Source: http://www.docstoc.com/docs/77683080/Fire-Extinguisher-Inspection-Certificate
Timestamp: 2013-12-21 07:03:15
Document Index: 592713369

Matched Legal Cases: ['art 1', 'art 1', 'art 1', 'art.\n13188', 'art.\n13188', 'art 1', 'art 2', 'art 9', 'art 173']

LAWS &amp; REGS
Sections 13160-13190
3. Certificates of Registration
4. Denial, Revocation, and Suspension
13160.    Regulations and Standards; Administrative                              5
13161.    Legislative intention                                                  5
13162.    Requirements for sale and distribution; exceptions                     5
13163.    License required                                                       6
13164.    Application for license; fees; signing by applicant; authority
to enter and examine premises                                          6
13165.    Issuance of license                                                    6
13166.    Duration of licenses; renewals                                         6
13167.    Application for renewal; date; fees                                    6
13168.    Refusal to renew license; rights of applicant                          6
13169.    Change of address                                                      7
13170.    Advertisements; prima facie evidence of business location              7
13171.    Use of fictitious name                                                 7
13172.    List of licensees                                                      7
13173.    Inspection of license                                                  7
13174.    Annual repost of licensed persons servicing, charging, or
testing portable fire extinguishers                                    7
13175.    Certificate required                                                   7
13175.1   Exemptions                                                             8
13176.    Application for certificate; fees                                      8
13177.    Examinations; practical tests                                          8
13178.    Issuance of certificate                                                8
13179.    Duration of certificates; renewals                                     8
13180.    Application for renewal; date; fees                                    8
13181.    Refusal to renew certificate; rights of applicant                      8
Article 3. Certificates of Registration (Continued)
13182.    Change of address                                                      9
13183.    Affixing tag to serviced unit                                          9
13184.    Inspection of certificate                                              9
13185. Grounds for denial of issuance of license of certificate                  9
13186. Request for statement of issues by applicant; effect                      9
13187. Proceeding on denial of license; notice and hearing                       10
13188. Grounds for suspension or revocation of license                           10
13188.1. Preliminary finding of violation; suspension of license pending
investigation                                                           10
13188.2 Hearing on denial or suspension of license                               10
13188.3. Procedure of hearings                                                   10
13189.    Original fee; annual renewal fee; penalty fee                          10
13190.    Special fee                                                            11
13190.1. Powers and duties of state fire marshal; exceptions                     11
13190.2. State and local regulations                                             11
13190.3. Maintenance of equipment installed or required by statute
Or ordinance; responsibility of owners or occupants                     11
13190.4. Violations; penalty; separate offenses                                  12
13160. Regulations and standards; administration. With the advice of the
State Fire Advisory Board, the State Fire Marshal shall adopt, in accordance
with the provisions of Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of
Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, and administer regulations and
standards as he or she may deem necessary for the protection and preservation
of life and property to control the servicing, including charging, and testing, of all
portable fire extinguishers for controlling and extinguishing fires, and for
controlling the sale and marketing of all such devices with respect to
conformance with standards of their use, capacity, and effectiveness. In
adopting the regulations, the State Fire Marshal shall consider the standards of
13161. Legislative intention. It is the legislative intention in enacting this
chapter that the provisions of this chapter and the regulations and standards
adopted by the State Fire Marshal pursuant to this chapter shall apply uniformly
throughout the State of California and no county, city, city or county or district
shall adopt or enforce any ordinance or rule or regulation regarding portable fire
extinguishers which is inconsistent with the provisions of this chapter or the
regulations and standards adopted by the State Fire Marshal pursuant to this
13162. Requirements for sale and distribution; exceptions. No person shall
market, distribute, or sell any portable fire extinguisher in this state unless it
(a) It complies with regulations and standards adopted by the State Fire Marshal
pursuant to Section 13160.
(b) It has been examined by and bears the label of Underwriters&#39; Laboratories
Inc. or another testing laboratory which is approved by the State Fire Marshal as
qualified to test portable fire extinguishers. Any testing laboratory approved by
the State Fire Marshal shall have facilities, personnel, and operating procedures
equivalent to those of the Underwriters&#39; Laboratories Inc.
(c) It does not use as an extinguishing agent any carbon tetrachloride,
chlorbromomethane, or methyl bromide.
The State Fire Marshal may grant reasonable exceptions to this subdivision
when the extinguisher is intended for industrial use in places to which the public
is not invited or admitted. The provisions of this section apply to the state and
13163. License required. No person shall engage in the business of, nor
perform for a fee, the servicing, charging, or testing of portable fire extinguishers
without a license issued by the State Fire Marshal pursuant to this chapter
expressly authorizing such person to perform such acts.
13164. Application for license; fees; signing by applicant; authority to
enter and examine premises. Application for a license to engage in the
business of, or perform for a fee, the servicing, charging, or testing of portable
fire extinguishers shall be made in writing to the State Fire Marshal on forms
provided by him and shall be accompanied by the fees prescribed in this
chapter. A separate application for license shall be made for each separate
place of business location of the applicant for license.
The application shall be signed by the applicant. If the application is made
by a partnership, it shall be signed by each partner. If the application is made
by a corporation or association other than a partnership, it shall be signed by the
principal officer thereof and, in the case of applications by corporations, bear the
seal of the corporation. The application shall also include written authorization
by the applicant permitting the State Fire Marshal and any of his properly
authorized employees to enter, examine and inspect any premises, building,
room, or establishment used by the applicant in servicing, charging, or testing
portable fire extinguishers to determine compliance with the provisions of this
chapter and the regulations and standards adopted by the State Fire Marshal
13165. Issuance of license. Following receipt of the properly completed
application and prescribed fees, and compliance with the provisions of this part
and the regulations adopted pursuant to Section 13160, the State Fire Marshal
shall issue a license.
13166. Duration of license. Original licenses shall be valid from the date of
issuance through December 31st of the year in which issued. Thereafter, each
license shall be renewed annually and renewals thereof shall be valid from
13167. Application for renewal; date; fees. Application for renewal shall be
made on or before November 1st of the year in which the current license
expires. Application for renewal shall be made in writing on forms provided by
the State Fire Marshal and shall be accompanied by the prescribed fees.
13168. Refusal to renew license; right of applicant. The State Fire Marshal
may refuse to renew any license in the same manner and for any reason that he
is authorized pursuant to Article 4 (commencing with Section 13185) of this
chapter to deny an original license. The applicant shall, upon such refusal, have
the same rights as are granted by Article 4 of the chapter to an applicant for an
original license which has been denied by the State Fire Marshal.
13169. Change of address. Every licensee shall notify the State Fire Marshal
at his Sacramento office in writing within 15 days of any change of his address.
13170. Advertisements; prima facie evidence of business location. Any
advertisement of the servicing, charging, or testing of portable fire extinguishers
constitutes prima facie evidence that the premises, business, building, room,
shop, store or establishment in or upon which it appears, or to which it refers, is
a separate place of business location.
13171. Use of fictitious name. No licensee shall conduct his licensed
business or solicit business under a name other than a name or names which
appears on his license.
13172. List of licensees. The State Fire Marshal shall without cost, annually
notify the chief fire official of each local fire authority of the name, address and
license number of each firm that is licensed pursuant to this chapter. Upon
request, single copies of such list shall be furnished, without cost, to a licensed
13173. Inspection of license. The holder of any license shall submit such
license for inspection upon request of the State Fire Marshal, any of his properly
authorized employees, or any local fire official.
13174. Annual report of licensed persons servicing, charging, or testing
portable fire extinguishers. Every licensed person shall annually, within
seven days of employment and within seven days of termination of employment,
report to the State Fire Marshal at his Sacramento office, the name, address,
and certificate of registration number, if any, of every natural person performing
any act of servicing, charging, or testing portable fire extinguishers for such
licensed person.
13175. Certificates required. No natural person shall service, charge, or test
any portable fire extinguisher without a certificate of registration issued by the
State Fire Marshal pursuant to this chapter expressly authorizing such person to
perform such acts.
The provisions of this article apply to the state, the Regents of University of
California, a county, city, district, public authority, and any other political
subdivision or public corporation in this state.
13175.1. Exemptions. The provisions of this article shall not apply to any
person servicing, charging, or testing any portable fire extinguisher owned by
such person when the portable fire extinguisher is not required by any statute,
regulation, or ordinance, to be provided or installed.
The provisions of this section shall not prohibit the servicing, charging, or
testing of portable fire extinguishers by new employees of a licensed person for
a period not to exceed 90 days provided such servicing, charging or testing is
conducted in the presence of and under the direct supervision of a natural
person holding a valid certificate of registration.
13176. Application for certificate; fees. Application for a certificate of
registration to service, charge, or test portable fire extinguishers shall be made
in writing to the State Fire Marshal on forms provided by him and shall be
accompanied by the fee prescribed in this chapter. The application shall be
13177. Examinations; practical tests. The State Fire Marshal shall require all
applicants for a certificate of registration to take and pass a written examination
which may be supplemented by practical tests when deemed necessary, to
determine the applicants knowledge of servicing, charging and testing of
13178. Issuance of certificate. Following receipt of the properly completed
application and prescribed fee, and the completion of the required examination,
the State Fire Marshal shall issue a certificate of registration.
13179. Duration of certificates; renewals. Original certificates of registration
shall be valid from the date of issuance through December 31st of the year in
which issued. Thereafter, each certificate of registration shall be renewed
annually and renewals thereof shall be valid from January 1st through December
13180. Application for renewal; date; fees. Application for renewal shall be
made on or before November 1st of the year in which the current certificate of
registration expires. Application for renewal shall be made in writing on forms
provided by the State Fire Marshal and shall be accompanied by the prescribed
13181. Refusal to renew certificate; right of applicant. The State Fire
Marshal may refuse to renew any certificate of registration in the same manner
and for any reason that he is authorized pursuant to Article 4 (commencing with
Section 13185) of this chapter to deny an original certificate of registration. The
applicant shall, upon such refusal, have the same rights as are granted by
Article 4 of this chapter to an applicant for an original certificate of registration
which has been denied by the State Fire Marshal.
13182. Change of his address. Every certificate of registration holder shall
notify the State Fire Marshal at his Sacramento office in writing within 15 days of
any change of his address.
13183. Affixing tag to serviced unit. Every natural person who services,
charges, or tests any portable fire extinguisher shall affix a tag to the serviced
unit. Such tag shall indicate the date upon which the service work was
performed and it shall bear the signature of such natural person, and other
information specified by the State Fire Marshal.
13184. Inspection of certificate. The holder of a certificate of registration shall
submit such certificate for inspection upon request of the State Fire Marshal,
any of his properly authorized employees, or any local fire official.
13185. Grounds for denial of issuance of license or certificate. The
issuance of a license or certificate of registration may be denied by the State
Fire Marshal for any of the following reasons:
(c) Refusal to allow inspection by the State Fire Marshal or his duly authorized
(d) The applicant for a license does not have the proper or necessary facilities,
including qualified personnel, to conduct the operations for which application is
(e) The applicant for a certificate of registration does not possess the
qualifications of skill or competence to conduct the operations for which
application is made as evidenced by failure to pass the examination pursuant to
Article 3 (commencing with Section 13175) of this chapter.
(g) The applicant has been convicted of a violation of the provisions of this
chapter of the regulations adopted by the State Fire Marshal pursuant to this
13186. Request for statement of issues by applicant; effect. Within 30 days
after receipt of notice of denial sent by the State Fire Marshal by registered or
certified mail to the applicant&#39;s last address of record, the applicant may file with
the State Fire Marshal a request for statement of issues. Such request shall not
be deemed an answer to the statement of issues, a request for a hearing, or a
notice of defense. Unless the State Fire Marshal files a statement of issues
regarding the denial of the application within 30 days after the timely filing of
such request, the license or certificate of registration shall be issued.
13187. Proceeding on denial of license; notice and hearing. When a
statement of issues has been so filed, the State Fire Marshal may order denial
pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500), Part 1, Division 3, Title
2 of the Government Code.
13188. Grounds for suspension or revocation of license. A license or
certificate of registration may be suspended or revoked by the State Fire
Marshal pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500), Part 1,
Division 3, Title 2, of the Government
Code, for any of the following reasons:
(c) Violation of any provision of this chapter or any regulation adopted by the
State Fire Marshal pursuant to this chapter.
investigation. The State Fire Marshal may, upon a preliminary finding of a
violation of the provisions of this part, suspend any license or certificate of
registration for a period not exceeding 30 days pending investigation of any
violation of the provisions of this part.
13188.2. Hearing on denial or suspension of license. Any applicant who has
been denied a license or certificate of registration or who has had a license or
certificate of registration suspended, shall be entitled to a hearing in accordance
with the provisions of this part.
13188.3. Procedure of hearings. Except where otherwise provided in this part,
all hearings under this part shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5
(commencing with Section 11500) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the
13189. Original fee; annual renewal fee; penalty fee.
(a) The original and annual renewal fee for any license or a certificate of
registration issued pursuant to this chapter shall be established by the State Fire
Marshal. That fee shall not exceed the amount necessary to cover the costs
incurred in the administration and enforcement of this chapter.
(b) A penalty fee equal to 50 percent of the required annual license fee or
certificate of registration fee shall be added to the fee in all cases where the fee
for a renewal is not paid on or before November 1.
13190. Special fee. No special fee other than that charged for an ordinary
business license shall be charged for any natural person, corporation, firm, or
association, by any city, county, city and county or fire protection district, for the
privilege of performing acts involving servicing, charging or testing of portable
13190.1. Powers and duties of the state fire marshal; exceptions. Except as
provided in this article, the State Fire Marshal shall enforce in all areas of the
state, the provisions of this chapter and the regulations and standards adopted
by him pursuant to Section 13160.
The provisions of this chapter and the regulations and standards adopted by
the State Fire Marshal pursuant to Section 13160 shall not apply to any firm or
corporation not engaged in the business of servicing, charging or testing
portable fire extinguishers and that maintains its own fully equipped and
specially staffed fire prevention and protection department, or to any employee
of any such firm or corporation while acting in the scope of his employment.
