How to Inspect, Maintain, and Refill Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers are the first line of defense in preventing small fires from turning into devastating disasters. Yet, over 50% of fire extinguishers in India are either expired, depressurized, or non-functional during emergencies due to poor maintenance.

If you’re a business owner, safety officer, or homeowner, understanding how to inspect, maintain, and refill your fire extinguishers isn’t just best practice—it’s legally mandated by the National Building Code (NBC), Factories Act, and insurance providers.

In this guide, we break down exactly how to inspect, maintain, and refill fire extinguishers, ensuring you remain compliant and protected.

Why Fire Extinguisher Maintenance is Essential

A fire extinguisher that fails during a fire can lead to:

• Property loss

• Legal penalties

• Failed safety audits

• Insurance claim denials

• Injury or loss of life

Regular maintenance ensures:

• Operational readiness

• Compliance with fire safety regulations

• Longer equipment lifespan

• Trust from employees, clients, and auditors

Types of Fire Extinguishers and Their Maintenance Needs

Different types of extinguishers require specific inspections and refilling procedures.

Step-by-Step: How to Inspect a Fire Extinguisher

Fire extinguisher inspection can be performed monthly by trained in-house personnel and annually by certified professionals.

Monthly Inspection Checklist:

• Is the extinguisher easily accessible and visible?

• Is the pressure gauge needle in the green zone?

• Is the safety pin intact and sealed?

• Is the nozzle free from obstruction?

• Are there any signs of corrosion or physical damage?

• Is the label readable and intact?

• Is the extinguisher tagged with the last inspection date?

Annual Inspection:

• Conducted by a BIS-certified technician

• Internal pressure testing (hydrostatic test every 5 years)

• Replacement of defective parts or recharging

• Certification sticker issued

How to Maintain a Fire Extinguisher

Fire extinguisher maintenance includes:

1. Cleaning the exterior to remove dust, grease, or debris.

2. Lubricating the handle and pin to ensure smooth discharge.

3. Checking for rust and repainting if necessary.

4. Tapping ABC-type extinguishers monthly to prevent powder caking.

5. Conducting simulated activation under supervision (every few years).

6. Updating inspection logs and stickers.

When and How to Refill a Fire Extinguisher

A fire extinguisher needs to be refilled:

• After any discharge, even partial

• After low-pressure indicator

• After expiry or corrosion is detected

• Post inspection if deemed necessary

Refilling Process:

1. Depressurize the unit completely.

2. Disassemble and clean the cylinder and valve.

3. Refill with agent according to the manufacturer’s specs.

4. Re-pressurize to recommended PSI (usually 15–195 PSI).

5. Leak test for valve or cylinder issues.

6. Seal and tag the extinguisher with refill date and expiry.

Note: Refilling should only be done at BIS-approved fire extinguisher refilling stations.

Cost of Fire Extinguisher Refilling in India (2025)

Prices vary by city, brand, and service provider. Always insist on refill certification and receipt for safety audits.

Legal and Compliance Requirements

Under IS 2190 guidelines and the National Building Code (NBC) of India:

• All fire extinguishers must be inspected monthly and maintained annually.

• Refilling should be done only by licensed agencies.

• Employers must maintain fire logbooks for verification during audits.

• Expired or damaged extinguishers must be decommissioned immediately.

Failing to meet these standards can result in:

• Fines up to ₹1 lakh

• Cancellation of Fire NOC

• Business license suspension

Choosing a Reputable Fire Extinguisher Service Provider

Before selecting a refilling vendor, ensure they:

• Are BIS or ISO 9001 certified

• Provide a refill and testing certificate

• Offer pickup and delivery options

• Can handle bulk refilling for offices or warehouses

• Maintain records for regulatory purposes

Recommended vendors include Ceasefire, Kanex, Minimax-authorized dealers, and local certified agencies.

Digital Tools to Track Inspections and Refills

Fire safety software can automate:

• Inspection reminders

• Refill due notifications

• Maintenance logs

• Equipment mapping across multiple sites

Popular tools: EHS Insight, FireSafe India, and Simpliance

Conclusion

Fire extinguishers are critical, life-saving tools—but only when maintained and refilled properly. Whether you're responsible for a home, school, office, or factory, routine inspection and timely refilling ensure legal compliance, fire-readiness, and peace of mind.

Don’t wait for a crisis. Inspect monthly. Maintain annually. Refill without delay.