NFPA 10

Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers

NFPA 10 is the national standard governing the selection, installation, inspection, maintenance, and testing of portable fire extinguishers. Compliance is required in virtually all commercial occupancies across the United States.

Inspection & Maintenance Schedule

Frequency	Who Performs	Requirements
Monthly	Building Personnel	Visual check: location, accessibility, pressure gauge, condition
Annual	Certified Technician	Full inspection, tag update, internal examination if required
Every 6 Years	Certified Technician	Internal examination of stored-pressure extinguishers
Every 12 Years	Certified Technician	Hydrostatic pressure testing

Placement Requirements

▸ Class A hazards: Maximum 75-foot travel distance to extinguisher

▸ Class B hazards: Maximum 50-foot travel distance

▸ Class K (kitchen): Required within 30 feet of cooking equipment

▸ Extinguishers must be visible, unobstructed, and readily accessible

▸ Mounted no higher than 5 feet (handle) for extinguishers over 40 lbs; 3.5 feet for heavier units

▸ Inspection tags must be current and readable

Extinguisher Classification Guide

Class A

Ordinary combustibles (wood, paper, cloth, rubber, plastics)

Class B

Flammable liquids and gases (gasoline, oil, solvents)

Class C

Energized electrical equipment

Class D

Combustible metals (magnesium, titanium, sodium)

Class K

Cooking oils and fats in commercial kitchens

ABC

Multi-purpose: covers Class A, B, and C hazards

Documentation Requirements

NFPA 10 requires detailed records for every inspection, maintenance, and recharge event. Records must include the date of service, the name of the person performing the service, observations, and corrective actions taken. Records must be maintained for a minimum of the previous service interval.

For commercial fire protection contractors, proper documentation is also critical for liability protection and demonstrates due diligence in the event of an incident investigation.