Is there a required format for documenting monthly fire extinguisher inspections?

OSHA has no recordkeeping requirements for monthly inspections, as they do for the annual maintenance checks. However, maintaining records of the inspections would be considered a good business practice. The following are considerations for inspection:

• Location in a designated place;
• The appropriate type of extinguisher(s) is present;
• No obstruction to access or visibility;
• Operating instructions on the nameplate are legible and facing outward;
• Safety seals and tamper indicators are not broken or missing;
• Fullness determined by weighing or “hefting”;
• Examination for obvious physical damage, corrosion, leakage, or clogged nozzle;
• Pressure gauge reading or indicator is in the operable range or position;
• For wheeled units, the condition of tires, wheels, carriage, hose, and nozzle;
• Comprehensive maintenance has been performed in the last six years (check the date of the last hydro/comprehensive maintenance or the date the unit was placed in service; the date is usually found on a label on the case);
• Hydrotest has been performed in the last 12 years (check the date of the last hydro or the date unit was place in service; the date is usually found stamped into the case or on a label on the case); and
• Hazard communication label in place, if the extinguisher contains a hazardous chemical.

Also, extinguishers commonly have a tag attached to them indicating the routine inspection history. These should be checked to verify that inspections are being done.