Hotel Service Unit 15 Q8

Monthly checks on firefighting equipment are crucial to ensure their readiness and functionality in case of a fire emergency. While more thorough inspections and servicing are typically done annually by certified technicians, these monthly checks help identify any obvious issues or deficiencies that may need attention.

Here are some key monthly checks that should be carried out on various firefighting equipment:

Fire Extinguishers:

• Visual Inspection:
  • Check for signs of damage, corrosion, leakage, or tampering.
  • Ensure the hose and nozzle are intact and free of obstructions.
  • Verify the presence and legibility of the operating instructions and safety labels.
• Pressure Gauge (if applicable):
  • Confirm that the pressure gauge is in the green zone, indicating adequate pressure.
  • If the extinguisher is stored in a cold environment, ensure it’s protected from freezing to avoid damage.
• Accessibility:
  • Make sure the extinguisher is easily accessible and not obstructed by any objects.
  • Check that it’s mounted securely in its designated location.

Fire Hoses and Reels:

• Visual Inspection:
  • Check for cracks, cuts, or other damage to the hose and couplings.
  • Ensure the hose is properly rolled on the reel and not tangled.
  • Verify that the nozzle is attached and in good condition.
• Water Flow Test (brief):
  • Briefly open the valve to check for water flow and pressure.
  • Ensure the hose and couplings are leak-free.

Fire Hydrants:

• Visual Inspection:
  • Check for any signs of damage, corrosion, or leakage.
  • Ensure the caps are in place and the hydrant is accessible.
  • Verify the presence of clear markings and signage.

Emergency Lighting and Exit Signs:

• Functionality Test:
  • Briefly switch off the main power to check if the emergency lighting and exit signs illuminate automatically.
  • Ensure all lights and signs are working and visible.

Fire Alarm System:

• Visual Inspection:
  • Check for any visible damage to the control panel, detectors, or alarm devices.
  • Ensure all alarm points are accessible and not obstructed.
• Audible and Visual Alarms:
  • Test a sample of manual call points and detectors to confirm that the audible and visual alarms activate.
  • Avoid testing the entire system unless it’s part of a planned maintenance routine.

Other Equipment:

• Fire blankets: Check for damage and ensure they are readily available in designated locations.
• Fire doors: Inspect for proper operation and ensure they close fully and latch securely.
• Sprinkler Systems: Conduct a visual inspection of sprinkler heads and piping for signs of damage or leaks. Check gauges and control valves for proper operation.

Record Keeping:

• Document all inspections and any identified issues in a maintenance log or checklist.
• Report any defects or malfunctions to the responsible personnel for prompt repair or replacement.

By conducting regular monthly checks, potential problems with firefighting equipment can be identified and addressed early on, ensuring their readiness and functionality in case of a fire emergency. This proactive approach contributes to a safer environment onboard and minimizes the risk of fire-related incidents.

Remember: Monthly checks are not a substitute for professional annual inspections and servicing by certified technicians. These more thorough inspections are essential for verifying the system’s full compliance and performance according to regulations and standards.

Yearly checks, also referred to as annual maintenance or servicing, on fire fighting equipment involve a more comprehensive inspection and testing compared to monthly checks. These checks are typically carried out by certified technicians and ensure that the equipment is fully compliant and functional, ready for use in a fire emergency.

Here are some key yearly checks that should be carried out on various firefighting equipment:

Fire Extinguishers:

• Extended Service:
  • Internal Examination: The extinguisher is disassembled, and all internal components are checked for wear, damage, and corrosion. This may include inspecting the valve, siphon tube, O-rings, and pressure gauges.
  • Discharge Test (for water, foam, and powder extinguishers): The extinguisher is discharged to verify its proper operation, spray pattern, and discharge time. The extinguishing agent is then replaced.
  • Hydraulic Pressure Test (for CO2 extinguishers): The cylinder is hydrostatically tested to ensure it can withstand the internal pressure.
• Recharging:
  • The extinguishing agent is refilled or replaced, even if the extinguisher has not been used, to ensure its full capacity and effectiveness in case of a fire.
• Overhaul (if required):
  • A more extensive service involving a complete disassembly, inspection, cleaning, replacement of worn parts, and reassembly of the extinguisher.

Fire Hoses and Reels:

• Pressure Test:
  • The hose is subjected to a pressure test at a specified pressure (typically higher than the normal operating pressure) to check for leaks and ensure its integrity.
  • Any damaged or leaking hoses or couplings are replaced.
• Flow Test:
  • The hose reel is fully unwound, and water is flowed through it to verify proper flow rate and pressure.

Fire Hydrants:

• Internal Inspection:
  • The hydrant is opened, and internal components like valves and seals are inspected for wear, corrosion, or damage.
  • Any necessary repairs or replacements are carried out.
• Flow Test:
  • The hydrant is connected to a hose and nozzle, and water is flowed through to check flow rate and pressure.

Emergency Lighting and Exit Signs:

• Battery Test:
  • The battery backup systems for emergency lighting and exit signs are tested to ensure they can provide adequate illumination for the required duration during a power outage.
  • Batteries may need to be replaced if their capacity is below the specified level.

Fire Alarm System:

• Comprehensive Testing:
  • A full functional test of the entire fire alarm system is conducted, including testing all detectors, manual call points, sounders, and visual alarms.
  • The control panel is checked for proper operation and any fault logs are reviewed.
  • Any necessary repairs or adjustments are made to ensure the system’s reliability.

Other Equipment:

• Fire blankets: Inspected for damage and replaced if necessary.
• Fire doors: Checked for proper operation and self-closing mechanisms.
• Sprinkler Systems: More extensive inspections and testing, including flow tests, alarm checks, and visual inspection of all components.

Record Keeping:

• Detailed records of all annual maintenance activities, including test results and any repairs or replacements, are maintained for compliance and future reference.

Remember: The frequency and specific requirements for annual maintenance may vary depending on the type of equipment, manufacturer’s recommendations, and local regulations. It’s essential to follow the guidelines and ensure that all fire fighting equipment is properly inspected and maintained to guarantee its readiness and effectiveness in safeguarding lives and property on board.