For a landlord-owned, non-rechargeable fire extinguisher, what is inspected to determine compliance?

• A. Its manufacture date indicating it is less than 12 years old
• B. The gauge pressure
• C. The serial number
• D. The brand

Answer: (A)

Non-rechargeable portable extinguishers have a fixed service life, so the key factor for compliance is the manufacture date. If the extinguisher is less than 12 years old, it remains within its approved service life and is considered compliant. If it’s 12 years old or older, it should be removed from service and replaced, even if the pressure gauge reads normal, because the unit may be past its safe lifespan. The gauge shows operability, but age determines compliance for this type of extinguisher. Serial numbers and brand don’t indicate how long the unit is good for; they’re about identification, not service life.