Let’s talk about the importance of keeping your fire extinguisher up to date with maintenance regulations. Firstly, if your fire extinguisher is not maintained properly, it may not work when you need it most. What’s more, non-compliance with maintenance regulations can have serious consequences, such as fines or lawsuits. If a fire breaks out in your home and your extinguisher is found to be faulty due to poor maintenance, you could be held liable for injuries or damages.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that once you have a fire extinguisher, you are fully protected from any type of fire. That’s not entirely true as fire extinguishers have limitations and may not be suitable for all types of fires. For example, using a water-based fire extinguisher on an electrical fire could actually make the situation worse.
Another misconception is that fire extinguishers never need to be serviced or maintained. In reality, fire extinguishers should be checked regularly to ensure they are in good working condition—and this is where you’ll need fire extinguisher servicing, especially in Singapore. With this blog, you can stay on top of fire extinguisher maintenance and keep your home protected, so read on!
Home Fire Extinguishers Regulations In Singapore
In Singapore, regulations concerning home fire extinguishers are guided by the Singapore Civil Defense Force (SCDF) and are outlined in the Singapore Standard SS 578 for the use and maintenance of portable fire extinguishers. Here’s a summary of the key regulations and guidelines you should be aware of:
- Compliance. Fire extinguishers must meet SS EN 3 Specifications and SS 578 maintenance standards
- Exemptions. Certain buildings, like residential floors in PG II buildings, are exempt from needing fire extinguishers.
- Owner Responsibilities. Owners should conduct monthly inspections and annual servicing by approved technicians.
- Placement Requirements. The Fire Code dictates types and locations based on occupancy and fire risks.
- Installation and Maintenance. Extinguishers should be visible, accessible, and maintained as recommended by manufacturers.
- Training. Personnel must know how to use extinguishers, with regular fire drills held for preparedness.
- Record Keeping: Keep detailed records of all fire safety maintenance and training activities.
LEARN MORE: SAFETY FIRST: MATCHING FIRE EXTINGUISHER TYPES TO HOUSEHOLD RISKS
Common Causes of Fire Extinguisher Malfunctions
There are several factors that can lead to a fire extinguisher malfunctioning. One of the most common is improper maintenance or neglect. Another common cause is physical damage to the extinguisher, such as dents or corrosion, which can affect its ability to function correctly.
Additionally, using the wrong type of extinguisher for a particular type of fire can also result in a malfunction. It is important to make sure you have the right kind of extinguisher for the specific hazards present in your home.
Regularly inspecting your fire extinguisher, keeping it in a visible and easily accessible location, and ensuring everyone in your household knows how to use it properly can help prevent malfunctions and ensure your safety in the event of a fire.
LEARN MORE: 8 WAYS YOU SHOULD NOT USE A FIRE EXTINGUISHER
Regular Inspection
Make sure to check the pressure gauge on your home fire extinguisher every month to ensure it is within the recommended range. This simple task can help you ensure that your fire extinguisher is ready for use in case of an emergency. If the pressure gauge falls outside of the recommended range, it may indicate that the extinguisher needs to be serviced or replaced.
Clean the Extinguisher
Don’t forget to give your home fire extinguisher a little TLC every now and then! Take a damp cloth and gently wipe down the exterior of the extinguisher to keep it looking spick and span. This will not only help maintain its appearance, but also ensure that any dirt or dust doesn’t interfere with its functionality when you need it most.
Proper Location & Storage
Make sure to keep your fire extinguisher in a convenient and easy-to-reach spot, away from any possible fire risks. It’s important to have quick access to your extinguisher in case of an emergency, so avoid placing it behind clutter or in hard-to-reach areas. By keeping it in a prominent location, you can ensure that it is readily available when needed to tackle a fire.
Professional Servicing
Make sure to get your extinguisher serviced annually by a qualified professional to ensure it is in proper working condition. During professional servicing, a trained technician will thoroughly inspect the extinguisher, checking for any signs of damage or wear and tear. They will also ensure that the pressure gauge is within the correct range, the pin and seal are intact, and the nozzle is clear of any obstructions. Additionally, they will recharge or replace the extinguishing agent if necessary.
At Hart Engineering, we understand what it means to have peace of mind in knowing that you are taking the necessary steps to protect your home and loved ones from potential fire hazards. Established in 1971, Hart ENgineering is a trusted name in the industry. For enquiries or to schedule a professional servicing, please don’t hesitate to contact us at +62912611 or info@hart.sg.