NFPA 10 sets four separate service obligations for a portable fire extinguisher (monthly visual inspection, annual maintenance, periodic internal examination, and hydrostatic pressure testing) and the interval for two of those four depends on which agent and shell the extinguisher is, in a way that is scattered across several sections and a table rather than stated as one list. A record here is one obligation for one extinguisher type/shell combination, with the interval and the NFPA 10 section it comes from. Answers 'how often does a CO2 extinguisher need hydrostatic testing', 'does a stainless steel dry chemical extinguisher get the same 12-year hydro interval as a standard one', 'how often does a wet chemical K-class extinguisher need internal examination', and 'my dry chemical extinguisher is nonrechargeable, when does it get replaced instead of retested'. The exceptions are where a facility manager gets this wrong: stainless steel dry chemical shells get the 5-year interval that pressurized-water and CO2 units get, not the 12-year interval every other dry chemical extinguisher gets, and nonrechargeable stored-pressure extinguishers skip hydrostatic testing entirely in favor of a hard 12-year removal-from-service date. Two authorities are carried side by side, because a US workplace is answerable to both and they are not word-for-word identical: NFPA 10, as restated for regulated facilities by the Minnesota Department of Health, and OSHA's own general-industry standard at 29 CFR 1910.157, whose Table L-1 sets hydrostatic intervals directly in regulation and names types the NFPA summary does not (foam, AFFF, Halon 1211 and 1301, dry powder, wetting agent). Where the two overlap they agree, and each row says which rulebook it answers to.

NFPA 10 is a copyrighted, sold standard; the facts (which interval applies to which extinguisher type) are not themselves copyrightable and are already restated by every state health/fire authority that regulates against it. This asset never reproduces the standard's text. The NFPA-derived rows take the interval and its qualifier from a Minnesota Department of Health guidance document that already restates NFPA 10's requirements for its regulated facilities, quote a short verbatim span, and cite the specific NFPA 10 section. The OSHA rows are taken from 29 CFR 1910.157, which is a US government work in the public domain and states its own intervals in Table L-1 rather than incorporating NFPA 10 by reference.

Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Portable fire extinguishers

**Service obligation:** Annual maintenance

**Interval:** at least once a year

**Authority:** NFPA 10 (2010 ed.)

**Section:** NFPA 10(10), Sec. 7.3

> “Maintenance” is a thorough examination and repair, as needed, of your facility’s portable fire extinguishers and is covered in NFPA 10(10), Sec. 7.3. Maintenance is required at least once a year – more frequently when indicated by a routine monthly inspection, as discussed earlier.

Source: <https://www.health.state.mn.us/facilities/regulation/engineering/docs/lscfireext.pdf>

Portable fire extinguishers · Annual maintenance · NFPA 10 (2010 ed.) — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Carbon dioxide

**Service obligation:** Hydrostatic test

**Interval:** every 5 years

**Authority:** NFPA 10 (2010 ed.)

**Section:** NFPA 10(10), Sec. 8.3.1 and Table 8.3.1

> Hydrostatic testing intervals for fire extinguishers are outlined in NFPA 10(10), Sec. 8.3.1 and Table 8.3.1. Test intervals for some of the most commonly found extinguishers are as follows: o Pressurized water, water mist, carbon dioxide and wet chemical (e.g. K-type) extinguishers – every 5 years

Source: <https://www.health.state.mn.us/facilities/regulation/engineering/docs/lscfireext.pdf>

Carbon dioxide · Hydrostatic test · NFPA 10 (2010 ed.) — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Dry chemical extinguishers

**Service obligation:** Hydrostatic test

**Interval:** every 12 years

**Authority:** NFPA 10 (2010 ed.)

**Section:** NFPA 10(10), Sec. 8.3.1 and Table 8.3.1

> Hydrostatic testing intervals for fire extinguishers are outlined in NFPA 10(10), Sec. 8.3.1 and Table 8.3.1. Test intervals for some of the most commonly found extinguishers are as follows: o Pressurized water, water mist, carbon dioxide and wet chemical (e.g. K-type) extinguishers – every 5 years o Dry chemical extinguishers with stainless steel shells – every 5 years o Dry chemical extinguishers – every 12 years

Source: <https://www.health.state.mn.us/facilities/regulation/engineering/docs/lscfireext.pdf>

Dry chemical extinguishers · Hydrostatic test · NFPA 10 (2010 ed.) — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Nonrechargeable stored pressure extinguishers

**Service obligation:** Hydrostatic test

**Interval:** removed from service 12 years from the date of manufacture

**Authority:** NFPA 10 (2010 ed.)

**Section:** NFPA 10(10), Sec. 7.3.1.2.1.3

> As mentioned earlier, the exception to the rule for hydrostatic testing is nonrechargeable stored pressure extinguishers (e.g. dry chemical extinguishers), which are required to be removed from service 12 years from the date of manufacture [see NFPA 10(10), Sec. 7.3.1.2.1.3].