13190.2. State and local regulations. Any governmental agency, including the
state, and any city, county, district, or any other political subdivision or public
corporation of the state, may, in their respective areas of jurisdiction, enforce
ordinances, regulations, and orders adopted by such agency relating to the
number, size, and type of portable fire extinguishers required to be installed or
provided. Such agencies may, in their respective areas of jurisdiction, also
enforce the regulations adopted by the State Fire Marshal relating to care,
maintenance, and frequency of servicing, charging, and testing of portable fire
Nothing in this article shall diminish the enforcement responsibility and
authority conferred upon any governmental agency pursuant to any other state
13190.3. Maintenance of equipment installed or required by statute or
ordinance; responsibility of owners or occupants. Any portable fire
extinguisher that is required to be installed by any statute or ordinance shall be
maintained in accordance with the regulations adopted pursuant to Section
(a) The owner or occupant of a property in which fire extinguishers are located
shall be responsible for the inspection, maintenance, and recharging of the fire
(b) Maintenance, servicing, and recharging shall be performed by concerns
licensed by the State Fire Marshal having available the appropriate servicing
manual, the proper types of tools, recharge materials, lubricants, and
manufacturer&#39;s recommended replacement parts or parts of equal quality.
13190.4. Violation; penalty; separate offenses. Every person who violates
any provision of this chapter or any regulation adopted by the State Fire Marshal
pursuant to Section 13160 is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not
more than one thousand dollars ($1,000), or by imprisonment for not more than
A person is guilty of a separate offense each day during which he commits,
continues, or permits a violation of this chapter or of any regulation adopted
Chapter 3. Fire Extinguishers
4. Classification and Ratings of Portable Fire Extinguishers
5. Selection and Distribution of Portable Fire Extinguishers
6. Inspection, Maintenance and Recharging
7. Hydrostatic Testing
8. Licensing and Certificates of Registration
9. Tagging, Marking, Labeling and Seal of Registration
Section                                                        Page
550.      Authority                                            19
550.1.    Title                                                19
550.2.    Purpose                                              19
550.3.    Scope                                                19
550.4.    Notices                                              19
550.5.    Validity                                             20
550.6.    Approval of Laboratories                             20
550.7.    Standards for Fire Safety                            20
557.      Definitions                                          20
557.1.    “A” Definitions                                      21
557.2.    “B” Definitions                                      21
557.3.    “C” Definitions                                      21
557.4.    “D” Definitions                                      22
557.5.    “E” Definitions                                      22
557.6.    “F” Definitions                                      23
557.7.    “G” Definitions                                      23
557.8.    “H” Definitions                                      23
557.9.    “I” Definitions                                      24
557.10.   “J” Definitions                                      24
557.11.   “K” Definitions                                      24
557.12.   “L” Definitions                                      24
557.13.   “M” Definitions                                      24
557.14.   “N” Definitions                                      25
557.15.   “O” Definitions                                      25
557.16.   “P” Definitions                                      25
557.17.   “Q” Definition                                       25
557.18.   “R” Definitions                                      25
557.19.   “S” Definitions                                      26
557.20.   “T” Definitions                                      26
557.21.   “U” Definitions                                      26
557.22.   “V” Definitions                                              27
557.23.   “W” Definition                                               27
557.24.   “X” Definitions                                              27
557.25.   “Y” Definitions                                              27
557.26.   “Z” Definitions                                              27
560.      General Provisions and Fee Schedule                          27
560.1.    Report of Violations                                         28
560.2.    Deceptive Practices                                          28
560.3.    Employer Responsibilities                                    28
560.4.    Recall of Extinguishers                                      29
Article 4. Classification, and Ratings of Portable Fire Extinguishers
561.      Classification                                               29
561.1.    Classification and Rating System                             29
561.2.    Fire Test and Performance Standards                          29
562.      Classification and Rating Marking                            30
563.      Operating Instructions                                       30
563.1.    Instruction Manual                                           30
564.      Metric Units                                                 31
Article 5. Selection and Distribution of Portable Fire Extinguishers
565.      Selection of Fire Extinguishers                              31
565.1.    Classification of Hazards                                    31
565.2.    Selection by Hazard                                          32
566.      Application for Specific Hazards                             32
567.      Distribution of Fire Extinguishers                           33
567.1.    Operating Conditions                                         34
567.2.    Cabinets                                                     34
567.3.    Installation                                                 34
567.4.    Brackets                                                     34
567.5.    Physical Damage Protection                                   35
567.6.    Mounting                                                     35
567.7.    Sealed Cabinets                                              35
567.8.    Installation Temperatures                                    35
Section                                                                Page
568.      Fire Extinguisher Size and Placement for Class A Hazards       35
569.      Fire Extinguisher Size and Placement for Class B Fires other
than for Fires in Flammable Liquids of Appreciable Depth       36
570.      Fire Extinguisher Size and Placement for Class B Fires in
Flammable Liquids of Appreciable Depth Mounting                37
571.      Fire Extinguisher Size and Placement for Class C Hazards       38
572.      Size and Placement for Class D Hazards                         38
573.      Fire Extinguisher Size and Placement for Commercial Cooking
Operations                                                     38
Article 6. Inspection, Maintenance and Recharging
574       General                                                        39
574.1     Frequency of Inspection                                        39
574.2.    Inspection Procedures                                          39
574.3.    Corrective Action                                              40
574.4.    Nonrechargeable Extinguishers                                  40
574.5.    Inspection Recordkeeping                                       40
575.      Servicing, General                                             40
575.1.    Maintenance and Required Service Intervals                     40
575.2.    Maintenance Requirements                                       41
575.3.    Maintenance Procedures                                         42
575.4.    Dry Chemical and Dry Powder Portable Fire Extinguishers        45
575.5.    Carbon Dioxide Extinguishers                                   46
575.6.    Halogenated Agent Extinguisher                                 46
575.7     Stored Pressure Water Type Extinguishers                       47
575.8.    AFFF and FFFP Extinguishers                                    47
575.9.    Pump-Tank Extinguishers                                        47
575.10.   Out of Service                                                 47
575.11.   Safety Pins                                                    47
575.12.   Seal or Tamper Indicators                                      47
575.13.   Anti-freeze Solution                                           48
575.14.   Nitrogen Cylinder Operated Wheeled Extinguishers               48
575.15.   Conductivity Test                                              48
575.16.   Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers                                48
576.1.    Maintenance Recordkeeping                                      48
577.1.    Condemned Extinguishers                                        49
577.2.    Obsolete Fire Extinguishers                                    49
578.1.    Recharging, General                                            49
578.2.    Recharge Agents                                                50
578.3.    Dry Powder                                                     50
578.4.    Replacement Pressure Gauge                                     50
578.5.    Precautionary Pressurization Measures                          50
578.6.    Pressurizing Gas                                               50
578.7.    Conversion of Extinguisher Types                              51
578.8.    Removal of Moisture                                           51
578.9.    Carbon Dioxide Recharging                                     51
578.10.   Leak Test                                                     51
578.11.   Recharging Water Types                                        51
578.12.   Wet Chemical Agent Re-use                                     52
Article 7. Hydrostatic Testing
591.1     Hydrostatic Testing, General                                  52
591.2.    Corrosion                                                     52
591.3.    Written Certification                                         52
591.4.    Restricted Service                                            52
591.5.    Replacement Extinguishers                                     52
591.6.    Examination of Cylinder Condition                             53
591.7     Aluminum Shell/Cylinder                                       53
592.      Frequency                                                     53
592.1.    Compressed Gas Cylinders and Cartridges                       53
592.2.    Hose Assemblies                                               54
592.3.    Vehicles                                                      54
592.4.    Non-refillable Factory-sealed Disposable Containers           54
593.1.    Test Pressures, High Pressure Cylinders                       55
593.2     Stored Pressure Types                                         55
593.3.    Cartridge-Operated Types                                      55
594.1.    Test Equipment and Procedure, General                         55
594.2.    Test Equipment D.O.T. Specification Cylinders                 55
594.3.    Test Equipment for Low Pressure Non-D.O.T. Specification
Cylinders                                                     55
594.4.    Testing Procedures                                            56
594.5.    Recording of Tests                                            57
Article 8. Licensing and Certificates of Registration
595.1.    Document Transfers                                            58
595.2.    Expired Documents                                             58
595.3.    Minimum Ages                                                  58
595.4.    Duplicate Issuance                                            59
595.5.    Fire Extinguisher License Types                               59
595.6.    Concern Name                                                  60
595.7.    Business location                                             60
595.8.    Posting of License                                            61
595.9.    Certificates of Registration                                  61
595.10.   Examination Procedures                                        62
595.11. Possession of Certificate of Registration                       62
595.12. Employer’s Responsibility                                       62
595.13. Insurance                                                       62
Article 9. Tagging, Marking, Labeling and Seal of Registration
596.      General                                                       63
596.1.    Required Information                                          64
596.2.    Size Color and Material                                       65
596.3.    Attaching Tag                                                 65
596.4.    Format                                                        65
596.5.    Date Serviced and Signature                                   67
596.6.    Restrictive Use                                               67
596.7.    Removal of Tags                                               67
596.8.    Listed Labels                                                 67
596.9.    Unlawful Use of Listed Label                                  67
596.10.   Marking of Fire Extinguishers                                 68
596.11.   Seal of Registration                                          68
596.12.   Permissive Use                                                69
596.13.   Unlawful Use                                                  69
596.14.   Cease Use Order                                               69
Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 3
550.   Authority.
Chapter 3, Division 1 of Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations is
adopted by the State Fire Marshal under the authority of Division 12, Part 2,
Chapter 1.5, Section 13160, et seq., of the Health and Safety Code of the State of
NOTE: Authority cited: Section 13160, Health and Safety Code. Reference cited:
Sections 13160-13169, Health and Safety Code.
550.1. Title.
These regulations and standards shall be known as the &quot;Regulations and
Standards of the State Fire Marshal,&quot; may be cited as such, and will be
hereinafter referred to as &quot;these regulations.&quot;
550.2. Purpose.
The purpose of these regulations and standards is to provide means to
register persons who service portable fire extinguishers; to license concerns
engaging in the business of servicing portable fire extinguishers; to license private
and public entities not engaged in the business and their designated employees
who service their own portable fire extinguishers; and to regulate the care,
maintenance, placement, frequency of servicing, charging and testing of portable
Sections 13160, 13163, and 13175, Health and Safety Code.
550.3. Scope.
These regulations apply to the sale and servicing of all portable fire
extinguishers as outlined in Sections 13160, 13162, 13175, 13183, 13190.1,
13190.2 13190.3, Health and Safety Code.
EXCEPTIONS: These regulations do not apply to nor control the servicing of:
(a) Permanently installed automatic fire extinguishing systems or portions
(b) Owner serviced portable fire extinguishers as provided in Section
13175.1, Health and Safety Code, and;
(c) Portable fire extinguishers owned and serviced by the Federal
Sections 13160, 13161, 13162, 13163, 13165, 13183, 13190, 13190.2, 13190.3,
550.4. Notices.
Any notice by the State Fire Marshal and required by any provisions of the
statutes or of these regulations, may be given by certified or registered mail,
postage prepaid, addressed to the person to be notified, at his last known
address of residence or business as it appears on the records in the Office of the
550.5. Validity.
(a) If any article, section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of these
regulations is for any reason held to be unconstitutional, contrary to statute or
exceeding the authority of the State Fire Marshal, such decision shall not affect
the validity of the remaining portion of these regulations.
(b) If any article, section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of these
regulations is for any reason held to be inoperative as it applied to any person or
circumstance, such decision shall not affect its validity as it applies to any other
person or circumstance.
550.6. Approval of Laboratories.
(a) Any laboratory desiring approval by the State Fire Marshal to perform
testing and labeling of portable fire extinguishers shall submit proof of the
(1) The Laboratory possesses proper equipment necessary to perform
tests according to the ANSI/UL standards listed in Section 561.2.
(2) Evidence of qualified personnel, meaning the employment of not less
than one person who holds a degree in engineering or is registered as a
Professional Engineer, and having not less than two years actual experience
testing portable fire extinguishers in accordance with ANSI/UL Test standards in
Section 561.2.
(b) Laboratory personnel performing tests and not meeting the above
requirements may perform such tests only under the direct supervision of a
Section 13162, Health and Safety Code.
550.7 Standards for Fire Safety.
The phrase &quot;Standards for Fire Safety&quot; means compliance with Standards
listed in Section 561.2(a).
Sections 13160, 13161, 13162, 13190.1, 13190.3, Health and Safety Code.
557.   Definitions.
For the purpose of this Chapter, the meaning of the following terms shall
be as set forth in this article.
Sections 13160-13190.4, Health and Safety Code.
557.1       &quot;A&quot; Definitions.
(a) Accurate Scales, Extinguisher Maintenance,
(1) An accurate scale for extinguishers with a gross weight of 60 lbs
(27.24 kg) or less must have a minimum graduation not larger than 4 ounces
(0.114 kg) and must be accurate to plus or minus 4 ounces (0.114 kg).
(2) An accurate scale for extinguishers with a gross weight of 61 lbs
(27.69 kg) or more must be weighed on scales that have a minimum graduation
not larger than 8 ounces (0.227 kg) and shall be accurate to plus or minus 8
ounces (0.227 kg).
(3) An accurate scale is one that can demonstrate accuracy by the use of
a 10 lb. (4.54 kg) Class 7 test weight as defined by ASTM E617-97. The test
weight shall accompany the scale at all times.
(4) Accurate scales must have a maximum weight that equals or exceeds
the gross weight of any extinguishers being maintained.
(b) Accurate Scales, Cartridge Maintenance
(1) An accurate scale for weighing cartridges is one with a minimum
graduation not larger than 1/100 of the cartridge being weighed and that is
accurate to plus or minus one scale graduation.
(2) An accurate scale is one that can demonstrate accuracy by the use of a
1 lb. (.454 kg) Class 7 test weight as defined by ASTM E617-97. The test weight
shall accompany the scale at all times.
