Things to Know About Fire Extinguisher Inspection and Maintenance in New Zealand
Fire extinguisher inspection is a vital aspect of fire safety that ensures the effectiveness and reliability of these essential firefighting devices. Whether you own a business, manage a public facility, or simply want to protect your home, understanding fire extinguisher testing is crucial. Let’s explore the things to know about fire extinguisher inspection, and its necessity for various types of businesses and individuals, and delve into the specific requirements and guidelines for testing and maintenance in New Zealand.
Businesses and organizations across industries should prioritize fire extinguisher inspection and testing as part of their comprehensive fire safety measures. From restaurants and hotels to offices, factories, and educational institutions, having properly maintained fire extinguishers can save lives, protect property, and mitigate the devastating impact of fires. Even homeowners should be aware of the importance of testing and maintaining fire extinguishers to safeguard their families and homes from potential fire hazards.
What You Should Know About Fire Extinguisher Testing and Maintenance in NZ
What is the standard for fire extinguishers in New Zealand?
Fire safety standards in New Zealand are governed by the New Zealand Building Code and are designed to ensure the highest level of protection. The standard for fire extinguishers in New Zealand is NZS 4503:2005 which outlines the requirements for design, construction, installation, and maintenance of portable fire extinguishers. According to NZS 4503:2005, portable fire equipment is required to be regularly inspected, tested, and serviced only by technicians with full and proper training. It also mentions that your fire extinguishers should undergo professional inspection once every 12 months.
How do you inspect a fire extinguisher in NZ?
Fire extinguisher testing is a critical aspect of maintaining their functionality. It is recommended to engage a professional fire safety testing service like Jim’s Fire Safety New Zealand to perform these tests. The process may involve a visual inspection, pressure testing, functional testing, and if the test reveals deficiencies, it may involve refilling the extinguisher with the appropriate extinguishing agent and recharging it to the recommended pressure.
How often should fire extinguishers be inspected in NZ?
On the topic of how often should fire extinguisher testing be carried out, according to the NZS 4503:2005—Hand operated fire-fighting equipment, all types of portable extinguishers need to be tested at least once every 12 months. In environments that are deemed ‘hostile’, extinguishers need to be inspected at least once every 6 months. As a general rule, it is a good idea to adhere to a six-monthly interval to ensure safety.
What is the lifespan of a fire extinguisher?
The lifespan of a fire extinguisher varies depending on several factors, such as the type of extinguisher, the manufacturer’s recommendations, and the inspection results. In general, fire extinguishers have a service life of around 5 to 15 years.
However, it’s important to note that regular testing and maintenance are essential to extend the lifespan of fire extinguishers. Our team at Jim’s Fire Safety New Zealand can assess the condition of your extinguishers during inspections and provide guidance on when replacements or refurbishments are necessary.
Who checks fire extinguishers in NZ?
Fire extinguisher inspections and testing should be conducted by qualified professionals with expertise in fire safety. At Jim’s Fire Safety New Zealand, our licensed technicians are trained to perform thorough inspections, conduct necessary tests, and ensure compliance with the relevant regulations and standards.
Get Your Fire Extinguishers Checked by Jim’s Fire Safety NZ
Fire extinguisher testing and maintenance are essential for ensuring the safety of individuals and properties in New Zealand. By adhering to standards, regularly inspecting and testing your fire extinguishers, and engaging professionals like Jim’s Fire Safety New Zealand, you can be confident in your ability to combat fires effectively. Prioritizing fire safety not only protects lives but also safeguards your valuable assets from the devastating impact of fire incidents.
All of Jim’s Fire Safety technicians are trained in both fire and electrical safety. This means that when we come to take a look at your extinguishers, we can take care of the rest of your statutory testing requirements.
We have everything you need for fire safety in one team, giving you guaranteed peace of mind. This is why Jim’s Fire Safety is the most trusted name for fire extinguisher inspection services all throughout New Zealand.
Get a free quote on our fire extinguisher testing and fire safety services, or give us a call at 0800 454 654 to learn more.
