NFPA 10 Fire Extinguisher Inspection Checklist

Fire extinguisher inspections are the bread and butter of fire protection companies. NFPA 10 governs the maintenance, testing, and inspection of portable fire extinguishers. Here's the complete checklist.

Inspection Frequency

Monthly: Visual inspection (can be done by building occupant)

Annual: Thorough inspection by a qualified person (your techs)

6-year: Internal maintenance (applicable types)

12-year: Hydrostatic testing

Most fire protection companies perform annual inspections as a service. Monthly inspections are typically the building owner's responsibility.

Annual Inspection Checklist

General Checks

✅ Extinguisher is in its designated location

✅ Accessible (no obstructions within 3 feet)

✅ Visible or signage indicates location

✅ Mounted at proper height (max 5 ft for units >40 lbs, max 3.5 ft handle height for units ≤40 lbs)

✅ No physical damage, corrosion, or leakage

✅ Nameplate and operating instructions legible

Pressure & Charge

✅ Pressure gauge in operable range (green zone)

✅ For non-gauged units: weight check within tolerance

✅ Proper extinguishing agent (verify type matches label)

Safety Mechanisms

✅ Pull pin in place

✅ Tamper seal intact and unbroken

✅ Safety pin not bent or damaged

✅ Locking mechanism functional

Hose & Nozzle

✅ Hose in good condition (no cracks, cuts, or blockage)

✅ Nozzle clear and undamaged

✅ Hose connections tight

Mounting & Cabinet

✅ Wall bracket secure

✅ Cabinet door opens freely (if applicable)

✅ Cabinet glass intact (if break-glass type)

✅ No rust or deterioration on mounting hardware

Documentation

✅ Current annual inspection tag attached

✅ Previous inspection tags/records available

✅ Certification label present

✅ Last maintenance date recorded

✅ Last hydrostatic test date recorded (if applicable)

Common Deficiencies

1. Blocked access — furniture, boxes, or equipment in front of extinguisher. Most common violation.

2. Missing pull pin or tamper seal — indicates the extinguisher may have been discharged or tampered with. Must be serviced.

3. Pressure gauge out of range — needs recharge or replacement.

4. Expired inspection tag — previous annual inspection was missed.

5. Wrong mounting height — common in buildings that rearrange furniture.

6. Damaged hose — cracking from UV exposure or age.

Documentation Requirements

NFPA 10 Section 7.1.2 requires that inspection records include:

Date of inspection

Name/initials of inspector

Findings and corrective actions

Paper records work but are a liability. Digital inspection reports with photos and timestamps are increasingly expected by AHJs (Authorities Having Jurisdiction).

Automating NFPA 10 Inspections

FireLog includes a pre-built NFPA 10 checklist with all items above. Tap pass/fail per item, add notes on deficiencies, snap a photo, and generate a branded PDF report. Takes about 2 minutes per extinguisher vs 5-10 minutes with paper.

Start digital fire extinguisher inspections →