Source: <https://www.health.state.mn.us/facilities/regulation/engineering/docs/lscfireext.pdf>

Nonrechargeable stored pressure extinguishers · Hydrostatic test · NFPA 10 (2010 ed.) — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Pressurized water

**Service obligation:** Hydrostatic test

**Interval:** every 5 years

**Authority:** NFPA 10 (2010 ed.)

**Section:** NFPA 10(10), Sec. 8.3.1 and Table 8.3.1

> Hydrostatic testing intervals for fire extinguishers are outlined in NFPA 10(10), Sec. 8.3.1 and Table 8.3.1. Test intervals for some of the most commonly found extinguishers are as follows: o Pressurized water, water mist, carbon dioxide and wet chemical (e.g. K-type) extinguishers – every 5 years

Source: <https://www.health.state.mn.us/facilities/regulation/engineering/docs/lscfireext.pdf>

Pressurized water · Hydrostatic test · NFPA 10 (2010 ed.) — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Dry chemical extinguishers

**Shell material qualifier:** stainless steel shells

**Service obligation:** Hydrostatic test

**Interval:** every 5 years

**Authority:** NFPA 10 (2010 ed.)

**Section:** NFPA 10(10), Sec. 8.3.1 and Table 8.3.1

> Hydrostatic testing intervals for fire extinguishers are outlined in NFPA 10(10), Sec. 8.3.1 and Table 8.3.1. Test intervals for some of the most commonly found extinguishers are as follows: o Pressurized water, water mist, carbon dioxide and wet chemical (e.g. K-type) extinguishers – every 5 years o Dry chemical extinguishers with stainless steel shells – every 5 years

Source: <https://www.health.state.mn.us/facilities/regulation/engineering/docs/lscfireext.pdf>

Dry chemical extinguishers · stainless steel shells · Hydrostatic test · NFPA 10 (2010 ed.) — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Water mist

**Service obligation:** Hydrostatic test

**Interval:** every 5 years

**Authority:** NFPA 10 (2010 ed.)

**Section:** NFPA 10(10), Sec. 8.3.1 and Table 8.3.1

> Hydrostatic testing intervals for fire extinguishers are outlined in NFPA 10(10), Sec. 8.3.1 and Table 8.3.1. Test intervals for some of the most commonly found extinguishers are as follows: o Pressurized water, water mist, carbon dioxide and wet chemical (e.g. K-type) extinguishers – every 5 years

Source: <https://www.health.state.mn.us/facilities/regulation/engineering/docs/lscfireext.pdf>

Water mist · Hydrostatic test · NFPA 10 (2010 ed.) — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Wet chemical (e.g. K-type)

**Service obligation:** Hydrostatic test

**Interval:** every 5 years

**Authority:** NFPA 10 (2010 ed.)

**Section:** NFPA 10(10), Sec. 8.3.1 and Table 8.3.1

> Hydrostatic testing intervals for fire extinguishers are outlined in NFPA 10(10), Sec. 8.3.1 and Table 8.3.1. Test intervals for some of the most commonly found extinguishers are as follows: o Pressurized water, water mist, carbon dioxide and wet chemical (e.g. K-type) extinguishers – every 5 years

Source: <https://www.health.state.mn.us/facilities/regulation/engineering/docs/lscfireext.pdf>

Wet chemical (e.g. K-type) · Hydrostatic test · NFPA 10 (2010 ed.) — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Antifreeze type extinguishers

**Service obligation:** Internal examination

**Interval:** annually

**Authority:** NFPA 10 (2010 ed.)

**Section:** NFPA 10(10), Sec. 7.3.1.1.2 and Table 7.3.1.1.2

> It must be noted that some types of extinguishers are required to undergo an internal examination at more frequent intervals as specified in NFPA 10(10), Sec. 7.3.1.1.2 and Table 7.3.1.1.2. For example, stored-pressure loaded-stream and antifreeze type extinguishers are required to be internally inspected annually.

