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Food Trucks: Fire and Life Safety

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Food trucks have been gaining popularity and until recently, there were no NFPA codes, standards, or guidelines to provide the minimum fire safety requirements.  Many food trucks have a “DIY” feel, but what isn’t so DIY about food trucks is the safety and requirements to properly run the kitchen and serve customers. With a tank full of gas and a truck full of cooking oils and heating implements, it’s no secret that food trucks are fire hazards on wheels.

Mobile food trucks are bringing delicious fare to more cities and communities nationwide, with thousands of vehicles now in operation. What are the most reliable ways to protect vendors and patrons from a host of unique fire and life safety hazards? To keep up with the rapidly growing industry, the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) has created new food truck fire safety requirements. Fire protection equipment on a food truck is now required to be properly inspected and maintained by experienced fire protection service providers. This includes the fire suppression and ventilation system, and all fire extinguishers on the truck. Food truck operators need to be aware of these new regulations so they can proactively partner with an experienced fire protection company to procure the necessary equipment, stay in compliance, and ensure the safety of their customers, employees, and business investment.

Fire is a serious threat to food trucks because of all of the possible fuel sources they carry.

POTENTIAL HAZARDS OF FOOD TRUCKS

Food trucks are full of potential fire hazards that can cause a fire to quickly spiral out of control: open flames, hot equipment, propane tanks, gas generators, electrical connections, cooking oils, splattered grease, cleaning chemicals, paper products, gasoline or diesel fuel, and engine oil. In fact, the potential fire hazards look very similar to those found in commercial kitchens. Business owners that understand the fire risks they’re up against will be better positioned to proactively address these risks to avoid costly damage or human life.

Food trucks pose unique hazards due to their limited space and custom nature, providing even more of a reason for food truck operators to be extra cautious. To ensure these hazards remain minimum, or better yet, nonexistent, food trucks should implement fire safety and suppression systems. Fires can spark from the stove, oven, and bubbling fryer, but it is fuel sources like propane tanks, cooking oils and fuels needed to run the food truck that carry the greatest potential for inflicting destruction and casualties.

Propane Tanks

Propane poses the most significant risk of fire in a food truck. NFPA asserts that 68 percent of food truck fires are related to leaks or structural failures in propane tanks. Propane explosions were behind almost every food truck fire involving injuries and deaths in recent years.

While cooking with propane is generally considered safe, just a small, 20-pound propane cylinder attached to a backyard grill contains the explosive power of 170 sticks of dynamite – generating more than 425,000 BTUs of energy.

Food trucks can carry 100-pound propane cylinders capable of exploding with more than 2.5 million BTUs. The very nature of food truck use amplifies the risk, as trucks are commonly parked at events or lined up along streets where large numbers of people congregate, cramming an enormous explosive potential into a small, heavily populated space. In fact, the FDNY (New York City’s fire department) considers food trucks a potential terrorist threat due to the explosive power of their propane tanks.

In addition, food trucks are constantly on the move and the connections and fittings are getting jarred with every bump and pothole. This can lead to connections becoming loose or causing other structural damage. Also, the tanks are getting swapped out frequently, which can lead to the potential for leaks to occur from fittings that may not have been tightened sufficiently.

Since propane is heavier than air, an undetected leak on a tank inside a truck will pool near the floor, and a single spark from the oven or stove can ignite the gas. Carrying propane tanks on the outside of trucks decreases the risk posed by leaks—but increases the risk of tanks exploding on impact in even minor collisions.

Fire Suppression Systems

NFPA estimates that cooking equipment causes 61 percent of fires in eating and drinking establishments, and fire codes have long required hood suppression systems over ovens, burners, grills, and fryers in commercial kitchens. The 2018 edition of NFPA 1 (50.7.3.3) states that food trucks are not exempt from being “protected by an approved hood fire suppression system or other approved means of extinguishment in the event of fire”, however, automatic fire suppression systems are often absent in older food trucks or vehicles converted into mobile kitchens. While most food truck operators carry portable fire extinguishers, many don’t realize that they need both a Class K extinguisher for suppressing grease, fat, or cooking oil fires and an ABC extinguisher for putting out fires involving paper products or other types of fires.

Portable Generators

Portable generators used to run electricity to a food truck can also create fire risks. Generally, the danger is greatest in older and converted food trucks rather than newer food trucks specifically built for cooking operations.

