In small and mid-sized business premises, fire extinguishers play an integral role in stopping the spread of furnaces. In most facilities, a fire extinguisher is the first line of defence; hence, it should always be in optimal working condition. Unfortunately, there are numerous instances of fire extinguishers jamming during fire outbreaks. As a business owner, you should avoid such cases since they could lead to fatalities and property damages. Here are fire extinguisher issues effectively addressed via routine maintenance. Read on.
Hose Blockages — One of the most common fire extinguisher problems arising from poor maintenance is a hose blockage. Since a fire extinguishing agent is released under high pressure from the tank, blockages along the hose impair functionality. If you have several extinguishers with blocked hoses, then you can say goodbye to your facility if it is engulfed in flames. In this regard, fire experts recommend that fire wardens in a commercial facility regularly inspect and clean the hoses to remove insects and other debris that might be stuck inside. It is also crucial to examine the O-rings to prevent deterioration and blocking of a fire extinguisher hose.
Bent Safety Pin — A fire extinguisher's safety pin is designed to keep the handle fixed to avoid accidental activation. Pulling the safety pin allows you to press the handle and aim at a flame. However, poor and unnecessary handling of a fire extinguisher can tamper with the safety pin, making it challenging to pull out in case of a fire. As you struggle to release the safety pin, a fire might spread and could reach a point where an extinguisher becomes ineffective. Routine inspections help fire wardens identify faulty safety pins and make replacements in good time before a fire incident.
Empty Fire Extinguishers — Putting off small furnaces with a fire extinguisher is common in business facilities and residential neighbourhoods. Unfortunately, most people forget to recharge their tanks, especially after partially using the fire extinguishing agent inside. Just because some agent remains in a tank does not mean it will effectively put out the next fire. Notably, most partially-used fire extinguishers lack enough pressure to shoot the remaining solution or compound from the tank. Therefore, make sure you recharge the fire extinguishers in your facility when needed. A good rule of thumb is to check the gauge since it indicates whether an extinguisher has been used or is leaking.