Source: <https://www.health.state.mn.us/facilities/regulation/engineering/docs/lscfireext.pdf>

Antifreeze type extinguishers · Internal examination · NFPA 10 (2010 ed.) — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Carbon dioxide

**Service obligation:** Internal examination

**Interval:** every 5 years

**Authority:** NFPA 10 (2010 ed.)

**Section:** NFPA 10(10), Sec. 7.3.1.1.2 and Table 7.3.1.1.2

> It must be noted that some types of extinguishers are required to undergo an internal examination at more frequent intervals as specified in NFPA 10(10), Sec. 7.3.1.1.2 and Table 7.3.1.1.2. For example, stored-pressure loaded-stream and antifreeze type extinguishers are required to be internally inspected annually. Carbon Dioxide (CO2) and wet chemical (e.g. K-type) extinguishers are required to be internally inspected every 5 years.

Source: <https://www.health.state.mn.us/facilities/regulation/engineering/docs/lscfireext.pdf>

Carbon dioxide · Internal examination · NFPA 10 (2010 ed.) — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Dry chemical extinguishers

**Service obligation:** Internal examination

**Interval:** Every 6 years

**Authority:** NFPA 10 (2010 ed.)

**Section:** NFPA 10(10), Sec. 7.3.1.2

> Every 6 years, stored pressure fire extinguishers that require a 12-year hydrostatic test (e.g. dry chemical extinguishers) must be emptied and subjected to an internal examination by a trained technician in accordance with procedures detailed in the manufacturer’s service manual and NFPA 10(10), Sec. 7.3.1.2.

Source: <https://www.health.state.mn.us/facilities/regulation/engineering/docs/lscfireext.pdf>

Dry chemical extinguishers · Internal examination · NFPA 10 (2010 ed.) — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Nonrechargeable extinguishers

**Service obligation:** Internal examination

**Interval:** removed from service 12 years from the date of manufacture

**Authority:** NFPA 10 (2010 ed.)

**Section:** NFPA 10(10), Sec. 7.3.1.2.1.3

> The exception to this rule is nonrechargeable extinguishers, which are required to be removed from service 12 years from the date of manufacture [see NFPA 10(10), Sec. 7.3.1.2.1.3].

Source: <https://www.health.state.mn.us/facilities/regulation/engineering/docs/lscfireext.pdf>

Nonrechargeable extinguishers · Internal examination · NFPA 10 (2010 ed.) — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Stored pressure fire extinguishers that require a 12-year hydrostatic test

**Service obligation:** Internal examination

**Interval:** Every 6 years

**Authority:** NFPA 10 (2010 ed.)

**Section:** NFPA 10(10), Sec. 7.3.1.2

> Every 6 years, stored pressure fire extinguishers that require a 12-year hydrostatic test (e.g. dry chemical extinguishers) must be emptied and subjected to an internal examination by a trained technician in accordance with procedures detailed in the manufacturer’s service manual and NFPA 10(10), Sec. 7.3.1.2.

Source: <https://www.health.state.mn.us/facilities/regulation/engineering/docs/lscfireext.pdf>

Stored pressure fire extinguishers that require a 12-year hydrostatic test · Internal examination · NFPA 10 (2010 ed.) — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Stored-pressure loaded-stream

**Service obligation:** Internal examination

**Interval:** annually

**Authority:** NFPA 10 (2010 ed.)

**Section:** NFPA 10(10), Sec. 7.3.1.1.2 and Table 7.3.1.1.2

> It must be noted that some types of extinguishers are required to undergo an internal examination at more frequent intervals as specified in NFPA 10(10), Sec. 7.3.1.1.2 and Table 7.3.1.1.2. For example, stored-pressure loaded-stream and antifreeze type extinguishers are required to be internally inspected annually.

Source: <https://www.health.state.mn.us/facilities/regulation/engineering/docs/lscfireext.pdf>

Stored-pressure loaded-stream · Internal examination · NFPA 10 (2010 ed.) — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Wet chemical (e.g. K-type)

**Service obligation:** Internal examination

**Interval:** every 5 years

**Authority:** NFPA 10 (2010 ed.)

**Section:** NFPA 10(10), Sec. 7.3.1.1.2 and Table 7.3.1.1.2

> It must be noted that some types of extinguishers are required to undergo an internal examination at more frequent intervals as specified in NFPA 10(10), Sec. 7.3.1.1.2 and Table 7.3.1.1.2. For example, stored-pressure loaded-stream and antifreeze type extinguishers are required to be internally inspected annually. Carbon Dioxide (CO2) and wet chemical (e.g. K-type) extinguishers are required to be internally inspected every 5 years.

