Six Things Business Owners Need to Know About Fire Extinguishers

If you run a commercial business, your building most likely has at least one fire extinguisher available in case of an emergency. Fire extinguishers are relatively simple to use, but many business owners are unaware of specific things required of them to keep their fire protection system reliable and their buildings safe.

As a local fire extinguisher service in Lawrenceville, GA, we answer many questions regarding fire extinguishers in commercial buildings and want business owners to be as well informed about their systems as possible. Here are six things every business owner should know about their fire extinguishers:

  • There are multiple types: There are numerous types of fire extinguishers available that are designed for fires with differing qualities. You can’t fight electrical, grease or metal fires in the same exact way, so you’ll need the right extinguisher for your commercial setting. ABC extinguishers help put out everyday, flammable liquid and electrical fires. Class K extinguishers tackle grease fires more common in kitchens. CO2 extinguishers are better designed for lab environments.
  • They require regular maintenance and inspection: You can’t simply install a fire extinguisher in your building and leave it there forever, untouched. Fire extinguishers should be inspected and serviced once a year by a fire extinguisher service in Lawrenceville, GA. Additionally, OSHA requires monthly visual inspections to be completed by you or an employee to make sure the system is in working order.
  • They don’t last forever: If you can’t remember when your building’s fire extinguisher was last replaced, you may want to consider swapping it out with a new one. Rechargeable fire extinguisher canisters don’t technically expire, but must pass a hydrotest every 12 years. Disposable canisters must be replaced every 12 years.
  • Extinguishers should be recharged: If you have a rechargeable fire extinguisher, you are able to refill the canister with extinguishing agent every time you use it. It’s best practice to have the canister recharged after every use to ensure it is ready for use in case of an emergency.
  • Their location in your building matters: Of course, the most important rule about placing your fire extinguisher is to put it in an easily accessible location for employees to access. However, it’s also a good idea to locate your extinguisher near an exit so that it can be used to help people leave the building safely. You may also want to keep an extinguisher in high-risk areas like a kitchen or warehouse.
  • You must dispose of them properly: If you completely use a disposable fire extinguisher, you can’t just throw it in the trash can and buy a new one. Fire extinguishers must be dropped off at your local hazardous waste disposal facility. Some fire departments will also let you drop your old canisters off at the firehouse, as well.

Maintaining top-quality, reliable fire safety equipment is critical in keeping your employees and customers safe. If you need assistance, inspections or installation of fire extinguishers in your building, call AAA Fire Protection Resources, Inc.! Our fire extinguisher service in Lawrenceville, GA has over 35 years of experience and sells, installs and services fire hydrants, emergency lights, exit signs, sprinkler systems and fire alarms. Give us a call today!

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