(c) Accurate Scales, commercial applications (legal for trade)
(1) An accurate scale for commercial applications is one that complies
with Sections 12500 (a) and 12501.1 of the California Business and Professions
Code and Section 4000, Title 4 of the California Code of Regulations.
(d) AFFF. Aqueous Film Forming Foam.
(e) ANSI. American National Standards Institute, Inc.
(f) Approved. Refers to approval by the State Fire Marshal as a result of
investigations or tests conducted or supervised by him, or by reason of tests by
recognized testing laboratories, national authorities, technical or scientific
(g) Annual Maintenance. The type of fire extinguisher maintenance that is
required to be preformed annually, pursuant to Section 575.1. For annual
maintenance, the year shall start on the first day maintenance is performed and
end one calendar year later.
NOTE: Authority cited: Section 13160, Health and Safety Code. Reference:
Sections 13166, 13172, 13174, 13179, 13189, Health and Safety Code.
557.2     &quot;B&quot; Definitions. None.
557.3       &quot;C&quot; Definitions.
(a) Capacity. The amount of extinguishing agent contained in any portable
fire extinguisher as measured in U.S. gallons, pounds or S.I. units (See Section
557.19).
(b) Cartridge operated fire extinguishers. Extinguishers in which expellant
gas is stored in a separate cartridge or in a gas cylinder located within or
adjacent to the shell containing the extinguishing agent. These extinguishers
are actuated by releasing the cartridge gas which expels the agent.
(c) Certificate of Registration. A document issued by the State Fire
Marshal to any qualified person authorizing that person to perform any specific
(d) Charge. Any substance or compound of substances used as an
extinguishing agent, or as an expellant force for an extinguishing agent.
(e) Charging. The act of placing any &quot;charge&quot; within any portable fire
(f) Chemical. Any substance or compound of substances used as an
extinguishing agent or as an expellant force for an extinguishing agent.
(g) Classes of fire:
(1) CLASS A. Fires in ordinary combustible materials such as wood,
cloth, paper, rubber, and many plastics.
(2) CLASS B. Fires in flammable or combustible liquids, such as oils,
greases, tars, oil base paints, lacquers, and flammable gases.
(3) CLASS C. Fires involving energized electrical equipment when
electrical non-conductivity of the extinguishing media is of importance.
(4) CLASS D. Fires in combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium,
sodium, lithium, and potassium.
(5) CLASS K. Fires in cooking appliances that involve combustible
cooking media (vegetable or animal oils and fats).
(h) Compressed Gas Cylinders. Compressed gas cylinders and
cartridges are those containing any material or mixture having an absolute
pressure exceeding 40 p.s.i. at 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
(i) Cylinder, D.O.T. Compressed gas cylinders and cartridges
manufactured to D.O.T. standards which are either:
(1) High pressure - Service pressure of 501 p.s.i.g. or higher at 70
degrees Fahrenheit and all cylinders containing carbon dioxide, and
(2) Low pressure - Service pressure of 500 p.s.i.g. at 70 degrees
(j) Cylinder, Non-D.O.T.. Low pressure containers typically used for
cylinder operated dry cylinder operated chemical, and pressurized water-based
type extinguishers.
Sections 13163-13164,13174-13182, 13184-13186, 13188-13189, Health and
557.4.      “D&quot; Definitions.
(a) D.O.T.. United States Department of Transportation, which has
jurisdiction over compressed gas cylinders and cartridges.
(b) Dry Chemical Closed Recovery System. A system that provides for
the transfer of dry chemical agent between extinguishers and recovery
containers that is closed to prevent the loss of agent to the atmosphere.
(c) Dry Powder. Solid materials in powder or granular form designed to
extinguish Class D combustible metal fires by crusting, smothering, or heat
transferring means.
(d) Dry Chemical. Various mixtures of finely divided solid particles
additionally supplemented with special treatments to provide resistance to
packing, moisture absorption (caking), and proper flow characteristics. These
agents are designed for extinguishment of Class “A” and “B” fires. They are
nonconductors and approved for use on energized Class C fire situations.
Sections 13160, 13162, Health and Safety Code.
557.5.     &quot;E&quot; Definitions.
(a) &quot;E&quot; Number. Fire Extinguisher Concern License Number designated
by the Office of the State Fire Marshal.
(b) &quot;EE&quot; Number. Certification of Registration Number designated by the
Office of the State Fire Marshal to individuals qualified to perform specific acts of
(c) Effectiveness. Having the ability to produce the desired extinguishing
(d) Employee. Those persons who work directly for a licensed concern in
the business of servicing portable fire extinguishers for a fee or are
employed by and work directly for a public or private company not
engaged in the business who service their own portable fire extinguishers
(e) Empty. To completely remove all contents from a portable fire
extinguisher except the expellant cartridge.
(f) Extinguisher. See Section 557.16(c), Portable Fire Extinguisher.
Sections13160-13164, 13170, 13174-13177, 13183, 13189, 13190.1, 13190.3,
557.6.      &quot;F&quot; Definitions.
(a) Factory Test Pressure. The pressure at which the shell was tested at
time of manufacture. This pressure is shown on the nameplate.
(b) FFFP. Film Forming Fluoroprotein Foam.
(c) F.M.. Factory Mutual.
(d) Fire Department. For the purposes of these regulations, a department
of state, county, districts, or municipal government, a separate tax-supported
unit of government organized under special provisions of law or a privately
organized unit located within an industrial facility providing fire protection service
to the community or facility to prevent fires from starting, prevent loss of life and
property when fire starts, confine fire to the place where it starts, and to
Sections, 13160-13165,13167-13169, 13172-13175, 13176-13178, 13180-
13190.2, 13190.4, Health and Safety Code.
557.7.       &quot;G&quot; Definitions.
(a) Gallon. U.S. Standard gallon. or S.I. Units (See Section 557.19).
(b) Gauge. U.S. Standard gauge. or S.I. Units (See Section 557.19).
(c) Give Giving, offering to give or advertising the intent to give.
Sections, 13160, 13162, Health and Safety Code.
557.8.     &quot;H&quot; Definitions.
(a) Halogenated Agents. Halogenated (clean) agents referenced in
these regulations are of the following types:
(1) Halons. Halons include Bromochlorodifluouromethane (Halon 1211)
bromotrifluoromethane (Halon 1301), and mixtures of Halon 1211 and Halon
1301, (Halon 1211/1301).
(2) Halocarbons. Halocarbon agents include hydrochlorofluorocarbon
(HCFC, hydrofluorocarbon (HFC), perfluorocarbon (PFC), an fluoroiodocarbon
(FIC) types of agents.
(b) Halon Closed Recovery System. A system that provides for the
transfer of halon between extinguishers, supply containers, and recharge and
recovery containers in compliance with U.L. Standard 2006.
(c) Hydrostatic Test. Any pressure test procedure specified in this
(d) High Pressure Cylinder. High pressure cylinders and cartridges are
those containing nitrogen or compressed air at service pressure higher than 500
p.s.i.g. at 70 degrees Fahrenheit, or carbon dioxide.
557.9.       &quot;I&quot; Definitions.
(a) Inspection. A “quick check” that a fire extinguisher is available and
will operate. It is intended to give reasonable assurance that the fire extinguisher
is fully charged and operable. This is done by verifying that the fire extinguisher
is in its designated place, that it has not been actuated or tampered with, and
that there is no obvious or physical damage or condition to prevent its operation.
Sections 13164, 13173, Health and Safety Code.
557.10.   &quot;J&quot; Definitions. None.
557.11.   &quot;K&quot; Definitions. None
557.12. &quot;L&quot; Definitions.
(a) License. A document issued by the State Fire Marshal authorizing a
concern at a fixed location to engage in the business of servicing fire
extinguishers, or a public or private entity not engaged in the business of
servicing fire extinguishers, to perform specific acts of servicing portable fire
extinguishers (as specified in section 595.5).
(b) Licensee. A specific concern or a public or private entity to which a
license has been issued by the State Fire Marshal.
(c) Listed. Equipment or materials included in a list published by a State
Fire Marshal approved laboratory having a third party certification program for
portable fire extinguishers which meets or exceeds ANSI/UL 1803, Standard for
Factory Follow-up on Third Party Certified Portable Fire Extinguishers, 1st
Edition, as determined by the State Fire Marshal.
(d) Listed Label. A tag, plate or band with legible information or symbols
in accordance with the standards of Section 561.2 attached to a fire extinguisher
cylinder, shell or shroud by the manufacturer.
(e) Loaded Stream Charge. A water-based extinguishing medium that
uses an alkali metal salt as a freezing point depressant.
(f) Low Pressure Cylinder. Low pressure cylinders are those containing
fire-extinguishing agent (medium), nitrogen, compressed air, or other
compressed gases at a service pressure of 500 psi (3447 kPa) or lower at 70
degrees Fahrenheit (21oC).
NOTE: Authority cited: Section 13160, Health and Safety Code. Reference
cited: Sections13163-13169, 13171-13174, 13185, 13188-13190, Health and
557.13. &quot;M&quot; Definitions.
(a) Maintenance. A thorough examination of the fire extinguisher done in
accordance with the manufacturer’s written instructions and the requirements of
this chapter. It is intended to give maximum assurance that a fire extinguisher
will operate effectively and safely. Maintenance includes a thorough examination
and any necessary repair or replacement. Maintenance will normally reveal if
hydrostatic testing or internal maintenance is required.
(b) Marketing. The act of selling. (See Section 557.19.(a))
(c) Mild Steel Shell. Except for stainless steel and steel used for high
pressure cylinders, all other steel shells are defined as &quot;mild steel&quot; shells.
cited: Sections13160, 13162, Health and Safety Code.
557.14. &quot;N&quot; Definitions.
(a) N.F.P.A. - The National Fire Protection Association.
(b) Nonrechargeable Fire Extinguisher. A nonrechargeable (nonrefillable)
fire extinguisher is not capable of (nor intended to be capable of) undergoing
complete maintenance, hydrostatic testing, and being restored to its full operating
capability by the standard practices used by fire equipment dealers and
distributors. Some fire extinguishers that are physically rechargeable are marked
nonrechargeable and are therefore considered for purpose of this regulation to be
nonrechargeable (nonrefillable) fire extinguishers.
Section 13160, Health and Safety Code.
557.15.   &quot;O&quot; Definitions. None.
557.16. &quot;P&quot; Definitions.
(a) Part. Any component of a portable fire extinguisher except the
extinguishing agent and charge.
(b) Part (Approved). Parts used in the maintenance and servicing of
portable fire extinguishers shall be the manufacturer&#39;s recommended
replacement parts or parts of equal quality. Part, as used in this Chapter, does
not include the extinguishing agent itself or the expellant in an extinguisher.
(c) Portable Fire Extinguisher. A manually actuated portable device
carried, or mounted on wheels and operated by hand and which contains a fire
extinguishing agent that can be expelled under any type of pressure for the
purpose of suppressing or extinguishing fire.
(d) Pressurized Extinguisher. A portable fire extinguisher which
maintains the expellant force and the extinguishing agent within the same or
common cylinder.
cited: Sections 13160-13164, 13170, 13174-13177, 13183, 13190.1-13190.3,
557.17.   &quot;Q&quot; Definitions. None.
557.18. &quot;R&quot; Definitions.
(a) Rating. A numerical-alphabetical designation of a portable fire
extinguisher which indicates the extinguishing potential (the number) and the
class of fire (the letter) for which the extinguisher is suitable.
(b) Recognized Testing Laboratory. For the purpose of this article, a
recognized testing laboratory shall mean any agency staffed by qualified
personnel and properly equipped to conduct the particular test in question, and
who are regularly engaged in conducting tests. Laboratories other than those
specified in Section 13162(b) of the Health and Safety Code, shall be approved
by the State Fire Marshal.
(c) Rechargeable (Refillable) Fire Extinguisher. A rechargeable
(refillable) fire extinguisher is capable of undergoing complete maintenance,
including internal inspection of the pressure vessel, replacement of all sub-
standard parts and seals, and hydrostatic testing. The fire extinguisher is
capable of being recharged with agent and restored to its full operating
capability by the standard practices used by licensed concerns. Rechargeable
(refillable) fire extinguishers shall be marked “Recharge Immediately After Any
Use” or with a similar equivalent marking.
(d) Recharging. The replacement of the extinguishing agent, also
including the expellant for certain types of extinguishers.
cited: Sections 13162, 13189, Health and Safety Code.
557.19. &quot;S&quot; Definitions.
(a) Sell. Offer or expose for sale, barter, trade, deliver, give away, rent,
consign, lease, market, distribute or possess with the intent to sell.
(b) Servicing. Includes one or more of the following:
(2) recharging;
(3) hydrostatic testing.
(c) Service Pressure. The normal operating pressures as indicated on the
gauge or nameplate.
(d) Signature. The written signature of a person as it appears on the
Application for Certificate of Registration. A rubber stamp of name or signature is
(e) S.I. Units. Metric units of measure in accordance with the International
(f) Shall. Indicates a mandatory requirement.
(g) Should. Indicates a recommendation or that which is advised but not
(h) Stored Pressure Fire Extinguisher. A fire extinguisher in which both
the extinguishing material and expellant gas are kept in a single container and
that includes a pressure indicator or gauge.
557.20. &quot;T&quot; Definitions.
(a) Travel Distance. The actual walking distance from any point to the
nearest fire extinguisher fulfilling “fire extinguisher hazard requirements”.
557.21. &quot;U&quot; Definitions.
(a) U.L. Underwriters&#39; Laboratories, Incorporated.
557.22. &quot;V&quot; Definitions.
(a) Valid. Means a license or Certificate of Registration which has not
been suspended, denied, or revoked and for which all appropriate fees have
been tendered for the period involved.
(b) Vaporizing liquid. A class of extinguishing agents possessing toxic
properties which are prohibited for use in California. (Section 13162(c), Health
and Safety Code). These agents are Carbon Tetrachloride (CCl4), Methyl
Bromide (CH3BR), Chlorobromomethane (CH2ClBr), and Dibromo
Tetrafluoroethane (C2Br2F4).