Source: <https://www.health.state.mn.us/facilities/regulation/engineering/docs/lscfireext.pdf>

Wet chemical (e.g. K-type) · Internal examination · NFPA 10 (2010 ed.) — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Portable fire extinguishers

**Service obligation:** Monthly visual inspection

**Interval:** at least monthly at a minimum of 30-day intervals

**Authority:** NFPA 10 (2010 ed.)

**Section:** NFPA 10(10), Sec. 7.2.1

> Portable fire extinguishers are required to be visually inspected when initially placed in service and at least monthly at a minimum of 30-day intervals thereafter [see NFPA 10(10), Sec. 7.2.1].

Source: <https://www.health.state.mn.us/facilities/regulation/engineering/docs/lscfireext.pdf>

Portable fire extinguishers · Monthly visual inspection · NFPA 10 (2010 ed.) — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** portable fire extinguishers

**Service obligation:** Annual maintenance

**Interval:** annual maintenance check

**Authority:** OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157

> The employer shall assure that portable fire extinguishers are subjected to an annual maintenance check. Stored pressure extinguishers do not require an internal examination. The employer shall record the annual maintenance date and retain this record for one year after the last entry or the life of the shell, whichever is less.

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1910/subpart-L/section-1910.157>

portable fire extinguishers · Annual maintenance · OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157 — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Aqueous Film Forming foam (AFFF)

**Service obligation:** Hydrostatic test

**Interval:** 5

**Authority:** OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157

**Section:** Table L-1

> The employer shall assure that portable extinguishers are hydrostatically tested at the intervals listed in Table L-1 of this section, except under any of the following conditions: ( i ) When the unit has been repaired by soldering, welding, brazing, or use of patching compounds; ( ii ) When the cylinder or shell threads are damaged; ( iii ) When there is corrosion that has caused pitting, including corrosion under removable name plate assemblies; ( iv ) When the extinguisher has been burned in a fire; or ( v ) When a calcium chloride extinguishing agent has been used in a stainless steel shell. ( 3 ) In addition to an external visual examination, the employer shall assure that an internal examination of cylinders and shells to be tested is made prior to the hydrostatic tests. Table L-1 Type of extinguishers | Test interval (years) | Soda acid (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Soda acid (stainless steel shell) | 5 | Cartridge operated water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Stored pressure water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Wetting agent | 5 | Foam (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Foam (stainless steel shell) | 5 | Aqueous Film Forming foam (AFFF) | 5

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1910/subpart-L/section-1910.157>

Aqueous Film Forming foam (AFFF) · Hydrostatic test · OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157 — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Carbon dioxide

**Service obligation:** Hydrostatic test

**Interval:** 5

**Authority:** OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157

**Section:** Table L-1

> The employer shall assure that portable extinguishers are hydrostatically tested at the intervals listed in Table L-1 of this section, except under any of the following conditions: ( i ) When the unit has been repaired by soldering, welding, brazing, or use of patching compounds; ( ii ) When the cylinder or shell threads are damaged; ( iii ) When there is corrosion that has caused pitting, including corrosion under removable name plate assemblies; ( iv ) When the extinguisher has been burned in a fire; or ( v ) When a calcium chloride extinguishing agent has been used in a stainless steel shell. ( 3 ) In addition to an external visual examination, the employer shall assure that an internal examination of cylinders and shells to be tested is made prior to the hydrostatic tests. Table L-1 Type of extinguishers | Test interval (years) | Soda acid (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Soda acid (stainless steel shell) | 5 | Cartridge operated water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Stored pressure water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Wetting agent | 5 | Foam (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Foam (stainless steel shell) | 5 | Aqueous Film Forming foam (AFFF) | 5 | Loaded stream | 5 | Dry chemical with stainless steel | 5 | Carbon dioxide | 5

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1910/subpart-L/section-1910.157>

Carbon dioxide · Hydrostatic test · OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157 — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Cartridge operated water and/or antifreeze

