NFPA 10 Fire Extinguisher Inspection Checklist — Free PDF Download

What this checklist covers

Every fire extinguisher in a commercial building must be inspected monthly (visual check) and annually (maintenance check) per NFPA 10. This downloadable checklist covers both inspections with clear pass/fail criteria and corrective actions.

Monthly Visual Inspection

• Extinguisher is in its designated location
• Access is unobstructed and visible
• Pressure gauge reads in the operable range (green zone)
• Safety pin and tamper seal are intact
• No physical damage, corrosion, or leakage
• Operating instructions on nameplate are legible and facing outward
• Fullness determined by weighing or hefting
• Inspection tag is attached and legible

Annual Maintenance Inspection

• All monthly inspection points above
• Internal examination of the extinguisher
• Check for proper hydrostatic test date (6-year or 12-year)
• Verify extinguisher type matches the hazard in the area
• Check mounting bracket/hanger condition
• Verify proper signage is in place
• Record all findings for compliance documentation

Why use a checklist?

According to NFPA, the leading cause of fire extinguisher failure during an emergency is lack of maintenance. A documented inspection checklist:

• Ensures you never miss an inspection point
• Creates a paper trail for fire marshals and insurers
• Reduces liability if an extinguisher fails
• Looks professional to your customers
• Takes less than 2 minutes per extinguisher once you know the routine