Fire Extinguisher Servicing Requirements in Ireland
Fire extinguishers are only useful if they are maintained. Here is what Irish standard I.S. 291 requires.
In Ireland, portable fire extinguishers should be maintained in line with I.S. 291, which sets out a basic (annual) service by a competent person, plus periodic extended servicing (for example a discharge/refill test at longer intervals depending on extinguisher type). Employers also carry a general duty under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 and fire-safety legislation to keep fire equipment in effective working order.
The servicing regime under I.S. 291
I.S. 291 sets out the servicing requirements for portable fire extinguishers, including annual basic service and periodic extended servicing.
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01
Basic service Annually, by a competent/registered service technician.
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02
Extended service Periodically, depending on extinguisher type and manufacturer guidance.
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03
Monthly visual checks Responsible person checks pressure gauge, seal, location and signage.
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04
Service records and tags Keep service records and tags as evidence of compliance.
Who can service them?
Servicing must be done by a competent person with the correct spares and training. Keep the service records and tags - they are the evidence of compliance.
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