(c) Vehicle. For the purposes of this Chapter, as defined in Vehicle
Code Section 670 and includes vessels as defined in Harbors and Navigation
Code Section 651, and aircraft as defined in Public Utilities Code Section 21012.
557.23. &quot;W&quot; Definitions.
(a) Water-Type Fire Extinguisher. A water-type fire extinguisher contains
water-based agents, such as water, AFFF, FFFP, antifreeze, and loaded
(b) Wet Chemical. Wet chemicals include, but are not limited to, aqueous
solutions of potassium acetate, potassium carbonate, potassium citrate, or
(c) Wheeled Fire Extinguisher. For the purposes of this Chapter,
wheeled fire extinguishers are considered portable fire extinguishers as defined
in Section 557.16(c).
557.24.   &quot;X&quot; Definitions. None.
557.25.   &quot;Y&quot; Definitions. None.
557.26.   &quot;Z&quot; Definitions. None.
560. General Provisions and Fee Schedule
(a) No person shall engage in the servicing and maintenance of portable
fire extinguishers under the scope of this chapter (Section 550.3) without having
first submitted an application and all documents, necessary to demonstrate
compliance with and having obtained a license from, the State Fire Marshal in
accordance with the provisions of this chapter. Licenses shall be processed in
accordance with Title 19, California Code of Regulations, Section 3.33.
(b) Every fire extinguisher concern license or certificate of registration fee
required in accordance with the provisions of Section 13189 of the Health and
Safety code shall be paid in legal tender, or by money order or postal note, or
valid personal check made payable to the &quot;State Fire Marshal&quot;. Fee shall
accompany each application for license or certificate of registration.
(c) Every fee shall be paid at or mailed to, the Sacramento Headquarters
(d) The original and annual renewal fee for any license or a certificate of
registration issued pursuant to this chapter shall be as follows:
(1) Certificate of Registration………………………..…..……                       $85
(2) A fire extinguisher Concern license for firms engaged in the business of
performing for a fee specific acts of servicing portable fire extinguishers
pursuant to 595.5………………………………………………………                                        $625
(3) A &quot;L&quot; (Limited) fire extinguisher servicing license for public or private
entities not engaged in the business, nor performing for a fee, specific acts
pursuant to Section 595.5 (a)(7) of servicing their own portable fire
extinguishers……………………………………………………….……… $325
(e) Application for renewal of a license or for a certificate of registration
which has expired for one year shall be considered as an original application.
(f) Application for change of location or any license revision requiring a
physical inspection by a State Fire Marshal designee of a licensed
concern…………………………………………………………………….. $325
560.1. Report of Violations.
Any action taken by a local entity against licensed concerns or Certificate
of Registration holders shall be reported to the State Fire Marshal within 15 days
of the action. The State Fire Marshal shall respond to the reporting agency within
560.2. Deceptive Practices.
(a) Any licensee, or employee thereof, who engages in unfair methods of
competition or makes false or misleading statements as prohibited in Sections
17200 and 17500 of the Business and Professions Code shall be subject to
license denial, revocation or suspension.
(b) Any licensee, or employee thereof, upon making contact with the
prospective buyer (business owner or owner’s representative) shall:
(1) state the identity of the person making the solicitation
(2) state the name of the business being represented
(3) state the type of goods or services being offered for sale
(4) show or display personal identification from the fire extinguisher
concern affiliated with.
(5) show current Certificate of Registration Card prior to performing
Sections 13160, 13170, 13171, 13183, 13185, 13188, Health and Safety Code.
560.3. Employer Responsibility.
Every licensed concern is responsible for the acts of employees (see
definition of “Employee” Section 557.5(d) in the marketing, sale, distribution, and
servicing of any portable fire extinguisher.
Section 13165, Health and Safety Code.
560.4. Recall of Extinguishers.
When a manufacturer deems it necessary to recall an extinguisher model
or series, the manufacturer shall notify the State Fire Marshal. Such notification
shall include the reasons for the recall and procedures for replacement and the
disposition of recalled extinguishers.
Sections 13160, 13162, 13177, Health and Safety Code.
561.    Classification.
(a) Portable fire extinguishers are classified for use on certain classes of
fire and rated for relative extinguishing effectiveness at a temperature of plus
70oF (21.1oC) by testing laboratories. This is based upon classification of the
fire pursuant to Section 561.1 and the fire extinguishment potentials as
determined by fire tests.
cited: Section 13160, Health and Safety Code.
561.1. Classification and Rating System.
(a) The classification and rating system described in these regulations is
that of ANSI/UL Standard 711, and is based on extinguishing preplanned fires of
the determined size and description as follows:
(1) CLASS A RATING. Wood and excelsior.
(2) CLASS B RATING. Two-inch (5.1-cm) depth n-heptane fires in
square pans.
(3) CLASS C RATING. No fire test. Agent must be a nonconductor of
(4) CLASS D RATING. Special tests on specific combustible metal fires.
(5) CLASS K RATING. Special tests on cooking appliances using
combustible cooking media (vegetable or animal oils and fats).
561.2. Fire Test and Performance Standards.
(a) Portable fire extinguishers used to comply with this regulation shall be
listed and labeled and meet or exceed all of the requirements of the fire test
standards and one of the appropriate performance standards shown below:
(1) Fire Test Standards: ANSI/UL 711, Standard for Fire Extinguishers,
Rating and Fire Testing 6th Edition, 2002.
(2) Performance Standards:
(A) CO2 Types: ANSI/UL 154, Standard for Carbon Dioxide Fire
Extinguishers, 8th Edition, 1995.
(B) Dry Chemical Types: ANSI/UL 299, Standard for Dry Chemical Fire
Extinguishers, 10th Edition, 2002.
(C) Water Types: ANSI/UL 626, Standard for Two and One-Half Gallon
Stored-Pressure, Water-Type Fire Extinguishers, 7th Edition, 1995.
(D) Halon Types: ANSI/UL 1093, Standard for Halogenated Agent Fire
Extinguishers, 5th Edition, 1995.
(E) Foam Types: ANSI/UL 8, Standard for Foam Fire Extinguishers, 5th
(F) Clean Agent Types: ANSI/UL 2129, 1ST Edition, 1999.
(G) Loaded Stream/ K-Class Types: ANSI/UL 8, Standard for Foam Fire
Extinguisher, 5th Edition, 1995.
(H) Test Weights: ASTM E 617-97, Standard Specification for Laboratory
Weights and Precision Mass Standards.
(b) The identification of the listing and labeling organization, the fire test
and performance standard which the extinguisher meets or exceeds shall be
clearly marked on each extinguisher.
EXCEPTION: Extinguishers manufactured prior to January 1, 1986.
(c) An organization listing, labeling and marking extinguishers used to
comply with the requirements of this chapter shall utilize a third party
certification program for portable fire extinguishers which meets or exceeds
ANSI/UL 1803, 2nd Edition, 1997.
562.    Classification and Rating Marking.
The classification of extinguishers shall consist of a LETTER which
indicates the class of fire on which an extinguisher has been found to be
effective, preceded by a rating NUMBER (Class A and B only) which indicates
the relative extinguishing effectiveness.
EXCEPTION: Extinguishers classified for use on Class C, Class D, or Class K
hazards shall not be required to have a number preceding the classification
563.    Operating Instructions.
(a) Extinguisher operating instructions shall be located on the front of the
extinguisher and be clearly visible. Other labels and markings shall not be
located or placed on the front of the extinguisher.
EXCEPTION: Original manufacturer’s labels, labels that specifically relate to the
extinguisher’s operation or fire classification, or inventory control labels specific
to that extinguisher. These labels shall not contain any company advertising.
(b) Extinguishers mounted in cabinets or wall recesses shall be placed in
a manner such that the extinguisher operating instructions face outward. The
location of such extinguishers shall be marked conspicuously.
563.1. Instruction Manual.
An extinguisher instruction manual shall be provided to the owner or the
owner&#39;s agent giving condensed instructions and cautions necessary to its
installation, operation, inspection and maintenance. This manual shall be
provided upon the sale or transfer of the extinguisher. The manual may be
specific to the extinguisher involved or it may cover many types.
564.     Metric Units.
Metric units of measurement in this standard are in accordance with the
modernized metric system known as the International System of Units (SI). One
unit (liter), outside of but recognized by SI, is commonly used in international fire
protection. The units are listed in Table 1 with conversion factors.
Name of Unit        Unit Symbol          Conversion Factor
liter                        L           1 gal = 3.785 L
Centimeter                  Cm           1 in. = 2.540 cm
meter                        M           1 ft. = 0.305 m
Kilogram                    Kg           1 pound (mass) = 0.454 kg
Degree Celsius                C          5/9(oF-32) = oC
Bar                         Bar          1 psi = 0.0689 bar
For additional conversions and information see ASTM E380, Standard for Metric
If a value for measurement as given in this standard is followed by an equivalent
value in other units, the first stated is to be regarded as the requirement. A given
equivalent value may be approximate.
The conversion procedure for the SI units has been to multiply the quantity by
the conversion factor and then round the result to the appropriate number of
NOTE: Authority cited: Section 13161, Health and Safety Code. Reference
cited: Section 13161, Health and Safety Code.
565.  Selection of Fire Extinguishers.
(a) The selection of extinguishers for a given situation shall be
determined by the authority having jurisdiction in accordance with adopted
codes or ordinances. The character of the fires anticipated, the construction and
occupancy of the individual property, the vehicle or hazard to be protected,
ambient-temperature conditions, and other factors shall be considered. The
number, size, placement, and limitations of use of extinguishers required shall
be determined by using Sections 567 through 573.
565.1 Classification of Hazards.
(a) Light (low) Hazard. Locations where the total amounts of Class A
combustible materials, including furnishings, decorations and contents, is of
minor quantity. These shall include buildings or rooms occupied as offices,
classrooms, churches, assembly halls, etc. This classification anticipates that
the majority of contents are either noncombustible or so arranged that a fire is
not likely to spread rapidly. Small amounts of Class B flammables used for
duplicating machines, art departments, etc., are included provided that they are
kept in closed containers and safely stored.
(b) Ordinary (Moderate) Hazard. Locations where the total amounts of
Class combustibles and Class B flammables are present in greater amounts
than expected under Light (Low) Hazard occupancies. These occupancies could
consist of offices, classrooms, mercantile shops and allied storage, light
manufacturing, research operations, auto showrooms, parking garages,
workshop or support service areas of Light (Low) Hazard occupancies, and
warehouses containing Class I or Class II commodities.
(c) Extra (High) Hazard. Locations where the total amount of Class A
combustibles and Class B flammables are present, in storage, production use,
and/or finished product over and above those expected and classed as ordinary
(moderate) hazards. These occupancies could consist of woodworking, vehicle
repair, aircraft and boat servicing, individual product display showrooms, product
convention center displays, storage and manufacturing processes such as
painting, dipping, coating, including flammable liquid handling. Also included is
warehousing of, or in-process storage of other Class I and Class II commodities.
565.2. Selection by Hazard.
(a) Extinguishers shall be selected for the specific class or classes of
hazards to be protected in accordance with the following subdivisions.
(b) Extinguishers for protecting Class A hazards shall be selected from
the following: Water-type, halogenated agent types, multipurpose dry chemical
and wet chemical type.
(c) Extinguishers for protection of Class B hazards shall be selected from
the following: carbon dioxide, dry chemical types, halogenated agent types, and
water-type and water chemical extinguishers rated for Class B hazards.
(d) Extinguishers for protection of Class C hazards shall be selected from
water mist types rated for Class C. Carbon dioxide extinguishers equipped with
metal horns are not considered safe for use on fires in energized electrical
equipment and, therefore, are not classified for use on Class C hazards.
(e) Extinguishers and extinguishing agents for the protection of Class D
hazards shall be of types approved for use on the specific combustible-metal
566.    Application for Specific Hazards.
(a) Class B Fire Extinguishers for Pressurized Flammable Liquids and
Pressurized Gas Fires. Fires of this nature are considered to be a special
hazard. Class B fire extinguishers containing agents other than dry chemical
are relatively ineffective on this type of hazard due to stream and agent
characteristics. Selection of extinguishers for this type of hazard shall be made
on the basis of recommendations by manufacturers of this specialized
equipment. The system used to rate extinguishers on Class B fires (flammable
liquids in depth) is not applicable to these types of hazards.
It has been determined that special nozzle design and rates of agent application
are required to cope with such hazards. Caution: It is undesirable to attempt to
extinguish this type of fire unless there is reasonable assurance that the source
of fuel can be promptly shut off.
(b) Fire extinguishers provided for the protection of cooking appliances
that use combustible cooking media (vegetable or animal oils and fats) shall be
listed and labeled for Class K fires.
(c) Three-dimensional Class B Fires. A three-dimensional Class B fire
involves Class B materials in motion such as pouring, running or dripping
flammable liquids and generally includes vertical as well as one or more
horizontal surfaces. Fires of this nature are considered to be a special hazard.
Selection of extinguishers for this type of hazard shall be made on the basis of
recommendations by manufacturers of this specialized equipment. The system
used to rate extinguishers on Class B fires (flammable liquid in depth) is not
directly applicable to this type of hazard.
(d) Water Soluble Flammable Liquid Fires (Polar Solvents). Extinguishers
used for the protection of water soluble flammable liquids, such as alcohols,
acetones, esters, ketones, etc., shall be selected in accordance with Section
565.2. AFFF type and FFFP type fire extinguishers shall not be used for the
protection of water soluble flammable liquids, such as alcohols, acetone, esters,
ketones, etc., unless specifically referenced on the extinguisher nameplate.
(e) Electronic Equipment Fires. Extinguishers for the protection of
delicate electronic equipment shall be selected from the following: carbon
dioxide type or a halogenated agent type, or a distilled water mist type with a
minimum Class A: C Rating.
(f) In patient care areas and sleeping rooms of health care facilities, fire
extinguishers, including the agents and expelling means, should be selected
and utilized which would not be detrimental to patients and are appropriate for
the type of fire expected, such as distilled water mist type fire extinguishers with
a minimum &quot;2-A: C&quot; Rating.