**Service obligation:** Hydrostatic test

**Interval:** 5

**Authority:** OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157

**Section:** Table L-1

> The employer shall assure that portable extinguishers are hydrostatically tested at the intervals listed in Table L-1 of this section, except under any of the following conditions: ( i ) When the unit has been repaired by soldering, welding, brazing, or use of patching compounds; ( ii ) When the cylinder or shell threads are damaged; ( iii ) When there is corrosion that has caused pitting, including corrosion under removable name plate assemblies; ( iv ) When the extinguisher has been burned in a fire; or ( v ) When a calcium chloride extinguishing agent has been used in a stainless steel shell. ( 3 ) In addition to an external visual examination, the employer shall assure that an internal examination of cylinders and shells to be tested is made prior to the hydrostatic tests. Table L-1 Type of extinguishers | Test interval (years) | Soda acid (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Soda acid (stainless steel shell) | 5 | Cartridge operated water and/or antifreeze | 5

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1910/subpart-L/section-1910.157>

Cartridge operated water and/or antifreeze · Hydrostatic test · OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157 — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Halon 1211

**Service obligation:** Hydrostatic test

**Interval:** 12

**Authority:** OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157

**Section:** Table L-1

> The employer shall assure that portable extinguishers are hydrostatically tested at the intervals listed in Table L-1 of this section, except under any of the following conditions: ( i ) When the unit has been repaired by soldering, welding, brazing, or use of patching compounds; ( ii ) When the cylinder or shell threads are damaged; ( iii ) When there is corrosion that has caused pitting, including corrosion under removable name plate assemblies; ( iv ) When the extinguisher has been burned in a fire; or ( v ) When a calcium chloride extinguishing agent has been used in a stainless steel shell. ( 3 ) In addition to an external visual examination, the employer shall assure that an internal examination of cylinders and shells to be tested is made prior to the hydrostatic tests. Table L-1 Type of extinguishers | Test interval (years) | Soda acid (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Soda acid (stainless steel shell) | 5 | Cartridge operated water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Stored pressure water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Wetting agent | 5 | Foam (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Foam (stainless steel shell) | 5 | Aqueous Film Forming foam (AFFF) | 5 | Loaded stream | 5 | Dry chemical with stainless steel | 5 | Carbon dioxide | 5 | Dry chemical, stored pressure, with mild steel, brazed brass or aluminum shells | 12 | Dry chemical, cartridge or cylinder operated, with mild steel shells | 12 | Halon 1211 | 12

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1910/subpart-L/section-1910.157>

Halon 1211 · Hydrostatic test · OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157 — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Halon 1301

**Service obligation:** Hydrostatic test

**Interval:** 12

**Authority:** OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157

**Section:** Table L-1

> The employer shall assure that portable extinguishers are hydrostatically tested at the intervals listed in Table L-1 of this section, except under any of the following conditions: ( i ) When the unit has been repaired by soldering, welding, brazing, or use of patching compounds; ( ii ) When the cylinder or shell threads are damaged; ( iii ) When there is corrosion that has caused pitting, including corrosion under removable name plate assemblies; ( iv ) When the extinguisher has been burned in a fire; or ( v ) When a calcium chloride extinguishing agent has been used in a stainless steel shell. ( 3 ) In addition to an external visual examination, the employer shall assure that an internal examination of cylinders and shells to be tested is made prior to the hydrostatic tests. Table L-1 Type of extinguishers | Test interval (years) | Soda acid (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Soda acid (stainless steel shell) | 5 | Cartridge operated water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Stored pressure water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Wetting agent | 5 | Foam (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Foam (stainless steel shell) | 5 | Aqueous Film Forming foam (AFFF) | 5 | Loaded stream | 5 | Dry chemical with stainless steel | 5 | Carbon dioxide | 5 | Dry chemical, stored pressure, with mild steel, brazed brass or aluminum shells | 12 | Dry chemical, cartridge or cylinder operated, with mild steel shells | 12 | Halon 1211 | 12 | Halon 1301 | 12

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1910/subpart-L/section-1910.157>

Halon 1301 · Hydrostatic test · OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157 — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Loaded stream

