Fire departments in the U.S. respond to a fire every 24 seconds, so offices and workplaces must have the right equipment to fight them. A fire extinguisher is the first line of defense in case a flame breaks out, but like most other items, they do wear out with time. Here are some ways to determine whether you should replace the fire extinguisher in your office to ensure employees are well-equipped to handle any threat.

Does My Workplace Need a New Fire Extinguisher?

Find Out Its Age

Fire extinguishers have a lifespan of around 5 to 15 years. After that, they are likely expired and won’t operate as they should. If the fire extinguishers around the office are past their lifespan, it’s time to invest in new ones to maintain a safe environment.

Look at the Pressure Gauge

If you aren’t sure how old a fire extinguisher is, check the pressure gauge at the top. The pressure needle should point to the green area. If it’s not in the green, the contents of the extinguisher won’t release properly, so replace it with a new one.

Nozzle Is Clogged or Damaged

Check the nozzles of fire extinguishers periodically for dirt and dust buildup. When excess debris accumulates in the nozzle, an extinguisher  can malfunction. If a nozzle is cracked or damaged in any way, replace that fire extinguisher.

Check the Inspection Sticker

Every fire extinguisher should be serviced annually by a professional and have an inspection sticker with a maintenance record. If a fire extinguisher doesn’t have this sticker, replace it with a new one and start getting inspections.

If your office needs a new fire extinguisher, turn to the Fire Protection Specialists in Bangor, WI. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, they provide fire extinguishers with an ABC rating, which can be used on any flame, and other fire safety equipment and maintenance services. For more information about their fire protection services, call (800) 658-9463 or visit their website.