567.    Distribution of Fire Extinguishers.
(a) The minimum number of fire extinguishers needed to protect a
property shall be determined as outlined in this section. Additional extinguishers
may be installed to provide more suitable protection.
(b) Fire extinguishers shall be provided for the protection of both the
building structure and the occupancy hazards contained therein.
(c) Required building protection shall be provided by fire extinguishers
suitable for Class A fires.
(d) Occupancy hazard protection shall be provided by fire extinguishers
suitable for such Class A, B, C, D, or K fire potentials as may be present.
(e) Extinguishers provided for building protection may be considered also
for the protection of occupancies having a Class A fire potential.
(f) Buildings having an occupancy hazard subject to class B and/or Class
C fires shall have a standard complement of Class A fire extinguishers for
building protection, plus additional Class B and/or Class C extinguishers. Where
fire extinguishers have more than one letter classification (such as 2A:20-B:C),
they may be considered to satisfy the requirements of each letter class. When
using multi-purpose extinguishers for the protection of Class B hazards, the
maximum travel distances described in Table 3 must be observed.
(g) Rooms or areas shall be classified generally as light (low) hazard,
ordinary (moderate) hazard or extra (high) hazard. Limited areas of greater or
lesser hazards shall be protected as required.
(h) On each floor level, the area protected and the travel distances shall
be based on fire extinguishers installed in accordance with Tables 2 and 3.
(i) Fire extinguishers shall not be obstructed or obscured from view.
EXCEPTION: In large rooms, and in certain locations where visual obstruction
cannot be completely avoided, means shall be provided to indicate the fire
extinguisher’s location.
(j) Fire extinguishers shall be conspicuously located along normal paths
of travel where they will be readily accessible and immediately available in the
(k) Where wheeled extinguishers are installed, aisles and doorways
through which such extinguishers are to be moved shall have a clear and
unobstructed width not less than one foot (1 ft.) wider than the overall width of
567.1 Operating Conditions.
Portable extinguishers shall be maintained in a fully charged and
operable condition, and kept in their designated places at all times when they
567.2. Cabinets.
EXCEPTION: Where extinguishers are subject to malicious use, locked
cabinets may be used provided they include a means of emergency access and
are approved by the authority having jurisdiction.
567.3. Installation.
Portable fire extinguishers other than wheeled types shall be securely
installed on the hanger or in the bracket supplied or placed in cabinets or wall
recesses. The hanger or bracket shall be securely and properly anchored to the
mounting surface in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Wheeled-
type fire extinguishers shall be located in a designated location.
567.4. Brackets.
Extinguishers installed under conditions where they are subject to
dislodgment shall be installed in brackets specifically designed to cope with this
567.5. Physical Damage Protection.
physical damage, (e.g., from impact, vibration, the environment) shall be
567.6. Mounting.
Fire extinguishers having a gross weight not exceeding 40 lbs (18.14kg)
shall be installed so that the top of the fire extinguisher is not more than 5 ft.
(1.53m) above the floor. Fire extinguishers having a gross weight greater than
40 lbs. (18.14kg) (except wheeled types) shall be so installed that the top of the
fire extinguisher is not more than 3-1/2 ft. (1.07 m) above the floor. In no case
shall the clearance between the bottom of the extinguisher and the floor be less
than 4 in. (10.2 cm).
567.7. Sealed Cabinets.
Where extinguishers are installed in closed cabinets, which are exposed
to elevated temperatures, the cabinets shall be provided with screened
openings and drains.
567.8. Installation Temperatures.
Water-type (water, AFFF, FFFP) extinguishers shall not be installed in
areas where temperatures are outside the range of 40oF to 120oF (4oC to
49oC). Other types shall not be installed in areas where temperatures are
outside the range of -40oF to 120oF (-40oC to 49oC). Fire extinguishers shall
not be exposed to temperatures outside of the range shown on the fire
extinguisher label.
EXCEPTION No. 1: Where fire extinguishers are installed in locations subject to
temperatures outside these ranges, they shall be of a type approved and listed
for the temperature to which they are exposed, or they shall be placed in an
enclosure capable of maintaining the stipulated temperature range.
EXCEPTION No. 2: Fire extinguishers containing plain water only can be
protected to temperatures as low as -40oF (-40oC) by the addition of an
antifreeze stipulated on the extinguisher nameplate. Calcium chloride solutions
shall not be used in stainless steel fire extinguishers.
EXCEPTION No. 3: Some fire extinguishers are approved or listed for use at
temperatures as low as -65oF (-54oC).
568.   Fire Extinguisher Size and Placement for Class A Hazards.
(a) Minimum sizes of fire extinguishers for the listed grades of hazards
shall be provided on the basis of Table 2, except as modified by Section 568 (d).
Extinguishers shall be located so that the maximum travel distances shall not
exceed those specified in Table 2, except as modified by Section 568 (d).
(b) Certain smaller fire extinguishers which are charged with a
multipurpose dry chemical or halogenated agent are rated on Class B and Class
C fires, but have insufficient effectiveness to earn the minimum 1-A rating even
though they have value in extinguishing smaller Class A fires. They shall not be
used to meet the requirements of Table 2.
Light           Ordinary          Extra
(Low)           (Moderate)        (High)
Hazard             Hazard         Hazard
Occupancy         Occupancy       Occupancy
Minimum rated single extinguisher             2-A               2-A            4-A*
Maximum floor area per unit of A           3,000 sq ft      1,500 sq ft     1,000 sq ft
Maximum floor area for                    11,250 sq ft      11,250 sq ft    11,250 sq
extinguisher                                                                    ft
Maximum travel distance to                    75 ft             75 ft          75 ft
*Two 2 1/2 gal (9.46 L) water type extinguishers can be used to fulfill the
requirements of one 4-A rated extinguisher.
NOTE: 1 ft. = 0.305 m
1 sq ft = 0.0929 m2
(c) Extinguishers as specified in Table 2 may be replaced by uniformly
spaced 1 1/2 inch (3.810 cm) hose stations for use by the occupants of the
building. When hose stations are so provided they shall conform to Part 9, Title
24, California Code of Regulations, Chapter 9. The location of hose stations and
the placement of fire extinguishers shall be in such a manner that the hose
stations do not replace more than every other extinguisher.
(d) Where the floor area of a building is less than that specified in Table
2, at least one extinguisher of the minimum size recommended shall be
(e) The protection requirements may be fulfilled with extinguishers of a
higher rating provided the travel distance from anywhere in the building to such
larger extinguishers shall not exceed 75 ft (22.7m), as shown in Table 2 above.
569.     Fire Extinguisher Size and Placement for Class B Fires other than
for Fires in Flammable Liquids of Appreciable Depth.
(a) Minimal sizes of fire extinguishers for the listed grades of hazard shall
be provided on the basis of Table 3. Extinguishers shall be located so that the
maximum travel distances from anywhere in the building shall not exceed those
specified in the table used.
EXCEPTION: Extinguishers of lesser rating, desired for small specific hazards
within the general hazard area, may be used, but shall not be considered as
fulfilling any part of the requirements of Table 3.
Basic Minimum         Distance to
Extinguisher        Extinguishers
Type of Hazard             Rating              (in feet)          (in meters)
Light (low)                     5B                  30                 9.15
10B                  50                 15.25
Ordinary (moderate)            10B                  30                 9.15
20B                  50                 15.25
Extra (high)                   40B                  30                 9.15
80B                  50                 15.25
NOTE 1: The specified rating does not imply that fires of the magnitudes
indicated by these ratings will occur, but rather to give the operators more time
and agent to handle difficult spill fires that may occur.
NOTE 2: For fires involving water soluble flammable liquids see Section
566 (d).
NOTE 3: For specific hazard applications see Section 566.
(b) Two or more extinguishers of lower rating shall not be used to fulfill
the protection requirements of Table 3.
(c) The protection requirements may be fulfilled with extinguishers of
higher ratings provided the travel distance to such larger extinguishers shall not
exceed 50 ft. (15.25 m) as shown in Table 3.
570.    Fire Extinguisher Size and Placement for Class B Fires in
Flammable Liquids of Appreciable Depth.
(a) Portable fire extinguishers shall not be installed as the sole protection
for flammable liquid hazards of appreciable depth [greater than 1/4 in. (0.64 cm)]
where the surface area exceeds 10 sq ft (0.93 m2
EXCEPTION: Where personnel who are trained in extinguishing fires in the
protected hazards are available on the premises, the maximum surface area
shall not exceed 20 sq. ft. (1.86 m2).
(b) For flammable liquid hazards of appreciable depth, a Class B fire
extinguisher shall be provided on the basis of at least two numerical units of
Class B extinguishing potential per sq ft (0.0929 m2) of flammable liquid surface
of the largest hazard area. For fires involving cooking grease or water-soluble
flammable liquids, see 566 (b) and 566 (d).
EXCEPTION: AFFF or FFFP type extinguishers may be provided on the basis of
a 1B rating of protection per sq ft of hazard.
(c) Two or more extinguishers of lower ratings shall not be used in lieu of
the extinguisher required for the largest hazard area.
EXCEPTION: Up to three AFFF or FFFP extinguishers may be used to fulfill the
requirements provided the sum of the Class B ratings meets or exceeds the
value required for the largest hazard area.
(d) Travel distances for portable extinguishers shall not exceed 50 ft
(15.25 m) as shown in Table 3.
(e) Scattered or widely separated hazards shall be individually protected.
An extinguisher in the proximity of a hazard shall be carefully located to be
accessible in the presence of a fire without undue danger to the operator.
571.    Fire Extinguisher Size and Placement for Class C Hazards.
(a) Fire extinguishers with Class C ratings shall be required where
energized electrical equipment can be encountered which would require a non-
conducting extinguishing medium. This requirement includes situations where
fire either directly involves or surrounds electrical equipment. Since the fire itself
is a Class A or Class B hazard, the fire extinguishers shall be sized and located
on the basis of the anticipated Class A or Class B hazard.
NOTE: Electrical equipment should be de-energized as soon as possible to
prevent re-ignition.
572.   Size and Placement for Class D Hazards.
(a) Fire extinguishers or extinguishing agents with Class D ratings shall
be provided for fires involving combustible metals.
(b) Fire extinguishers or extinguishing agents (media) shall be located not
more than 75 ft (22.5 m) travel distance from the Class D hazard.
(c) Portable fire extinguishers or extinguishing agents (media) for Class D
hazards shall be provided in those work areas where combustible metal
powders, flakes, shavings, chips, or similarly sized products are generated.
(d) Size determination shall be in the basis of the specific combustible
metal, its physical particle size, area to be covered, and recommendations by
the extinguisher manufacturer on data from control tests conducted.
(e) The material safety data sheet for the Class D hazard involved should
be consulted to assist in selecting the most effective extinguishing agent.
573. Fire Extinguisher Size and Placement for Commercial Cooking
(a) Fire extinguishers with a Class K rating shall be provided for hazards
where there is a potential for fires involving combustible cooking media
(vegetable or animal oils and fats).
(b) Maximum travel distance shall not exceed 30 ft (9.15m) from the
hazard to the extinguishers.
(c) Additional fire extinguishers, required for the control of other classes
of fires, shall be provided for commercial cooking areas as required by Section
574.   General.
For the purpose of these regulations, every fire extinguisher required by
any governmental statute, ordinance, or regulation shall conform to the
574.1. Frequency of Inspection.
Fire extinguishers shall be manually inspected when initially placed in
service. Thereafter extinguishers shall be manually inspected at least monthly
by the building owner, occupant, or his/her authorized agent or electronically
monitored. Fire extinguishers shall be inspected at more frequent intervals
when circumstances require as determined by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
574.2. Inspection Procedures.
(a) In addition to 574.1 fire extinguishers shall be manually inspected in
accordance with this section if they are located where any of the following
(1) High frequency of fires in the past.
(2) Extra (high) hazard areas.
(3) Locations that make fire extinguishers susceptible to mechanical or
(4) Exposure to abnormal temperatures or corrosive atmospheres.
(b) Manual inspection of extinguishers shall include a check of at least
(1) Located in designated place.
(2) No obstruction to access or visibility.
(3) Operating instructions on nameplate legible and facing outward.
(4) Safety seals and tamper indicators not broken or missing.
(5) Examine for obvious physical damage, corrosion, leakage or clogged
(6) Pressure gauge reading or indicator in the operable range or position.
(7) Fullness determined by weighing or hefting.
(8) For wheeled units, the condition of tires, wheels, carriage, hose, and
nozzle checked.
(9) For non-rechargeable extinguishers using push-to-test pressure
indicators, test the indicator.
(c) Electronic monitoring shall include monitoring of the following items:
(1) Located in the designated place.
(3) Pressure gauge reading or indicator in the operable range or position.
574.3. Corrective Action.
When an inspection of any extinguisher reveals a deficiency in any of the
conditions listed in of Section 574.2(b)(c), immediate corrective action shall be
574.4. Non-rechargeable Extinguishers.
When an inspection of any non-rechargeable fire extinguisher reveals a
deficiency in any of the conditions listed in (3), (4), (5), (6), (7) or (9), of Section
574.2(b), it shall be discharged and removed from service.
EXCEPTION: Non-rechargeable extinguishers containing a halon agent shall be
removed from service, not discharged, and returned to the manufacturer or local
fire extinguisher distributor having the capability of recovering the halon agent.
574.5. Inspection Recordkeeping.
(a) The fire extinguisher owner shall maintain records of all fire
extinguishers inspected, including those extinguishers that were found to require
corrective actions. Records shall be maintained until the next required
(b) At least monthly, the date the manual inspection was performed and
the initials of the person performing the inspection shall be recorded on a tag or
label attached to the fire extinguisher, or an inspection checklist maintained on
file, or an electronic system (e.g. bar coding) that provides a permanent record.
(c) Fire extinguishers being inspected via electronic monitoring, whereby
the extinguisher causes a signal at a control unit when a deficiency in any of the
conditions listed in Section 574.2(c) occurs shall provide record keeping in the
form of an electronic event log at the control panel.
