How often must dry chemical extinguishers be hydrostatically tested?

Dry chemical extinguishers must undergo hydrostatic testing every 12 years. This requirement is established to ensure the integrity and safety of the extinguisher, as the pressure inside the cylinder can cause degradation over time due to factors like corrosion or wear. Hydrostatic testing involves filling the extinguisher with water and pressurizing it to check for leaks, cracks, or weaknesses that could fail during use.

Meeting this testing interval is crucial in maintaining compliance with safety standards and ensuring that firefighters or individuals using the extinguisher can rely on its performance in an emergency. It’s also important for the longevity of the equipment, as proper maintenance practices help prevent accidents related to faulty extinguishers. Thus, understanding this 12-year testing requirement helps ensure your knowledge aligns with industry standards for fire safety equipment.