Workplace safety is an extremely important consideration in the modern world. In many cases, fire protection is up there among the most important aspects of workplace safety, mainly due to the unpredictable, dangerous nature of fires. A lot of people will argue that fire protection should include a fire action plan, an evacuation plan and a range of fire protection equipment – such as fire extinguishers.
It is essential to remember that you can’t just install fire safety equipment and then forget about it. Things like fire extinguishers and sprinkler systems need to be serviced regularly to make sure that they remain in good working order, and that they can be used quickly and effectively by everyone in the workplace.
Why Do I Need To Service My Fire Extinguishers?
Things like fire extinguisher servicing is very important as they do need to be maintained to a high standard. Fittings and seals can degrade over time, and the contents of an extinguisher can go bad eventually. Regular servicing by a trained professional will help to make sure that your extinguishers remain in working order throughout the year.
Properly functioning fire extinguishers are essential for workplace safety in case of a fire. If a fire occurs and someone grabs an extinguisher, expecting it to work properly, but then is unable to use it, they will be putting themselves at risk of injury. Add to this the fact that valuable time will be lost, and you can see just how important it is to make sure that your extinguishers are well maintained.
How Often Do I Need To Service My Extinguishers?
Different types of fire extinguishers need to be serviced by a professional at different time intervals. In some cases, you are required by law to service your extinguishers every so often, depending on your business type and state of operation.
As a basic rule, all portable or wheeled fire extinguishers should be tested every six months. All extinguishers should have their pressure tested and be refilled if necessary at least once every five years. Your best bet is to speak with a professional to make sure that you have fulfilled all your testing requirements.
What Other Equipment Do I Need To Maintain Regularly?
Along with your fire extinguishers, you should also make sure that all of your other fire safety equipment is maintained and in good condition. Consider getting thing like smoke detectors, fire alarm systems, sprinkler systems and fire hydrants checked regularly.
Final Word:
Fire safety is an extremely important consideration in any workplace. For most people, fire safety involves a clear fire action and response plan, as well as a variety of fire protection equipment. It is essential to make sure that your fire equipment is well maintained and in working condition, otherwise you may run into problems if you do happen to have a workplace fire.
