How to Avoid Common Mistakes When Disposing of Your Fire Extinguisher

Fire extinguisher disposal is a vital element in any fire protection plan. If you have chosen to install a fire protection system for your home, commercial or industrial premises, it is essential that you are properly trained to ensure that no harmful gas or vapors get into the atmosphere.

fire extinguisher disposal

Safety and fire prevention is paramount in the construction of a fire extinguisher and with the right training, you should have no trouble ensuring that your fire extinguisher has been used correctly. Following are some common mistakes that many people make when storing and disposing of their fire extinguishers:

Dumping unused chemicals onto the ground will let hazardous gases into the atmosphere. It is a good idea to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure that the extinguisher is fully disassembled and sealed before it is dumped. Or simply contact Hazardous Waste Disposal Perth for safe disposal.

Not ensuring that the extinguisher container is in place and properly sealed. Be careful not to overload the container as a result of excess gas leakage, which could result in an explosion.

 Putting the container directly in the fuel tank. The containers must be placed away from flammable materials such as carpets, leather, and curtains.

Not ensuring that the container is at least one meter away from heating, heating elements, combustible materials, such as beds, furniture, and wall and ceiling coverings and ducts. The container should also be located where there is a minimum risk of sparking.

Leaving fire extinguishers for longer than required. Fires are most likely to break out where the fire extinguisher is used most, so if the time has come to dispose of the fire extinguisher, make sure you do so as soon as possible.

Not checking that the handle on the fire extinguisher is secure. Ensuring that the safety locking device is engaged is essential to ensure the container does not leak and could potentially cause an explosion.

Not ensuring that the containers used to store the fire extinguishers are regularly emptied into a waste disposal system. They must also be emptied and treated in accordance with local fire regulations.

Not properly inspecting the containers that contain the fire extinguishers to ensure that they are correctly assembled and are leak-proof. A good quality container will have steel fittings and slip-resistant seal, which ensure that the container remains airtight.

Not using the fire extinguisher properly by correctly using the designated function of the extinguisher and leaving it in a location and position that are fully accessible. Sometimes, poorly designed containers may allow gases to escape from the container that may endanger anyone who is near.

The simple things that you can do to ensure your fire extinguisher is used properly, safely and efficiently are enough to save you from any potential mishap. Fire extinguisher disposal is something that everyone needs to learn and the key to making sure that you do is to follow the instructions in the product manual, to ensure that you use the extinguisher correctly and safely.