Fire extinguishers are a common sight in all kinds of settings, including workplaces, public buildings, and some homes too. There are standards like BS 5306 to advise people what to install and how to maintain fire fighting equipment. However, there can still be faults and issues. One of the most common, and potentially most serious, is corrosion. We want to have a closer look here. Then, if you want to arrange fire extinguisher service & supply in Stockton, you can rely on us.
Why does it happen?
Typically, fire extinguishers have a steel body. It’s a strong, durable, cost effective material. Most importantly, it can resist the high internal pressure and provide protection against wear and tear, including puncturing.
However, while steel has lots of benefits, it does have drawbacks. The main one is many alloys are vulnerable to corrosion because of the iron content. There are alloys with higher levels of corrosion resistance, but they are more costly and can be harder to work with. So, many manufacturers choose cheaper steels and finish the extinguishers with a powder coat to provide protection.
Steel extinguishers can succumb to corrosion for a number of reasons. Most common is because of damage, exposing the vulnerable material. It also happens if the conditions are highly corrosive, such as offshore or industrial settings. Storage mistakes also have an impact, particularly if you stand an extinguisher on a wet surface.
What to do?
If you need fire extinguisher service & supply in Stockton, we can give you the perfect services. Our experience and competency means we can provide clear advice and recommendations.
The most important thing with fire extinguishers is to check them regularly. While there are rules about annual basic services, extended services, and overhauls, more frequent checks are wise. In fact, it’s a good idea to get into the practice of inspecting them every month or more regularly if it is highly corrosive settings. Look for signs of discolouration and rust.
It’s also important to make sure you store fire extinguishers properly. As we said above, standing them on a wet floor or deck is asking for trouble. It can trap moisture under the base and lead to corrosion. The recommendation is to use mounts approved by the manufacturers. This can include brackets or stands.
If you do notice any signs of corrosion on a fire extinguisher, especially if it is gas cartridge operated, take it out of service immediately. The best thing to do is move it to a safe part of the property and arrange for a competent technician to do a formal inspection.
Speak to us about fire extinguisher service & supply in Stockton
ABC Fire Safety & Security has a wealth of experience with extinguishers. We know how important they are, even if the idea is to never have to use them. Our goal is to ensure clients satisfy their legal obligations and reduce the risk of injuries and fatalities in properties. This includes providing services, advice about inspections, and more.
So, if you want to arrange fire extinguisher service & supply in Stockton for different properties, speak to us. We help a range of clients, including businesses and landlords.
