Please proof this new article on Fire Extinguisher Maintenance and Inspection.

1
2

Hi Nick,

The article reads:

“Water Mist – These extinguishers are most suited for “A” class fires. However, they cannot be used in “B” and “C” class fires because water is conductive. Since the agent used is water, these types of extinguishers are inexpensive and environmentally friendly.”

but according to NFPA, the water mist is fine enough as to be non-conductive.

http://amerex-fire.com/Literature/wmarticle.pdf

Should the paragraph read:

“Water Extinguishers– These extinguishers are most suited for “A” class fires. However, they cannot be used in “B” ,“C” or “D” class fires. In “B” or “D” class fires, the water will spread the flames. In a “C” class fire the water is conductive and poses a shock hazard to the operator. However the misting nozzle of a “Water Mist” extinguisher breaks up a stream of deionized water to the point that there is no conductive path back to the operator. Since the agent used is water, these types of extinguishers are inexpensive and environmentally friendly.”

Pat

3

Nick,

Suggest the following:

  • Make sure that the hose (if one equipped) is intact and not obstructed.

change to:

  • Make sure that the hose (if so equipped) is intact and not obstructed.

(and remove one of “the”)

  • Make sure the the pressure dial reads in the green or “charged” area. It should also be clear and readable.
4

This is beyond our SOP, and is not required by residential home inspectors. Let the fire department do that for free. This is for commerical only. And even at that, should not be required. My opinion.

5

I got an email this weekend from a client requesting and inspection of 75 extinguishers by a licensed inspector. I am wondering about state licensing in OH for these inspections. Does anyone have any information they could share? Thanks in advance.

6

You could call the local fire extinguisher company and inquire.

7

It is only beyond our residential "home’ inspection SOP. Residential home inspections are only a small portion of who we are. We are inspectors… of all kinds: InterNACHI's Ancillary Inspection Profile Editor

8

Nick,
here are a few items that you may want to add:

  • 75 foot travel distance for extinguishers other than Class K should be added as well as how to measure that distance.
  • Is the label on the extinguisher present and visible?
  • Have monthly inspections prior to this inspection been done on a 30 day interval, kept in a recorded format (Tag, separate log, computer database), and maintenance records showing when extinguishers were removed from service for repair/replacement?
  • Are the extinguishers properly mounted?