**Service obligation:** Hydrostatic test

**Interval:** 5

**Authority:** OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157

**Section:** Table L-1

> The employer shall assure that portable extinguishers are hydrostatically tested at the intervals listed in Table L-1 of this section, except under any of the following conditions: ( i ) When the unit has been repaired by soldering, welding, brazing, or use of patching compounds; ( ii ) When the cylinder or shell threads are damaged; ( iii ) When there is corrosion that has caused pitting, including corrosion under removable name plate assemblies; ( iv ) When the extinguisher has been burned in a fire; or ( v ) When a calcium chloride extinguishing agent has been used in a stainless steel shell. ( 3 ) In addition to an external visual examination, the employer shall assure that an internal examination of cylinders and shells to be tested is made prior to the hydrostatic tests. Table L-1 Type of extinguishers | Test interval (years) | Soda acid (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Soda acid (stainless steel shell) | 5 | Cartridge operated water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Stored pressure water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Wetting agent | 5 | Foam (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Foam (stainless steel shell) | 5 | Aqueous Film Forming foam (AFFF) | 5 | Loaded stream | 5

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1910/subpart-L/section-1910.157>

Loaded stream · Hydrostatic test · OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157 — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Dry chemical, stored pressure

**Shell material qualifier:** mild steel, brazed brass or aluminum shells

**Service obligation:** Hydrostatic test

**Interval:** 12

**Authority:** OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157

**Section:** Table L-1

> The employer shall assure that portable extinguishers are hydrostatically tested at the intervals listed in Table L-1 of this section, except under any of the following conditions: ( i ) When the unit has been repaired by soldering, welding, brazing, or use of patching compounds; ( ii ) When the cylinder or shell threads are damaged; ( iii ) When there is corrosion that has caused pitting, including corrosion under removable name plate assemblies; ( iv ) When the extinguisher has been burned in a fire; or ( v ) When a calcium chloride extinguishing agent has been used in a stainless steel shell. ( 3 ) In addition to an external visual examination, the employer shall assure that an internal examination of cylinders and shells to be tested is made prior to the hydrostatic tests. Table L-1 Type of extinguishers | Test interval (years) | Soda acid (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Soda acid (stainless steel shell) | 5 | Cartridge operated water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Stored pressure water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Wetting agent | 5 | Foam (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Foam (stainless steel shell) | 5 | Aqueous Film Forming foam (AFFF) | 5 | Loaded stream | 5 | Dry chemical with stainless steel | 5 | Carbon dioxide | 5 | Dry chemical, stored pressure, with mild steel, brazed brass or aluminum shells | 12

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1910/subpart-L/section-1910.157>

Dry chemical, stored pressure · mild steel, brazed brass or aluminum shells · Hydrostatic test · OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157 — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Dry chemical, cartridge or cylinder operated

**Shell material qualifier:** mild steel shells

**Service obligation:** Hydrostatic test

**Interval:** 12

**Authority:** OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157

**Section:** Table L-1

> The employer shall assure that portable extinguishers are hydrostatically tested at the intervals listed in Table L-1 of this section, except under any of the following conditions: ( i ) When the unit has been repaired by soldering, welding, brazing, or use of patching compounds; ( ii ) When the cylinder or shell threads are damaged; ( iii ) When there is corrosion that has caused pitting, including corrosion under removable name plate assemblies; ( iv ) When the extinguisher has been burned in a fire; or ( v ) When a calcium chloride extinguishing agent has been used in a stainless steel shell. ( 3 ) In addition to an external visual examination, the employer shall assure that an internal examination of cylinders and shells to be tested is made prior to the hydrostatic tests. Table L-1 Type of extinguishers | Test interval (years) | Soda acid (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Soda acid (stainless steel shell) | 5 | Cartridge operated water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Stored pressure water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Wetting agent | 5 | Foam (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Foam (stainless steel shell) | 5 | Aqueous Film Forming foam (AFFF) | 5 | Loaded stream | 5 | Dry chemical with stainless steel | 5 | Carbon dioxide | 5 | Dry chemical, stored pressure, with mild steel, brazed brass or aluminum shells | 12 | Dry chemical, cartridge or cylinder operated, with mild steel shells | 12

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1910/subpart-L/section-1910.157>

Dry chemical, cartridge or cylinder operated · mild steel shells · Hydrostatic test · OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157 — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Dry powder, cartridge or cylinder operated

