Fire extinguisher inspection log: monthly checks in two minutes each
The monthly visual check you can do yourself, what only an engineer can sign off, and the log columns that keep you covered.
4 min read
Two different checks
The monthly visual check is yours to do and takes about two minutes an extinguisher. The annual service is a competent engineer's job, and the extended service or refill runs on a longer cycle depending on the type. Keep both in one log so nothing hides.
The monthly visual check
Is it on its bracket in the right place, with clear access? Is the signage visible? Is the pressure gauge in the green? Is the pin in and the tamper seal unbroken? Any dents, rust, cracked hose or blocked nozzle? Is the label legible and the service date still in date? Does the weight feel right?
What fails most often
Blocked access is the most common finding by a mile — pallets, a trolley, a bin. Then missing signage, then a discharged unit nobody reported after a small fire. None of these need an engineer; they need a log that gets read.
Log columns that keep you covered
| Tag number | Type (water, foam, CO2, powder, wet chemical) | Location | Checked on | Checked by | Gauge in green | Seal intact | Access clear | Condition | Action taken | Next visual due | Last engineer service | Next service due |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
Make it fall out of the diary
Give every unit a tag number and a due date rather than relying on a walk-round. Anything past its date should show up as overdue on its own, so the check is a two-minute job instead of an afternoon audit.
Keep these records without the paperwork — Unity & Utility logs drills, inspections and incidents, and flags what is overdue on its own.
See how it works