Without proper ventilation, trucks can fill with dangerous carbon monoxide gas created by the generator. Plus many cramped food truck spaces do not include a place to properly store the fuel required to run the generator safely away from ignition sources.

NFPA requirements are making it easier for AHJs to implement comprehensive fire safety regulations for food trucks. 

REGULATIONS FOR FOOD TRUCKS

Local Governments

Previously, with no national code or standard to address the issues, every city had simply created whatever food truck regulations it thought best. The number of different regulations for each Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)  led to confusion over the best fire safety practices. Truck operators needed to grasp a hodge-podge of rules about how to prepare and serve food, where to park, what permits were needed, and how often inspections were required, and the instant they crossed city lines, everything could change.

In many cities, food trucks fell into a gray area of fire safety regulations that made the situation even worse. Requirements for brick-and-mortar restaurants didn’t fit the size and structure of a mobile kitchen, and food trucks’ mobility also prevented them from fitting the definition of temporary structures covered by fire codes. As food truck popularity continued to grow, so did concerns from local governments in the areas where trucks were operating. 

NFPA

Meeting city regulations and inspections can add another “to-do” for food truck operators, but new codes from the National Fire Protection Agency are helping ease the process. Through Section 50.7 of  NFPA 1, Fire Code, and Adoptable Annex B of the 2017 edition of NFPA 96, Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations, food trucks are given the first fire safety code designed specifically for them. From installation to inspection, maintenance and testing, installation of containers and storage, and use and transport of gasses, this new code impacts many safety aspects of a food truck. Not only does this provide a sense of ease for local governments, but also the necessary safety and security to food truck operators and customers. 

FOOD TRUCKS AND COMPLIANCE

Understanding food truck fire hazards is the first step to ensuring a successful operation. All fire and life safety equipment must be properly installed, regularly inspected, and consistently maintained by a professional fire protection service provider in order to stay compliant with NFPA code requirements. Here are the main fire and life safety systems food truck owners need to properly test and maintain to ensure regulatory compliance – and most importantly – the safety of their customers, employees, and business assets.

Fire Suppression System

The majority of local and state municipalities require food trucks to have a professionally installed fire suppression system. Some governments will take this requirement a step further and specifically require an automatic fire suppression system. An automatic fire suppression system rapidly detects fires and quickly shuts down the fuel or electric supply to nearby cooking equipment to prevent the fire from spreading further.

Since many food trucks work with cooking oils, propane and natural gas, it is imperative that food truck owners partner with a fire protection company that has the ability to design and install a kitchen fire suppression system tailored to alleviate the fire hazards unique to their operation. Industry best practice highly recommends food truck fire suppression systems be professionally inspected semi-annually to ensure proper functionality.

Fire Extinguishers

When it comes to fire extinguishers, there are two main types food truck owners need readily accessible: Class K and ABC fire extinguishers.

Class K Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers that are designed to put out fires caused by substances with high burn temperatures such as grease, fat, and cooking oil. Keep in mind that Class K fire extinguishers should only be deployed after the activation of an integrated kitchen hood suppression system.

ABC Fire Extinguishers

Often overlooked, food truck owners also need a versatile ABC fire extinguisher to handle all other types of fires including paper, wood, plastic, electrical, and more commonplace hazards.

Ventilation Systems

The need for efficient ventilation systems is accentuated more for food trucks than any other food establishment due to limited space. Space limitations cause smoke and vapor to build more rapidly, which quickly can make it hard to breathe. A proper food truck ventilation system will help mitigate smoke build-up and dispel hazardous oil and grease particles that could lead to a fire.

Like other fire and life safety equipment in food trucks, ventilation systems need to adhere to local and state regulations. The NFPA requires all frequently used food trucks to receive ventilation system inspections on a quarterly basis at a minimum. Food trucks should partner with a kitchen exhaust specialist to perform more frequent inspections and routine cleaning to ensure functionality, compliance, and safety.