**Shell material qualifier:** mild steel shells

**Service obligation:** Hydrostatic test

**Interval:** 12

**Authority:** OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157

**Section:** Table L-1

> The employer shall assure that portable extinguishers are hydrostatically tested at the intervals listed in Table L-1 of this section, except under any of the following conditions: ( i ) When the unit has been repaired by soldering, welding, brazing, or use of patching compounds; ( ii ) When the cylinder or shell threads are damaged; ( iii ) When there is corrosion that has caused pitting, including corrosion under removable name plate assemblies; ( iv ) When the extinguisher has been burned in a fire; or ( v ) When a calcium chloride extinguishing agent has been used in a stainless steel shell. ( 3 ) In addition to an external visual examination, the employer shall assure that an internal examination of cylinders and shells to be tested is made prior to the hydrostatic tests. Table L-1 Type of extinguishers | Test interval (years) | Soda acid (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Soda acid (stainless steel shell) | 5 | Cartridge operated water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Stored pressure water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Wetting agent | 5 | Foam (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Foam (stainless steel shell) | 5 | Aqueous Film Forming foam (AFFF) | 5 | Loaded stream | 5 | Dry chemical with stainless steel | 5 | Carbon dioxide | 5 | Dry chemical, stored pressure, with mild steel, brazed brass or aluminum shells | 12 | Dry chemical, cartridge or cylinder operated, with mild steel shells | 12 | Halon 1211 | 12 | Halon 1301 | 12 | Dry powder, cartridge or cylinder operated with mild steel shells | 12

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1910/subpart-L/section-1910.157>

Dry powder, cartridge or cylinder operated · mild steel shells · Hydrostatic test · OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157 — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Dry chemical

**Shell material qualifier:** stainless steel

**Service obligation:** Hydrostatic test

**Interval:** 5

**Authority:** OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157

**Section:** Table L-1

> The employer shall assure that portable extinguishers are hydrostatically tested at the intervals listed in Table L-1 of this section, except under any of the following conditions: ( i ) When the unit has been repaired by soldering, welding, brazing, or use of patching compounds; ( ii ) When the cylinder or shell threads are damaged; ( iii ) When there is corrosion that has caused pitting, including corrosion under removable name plate assemblies; ( iv ) When the extinguisher has been burned in a fire; or ( v ) When a calcium chloride extinguishing agent has been used in a stainless steel shell. ( 3 ) In addition to an external visual examination, the employer shall assure that an internal examination of cylinders and shells to be tested is made prior to the hydrostatic tests. Table L-1 Type of extinguishers | Test interval (years) | Soda acid (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Soda acid (stainless steel shell) | 5 | Cartridge operated water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Stored pressure water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Wetting agent | 5 | Foam (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Foam (stainless steel shell) | 5 | Aqueous Film Forming foam (AFFF) | 5 | Loaded stream | 5 | Dry chemical with stainless steel | 5

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1910/subpart-L/section-1910.157>

Dry chemical · stainless steel · Hydrostatic test · OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157 — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Foam

**Shell material qualifier:** stainless steel shell

**Service obligation:** Hydrostatic test

**Interval:** 5

**Authority:** OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157

**Section:** Table L-1

> The employer shall assure that portable extinguishers are hydrostatically tested at the intervals listed in Table L-1 of this section, except under any of the following conditions: ( i ) When the unit has been repaired by soldering, welding, brazing, or use of patching compounds; ( ii ) When the cylinder or shell threads are damaged; ( iii ) When there is corrosion that has caused pitting, including corrosion under removable name plate assemblies; ( iv ) When the extinguisher has been burned in a fire; or ( v ) When a calcium chloride extinguishing agent has been used in a stainless steel shell. ( 3 ) In addition to an external visual examination, the employer shall assure that an internal examination of cylinders and shells to be tested is made prior to the hydrostatic tests. Table L-1 Type of extinguishers | Test interval (years) | Soda acid (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Soda acid (stainless steel shell) | 5 | Cartridge operated water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Stored pressure water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Wetting agent | 5 | Foam (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Foam (stainless steel shell) | 5

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1910/subpart-L/section-1910.157>

Foam · stainless steel shell · Hydrostatic test · OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157 — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Soda acid

**Shell material qualifier:** stainless steel shell

**Service obligation:** Hydrostatic test

**Interval:** 5

**Authority:** OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157

**Section:** Table L-1

> The employer shall assure that portable extinguishers are hydrostatically tested at the intervals listed in Table L-1 of this section, except under any of the following conditions: ( i ) When the unit has been repaired by soldering, welding, brazing, or use of patching compounds; ( ii ) When the cylinder or shell threads are damaged; ( iii ) When there is corrosion that has caused pitting, including corrosion under removable name plate assemblies; ( iv ) When the extinguisher has been burned in a fire; or ( v ) When a calcium chloride extinguishing agent has been used in a stainless steel shell. ( 3 ) In addition to an external visual examination, the employer shall assure that an internal examination of cylinders and shells to be tested is made prior to the hydrostatic tests. Table L-1 Type of extinguishers | Test interval (years) | Soda acid (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Soda acid (stainless steel shell) | 5

