How often must fire extinguishers be inspected?

Fire extinguishers must be inspected annually to ensure they are in proper working condition and compliant with safety regulations. This annual inspection typically involves a thorough examination to check for signs of damage, ensure that the pressure gauge is in the green zone, verify that the safety seals are intact, and confirm that the extinguishers are accessible and their locations are marked clearly.

While some inspections may occur more frequently based on specific circumstances or local regulations—such as monthly checks in certain commercial environments—annual inspections are the minimum requirement set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards. This ensures that all fire extinguishers are maintained and ready for use during emergencies. Regular inspection schedules play a critical role in fire safety programs, reinforcing the importance of having effective firefighting equipment readily available.