Continual Employee Training

While not considered a fire and life safety system in the traditional sense, a food truck’s employees can be the most effective fire hazard deterrent when appropriate proactive training is conducted. Food truck fire and life safety training is required to  be conducted each year to keep employees up to date on the fire prevention and suppression best practices. A robust employee training program should cover:

  • · The emergency procedure for notifying the local fire department
  • · The different types of fire extinguishers and the types of fires they suppress
  • · How to properly and effectively use the specific fire extinguishers in the food truck
  • · How to manually turn off fuel sources and safely refuel as needed

Put Food Truck Fire Hazards in Your Rearview Mirror

Food truck owners and operators must stay vigilant and resist falling victim to the “set it and forget it” mentality. It is not enough to simply procure fire and life safety equipment and call it a day. Similar to the fire and life safety systems you may have in your brick and mortar location, food truck equipment must be professionally inspected and maintained by experienced fire protection service providers in order to consistently ensure functionality and regulatory compliance.

Keep in mind that as you travel, you are responsible for adhering to the varying codes and regulations of each location you operate in. For any NFPA code compliance questions, our fire and life safety specialists are available 24/7 365 days a year, or visit our Quick Tips blog and the National Food Truck Association (NFTA) fire safety page.

Hit the road safely

Delighting the public with high-quality, delicious fare is the priority of food truck operators. But keeping themselves, their workers, and their patrons safe remains an ongoing concern due to the fire hazards that can exist on their trucks. Fortunately, new NFPA regulations have reached the intersection of food and wheels, creating awareness of the risks food operators face and providing a single source they can turn to for guidance on hitting the road safely.

In the market for fire protection equipment for food trucks? We carry a  selection of ABC fire extinguishers, and Class K extinguishers that handle grease fires are available on special order.

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Food Trucks: 10 Quick Tips for Enhancing Fire Safety

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Adding fire safety requirements in Section 50.7 of  NFPA 1, Fire Code, and Adoptable Annex B of the 2017 edition of NFPA 96, Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations for food trucks makes adoption of enforceable code easier for local governments and fosters public safety. But if regulations aren’t in place within a jurisdiction, there are many steps food truck operators can take to prevent and mitigate fires.

· Schedule regular inspections and maintenance of equipment and keep an eye out for hazards like frayed wires or combustible items near power sources.

· Train employees to never throw water on a grease fire. It can cause the grease to splatter and spread, making the fire worse. Class K fire extinguishers are best for fighting grease fires. Food trucks need two types of fire extinguishers: Class K extinguishers for fighting grease fires and Class ABC extinguishers for putting out standard fires, such as those involving paper products.

· Follow NFPA regulations for hydrostatically testing fire extinguishers and propane tanks. Make sure the equipment is stamped with the testing date to ensure it remains in proper working order.

· Regularly inspect kitchen exhaust systems within the truck for grease build-up. The frequency of inspections is defined in NFPA 96 (Annex B), based on the volume and type of cooking.

· Clean up grease at least once a day, concentrating on walls, work surfaces, ranges, fryers, broilers, grills, convection ovens, vents, and filters. Pay extra attention to exhaust hoods, where grease buildup can restrict air flow. NFPA 96 (Annex B) provides extensive instructions for cleaning food truck exhaust systems.

· Keep the food truck as tidy as possible to reduce fire hazards. Keep paper products, linens, boxes, and food away from heat and cooking sources. Properly dispose of soiled rags, trash, cardboard boxes, and wooden pallets at least once a day.

· Remove ashes from wood- and charcoal-burning ovens at least once a day. NFPA 96 (Annex B) provides extensive guidance for ash removal.

· At least one employee on every shift should know how to shut off propane and electrical power in case of an emergency. Also designate one worker per shift to act as an evacuation manager with duties that include calling 911, determining when an evacuation is necessary, ensuring that everyone exits the truck safely, and leading customers a safe distance away. Along those lines, ensure that everyone on your staff knows the location of all exits on the truck.

· Store flammable liquids in their original containers or other puncture-resistant, tightly sealed vessels. Food truck kitchens are small, but operators must do their best to store these liquids in well-ventilated areas away from combustible supplies, food, food preparation areas, or sources of flames.

· Use chemical solutions in well-ventilated areas and immediately clean up any spills. Never mix chemicals unless instructed by the manufacturer’s directions.

To make its new requirements easily digestible by the food truck industry, NFPA created a free downloadable fact sheet that maps out specific areas of a truck with corresponding tips and information on proper usage and care.

