How often should extinguishers weighing 150 lb or less be tested?

Extinguishers weighing 150 lb or less should be tested every 12 years. This requirement is based on standards set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and other governing codes that ensure fire safety equipment is maintained in good working order.

During this 12-year interval, extinguishers undergo a thorough inspection and hydrostatic testing to ensure they can safely hold pressure and function effectively in an emergency. Routine maintenance and more frequent inspections are necessary, but the hydrostatic testing interval is specifically set at 12 years for units of this weight class to ensure they remain reliable.

Understanding this testing schedule is crucial as it helps maintain fire safety in environments where these extinguishers are deployed, ensuring they will operate when needed.