575.   Servicing, General
Servicing which includes maintenance, recharging and hydrostatic testing
shall be performed by concerns licensed by the State Fire Marshal having
available the appropriate servicing manual(s), the proper types of tools,
recharging agents and materials, lubricants, and manufacturer’s recommended
replacement parts or parts of equal quality. Maintenance, recharging and
hydrostatic testing shall be done in accordance with the appropriate
manufacturer’s service manual (s) and the requirements of this chapter.
575.1 Maintenance and Required Service Intervals.
(a) Fire extinguishers shall be subjected to maintenance annually as
described in this chapter or immediately after use or when specifically indicated
by an inspection or at the time of hydrostatic test. For purposes of maintenance,
hydrostatic tests required during the same calendar year shall be performed at
the time of the annual maintenance or recharge.
(b) Non-rechargeable fire extinguishers shall not be recharged or
hydrostatically tested but shall be discharged and removed from service at a
maximum interval of 12 years from the date of manufacture.
EXCEPTION: Non-rechargeable fire extinguishers containing a halon agent
shall be removed from service, not discharged, and returned to the
manufacturer or fire extinguisher distributor having the capability of recovering
the halon agent.
(c) When additional fire extinguishers are installed in excess of those
required, the additional extinguishers shall be subjected to maintenance and
hydrostatically tested in the same manner and at intervals as set forth in this
chapter for required extinguishers.
(d) New fire extinguishers that are fully charged by the manufacturer
shall, after being sold, be subjected to maintenance within one year from the
date of manufacture in accordance with this chapter. If only the year is shown,
the new extinguisher shall be due for maintenance by January 1st of the year
following the year of manufacture in accordance with this chapter.
EXCEPTION: A licensed fire extinguisher concern may attach the tag described
in Section 596.1(a) and punch the new extinguisher block and date the
extinguisher was sold. Extinguishers tagged in this manner shall be subjected to
maintenance one year from the date on the tag in accordance with this chapter.
Extinguishers more than two years old from date of manufacture shall not be
tagged as new extinguishers.
(e) At the time of installation and at each annual maintenance,
extinguishers shall be placed in a fully charged and operable condition free from
defects which may cause malfunctions.
(f) At the time of service, hydrostatic testing, or at any time when parts
are replaced, an itemized invoice showing work performed and parts replaced
shall be provided by the licensee to the owner or possessor of the fire
(g) The licensee shall offer, in writing, to return all replaced parts to the
portable fire extinguisher owner or owner&#39;s representative, except such parts as
the licensee is required to return to the manufacturer of the portable fire
extinguisher under any warranty arrangement. Text of offer must be in capital
letters of at least 10 pt. boldface type or legible printing of comparable size.
(h) Service shall not be performed more than 30 days before the date the
service is due, unless approved and initialed by the owner or owner&#39;s
representative in writing. Text must be capital letter in at least 10 pt. boldface
type or legible printing of comparable size stating that service was performed
more than 30 days prior to the due date.
Sections 13160, 13162, 13177, 13190.3, Health and Safety Code.
575.2. Maintenance Requirements.
(a) The procedures outlined in this chapter are common to most fire
extinguishers and shall be performed at each annual maintenance, in addition to
the manufacturer&#39;s instructions or other requirements of this chapter. All
contents shall be emptied from the extinguisher, except as provided herein in
(b) Mechanical Parts. Any parts needed for replacement shall be the
manufacturer&#39;s recommended replacement parts or parts of equal quality. Parts
not designated as the manufacturer&#39;s recommended replacement parts shall be
proven by a recognized testing laboratory to be of equal quality.
(c) If the source of leakage cannot be corrected by parts replacement,
extinguishers shall be removed from service in accordance with Section 577.1
cited: Sections 13160, 13177, 13190.3, Health and Safety Code.
575.3 Maintenance Procedures.
(a) Maintenance procedures shall include a thorough examination of the
three basic elements of an extinguisher:
(2) extinguishing agent
(3) expelling means
EXCEPTION: During annual maintenance, it is not necessary to internally
examine non-rechargeable fire extinguishers, carbon dioxide fire extinguishers,
stored pressure dry chemical or dry powder fire extinguishers that require a 12
year hydrostatic test, halogenated agent fire extinguishers, wet chemical fire
extinguishers or AFFF/FFFP fire extinguishers that use a pre-mixed charge.
However, such extinguishers shall be thoroughly examined externally in
accordance with the applicable items of 575.3 (a) (1) and Table 4.
For Stored Pressure Dry Chemical and Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers, see
Section 575.4
For Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguishers, see Section 575.5
For Stored Pressure Halogenated Agent Fire Extinguishers, see Section
For Stored Pressure Water Type Fire Extinguishers, see Section 575.7
For AFFF and FFFP Fire Extinguishers that use a pre-mixed charge, see
Section 575.8.
For Stored Pressure Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers, see Section 575.16.
(b) Fire extinguishers shall be thoroughly examined externally and the
appropriate corrective action performed in accordance with the applicable
items of Table 4, External Examination Maintenance Checkpoints.
(c) Fire extinguishers shall be weighed on accurate scales, as defined in
557.1(a), and it shall be verified that the total weight is within the allowable
tolerances specified by the manufacturer.
Exception: Water-type and wet chemical fire extinguishers that have the liquid
amount specified on the extinguisher shell, a fill level mark or an anti-overfill
(d) Scales used for maintenance of fire extinguishers shall be checked for
accuracy prior to each use. The accuracy of the scales shall be confirmed with
the appropriate test weight as defined in 557.1(a) and 557.1(b)
(e) Straight faced spring scales (i.e. fish scales) shall not be used.
External Examination Maintenance
Shell                                                          Corrective Action
1. Hydrostatic test date or date of           1. Retest, if needed
2. Corrosion*                                 2. Conduct hydrostatic test and refinish, or
3. Mechanical damage (denting or              3. Conduct hydrostatic test and refinish, or
abrasion)*                                    discard
4. Paint Condition                            4. Refinish
5. Presence of repairs (welding, soldering,   5. Discard or consult manufacturer
brazing, etc.)
6. Broken hanger attachment, carrying         6. Discard or consult manufacturer
Nameplate                                                      Corrective Action
1. Illegible wording                          1. Clean or replace
2. Corrosion or loose plate                   2. Inspect shell under plate and reattach plate
Nozzle or Horn                                               Corrective Action
1. Damaged (cut, cracked, or worn)            1. Replace
2. Blocked openings                           2. Clean
3. Damaged threads (corroded, crossed, or     3. Replace
4. Aged (brittle)                             4. Replace
Hose Assembly                                                Corrective Action
2. Damaged coupling or swivel joint           2. Replace
(cracked or corroded)
4. Inner tube cut at couplings                4. Repair or replace
5. Electrically nonconductive between         5. Replace
couplings (CO2 hose only)
6. Hose obstruction                           6. Remove obstruction or replace
7. Damaged or missing hose retainer           7. Repair or replace
Pull Pin or Valve Locking Device                             Corrective Action
1. Damaged (bent, corroded, or binding)       1. Repair and lubricate, or replace
2. Missing                                    2. Replace
Gauge or Pressure-Indicating Device                          Corrective Action
1. Damaged or missing pointer*                1. Perform internal maintenance and replace
2. Missing, deformed, or broken crystal*      2. Perform internal maintenance and replace
3. Illegible or faded dial*                   3. Perform internal maintenance and replace
4. Corrosion*                                 4. Perform internal maintenance and replace
5. Dented case or crystal retainer*           5. Perform internal maintenance and replace
6. Immovable or corroded pressure-            6. Replace head assembly, depressurize, and
indicating stem (nongauge type)*              replace shell or complete extinguisher
Shell or Cylinder Valve                                      Corrective Action
1. Corroded, damaged or jammed lever,         1. Perform internal maintenance and repair or
handle, spring, stem,                         replace as necessary
2. Damaged outlet threads (corroded,          2. Perform internal maintenance and replace
crossed, or worn)*
Agent and Expelling Means                                    Corrective Action
1. Improper extinguisher weight               1. Perform internal maintenance and recharge
2. Improper gauge pressure                    2. Perform internal maintenance and recharge
Nozzle Shutoff Valve                                         Corrective Action
1. Corroded, damaged, jammed or binding       1. Repair and lubricate, or replace
lever, spring, stem, or fastener joint
2. Plugged, deformed, or corroded nozzle      2. Clean or replace
tip or discharge passage
Nonrechargeable Shell                                        Corrective Action
1. Corrosion*                                 1. Discard shell
2. Damaged seal disc (injured, cut, or        2. Discard shell
corroded)*
3. Damaged threads (corroded, crossed, or     3. Discard shell
4. Illegible weight markings*                 4. Discard shell
Carriage and Wheels                                          Corrective Action
1. Corroded, bent, or broken carriage         1. Repair or replace
2. Damaged wheel (buckled or broken           2. Clean, repair, and lubricate, or replace
spoke, bent rim or axle, loose tire, low
pressure, jammed bearing)
Carrying Handle                                              Corrective Action
1. Broken handle lug                          1. Discard shell or valve, or consult
2. Broken handle                              2. Replace
3. Corroded, jammed, or worn fastener joint   3. Clean or replace
Seal or Tamper Indicator                                     Corrective Action
1. Broken or missing                          1. Perform internal maintenance
Brackets                                                       Corrective Action
1. Corroded, worn, or bent                     1. Repair and refinish, or replace
2. Loose or binding fit                        2. Adjust fit or replace
3. Worn, loose, corroded, or missing screw     3. Tighten or replace
4. Worn bumper, webbing, or grommet            4. Replace
Safety Relief Device                                         Corrective Action
1. Corroded or damaged*                        1. Depressurize and replace or consult
2. Broken, operated, or plugged*               2. Depressurize and replace or repair
Electronic Monitoring Device                                  Corrective Action
1. Battery                                     1. Replace battery
2. Unit not sending signal                     2. Check battery and check sensor, consult
manufacturer&#39;s maintenance procedures
3. Signal at receiver                          3. Consult manufacturer&#39;s maintenance
For nonrechargable extinguishers, those items indicated with an asterisk cannot be
inspected and serviced. If the corrective action requires the depressurization of the
extinguisher, nonrechargable halogenated agent fire extinguishers shall not be
depressurized but shall be returned to the manufacturer or fire extinguisher distributor
having the capability of recovering the halogenated agent.
NOTE: Authority cited: Section 13160, Health and Safety Code. Reference: Section
13160, Health and Safety Code.
575.4. Dry Chemical and Dry Powder Portable Fire Extinguishers.
(a) Stored Pressure Extinguishers
(1) Every 6 years stored pressure dry chemical and dry powder fire
extinguishers that require a 12 year hydrostatic test shall be discharged,
emptied and subjected to the applicable maintenance procedures as specified
by the manufacturer’s requirements.
(2) Stored pressure dry chemical and dry powder extinguishers shall be
fully discharged to check the operation of the discharge valve and pressure
(3) The dry chemical agent may be reused provided an approved closed
recovery system is used and the agent is stored in a sealed container to prevent
(4) Prior to reuse, the dry chemical or dry powder agent shall be
thoroughly checked to insure:
(A) Appropriate type agent.
(B) Agent is not contaminated.
(C) Agent is in a free flowing powdery condition.
(5) Where doubt exists with respect to the type, contamination, or
condition of the dry chemical or dry powder agent, the agent shall be discarded.
(b) Cartridge and Cylinder Operated Extinguishers.
(1) At the time of annual maintenance, cartridge and cylinder operated
dry chemical and dry powder fire extinguishers shall be emptied.
(2) Prior to reuse, the dry chemical or dry powder agent shall be
(3) Where doubt exists with respect to the type, contamination, or
(4) Cartridges of cartridge operated portable fire extinguishers shall be
replaced when the loss of weight as compared with the original weight as
stamped on the cartridge is equal to or more than that as permitted in
(5) Cartridges of every cartridge-operated extinguisher shall be weighed
annually in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations, on an accurate
scale as defined in Section 557.1(b). Straight faced spring scales (i.e. fish
scales) shall not be used.
(6) Replacement cartridges for cartridge operated extinguishers shall
conform to the manufacturer’s requirements.
(7) Cylinders of wheeled cylinder operated dry chemical extinguishers
shall maintain a pressure of not less than 1,500 P.S.I. Wheeled pressurized dry
chemical extinguishers shall maintain proper expelling pressure as indicated on
(c) Multipurpose dry chemicals shall not be mixed with alkaline-based dry
Sections 13160, 13177, Health and Safety Code.
575.5. Carbon Dioxide Extinguishers.
Internal maintenance of carbon dioxide extinguishers shall be performed
every 5 years at the time of hydrostatic test. The components shall be replaced
575.6 Halogenated Agent Extinguishers.
(a) Every 6 years, stored pressure halogenated fire extinguishers that
require a 12-year hydrostatic test shall be emptied and subjected to the
maintenance procedures as required by Article 6.
(b) The removal of Halon 1211 from fire extinguishers shall only be done
using a halon closed recovery system in compliance with the 1997 3rd Edition of
the UL Standard 2006, Standard for Halon 1211 Recovery/Recharge
Equipment. The removal of agent from other halogenated agent fire
extinguishers shall only be done using a closed recovery system.
(c) The extinguisher cylinder shall be examined internally for
contamination and/or corrosion. The halogenated agent retained in the system
recovery cylinder shall only be used if no evidence of internal contamination is
observed in the extinguisher cylinder. Halogenated agent removed from
extinguishers that contain evidence of internal contamination or corrosion shall
be processed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instruction.
(d) When the applicable maintenance procedures are performed during
periodic recharging or hydrostatic testing, the 6-year requirement shall begin
from that date of the recharging or testing.
575.7. Stored Pressure Water Type Extinguishers.
Stored pressure extinguishers containing a water or loaded stream agent
shall be disassembled on an annual basis and subjected to a complete
maintenance in accordance with Section 575.3. Prior to disassembly, the
extinguisher shall be fully discharged to check the operation of the discharge
valve and pressure gauge.
575.8. AFFF and FFFP Extinguishers.
AFFF and FFFP fire extinguishers shall be maintained in accordance with
(a) Pre-Mix: Extinguisher shall be externally examined annually, and
broken down and the agent replaced every three years.
