How To Keep Your Fire Extinguisher OSHA Compliant
When it comes to safety, an OSHA-compliant fire extinguisher is a critical piece of the puzzle. It can help protect your business from costly and devastating damage due to fires. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has specific requirements for fire extinguishers to ensure the safety of employees and customers.
Proper Labeling
The first step in keeping your fire extinguisher OSHA-compliant is to ensure that all extinguishers are clearly labeled. Proper labeling means clearly displaying the manufacturer’s name, model number, UL rating, and other appropriate labels. Mark all extinguishers with the word “Warning” or “Caution” in red lettering.
Inspection and Maintenance
OSHA fire extinguisher requirements state businesses must do inspections regularly to ensure good working condition. Always conduct monthly inspections by trained personnel, who should look for any signs of damage or corrosion. In addition, the pressure gauge should be checked to see if it is in the proper range. A complaint extinguisher should always have a full charge.
Testing and Recharging
OSHA also requires periodic testing of fire extinguishers to ensure they are functioning properly and their effectiveness has not diminished over time. You must recharge fire extinguishers if the pressure gauge dips below the recommended level, after each use, or any damage.
One way to test the extinguishers is to weigh them; if the weight has decreased, it’s time to recharge. So keep a track record of the weight of your fire extinguishers to ensure that they are always ready to be used in case of a fire.
Storage and Placement
To ensure your fire extinguishers are properly accessible and visible, OSHA requires that extinguishers be placed in clearly marked and easily accessible locations. Always place them in conspicuous and visible places, away from sources of heat or combustible materials, and avoid putting extinguishers in areas that are prone to fire.
Training and Education
Finally, employees must have proper training about how to use fire extinguishers. Fire extinguishers should always be kept securely in their designated locations. All employees must know how to access them quickly and safely during an emergency. Employees should also be made aware of the different types of fire extinguishers, as each type is designed to combat certain types of fires.
With fire extinguishers OSHA requirements ensure a safe and compliant workplace where people have protection from the potentially devastating effects of fires. Fire extinguishers should never be taken for granted, and OSHA compliance is essential for everyone’s safety.
Categorised in: Fire Extinguisher Inspection
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