When it comes to fire safety, fire extinguishers are one of the first lines of defence. But having extinguishers on site is only half the battle—ensuring they’re properly maintained is just as critical. At Fire Security Services, we are New Zealand’s fire extinguisher maintenance and inspection experts, and we’ve seen firsthand the risks that come with neglected equipment.
Ignoring fire extinguisher servicing can have serious consequences, including failure during a fire emergency, increased property damage, and even legal liability. Here’s why routine inspection and maintenance is non-negotiable.
Safety Risks of Poor Maintenance
1. Ineffective Fire Suppression
A fire extinguisher that hasn’t been properly maintained may not work when you need it most. Whether it’s a faulty pressure gauge, blocked nozzle, or expired contents, a malfunctioning unit can fail to suppress the fire—or worse, make it harder to control.
2. Increased Risk of Injury or Fatality
When a fire cannot be brought under control quickly, the risk to people in the building increases dramatically. Delayed suppression may lead to injuries, smoke inhalation, or loss of life, particularly in buildings without other fire protection systems in place.
3. Equipment Failure or Rupture
Fire extinguishers are pressurised vessels. Without routine checks, they can become a hazard themselves. Corrosion, pressure build-up, or undetected damage can cause the unit to rupture or leak, making it unsafe for use and dangerous to store.
4. Delayed Evacuation
In a fire emergency, people rely on fire extinguishers to suppress flames long enough to evacuate safely. A non-functional extinguisher can create confusion and panic, delaying escape and putting lives at greater risk.
Financial and Legal Consequences
Increased Property Damage: When a fire extinguisher doesn’t do its job, flames can spread quickly, leading to significant damage and higher repair or rebuild costs.
Legal Compliance and Liability: In New Zealand, businesses are required to maintain fire extinguishers in accordance with NZS4503:2005. Failing to meet these standards could result in fines, penalties, or increased insurance premiums—not to mention reputational damage.
Fire Extinguisher Maintenance You Can Rely On
At Fire Security Services, we offer a comprehensive extinguisher maintenance programme tailored to your needs. Whether you want us to manage everything or just provide annual servicing, we’ve got the team, training, and systems to keep you protected.
Our services include:
• Monthly inspections (self-checks or staff training available)
• Annual maintenance for all extinguisher types
• 3-yearly extended servicing for Wet Chemical and Foam units
• 5-yearly pressure testing to comply with pressure vessel safety legislation
All inspections are carried out by trained technicians who hold the National Certificate in Handheld Fire Equipment (Level 3), ensuring the highest standard of compliance and reliability.
Stay Compliant. Stay Safe
Don't wait for an emergency to find out your fire extinguisher doesn’t work. Partner with Fire Security Services—New Zealand’s trusted name in fire safety—to keep your fire protection equipment in top condition. Contact us today to set up a maintenance programme that suits your site and keeps you compliant, confident, and ready for anything.