(b) Solid Type:
(1) Cartridge shall be removed and the extinguisher serviced in
accordance with Section 575.3, and the cartridge re-installed.
(2) Cartridges shall be replaced with a new one every five years.
575.9. Pump-Tank Extinguishers.
Every 12 months, pump-tank water and pump-tank calcium chloride base
antifreeze types of extinguishers shall be recharged with new chemicals or
water, as applicable.
575.10. Out of Service.
Fire extinguishers removed from service for maintenance or recharge
shall be replaced by fire extinguishers suitable for the type of hazard protected
and shall be of at least equal rating.
575.11. Safety Pins.
Upon completion of annual maintenance, an extinguisher shall have
installed a safety pin compatible with the valve required by the ANSI/UL
standards contained in 561.2. The safety pin shall be held in place with a seal
as specified in Section 575.12.
cited: Sections 13160, 13162, 13177, Health and Safety Code.
575.12. Seals or Tamper Indicators.
(a) A tamper seal or tamper indicator shall be provided on every portable
fire extinguisher. Tamper seals shall be component recognized by an approved
testing laboratory for use on fire extinguishers or be the manufacturer’s
(b) At the time of maintenance, the tamper seal of rechargeable fire
extinguishers shall be removed by operating the pull pin or locking device. After
the applicable maintenance procedures are completed, a new tamper seal shall
cited: Sections 13160 and 13162, Health and Safety Code.
575.13. Anti-freeze Solution.
Anti-freeze solution for anti-freeze extinguishers shall be put through a
fine strainer prior to placing it into the extinguisher so as to prevent any
possibility of undissolved salts impairing the normal function of the extinguisher.
cited: Sections 13160, Health and Safety Code.
575.14. Nitrogen Cylinder Operated Wheeled Extinguishers.
Pressure regulators and nitrogen cylinders on wheeled fire extinguishers
shall be maintained in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
cited: Sections 13160, 13177, Health and Safety Code.
575.15. Conductivity Test.
(a) An annual conductivity test shall be conducted on all carbon dioxide
hose assemblies. Hose assemblies found to be nonconductive shall be
(b) Carbon dioxide hose assemblies that pass a conductivity test shall
have the test information recorded on a suitable metallic label or equally durable
material that has a minimum size of &#189; in. x 3 in. (1.3 cm x 7.6 cm). The label
shall be affixed to the hose by means of a heatless process. The label shall
(1) Month and year the test was performed, indicated by perforation, such
as is done by a hand punch.
(2) Initials and EE# of person performing the test.
575.16. Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers.
Internal maintenance of wet chemical fire extinguishers shall be
performed every 5 years at the time of hydrostatic test in accordance with the
576.1. Maintenance Recordkeeping.
Upon completion of the maintenance procedures prescribed by Section
575.3, each portable fire extinguisher shall be fitted with an annual maintenance
tag as prescribed in Article 9.
577.1. Condemned Extinguishers.
(a) Portable fire extinguishers shall not be repaired except as permitted by
manufacturer’s instructions using manufacturer’s recommended replacement
parts or parts of equal quality. Portable fire extinguishers shall not be converted
from one type or class to another type or class of extinguisher.
(b) Portable fire extinguishers which have been repaired, converted or
altered in conflict with Section 575.2(c) are prohibited from use as portable fire
extinguishers. Such extinguishers shall be removed from service and tagged with
a red tag bearing the term &quot;Condemned&quot; on each face.
EXCEPTION: The exchange of defective or broken parts with approved parts as
defined in Section 557.16(b) or equipment or materials listed as defined in
Section 557.12(c) shall not be construed as “repair”.
(c) Condemned portable fire extinguishers shall be destroyed by the owner
or at the owner&#39;s direction.
577.2. Obsolete Fire Extinguishers.
The following types of fire extinguishers are considered obsolete and
shall be removed from service:
(1) Soda acid types
(2) Chemical foam (excluding AFFF and FFFP)
(6) Copper or brass shell fire extinguishers (excluding pump tanks) joined
by soft solder or rivets
(7) Stored pressure water extinguishers with fiberglass shells
578.1. Recharging, General :
(a) All rechargeable type extinguishers shall be recharged after use or as
indicated by an inspection or when performing maintenance.
(b) When performing the recharging, the recommendations of the
manufacturers shall be followed. For recharge agents, see Section 578.2.
(c) The amount of recharge agent shall be verified by weighing on an
accurate scale. The total weight shall be within the allowable tolerances
specified by the manufacturer. When agent is sold by weight, the scale used
must meet the definition of accuracy as defined in Section 557.1(c).
EXCEPTION: Water-type and wet chemical fire extinguishers that have the
liquid amount specified on the extinguisher shell, a fill level mark or an anti-
overfill tube.
578.2. Recharge Agents.
Only those agents specified on the nameplate, or agents proven to have
equal chemical composition, physical characteristics and fire extinguishing
capabilities shall be used. Agents listed specifically for use with the fire
extinguisher shall be considered to comply with the requirements of this section.
578.3. Dry Powder.
Pails or drums containing dry powder agents for scoop or shovel
application for use on metal fires shall be kept full and covered at all times. The
dry powder shall be replaced if found damp.
578.4. Replacement Pressure Gauge.
Replacement pressure gauges shall have the proper indicated charging
(service) pressure, be marked for use with the agent in the extinguisher and be
compatible with the extinguisher valve body material.
578.5. Precautionary Pressurization Measures.
(a) A rechargeable stored pressure type extinguisher shall be pressurized
only to the charging pressure specified on the extinguisher nameplate. A
regulated source of pressure, set no higher than 25 psi (172 kPa) above the
operating (service) pressure, shall be used to pressurize fire extinguishers. An
unregulated source of pressure, such as a nitrogen cylinder without a pressure
regulator, shall never be used because the fire extinguisher could be over-
pressurized and possibly rupture. A fire extinguisher shall never be left
connected to the regulator of a high-pressure source for an extended period of
time. A defective regulator could cause the container to rupture due to excess
(b) The gauge used to set the regulated source of pressure shall be
calibrated at least annually.
578.6. Pressurizing Gas.
Only standard industrial grade nitrogen with a dew point of -60oF (-51oC)
or lower (CGA nitrogen specification G10.1, grades D through P) shall be used
to pressurize stored pressure dry chemical, dry powder and Halon type fire
extinguishers. Compressed air through moisture traps shall not be used for
pressurizing even though so stated in the instructions on older fire extinguishers.
EXCEPTION No. 1: Compressed air may be used from special compressor
systems capable of delivering air with a dew point of -60oF (-51.1oC) or lower.
The special compressor system shall be equipped with an automatic monitoring
and alarm system to ensure that the dew point remains at or below -60oF
(-51.1oC) at all times.
EXCEPTION No. 2: Some fire extinguishers are required to be pressurized with
argon. They shall be repressurized only with the type of expellant gas referred
to on the fire extinguisher label.
578.7. Conversion of Extinguisher Types.
No extinguisher shall be converted from one type to another, nor shall
any extinguisher be converted to use a different type of extinguishing agent.
578.8. Removal of Moisture.
For all non-water types of extinguishers any moisture shall be removed
578.9. Carbon Dioxide Recharging.
The vapor phase of carbon dioxide shall not be less than 99.5 percent
carbon dioxide. The water content of the liquid phase shall not be more than
0.01 percent by weight [-30oF (-34.4oC) dew point]. Oil content of the carbon
dioxide shall not exceed 10 ppm by weight.
NOTE: Carbon Dioxide obtained from dry ice converters will generally be
unsatisfactory unless it is properly processed to remove excess water and oil.
The preferred source of carbon dioxide for recharging extinguishers is from a
low-pressure supply, either directly or via dry cylinders used as an intermediary
578.10. Leak Test.
(a) After charging, a leak test shall be performed on all stored pressure
and self-expelling type fire extinguishers. Leak tests shall be performed by
following the manufacturer’s requirements and may include applying a leak test
solution or a solution of soapy water.
(b) Leak testing of halogenated agent extinguishers shall not use water.
A halogenated gas leak detector shall be used to determine leakage.
578.11. Recharging Water Types.
When recharging stored pressure extinguishers, overfilling resulting in
improper discharge is to be avoided. The proper amount of liquid agent shall be
determined by using one of the following:
(a) exact measurement in gallons, or by weight.
(b) use of an anti-overfill tube when provided, or
(c) use of a fill mark on extinguisher shell, when provided.
578.12. Wet Chemical Agent Re-use.
Wet chemical agents shall not be re-used. If a wet chemical extinguisher
is partially discharged, all remaining wet chemical shall be discarded.
591.1. Hydrostatic Testing, General.
Hydrostatic testing shall be performed by persons licensed by the State
Fire Marshal in pressure testing procedures and safeguards, and having
available suitable testing equipment, facilities and appropriate servicing
591.2. Corrosion.
If, at any time, an extinguisher shows evidence of corrosion or
mechanical damage, it shall be hydrostatically tested, subject to the provisions
of Section 591.6.
EXCEPTION No. 1: Pump tanks do not require a hydrostatic test.
EXCEPTION No. 2: Extinguishers having nonrefillable disposable containers
shall be removed from service in accordance with Section 574.5.
591.3. Written Certification.
Written approval from the D.O.T. to operate the equipment must be
obtained by a licensed portable fire extinguisher concern before performing
D.O.T. required hydrostatic tests of cylinders. This written approval shall be
available to the State Fire Marshal or authorized representative for inspection.
591.4. Restricted Service.
Any portable fire extinguisher requiring a hydrostatic test shall not be
serviced until such extinguisher has been subjected to and passed the required
cited: Sections 13160, 13177, Health and Safety Code
591.5. Replacement Extinguisher.
Portable fire extinguishers shall not be removed from the premises for
hydrostatic testing or any other purpose, without first replacing the extinguisher
with a unit rated for the hazard being protected. The customer&#39;s original unit
shall be returned within 60 calendar days.
Sections 13160, 13162, 13177, Health and Safety Code
591.6. Examination of Cylinder Condition.
When a extinguisher cylinder or shell has one or more conditions listed in
this section, it shall be destroyed by the owner or at the owner’s direction:
(a) When there exists repairs by soldering, welding, brazing, or use of
NOTE: For welding or brazing on mild steel shells, consult the manufacturer of
(b) When the cylinder or shell threads are damaged.
(c) When there exists corrosion that has caused pitting, including under
removable nameplate band assemblies.
(d) When the extinguisher has been burned in a fire.
(e) When a calcium chloride type of extinguishing agent was used in a
stainless steel extinguisher.
(f) When the shell is of copper or brass construction joined by soft
solder or rivets.
(g) All inverting-type extinguishers.
591.7. Aluminum Shell/Cylinder.
Extinguishers having aluminum cylinders or shells suspected of being
exposed to temperatures in excess of 350oF (177oC) shall be removed from
592.    Frequency.
At Intervals not exceeding those specified in Table 5, extinguishers shall
EXCEPTION No. 1: Nonrefillable factory-sealed disposable containers do not
require hydrostatic testing. (See Section 592.4.)
EXCEPTION No. 2: Extinguishers utilizing a cylinder that has been
manufactured to D.O.T. specifications shall be hydrostatically tested, or
replaced, according to the requirements of D.O.T.
EXCEPTION No. 3: For extinguishers not covered in Exceptions No. 1 and 2
the first retest may be conducted within 12 months of the specified test intervals.
592.1. Compressed Gas Cylinders and Cartridges.
Nitrogen cylinders or cartridges used for inert gas storage used as an
expellant for wheeled extinguishers shall be hydrostatically tested every five
EXCEPTION: Cylinders (except those charged with carbon dioxide) complying
with Part 173.34(e) 15, Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, shall be
hydrostatically tested every 10 years.
592.2. Hose Assemblies.
(a) A hydrostatic test shall be performed on extinguisher hose
assemblies, which are equipped with a shutoff nozzle at the end of the hose.
The test interval shall be the same as specified for the extinguisher on which the
hose is installed.
(b) Test pressures for hose assemblies shall be as follows:
(1) Carbon Dioxide - 1,250 psi
(2) Dry Chemical - 300 psi or at service pressure, whichever is higher.
(c) Hose assemblies passing the hydrostatic test shall be thoroughly
dried internally. If heat is used, the temperature shall not exceed 150oF (66oC).
592.3 Vehicles.
Extinguishers installed on vehicles shall be hydrostatically tested every
592.4. Nonrefillable Factory-sealed Disposable Containers.
Nonrefillable factory-sealed disposable containers shall not be reused
and shall be disposed of pursuant to the requirements of Section 574.5.
Hydrostatic Test Interval For Extinguishers
Extinguisher Type                        Test Interval (Years)
Stored Pressure Water and/or Antifreeze/Loaded                        5
AFFF (Aqueous Film Forming Foam)                                      5
FFFP (Film Forming Fluoroprotein Foam)                                5
Wet Chemical                                                          5
Dry Chemical With Stainless Steel Shells                              5
Carbon Dioxide                                                        5
Dry Chemical, Stored Pressure with Mild Steel Shells,
Brazed Brass Shells, or Aluminum Shells                            12
Dry Chemical, Cartridge and Cylinder-Operated, with                  12
Mild Steel Shells
Halogenated Agents                                                   12
Dry Powder, stored pressure, cartridge or cylinder
operated with mild steel shells                                    12
593.1. Test Pressures, High Pressure Cylinders.
(a) Carbon dioxide extinguishers shall be tested at 5/3 the service
pressure as stamped into the cylinder.
EXCEPTION: Carbon dioxide extinguishers having cylinder specification ICC3
shall be tested at 3,000 psi (20,685 kPa).
(b) Nitrogen cylinders and carbon dioxide cylinders used with wheeled
extinguishers shall be tested at 5/3 the service pressure as stamped into the
593.2. Stored Pressure Types.
All stored pressure types of extinguishers shall be hydrostatically tested
at the factory test pressure not to exceed three times the normal operating
EXCEPTION: Extinguishers manufactured to D.O.T. specifications shall be
hydrostatically tested according to the requirements of D.O.T.