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1910/subpart-L/section-1910.157>

Soda acid · stainless steel shell · Hydrostatic test · OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157 — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Stored pressure water and/or antifreeze

**Service obligation:** Hydrostatic test

**Interval:** 5

**Authority:** OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157

**Section:** Table L-1

> The employer shall assure that portable extinguishers are hydrostatically tested at the intervals listed in Table L-1 of this section, except under any of the following conditions: ( i ) When the unit has been repaired by soldering, welding, brazing, or use of patching compounds; ( ii ) When the cylinder or shell threads are damaged; ( iii ) When there is corrosion that has caused pitting, including corrosion under removable name plate assemblies; ( iv ) When the extinguisher has been burned in a fire; or ( v ) When a calcium chloride extinguishing agent has been used in a stainless steel shell. ( 3 ) In addition to an external visual examination, the employer shall assure that an internal examination of cylinders and shells to be tested is made prior to the hydrostatic tests. Table L-1 Type of extinguishers | Test interval (years) | Soda acid (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Soda acid (stainless steel shell) | 5 | Cartridge operated water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Stored pressure water and/or antifreeze | 5

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1910/subpart-L/section-1910.157>

Stored pressure water and/or antifreeze · Hydrostatic test · OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157 — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Wetting agent

**Service obligation:** Hydrostatic test

**Interval:** 5

**Authority:** OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157

**Section:** Table L-1

> The employer shall assure that portable extinguishers are hydrostatically tested at the intervals listed in Table L-1 of this section, except under any of the following conditions: ( i ) When the unit has been repaired by soldering, welding, brazing, or use of patching compounds; ( ii ) When the cylinder or shell threads are damaged; ( iii ) When there is corrosion that has caused pitting, including corrosion under removable name plate assemblies; ( iv ) When the extinguisher has been burned in a fire; or ( v ) When a calcium chloride extinguishing agent has been used in a stainless steel shell. ( 3 ) In addition to an external visual examination, the employer shall assure that an internal examination of cylinders and shells to be tested is made prior to the hydrostatic tests. Table L-1 Type of extinguishers | Test interval (years) | Soda acid (soldered brass shells) (until 1/1/82) | ( 1 ) | Soda acid (stainless steel shell) | 5 | Cartridge operated water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Stored pressure water and/or antifreeze | 5 | Wetting agent | 5

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1910/subpart-L/section-1910.157>

Wetting agent · Hydrostatic test · OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157 — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Dry chemical extinguishers having non-refillable disposable containers

**Service obligation:** Internal examination

**Interval:** exempt from this requirement

**Authority:** OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157

> The employer shall assure that stored pressure dry chemical extinguishers that require a 12-year hydrostatic test are emptied and subjected to applicable maintenance procedures every 6 years. Dry chemical extinguishers having non-refillable disposable containers are exempt from this requirement. When recharging or hydrostatic testing is performed, the 6-year requirement begins from that date.

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1910/subpart-L/section-1910.157>

Dry chemical extinguishers having non-refillable disposable containers · Internal examination · OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157 — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** stored pressure dry chemical extinguishers that require a 12-year hydrostatic test

**Service obligation:** Internal examination

**Interval:** every 6 years

**Authority:** OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157

> The employer shall assure that stored pressure dry chemical extinguishers that require a 12-year hydrostatic test are emptied and subjected to applicable maintenance procedures every 6 years. Dry chemical extinguishers having non-refillable disposable containers are exempt from this requirement. When recharging or hydrostatic testing is performed, the 6-year requirement begins from that date.

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1910/subpart-L/section-1910.157>

stored pressure dry chemical extinguishers that require a 12-year hydrostatic test · Internal examination · OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157 — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type


**Extinguishing agent / type:** Portable extinguishers

**Service obligation:** Monthly visual inspection

**Interval:** monthly

**Authority:** OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157

> Portable extinguishers or hose used in lieu thereof under <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/section-1910.157#p-1910.157(d)(3)> paragraph (d)(3) of this section shall be visually inspected monthly.

Source: <https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1910/subpart-L/section-1910.157>

Portable extinguishers · Monthly visual inspection · OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157 — Fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance and hydrostatic test intervals by agent type