What is an annual maintenance requirement for fire extinguishers?

The requirement for an annual maintenance check on fire extinguishers includes performing an internal inspection and weighing the unit. This process is critical to ensure that the extinguisher is fully operational and can effectively respond in case of a fire. The internal inspection involves checking for any damage, corrosion, or other signs that could impair the functionality of the extinguisher. Weighing the extinguisher is essential as it confirms whether the unit is within the manufacturer's specified weight range; loss of weight can indicate that the extinguisher has leaked or is not charged properly, which can jeopardize its performance during an emergency.

On the other hand, options like external inspection only do not provide a comprehensive assessment of the extinguisher's readiness. Simply repainting or testing the unit, without a thorough internal check, could overlook critical maintenance needs. Lastly, labeling alone does not address the functional integrity of the fire extinguisher; while it is important for compliance and safety information, it does not correlate with the actual maintenance and operational readiness of the device. Therefore, the annual maintenance requirement must encompass both an internal inspection and weighing to ensure safety and preparedness.