What criteria must be used to perform annual maintenance of a fire extinguisher?

OSHA requires in 1910.157(e) that portable fire extinguishers be subjected to an annual maintenance check. OSHA says at 1910.144(c)(31) that maintenance means “the performance of services on fire protection equipment and systems to assure that they will perform as expected in the event of a fire. Maintenance differs from inspection in that maintenance requires the checking of internal fittings, devices and agent supplies.”

However, 1910.157(e)(3) says that, “Stored pressure extinguishers do not require an internal examination.”

OSHA further says in non-mandatory Appendix A to the standard that the ultimate responsibility for the inspection, maintenance and testing of portable fire extinguishers lies with the employer and suggests that they also check with the manufacturer of the unit that has been purchased and obtain guidelines on inspection, maintenance, and testing.