Question

How often are portable fire extinguishers supposed to be inspected?

1) Every month
2) Every 6 months
3) Every year
4) Every 2 years

Answer 1

Portable fire extinguishers should be inspected monthly to ensure they're ready for use, with additional annual professional maintenance. The location of fire extinguishers alongside other safety equipment like eyewash stations is critical in a laboratory.

Step-by-step explanation:

Portable fire extinguishers should be inspected regularly to ensure they are in proper working order and can be relied upon in case of an emergency. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) guidelines, fire extinguishers should be inspected on a monthly basis. It is important for safety that this routine check includes making sure that the extinguisher is in its designated place, has not been tampered with, and shows no signs of damage or corrosion.

Additionally, an annual maintenance check should be carried out by a professional. Knowing the location of safety equipment, including the fire extinguisher and the eyewash station, is crucial in a laboratory setting, as it ensures quick action can be taken to mitigate any incidents that may arise.