WHY IS THIS FIRE EXTINGUISHER POWDER REFILL REQUIRED?

This fire extinguisher powder refill forms part of checking that a Dry Chemical Powder (DCP) fire extinguisher still functions correctly under its required operating pressure, when it is required in an emergency. 

A fire extinguisher powder refill simply involves it being refilled with a fresh charge of fire extinguishing powder.

WHY IS THIS FIRE EXTINGUISHER POWDER REFILL IMPORTANT?

This fire extinguisher powder refill is important because it improves the reliability of the fire extinguisher working when it is required in an emergency. Failure to have a DCP fire extinguisher checked regularly and refilled when necessary, could result in it failing in an emergency, when you need it to function correctly.

In cases where a fire does break out, these powder refills may be important as evidence to show workplace emergency readiness, where legal concerns or financial claims may be involved. 

PRESSURE TEST FREQUENCY

A powder refill (also known as a recharge) will be required whenever the gauge on the DCP extinguisher shows in the red or whenever a DCP extinguisher has been used (even a partial release or use of the fire extinguisher). Where neither of these cases apply, then a DCP fire extinguisher is refilled automatically every two (2) to three (3) years.

VALIDITY

This fire extinguisher powder refill needs to be completed by an accredited service provider, who uses SAQCC qualified persons who are competent in the correct filling techniques for DCP fire extinguishers. Any fire extinguisher that has been refilled should be accompanied by a service certificate, on its return, that confirms it has refilled and is fully operable again.

HOW DOES THIS WORK AS A CONTROL MEASURE?

In the hierarchy of controls, this fire extinguisher refill forms part of the engineering control measures which should be in place to ensure that emergency equipment is suitable, safe and ready for use when it is required in an emergency. The fire extinguisher refill certificate details its service and compliance and provides evidence of control measure checks for fire prevention and protection in the workplace.