How often does the NFPA require extinguishers to be tested?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has specific guidelines regarding the inspection and maintenance of fire extinguishers. According to NFPA standards, fire extinguishers must be inspected and tested annually. This annual service includes a thorough inspection of the extinguisher’s mechanical parts, the hose, the nozzle, and ensuring that it is accessible and in good working condition.

In addition to the annual inspection, fire extinguishers also require a more detailed maintenance check every six years, which includes a test of the extinguisher’s internal parts. This structured schedule helps ensure that extinguishers function correctly in an emergency, thereby enhancing fire safety protocols in various settings. The annual requirement for testing aligns with NFPA 10, which governs the portable fire extinguisher maintenance.