Certified fire protection service technicians are responsible for refilling and maintaining these vital safety devices. This process involves depressurizing the extinguisher, inspecting its components for damage or wear, replacing any necessary parts, refilling it with the correct extinguishing agent, repressurizing it to the correct pressure, and then applying a new inspection tag. For example, a technician might service a dry chemical extinguisher used in an office setting or a carbon dioxide extinguisher found in a server room.
Regular maintenance ensures fire extinguishers function correctly in emergencies. Neglecting this essential service can lead to extinguishers failing when needed most, potentially resulting in greater property damage and risk to life. Historically, local fire departments often provided this service, but today, specialized private companies dominate the industry, providing quicker response times and broader expertise across various extinguisher types. This shift has led to increased professionalism and standardization within the field.
