Why is hydraulic testing of fire extinguishers important?
Most people wouldn’t know about the hydraulic testing of fire extinguishers. This is not important for everyone. What is important and even crucial is that every workplace in New Zealand should be fire safe. That’s where the testing of fire extinguishers comes into it.
Fire safety is not just for a certain time or specific period, but right throughout the year. It is deemed so important that it is a legal requirement of every workplace.
When it comes to fire safety, one of the most crucial elements is having fully functioning fire extinguishers on hand and ready to use.
There is no point in having a fire extinguisher or any other fire equipment if it is not going to function properly in the event of a fire breaking out.
Why your fire extinguishers need testing
You do not use a fire extinguisher on a regular basis and hopefully, you never need to.
It is only through proper maintenance and testing that you can be sure your fire equipment will be ready to use. If you have the wrong fire extinguisher or it malfunctions when you attempt to use it, you could miss the vital chance to stop the fire from spreading. That is a window of opportunity that you need to have open to you at all times.
Like any equipment, a fire extinguisher can develop faults and failings. This could be something simple like the fire hoses becoming clogged or the extinguisher suffering from corrosion.
This is why you need fire extinguisher inspection and testing at the prescribed intervals. These intervals depend on which type of extinguisher you have and in what environment it is protecting.
The hydraulic testing method in a nutshell
Of all the different types of tests, what exactly is hydraulic testing and why is it important?
Fire extinguishers are crucial equipment in fighting fires. Testing needs to be done according to a set schedule and to the relevant standards.
All portable fire extinguishers must be tested at least once every 12 months according to the NZS 4503:2005 standard. This frequency varies depending on the business environment.
When it comes to the hydraulic testing of fire extinguishers, it is the behaviour of the equipment that is being put to the test.
Hydraulic tests are undertaken to check the behaviour of equipment under real conditions. This is when hydraulic stresses are applied. These include ensuring the device is burst and pressure proof, and can sustain brief pressure increases.
Professionals know that to be fire safe, fire extinguishers need to be properly pressure tested after 5 years. This is the recommended method to ensure the extinguisher’s cylinder is safe to use. This special testing method means that each extinguisher must be completely emptied.
This illustrates why you need to have a high level of expertise to perform the testing protocol. Being able to call on a team of experts for your fire safety is a great asset.
The different types of extinguishers
With expert advice, you can have any of the different types of extinguishers in place at your workplace. Whether the area is deemed a hostile environment or not is also best left to the professionals. After all, you have demands on your time already in the day-to-day running of your business.
Because all types of fire extinguishers need to meet the pressure vessel safety regulations, a hydraulic pressure test is required. These tests and the results need to be properly recorded with a tag. Only a trained professional should supply and administer a fire extinguisher tag.
It’s important to remember that if your fire equipment does not meet the latest fire safety regulations, including having documented proof of testing, you could be liable for heavy penalties.
A trusted fire safety team will be able to take you through the different fire equipment and uses, as well as advise you on the appropriate scheduling of equipment testing. Knowing the equipment suitable for each work environment takes expertise.
Jim’s Fire Safety is your trusted team of professionals
Staying fire safe has never been easier thanks to the experts at Jim’s Fire Safety.
Our technicians are highly trained and have a wealth of experience and real-world knowledge. We are proud of our reputation for providing the best fire safety services across New Zealand. This includes specialised hydraulic testing of fire extinguishers.
Jim’s Fire Safety technicians are always up to date with the latest fire safety regulations. You can be sure the fire safety equipment in your workplace is all in proper working order and has been tested and tagged by professionals. The professionals who are behind you all the way.
For the ultimate in fire safety protection, see Jim’s Fire Safety.
Call our friendly team today, or fill in the online form for a free quote.
