Fire extinguisher inspectors are responsible for ensuring the safety of all commercial and public buildings by performing inspections of fire suppression systems, including fire extinguishers. This is an important job for the safety of the public and property, and there are various qualifications and certifications necessary to become a fire extinguisher inspector. This blog post will provide an overview of the relevant qualifications and certifications, and will outline the steps to becoming a fire extinguisher inspector.
In order to become a fire extinguisher inspector, it is important to understand the various regulations and standards that must be met. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provides the most commonly accepted standards and regulations for fire extinguisher systems. In addition, each state and municipality may have their own additional rules and regulations that must be followed. Therefore, it is important to research the specific requirements in the area that the inspector will be working in.
- Join InterNACHI as a member.
- Complete InterNACHI’s certification requirements.
- Complete InterNACHI’s free, online “Inspecting Portable Fire Extinguishers” course.
What does a fire extinguisher inspector do?
The following are typical job duties for a fire extinguisher inspector:
What is a fire extinguisher inspector?
An expert in safety and technology who focuses on fire extinguishers is a fire extinguisher inspector. Fire extinguisher inspectors are knowledgeable about how to carefully inspect each component of a fire extinguisher to ensure that they are all mechanically sound and secure for use. Fire extinguisher inspectors, who are also known as fire extinguisher technicians, carry out safety inspections in addition to performing routine maintenance or simple repairs on fire extinguishers.
Tips for finding a job as a fire extinguisher inspector
Here are some tips to aid in your job search for a fire extinguisher technician:
Search for fire safety or maintenance companies
Look for open positions in the maintenance and repair or fire safety industries. Many fire extinguisher technicians get clients through a bigger contracting business that gives them specific jobs to complete, like inspecting a home or instructing office workers on how to use fire safety equipment. A company’s website or online job boards may both offer these kinds of positions.
Work as a contractor
Start your own business as an independent contractor. Some fire extinguisher inspectors opt to work for themselves rather than land a position at a larger organization. Make sure to finish any tasks necessary for your industry or in your community if you decide to work as an independent contractor, such as registering a business name or obtaining a tax registration certificate. Additionally, you might find it beneficial to experiment with a variety of marketing strategies, like creating a website or adding your company to the yellow pages.
Earn additional certifications
Consider taking additional tests for certification in fire extinguisher inspection. Your ability to accept a wider range of positions or contract jobs can increase if you are certified to inspect various types of fire extinguishers. For instance, you might want to obtain a certificate pertaining to industrialized fire-extinguishing systems if you already possess one for inspecting residential fire extinguishers.
How to become a fire extinguisher inspector
The six steps to becoming a fire extinguisher inspector are as follows:
1. Get a high school diploma
Obtain a high school diploma or an equivalent credential, such as a GED. The typical prerequisite for becoming certified as a fire extinguisher inspector is having a high school diploma. Reading comprehension and safe behavior around potentially hazardous materials are two other fundamental abilities and knowledge sets related to fire extinguisher inspection that can be learned in high school.
2. Consider earning an associate degree
Consider enrolling in a college or university to earn your associate’s degree. Although an associate degree is not required to work as a fire extinguisher technician, some potential employers may favor applicants who hold this type of qualification.
The majority of aspirants who choose to pursue an associate’s degree in fire science are fire extinguisher inspectors. Consider a related profession like emergency and disaster management or occupational safety and health.
3. Decide on your certification type
Determine the types of fire extinguishers you want a professional to examine so you can select the certification option that is best for you. The majority of businesses that grant credentials to aspirant fire extinguisher technicians offer distinct certifications for various kinds of extinguishers. In the following categories, for instance, the National Association of Fire Equipment Distributors (NAFED) offers certifications:
4. Prepare for the exam
Prepare for the exam you must pass to become a certified fire extinguisher inspector. All aspiring fire extinguisher inspectors first get a certificate. Most people are certified by the NAFED, but there are a few other trustworthy certification agencies you might take into consideration.
Depending on a number of variables, such as the certification organization you plan to use and the type of fire extinguisher you want to specialize in, your exam preparation strategy may have been different. For each of its four exams, the NAFED, for instance, provides exam candidates with various study materials. On the website of that organization, you can find all the preparation materials if you obtain a certificate through NAFED. Some of these certification procedures may require you to complete additional steps in addition to passing the exam, such as paying a fee or providing identification documentation.
5. Take the exam
To obtain your certificate relating to fire extinguisher inspections, register for and pass the exam. Candidates register ahead of time for their exam through the majority of the organizations that certify people in this field. Typically, you can register for the exam online and select a nearby testing location. Additionally, some organizations might permit you to take the proctored exam remotely.
