If you run a business, you must ensure everyone in your building has access to functional fire protection equipment. Fire extinguishers are your first line of defence from a fire. Without a working fire extinguisher, you may be exposed to uncontrollable flame and penalised for negligence.
Jim’s Fire Safety provides fire extinguisher inspection services for businesses across New Zealand. We handle fire extinguisher installation, testing, servicing, and refilling to keep your workplace safe in an emergency.
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We provide fire extinguisher inspections and other fire safety inspections all over New Zealand.
Or call 0800 454 654.
How Often Do Fire Extinguishers Need Testing?
According to the NZS 4503:2005 standard, all types of portable fire extinguishers need to be tested by a ‘competent person’ at least once every 12 months.
In ‘hostile’ commercial premises that involve more fire hazards than standard workplaces, fire extinguisher inspections need to be conducted at least once every 6 months. There are a number of factors that can make your environment qualify as ‘hostile’, so please contact us to make sure everything is functioning correctly.
Wet chemical extinguishers and foam extinguishers have additional extended service requirements. Every 3 years, there needs to be an extra examination (including a discharge test and recharging).
Every 5 years, all types of fire extinguishers require a hydraulic pressure test to adhere to pressure vessel safety regulations. All tests need to be documented with a tag.
Why Do I Need Regular Fire Extinguisher Inspections?
Most workplaces require fire extinguishers for the safety of their occupants. Regular inspections ensure that your extinguishers are in operational condition. You’ll reduce the risk of harm to employees and visitors, as well as the risk of expensive repairs and replacements should a fire occur.
Regular inspection is also essential for regulatory compliance with New Zealand’s fire extinguisher workplace requirements. If you don’t follow the correct testing frequency for your fire extinguisher, you may be subject to a hefty fine.
Fire Extinguisher Maintenance and Testing Process
A typical fire extinguisher inspection includes testing and documentation, plus other services as required. At Jim’s Fire Safety, we:
- Check that the fire extinguisher is in a suitable location, with an appropriate location sign.
- Assess the fire extinguisher for signs of damage, ensuring the safety pin, tamper seal, and service sticker are in place.
- Test that the fire extinguisher is working correctly, then recharge it to the proper pressure levels so it can be effective in an actual fire.
- Refill the extinguishing agent (if required).
- Install and test any new fire extinguishers (if required).
- Complete a detailed report on the condition of your firefighting equipment.
We value ongoing relationships with our clients, so we offer a free reminder service to make sure you never miss a fire extinguisher inspection appointment.
You’ll also receive your next test date in a log book with the rest of your test results. We keep all reports and maintenance history in a data management system so that you can access documentation when you need it.
Fire Extinguisher Testing Checklist
Between your annual inspection, you’ll also want to complete monthly checks to make sure everything’s in order. You can:
- Make sure the pressure gauge is in the green.
- Visually inspect the extinguisher for any signs of physical damage or corrosion.
- Check that the fire extinguisher is easily accessible and not blocked by any obstructions.
- Review the yellow inspection tag to make sure your regular inspection isn’t overdue.
Choose Jim’s Fire Safety to Keep Your Workplace Safe
At Jim’s Fire Safety, we offer comprehensive fire inspection services to businesses all around New Zealand.
After we’ve serviced your fire extinguishers, we can inspect fire blankets, fire hose reels, and electrical equipment. All Jim’s Fire Safety technicians are trained in both fire and electrical safety, so you can take care of your entire business in one easy appointment.
Don’t delay — contact us now and make sure your building has everything you need during an emergency.
Your safety is our business. Call 0800 454 654 now or get a FREE quote online.