What is the maximum age of a fire extinguisher according to the guidelines?

The maximum age of a fire extinguisher according to guidelines is considered to be 12 years. After this period, extinguishers may still be functional, but they typically require more stringent inspection and maintenance protocols to ensure reliability. The reason behind this guideline is that the materials and components inside the extinguisher can deteriorate over time, potentially affecting performance when needed most.

Extinguishers require regular checks to verify that they are in good working condition, including inspections for mechanical parts, seals, and the agent inside. While extinguishers may be serviced to extend their usable life, many organizations choose to replace them after 12 years to avoid any risk associated with aging equipment.

It is essential for anyone responsible for fire safety to be aware of these guidelines to ensure that extinguishers are not only present but also effective when needed.