How often should fire extinguishers be inspected?

Fire extinguishers should be inspected monthly by a designated individual and annually by a licensed professional to ensure their readiness and functionality. Monthly inspections are crucial for identifying visible issues, such as proper placement, signs of damage, or tampering, as well as ensuring that the pressure gauge indicates the extinguisher is charged and ready for use. Annual inspections conducted by a licensed professional provide a thorough evaluation, including checking the extinguisher’s mechanics and ensuring it complies with local regulations and standards. Regular inspections help maintain the safety integrity of fire extinguishers, making them effective in emergency situations.

The other options suggest either insufficient frequency or inappropriate procedures for inspection. Daily inspections are generally excessive for most facilities, while inspections every six months do not align with the standard monthly and annual requirements. Relying only on complaints overlooks the importance of proactive maintenance and could lead to dangerous situations if a fire occurs and the extinguisher is found to be inoperable.