How often should fire extinguishers be inspected in assembly areas?

Fire extinguishers in assembly areas should be inspected monthly and tagged annually by a certified technician to ensure they are in good working condition and ready for use in case of an emergency. Monthly inspections typically involve checking for physical damage, ensuring the pressure gauge is in the operational range, verifying that the extinguisher is accessible and unobstructed, and confirming that its inspection tag is current.

The annual inspection by a certified technician is essential as it provides a more thorough assessment of the extinguisher's functionality, pressure, and overall condition. This combination of monthly checks and annual professional inspections ensures compliance with safety regulations and helps maintain a high level of preparedness in assembly areas where large gatherings of people may occur. Keeping fire extinguishers in good working condition is critical for the safety of occupants and the protection of property.