardous waste. Their disposal should comply with state or local regulations, which may impose stricter rules than federal guidelines. Note that if the extinguishing agent was used during a fire, the waste mixture’s properties might have changed or become contaminated. This could necessitate different disposal methods. Each scenario can vary, so we recommend consulting with the appropriate regulatory body for disposal guidance.
When setting up portable fire extinguishers, four key aspects need to be reviewed. Begin by identifying the hazards present and noting even minimal amounts of each fire type to decide the appropriate number of extinguishers. Then, determine the size of the fire extinguisher and calculate the quantity needed based on the coverage permitted by local and national fire regulations. Finally, ensure the distribution of portable fire extinguishers is within the allowable travel distance to each unit.
Most areas need ABC fire extinguishers.
Class A Locations: These extinguishers are necessary where common combustibles like paper and wood are found.
Class B Locations: These extinguishers should be present where oils and flammable liquids are located.
Class C Locations: These are needed in areas with live electrical equipment or near electrical installations.
Class D Locations: For these locations, extinguishers must be within 75 feet of the hazard. The size is determined by the specific metal, particle size, area to cover, and manufacturer guidelines.
Class K Locations: In areas with potential fires from cooking oils or fats, extinguishers must be within 30 feet of the hazard.