6. Get a state license
Obtain a license or permit if needed in your state. Before beginning inspections, some state governments demand that fire extinguisher technicians have a permit or license. Additionally, these states might require fire extinguisher technicians to renew their licenses every few years by participating in recurrent fire safety-related continuing education courses. Before you start applying for fire extinguisher inspector jobs, make sure to research the particular licensing or permit requirements for your area.
Skills of fire extinguisher inspectors
Fire extinguisher inspectors possess a range of abilities, including:
Attention to detail
Examining each component of a fire extinguisher carefully is one of a fire extinguisher technician’s most crucial job responsibilities. When conducting these inspections, fire extinguisher inspectors are aware of how to pay close attention to minute details, such as the pressure gauge’s mobility or the environment’s safety for fire extinguishers. Fire extinguisher technicians can ensure that everything is in compliance with regulations and fully functional in case of an emergency by taking note of these kinds of small details.
Customer service skills
While carrying out many of their duties, a fire extinguisher technician frequently interacts with their client directly. This may entail informing the client of the inspection’s findings, instructing them on how to use fire safety gear, and assisting them in installing their own fire extinguishers. Fire extinguisher inspectors can have productive interactions with these clients by using customer service abilities like professionalism and active listening.
Communication
Fire extinguisher technicians are capable of explaining complex issues relating to their line of work to people with less technical knowledge. For instance, they might need to communicate inspection results to a client in plain language or train building staff members effectively in fire safety. A fire extinguisher inspector is also adept at effectively communicating their meaning via a variety of media, including verbally, on the phone, and via email.
Self-direction
Many of the tasks performed by fire extinguisher inspectors are done without direct supervision. Whether they are employed full-time by a business or independently, this might be the case. These professionals can manage their varied responsibilities and remain organized with the aid of abilities like self-direction and self-motivation.
Physical abilities
Some of a fire extinguisher technician’s duties can be physically demanding or involve movement. For instance, they might have to climb a ladder or lift a bulky portable fire extinguisher in order to test a kitchen’s fire extinguishing system. Dexterity, strength, hand-eye coordination, balance, and other physical aptitudes can help fire extinguisher inspectors perform these job duties safely and effectively.
FAQs about fire extinguisher inspectors
Following are some frequently asked questions about fire extinguisher inspectors and their responses:
Whats the work environment like for fire extinguisher inspectors?
Most of the work that fire extinguisher technicians do is done on-site in various buildings. This implies that they get to experience a variety of distinctive work settings every day or every week. A fire extinguisher inspector may perform some of their duties in an office or a remote location, such as billing customers or publicizing their services.
How long does it take to become a fire extinguisher technician?
How much time you spend studying for your exam can affect how long it takes you to become a fire extinguisher technician. For instance, if you register for an exam through NAFED, you are permitted to take the exam at any time within a year of the registration date.
The length of time it takes to become a fire extinguisher inspector also depends on whether you decide to continue your education. In order for these professionals to start working as fire extinguisher technicians, it may take longer than two years to complete an associate degree in fire safety or a related field.
Is it hard to be a fire extinguisher inspector?
Being a fire extinguisher inspector can be difficult because these experts have extensive knowledge of fire safety and technology. Throughout their careers, they continuously review any updated fire safety codes or regulations. Despite these potential difficulties, many people who work as fire extinguisher technicians find their jobs to be very fulfilling because they get to keep people safe from fire hazards and knowledgeable about how to stay safe. Additionally, compared to other fire safety careers, becoming a fire extinguisher inspector might require less training, allowing you to launch your new career sooner.
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Yearly Fire Extinguisher Inspection
FAQ
How do I get a fire extinguisher license in Texas?
To obtain a Type C: 1. Submit a Fire Extinguisher Certificate of Registration application (SF025). 2. Send a Certificate of Insurance (SF239) for Property Damage and Bodily Injury.
What is the OSHA requirement for fire extinguisher training?
Employees who are required to use portable fire extinguishers must receive “hands-on” instruction in using the apparatus [1910 157(g)(3)]. If the employer chooses to comply with all of 1910. 157, there is no requirement to comply with 1910. 38.
How do you use fire extinguisher training?
- Extinguishers classified as Class A will put out fires in common combustibles like wood and paper.
- Use class B extinguishers on flammable liquids like oil, gasoline, and grease.
- Only electrically energized fires are suitable for using Class C extinguishers.
What are the classes of a fire extinguisher?
- Extinguishers classified as Class A will put out fires in common combustibles like wood and paper.
- Use class B extinguishers on flammable liquids like oil, gasoline, and grease.
- Only electrically energized fires are suitable for using Class C extinguishers.
