Having a strong safety culture and prioritizing safe working is crucial in any workplace, but we know that incidents and accidents still happen – and being prepared for them is a must. When it comes down to an emergency, properly functioning equipment can ultimately be what saves a life.
Preventative maintenance and routine checks are key to making sure your equipment is always ready to use. Here's a quick guide on some common emergency equipment, and the standards/recommendations for inspections and maintenance:
Fire Extinguishers
NFPA 10 requires extinguishers to be inspected when they are installed - and once a month after that. It is also recommended to inspect extinguishers more often if they are placed in locations more prone to rust or impact. A tag or label is required to be put on the extinguisher after inspection, and records of these monthly inspections should be maintained for at least 12 months. Click here to learn more about how to make that easy and effective.
AED
Like any piece of safety equipment, per OSHA standard 1915.87 App A, AED’s must be inspected regularly and maintained. AED’s always need to be inspected on a regular basis according to the manufacturer’s recommendations – which is usually once a month. Some organizations will include AED checks in their routine equipment inspections as best practice. A great way to stay on top of that and easily communicate the usability of the AED is here.
Eye Wash
The key emergency eyewash and shower consensus standard is ANSI/ISEA Z358.1-2014 – which sets the guidelines for the installation and maintenance of the equipment. Emergency eyewash stations must be inspected annually to ensure they comply with the Z358.1-2014 standard. They must also be activated and checked weekly to make sure they are operational in case of emergency.
Although it’s important to create a work environment that helps minimize accident risk – it’s even more important to be ready in the case of an emergency. This means making sure your emergency equipment is always safe and ready to be used through routine inspections and maintenance.