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The Walkthrough: Why You Deserve an On-Site Consultation

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APFP associate looks through jobsite plans on a walkthrough

In order to come up with the best game plan, preparation is key. Providing contractors with access to the project can provide better bids, as the contractors who have access to the site have greater confidence in the size and scope of the project. The most important aspect is to get a clear and precise indication of what the project requires in order to put together the best possible bid. At A P Fire, we will always provide a complementary walkthrough to get you the most accurate bid for your job.

What Happens During an On-Site Consultation Visit?

A comprehensive consultation includes:

  1. An on-site appraisal of all present fire protection systems conditions and placement in accordance with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and International Code Council (IBC & IFC) codes.
  2. A verbal outline of deficient areas that will need to be brought up to code and a description of what those services will entail.
  3. A written report of recommendations and agreements.
  4. Training and assistance with implementing recommendations.
A P Fire Protection conducts a walkthrough on a food truck.
APFP associate checks out a fire panel
APFP associate takes pictures on a job walk

During the walkthrough

During the walkthrough, the A P Fire associate assigned to your project will learn about your process and begin formulating a plan for how to execute.  At this stage, you should ask questions about our process and fire protection itself.  This is not only a good way to get a feel for how fire protection devices work, but also an opportunity to learn about the life safety they provide.

The On-Site Consultants Will

  • Help you recognize hazards in your workplace.
  • Suggest general approaches or options for solving a safety problem.
  • Identify kinds of help available if you need further assistance.
  • Provide you a written report summarizing findings.
  • Assist you to develop or maintain an effective safety and fire protection program.
  • Provide training and education for you and your employees.

The On-Site Consultants Will Not

  • Provide or guarantee project pricing.
  • Issue citations or propose penalties for violations of codes or standards.
  • Report possible violations to enforcement staff.
  • Guarantee that your workplace will “pass” an inspection.

After the walkthrough

Once we’ve examined the job site, we will discuss our plan for execution.  During this conversation, you should also be covering some of the key points that will be included in the contract.

  • Regulatory challenges – What permits and inspections will be required and who will handle them? 
  • Materials – What materials will be required and who will be responsible for their selection and acquisition?
  • Subcontractors – What subcontractors will be involved (if any) and what is the process for hiring subcontractors?
  • Mechanic’s Lien – In many states, anyone who has done significant work to a property has the right to place a mechanic’s lien on it.  You should ask about how they handle mechanic’s liens and whether they have ever filed one in the past (and under what circumstances).

After the walkthrough, we will send you a quote containing a general description of work, specifics on the timeline and the cost.

Product Demo

In some cases we can provide product demonstrations with certified representatives from our product manufacturers. If you would like a product demo, please reach out to our office, so we can schedule it for you!

Request a Product Demo

Fire Protection for Schools & Universities

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The first step in keeping students, faculty, and visitors protected in the event of a fire involves fire protection systems and fire safety protocols for schools and universities. Fire protection systems can help to extinguish a fire and provide building occupants the time they need to evacuate safely, but only when they are well-maintained and functioning. It is extremely important to uphold established fire safety protocols to keep everyone informed and prepared so that they know what to do and where to go in the event of a fire.

Fire Protection Systems

Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), code officials, field inspectors, and school districts have the responsibility to ensure each school building is built and maintained properly. Set your year up for success by ensuring your fire protection systems are up to code and ready to deploy in the event of an emergency. Each level of your fire protection systems is a critical component of fire safety on your campuses. Be sure to have your  inspections and maintenance items scheduled early and A P Fire Protection can work with your school calendar to have your fire protection in tip-top shape.

Fire Alarms

The International Building Code (IBC) and International Fire Code (IFC) provide minimum requirements for fire alarm systems such as automatic detection and manual fire alarm boxes throughout a school. A school fire alarm system can be set off in one of two ways: a system will automatically sound if smoke or high heat is detected, or it can also be manually started through a pull lever.

Smoke detectors are constantly testing for combustion particles in the air, while heat detectors measure air temperature. Depending on the installation areas and code requirements, each type could be installed on your campuses to reduce nuisance alarms while still providing reliable early detection. Early detection and notification also offer ample time to locate and extinguish a fire before it spreads.

The control panel is typically located in the front office, but not always.The panel is programmed to be able to tell the staff where the fire is happening, whether a fire alarm lever was pulled or automatically activated by the presence of heat or smoke.

Fire Extinguishers

Portable fire extinguishers should be located in accessible locations in accordance with the AHJ requirements for your region. Staff should know where the closest extinguisher is located at all times and how to operate it. APFP offers onsite training courses and certification where staff can operate a real extinguisher to put out a live flame. Trained personnel can use fire extinguishers to quickly stop a small fire from spreading or to create a path for escape. 

Fire Sprinklers

Quick response (QR) fire sprinklers are preferred in systems for facilities with high occupancies like school buildings and dormitories. Their smaller bulb size speeds up thermal responsiveness. Additionally, quick response sprinkler deflectors discharge water higher on the walls to keep the fire from climbing and maintain lower ceiling temperatures (heat rises!). Cooler ceilings reduce the likelihood of flashover and slow a fire’s rise within a building, improving the odds for survivability. These elements give occupants time to evacuate. 

Fire Damage at School

Fire Safety Plans

Unfortunately, statistics indicate that most school fires are started while school is in session, meaning the occupants are responsible for most school fires. Staff training and fire drills are essential in educating our children about fires and keeping them safe. Even with the best fire protection systems in place, it is important to have emergency operation plans that are organized to provide quick and orderly evacuation. These plans should be reviewed frequently and updated to reflect any building modifications or changes in occupancy.

Mass Notification System

Depending on one form of emergency communication, such as a PA system or text messages, can be incredibly unreliable during an emergency. NFPA 72 recommends using at least two of the four layers of communication – indoor, outdoor, personal, and public alerting. A mass notification system allows building occupants to be promptly and clearly alerted to a variety of emergency situations. This includes fires, severe weather, active shooters, or any other emergency requiring immediate communication to many people. Internal speakers, outdoor blast speaker systems, mass text messages, and e-mails can all be utilized to alert everyone to the specific danger and provide instructions on how to remain safe.

An egress map showing evacuation routes and fire protection unit locations held down by a detector.
Emergency Action Plan: Example Egress Map

Fire and Evacuation Drills

Fire and evacuation drills are the most important fire safety exercise you can do. Conduct drills on a regular basis to learn and maintain awareness of exit routes and best efficiency practices. An egress map should be posted in each classroom and near each building exit. Each egress map should designate two assembly areas that are at least 500 feet away from the building where students and staff should assemble upon evacuation as a “Main Assembly Area” and an “Alternate Assembly Area”, in the event the Main Area cannot be used. 

Drills can be used as an opportunity to identify problem areas and egress choke points and to ensure occupants understand any directions given by the fire alarm or mass notification system. In addition, it is important that all employees be aware of the locations of alternate exits and keep exit routes free and clear of obstructions. Drills should be used to update plans as needed to account for new or renovated buildings, student growth, and other changes that might affect emergency egress.

Dormitory Checks

September is Campus Fire Safety Month, and that’s a great time to review best practices for fire safety in dormitories. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), from 2015-2019, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated annual average of 3,840 structure fires in dorms, fraternities, sororities, and other related properties, resulting in annual averages of 29 civilian injuries and $11 million in direct property damage. Most campus fires happen in dormitories between the hours of 5-11 p.m. Of these incidents, 6 out of 7 are related to cooking. While it is important to enforce policies that reduce risks including unattended cooking, candles, and the disabling of smoke alarms, it is vital to ensure that all dormitories are fully sprinklered and have an operable fire alarm system that has been inspected in accordance with local fire codes.

Fire Protection Services 

Working with APFP

Whether you need smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, or an automatic sprinkler system installed at your school facilities, A P Fire Protection is here for you. We have been protecting Arizona from fire damage since 2008 and we have over a century of combined experience! Known for our superb customer service, our expertise, and our reliability, we understand as school systems it is imperative to complete most maintenance while students and staff are off campus and will do everything in our power to schedule around your breaks and holidays.

Schedule Now!

In preparation for your services, you should check in with a couple of departments so you are ready to go. Facility directors/managers should be able to tell you if their monthly inspections have detected any problem areas or changes to structures or occupancies. If this is your first time partnering with APFP, we encourage you to reach out to your previous fire protection company to see what reports they can provide you with, or at the very least, collate your campus maps in preparation for a walkthrough where we will mark each device location. Working with the procurement office ahead of time can also save you time when it comes to getting purchase orders after an estimate has been approved. You can also check out our list of common

Typical school Fire Code Violations

System Reports

We will do our best to provide our customers with job reports containing device counts and placement, outlining deficiencies and needed repairs and compiling previous repairs and notations. Not only does this make you more aware of your fire protection capabilities and needs, but it also sets you up for success by establishing verifiable numbers needed to project more accurate pricing for upcoming maintenance.

Fire alarm systems in schools, like other buildings, generally are not mandated to be updated or replaced to meet current code requirements unless the system is no longer operational or if buildings are being modernized. Although codes are developed to improve safety, these modified codes also have increased the cost of building and installing systems.

These cost restraints are the primary reasons that many school districts simply have not been able to budget for new or upgraded fire alarm systems. While school administrators would like to upgrade or replace obsolete fire alarm systems, often funding is not available to do so. Sadly, this fact could result in a school having an obsolete and possibly non-operational fire alarm system, which is unacceptable when the protection of our children is at stake.

School fire protection systems do not need to have all new top of the line equipment; however, it should be stressed that obsolete and out of date equipment that does not meet applicable code requirements puts lives in danger. First and foremost, we should be able to keep our children safe from fire while they are in school. 

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Fire Extinguishers: Lifecycle & Expiration

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Fire Extinguisher Expiration

Fire extinguishers don’t last forever, and while all fire extinguishers do expire at some point, there is not always a set expiration date. As your first line of defense during a fire, it is important that your extinguishers are functional and well maintained.

How Long Do Fire Extinguishers Last?

Do fire extinguishers expire? All fire extinguishers should be installed, inspected and maintained in accordance with the National Fire Protection Association standard titled “Portable Fire Extinguishers“, NFPA-10 and the requirements of local authorities having jurisdiction.

Fire Extinguisher Manufacture Date

The lifespan of a fire extinguisher varies based on a few factors including:

  • Type of fire extinguisher
  • Whether the extinguisher is disposable or rechargeable
  • How well the extinguisher is maintained
  • The date it was manufactured
  • Manufacturer recommendations

When to Replace Your Fire Extinguisher

According to NFPA standards, disposable fire extinguishers need to be replaced every 12 years and rechargeable fire extinguishers must be recharged every 6 years. 

Some manufacturers set recommended expiration dates for their fire extinguishers. However, there are many extinguishers without expiration dates which can make it hard to tell when it should be replaced. 

In short, fire extinguishers expire. Certain types of fire extinguishers are now considered obsolete as regulations change or technology advances. NFPA guidelines dictate which types of extinguishers should be removed from service. If you have an older fire extinguisher, one of our experienced technicians can help you to determine whether it needs to be replaced.

Do Fire Extinguishers Expire?

Monthly Extinguisher Inspection

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations mandate that commercial businesses must inspect their portable fire extinguishers monthly. Sometimes referred to as a visual inspection, monthly inspections can be executed by employees who have received proper training. Every month, you should complete a visual check of your fire extinguishers to make sure that they are still functional in the following areas – 

Location & Accessibility

All portable fire extinguishers should be unobstructed, easy to see, and easy to reach. If the extinguisher is blocked or unreachable, any obstructions should be moved or the extinguisher itself should be relocated where it will be more accessible. 

Low Pressure Fire Extinguisher Gage: Do Fire Extinguishers Expire
Low Pressure Gauge Reading

Gauge Pressure Reading

A disposable fire extinguisher has a plastic head with a gauge that reads “full” or “empty”. Rechargeable extinguishers have a metal head with a gauge that shows the level of charge.

For a rechargeable extinguisher, the needle of the pressure gauge should be pointing to the green indicator, known as the operating zone. If the needle is below the operating zone, the extinguisher has lost pressure and needs to be recharged by a professional. If the needle is above the operating zone, it has too much pressure and is at risk of a leak or a cylinder failure (read: explosion). Call us right away if the pressure gauge is outside of the operating zone in either direction for service.

Inspection Tag: Do Fire Extinguishers Expire
Inspection Tag Example: Front and Back

Inspection Tag

Check the inspection tag to see when the last annual inspection took place. If your inspection date is getting close, make a note to call and schedule this year’s maintenance and inspection. If there is no tag, the extinguisher should be inspected to avoid any issues. After your inspection is complete, our technician will attach an updated inspection tag punched with the month, year, the type of extinguisher and the service performed.

Corrosion: Do Fire Extinguishers Expire
Corroded Fire Extinguisher

Visual Damage

Additionally, the exterior of the extinguisher needs to be checked thoroughly for damage or corrosion. Check that the instruction label is present and easy to read. The serial number should also be legible. Look for dents and punctures, as well as paint removal and rust. The hose should be unobstructed, securely fastened to the side of the extinguisher and free of cracks or other damage. Tamper seals are required and indicate if anyone has attempted to use or discharge the unit. Tamper seals are placed around the locking pin and secured around the handle. They may look similar to a zip tie, but they break easily with a little bit of force. You cannot secure an extinguisher with a zip tie!  If any extinguishers are damaged or tampered with, have them inspected immediately.

Document Your Findings

Finally, most inspection tags provided space to record monthly inspections; sign your name or initials and date of inspection to confirm that it has been done. After you’ve completed your inspection and signed off, write a report detailing any issues and whether any actions have been taken to remedy them. Your report should include your name, date, and location of the extinguisher that needs service.

Internal Fire Extinguisher Components: Do Fire Extinguishers Expire
Internal Extinguisher Components

Regular Maintenance 

Regular inspections, testing, and maintenance according to NFPA and manufacturer recommendations can help to extend the lifespan of your fire extinguishers. Hiring the experienced professionals at A P Fire can help to keep your extinguishers functional and code compliant. 

Annual Inspections

Fire Extinguisher Inspection
Annual Inspection

While on site, our annual inspection of fire extinguishers shall include a check of at least the following items: 

1. Location in designated place. 

2. No obstruction to access or visibility. 

3. Pressure gauge reading or indicator in the operable range or position. 

4. Fullness determined by weighing or hefting for self-expelling-type extinguishers, Cartridge-operated extinguishers, and pump tanks. 

5. Operating instructions on nameplate and facing outward. 

6. Safety seals and tamper indicators not broken or missing. 

7. Examination for obvious physical damage, corrosion, leakage, or clogged nozzle

Maintenance on Expired Fire Extinguishers

Six & Twelve Year Maintenance

Every six years, additional testing is required to ensure your extinguisher is in optimal operating condition. At this stage of maintenance, the unit must be completely dismantled so inspections can be completed on all internal components including a check of at least the following items:

1. Discharge chemical and pressure into a “closed” dry chemical recovery system making sure that the extinguisher is completely empty and depressurized. 

2. Clean extinguisher to remove dirt, grease or foreign material. Check to make sure that the instruction nameplate is securely fastened and legible. Inspect the cylinder for corrosion, abrasion, dents or weld damage. 

3. Inspect the extinguisher for damaged, missing or substitute parts. Only factory replacement parts are approved for use. 

4. Check the date of manufacture on the extinguisher label.

5. (12 year only) Hydrostatically test to factory test pressure marked on the label, using the proof pressure method, in accordance with CGA C-1 and NFPA 10. 

6. Visually inspect the pressure gauge – if bent, damaged or improper type or pressure – replace. 

7. Check ring pin for freedom of movement. Replace if bent or if removal appears difficult. 

8. Inspect discharge lever for any dirt or corrosion which might impair freedom of movement. Inspect carrying handle for proper installation. If lever, handle or rivets are damaged, replace. 

9. Remove nozzle or hose and horn assembly and visually inspect threads on nozzle or hose coupling, horn and hose for damage, and replace as necessary. Blow air through nozzle or hose and horn to ensure passage is clear of foreign material. 

10. Inspect the valve assembly for corrosion or damage to nozzle or hose thread connection. Replace valve assembly or component parts as necessary. 

11. Remove and disassemble valve assembly by removing downtube, spring and valve stem assembly. Install a new valve stem and collar o-ring after lightly lubricating. 

 12. Recharge the extinguisher.

13. Complete maintenance by issuing a new inspection tag and service collar.

We perform annual inspections, six year maintenance, twelve year hydrostatic testing and we will recharge your extinguisher in the event it has been discharged. As of 2022, we are distributors for Amerex and Badger brand extinguishers. We service school districts, healthcare facilities, municipalities and other commercial buildings. If you have a small business or home extinguisher, we also accept walk-ins at our office location. In the end, there is no hard and fast rule of when fire extinguishers expire. If you are worried about your fire extinguishers expiring and would like to request service for your fire extinguishers, contact us!

Fire Extinguisher Service request
A P Fire Protection Extinguisher

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