593.3. Cartridge-Operated Types.
Cartridge-cylinder-operated dry chemical and dry powder types of
extinguishers shall be hydrostatically tested at their original factory test pressure
as shown on the nameplate or shell.
594.1. Test Equipment and Procedures, General.
When extinguisher shells, cartridges or cylinders fail a hydrostatic
pressure test, they shall be destroyed by the owner or at the owner&#39;s direction.
594.2. Test Equipment for D.O.T. Specification Cylinders.
The equipment for testing D.O.T. specification cylinders shall be of the
type that meets the specifications of the pamphlet Methods for Hydrostatic
Testing of Compressed Gas Cylinders (Pamphlet C-1), published by the
594.3. Test Equipment for Low Pressure Non-D.O.T. Specification
Cylinders and Hose Assemblies.
(a) The required equipment for testing low pressure non-D.O.T.
specification cylinders and hose assemblies consists of the following:
(1) Cylinders and hose assemblies shall be tested within a protective
cage device, or placed behind a protective shield, that will permit visual
observation while under pressure for leaks, bulges, and other harmful defects.
(2) A hydrostatic test pump, hand or power operated, shall be capable of
producing not less that 150 percent of the test pressure. It is to include
appropriate check valves and fittings.
(3) A flexible connection between the test pump and the test cylinder
shall be provided with necessary fittings to test through the extinguisher nozzle,
test bonnet, or hose outlet, as applicable.
(4) Licensed individuals and licensed companies performing this service
shall maintain a license and Certificate of Registration in conformance with
Sections 595.5(a) and 595.9(a).
594.4. Testing Procedures.
(a) D.O.T. specification cylinders.
(1) In addition to the visual examinations required prior to test as stated in
Section 591.6, an internal examination shall be made prior to the hydrostatic
test. The procedures for this internal examination shall be in accordance with
the requirements of the Standard for Visual Inspection of High Pressure
Aluminum Compressed Gas Cylinders (CGA C-6.1), published by the
(2) The hydrostatic testing of D.O.T. specification cylinders shall be in
accordance with the procedures specified in the pamphlet Methods for
Hydrostatic Testing of Compressed Gas Cylinders (Pamphlet C-1), published by
the Compressed Gas Association.
(b) Low Pressure Non-D.O.T. Specification Cylinders.
(1) All valves and internal parts shall be removed and the extinguisher
EXCEPTION: On some dry chemical and dry powder extinguishers (cartridge-
operated), the manufacturer recommends that certain internal parts not be
(2) All traces of extinguishing materials removed from the inside of dry
chemical and dry powder type shells before filling with the test liquid.
(3) The cartridges, and some cartridge receivers of dry chemical and dry
powder extinguishers having externally mounted gas cartridges, shall be
removed and a suitable plug inserted into the shell opening at the point of
(4) On wheeled extinguishers of the stored-pressure water, loaded
stream, or cartridge-operated types, the discharge nozzle shall be removed and
the complete remaining assembly, including the hose, then tested as described
in Section 592.2.
(5) On all wheeled dry chemical, dry powder, Halon 1211, AFFF/FFFP,
and carbon dioxide extinguishers equipped with a shutoff nozzle at the outlet
end of the hose, the hose (complete with couplings but without the discharge
nozzle) shall be removed and tested separately.
(6) On all wheeled stored pressure dry chemical extinguishers, the head
assembly is to be removed and be replaced with a suitable test bonnet.
(7) The hose of the hydrostatic test pump is then attached by the flexible
connection to the discharge nozzle, hose assembly, test bonnet, or test fitting,
as is applicable. In the case of wheeled dry chemical and dry powder
extinguishers, procedures and fittings should be those recommended by the
(8) The test liquid supply to the test pump is to be turned on and the
extinguisher then filled to the top of its collar.
(9) For extinguishers tested with their cap in place, the cap must be
tightened SLOWLY while the test liquid supply remains open. When all of the
entrapped air within the shell has been bled off and after test liquid emerges, the
cap must be tightened fully.
(10) For extinguishers tested with a test bonnet or fitting, the bonnet or
fitting must be tightened FULLY while the water supply remains open. When all
of the entrapped air within the shell has been bled off and after test liquid
emerges, the vent must be closed tightly.
(11) Pressure is then applied at a rate-of-pressure rise so the test
pressure is reached in not less than 30 seconds. This test pressure is
maintained for at least 30 seconds. Observations are made at this time to note
any distortion or leakage of the extinguisher shell.
(12) If no distortion or leakage is noted and if the test pressure has not
dropped, the pressure on the extinguisher shall be released. The extinguisher is
then considered to have passed the hydrostatic test.
(13) All traces of test liquid and moisture must be removed from all dry
chemical, dry powder, and halogenated agent extinguishers by use of a cylinder
dryer. If a heated air stream is used, the temperature within the shell must not
exceed 150oF (66oC).
(14) Any extinguisher shell that fails this hydrostatic test must be
destroyed by the owner or at the owner&#39;s discretion.
(c) Testing Procedures -- Hose Assemblies.
(1) The discharge nozzle must be removed from the hose assembly
without removal of any hose couplings.
(2) For dry chemical and dry powder types, all traces of dry chemical or
dry powder must be removed.
(3) The hose must be completely filled with test liquid before testing.
(4) Pressure is then applied at a rate-of-pressure rise to reach the test
pressure within one minute. The test pressure is to be maintained for one full
minute. Observations are then made to note any distortion or leakage.
(5) If no distortion or leakage is noted, or the test pressure has not
dropped, or the couplings have not moved, the pressure is then to be released.
The hose assembly is then considered to have passed the hydrostatic test.
(6) Hose assemblies passing the test shall be dried internally. If heat is
used for drying, the temperature shall not exceed 150o F (66oC).
(7) Hose assemblies failing a hydrostatic test must be destroyed by the
owner or at the owner&#39;s direction.
594.5. Recording of Tests.
(a) High Pressure D.O.T. Specification Cylinders. For high pressure
cylinders passing a hydrostatic test, the month and year shall be stamped in
accordance with the requirements set forth by D.O.T.. Recording (stamping)
shall be placed only on the shoulder, top head, neck, or footring (when so
provided) of the cylinder.
(b) Low Pressure D.O.T. Cylinders. Extinguisher shells of low pressure
D.O.T. cylinders that pass a hydrostatic test shall have the test information
provided in accordance with D.OT. requirements and recorded on a suitable
metallic label or equally durable material. The label shall be affixed by a
heatless process to the shell. These labels shall be self-destructive when
removal from an extinguisher shell is attempted. The label shall include the
(1) Month and year the test was performed, indicated by a perforation,
such as by a hand punch.
(2) Test pressure used.
(3) Name, address and license number (E#) of the concern.
(4) For D.O.T. Specification cylinders, the D.O.T. Retesters Identification
Number (RIN), if applicable.
(5) For D.O.T. Specification cylinders, the letter “S” if the Modified Test
(c) Low Pressure (non-D.O.T.) Cylinders. Extinguisher shells of low-
pressure non-D.O.T. cylinders that pass a hydrostatic test shall have the test
information recorded on a suitable metallic label or equally durable material.
The label shall be affixed by a heatless process to the shell. These labels shall
be self-destructive when removal from an extinguisher shell is attempted. The
label shall include the following information.
(4) A written or electronic log shall be maintained of all low-pressure
(non-D.O.T.) cylinders which are hydrostatically tested. The log information
shall be patterned after the D.O.T. recording requirements and shall include,
but will not be limited to; the date, location of extinguisher, type, rating, brand,
serial number and the name and EE# of individuals performing the service and
the E# of the company they work for.
(d) Hose assemblies. Hose assemblies passing a hydrostatic test do not
require recording.
595.1. Document Transfers.
(a) A license is not transferable except by the State Fire Marshal.
(b) The State Fire Marshal may transfer a license number upon
submission of a new license application form and payment of appropriate fees.
Sections 13160, 13175, 13178, 13184, Health and Safety Code.
595.2. Expired Documents.
Application for renewal of any class of license or for a Certificate of
Registration which has expired shall be considered as an original application.
cited: Sections 13160, 13166, 13167, 13179, 13180, 13189, Health and Safety
595.3. Minimum Ages.
(a) A license shall not be issued to any person under 18 years of age.
(b) A Certificate of Registration shall not be issued to any person under
595.4. Duplicate Issuance.
A duplicate license or Certificate of Registration may be issued by the
State Fire Marshal. A written statement describing the reasons for the duplicate
issuance shall be submitted by the licensee or registrant before duplicates will
be issued. The statement shall explain fully the reason for the destruction of the
license. A Fee equal to fifty percent (50%) of the original fee shall be submitted
for the issuance of a duplicate certificate of registration.
cited: Sections 13160, 13175, 13183, Health and Safety Code.
595.5. Fire Extinguisher License Types.
(a) Types of licenses are as follows:
(1) Type A. A class of license to service any or all types of fire
extinguishers including (2), (3), (4), (5), and (6), below.
(2) Type B. A class of license to perform maintenance and recharging of
water based fire extinguishers, and external maintenance of carbon dioxide fire
(3) Type C. A class of license to conduct hydrostatic tests of low pressure
fire extinguisher cylinders and the fire extinguisher concern shall posses the test
equipment as specified in section 594.3 (a) for non-D.O.T. specification
cylinders. A fire extinguisher concern possessing this class of license shall be a
D.O.T. approved cylinder requalification facility if D.O.T. specification cylinders
are tested and the fire extinguisher concern shall posses the test equipment as
specified in section 594.2.
(4) Type D. A class of license to perform maintenance and recharging of
dry chemical, dry powder and external maintenance of halogenated agent fire
(5) Type E. A class of license to conduct hydrostatic tests of high
pressure fire extinguisher cylinders, and perform internal maintenance and
recharging of carbon dioxide fire extinguishers. A fire extinguisher concern
possessing this class of license shall be a DOT approved cylinder requalification
(6) Type F. A class of license to perform internal maintenance, recharge
and recover halogenated agents from portable fire extinguishers. A fire
extinguisher concern possessing this license shall have a listed Halon 1211
closed recovery system.
(7) Type L. (Limited). A class of license, limited to public or private entities
that are not engaged in the business of servicing fire extinguishers and which
only maintain their own portable fire extinguishers. A Type L licensee may only
perform maintenance of stored pressure dry powder and dry chemical fire
extinguishers, water type and wet chemical type fire extinguishers and external
annual maintenance of halogenated agent and carbon dioxide fire extinguishers.
(b) Every class of license shall be identified by type as specified above
according to the act or acts performed by the licensee or by any of the owner&#39;s
employees. Every licensed concern shall be staffed by qualified personnel and
shall be properly equipped to perform the act or acts for the type of license
(c) Any licensed concern may take orders for the performance of any
acts for which the concern is not classified provided these orders are consigned
to another licensed concern that is classified (based on 595.5 (d)) to perform
(d) Every licensed concern who is not authorized to perform specific acts
shall have on file with the State Fire Marshal reciprocal letters of agreement to
perform those specific acts from licensed concerns who are authorized. All
required reciprocal letters of agreement shall be submitted to the State Fire
Marshal with each original, renewal and status change application for a license.
Any changes to reciprocal letters of agreement shall be reported to the State
Fire Marshal within 15 days of the change.
(e) A licensee is only authorized to perform those specific acts for which a
license has been granted by the State Fire Marshal. Qualifications for a
licensee shall consist of having the necessary tools, equipment, service
manuals, recharging agents and materials, lubricants, replacement parts and
qualified experienced personnel for each specific act. Each licensed concern
shall submit evidence of qualifications to the State Fire Marshal with each
original, renewal and status change application for license.
(f) A prospective licensee must provide written proof of their service
experience in order to be licensed. The prospective licensee shall provide
written documentation that they have at least 24 months of experience in the
servicing, maintenance, recharging, repairing, hydrostatic testing and installation
of portable fire extinguishers. This shall be accomplished by having their fire
extinguisher service employer submit letter (s) on their letter head attesting to
this experience. This correspondence shall indicate their length of employment,
an estimate of the number and type of portable fire extinguishers that they have
experience with and a statement that the individual has the necessary
experience to obtain a license. Additional documentation may include training
certificates from the various fire extinguisher manufacturers and college classes
related to Fire Science.
cited: Section 13163, Health and Safety Code.
595.6. Concern Name.
(a) In the event two applications are received by the State Fire Marshal,
both of which propose the use of the same or similar concern name, priority will
be given to the application bearing earliest receipt date.
(b) Once a concern license has been issued, there shall be no changes
made to the concern name unless the change has been approved in advance by
(c) The State Fire Marshal shall verify and approve any proposed
concern name as it relates to public safety and deceptive practices.
cited: Sections 13160, 13163, 13164, 13171, 13172, Health and Safety Code.
595.7. Business location.
For purpose of licensing, post office box numbers, mail forwarding
establishments, telephone answering service establishments and other such
similar establishments are not acceptable as physical business locations.
Licensees shall provide the State Fire Marshal with the actual physical business
location from which business is conducted. This address shall match the
physical address as listed on the Fire Extinguisher Concern License. Each
applicant shall furnish a valid local business license from the local community
that matches their physical address as listed on the “Fire Extinguisher Concern
License”. A licensed concern shall notify the State Fire Marshal of a change of
location on a Fire Extinguisher Concern License Status/Change application form
and submit a fee of $125.00.
cited: Sections 13160, 13163, 13164, 13169, 13170, 13172, 13174, Health and
595.8. Posting of License.
Every license issued according to these regulations shall be posted on
the premises of the licensee&#39;s location. Licenses shall be readily available for
inspection during regular business hours by the local inspection authority or by
cited: Sections 13160, 13173, Health and Safety Code.
595.9. Certificates of Registration.
(a) Every certificate of registration shall indicate the type of act or acts to
(1) Type 1 -- Recharge and maintenance of any or all types of fire
(2) Type 2 -- Hydrostatic test any or all low pressure non-D.O.T.
specification fire extinguisher cylinders.
(3) Type 3 -- Hydrostatic test any or all D.O.T. specification fire
extinguishers cylinders.
(b) Any person holding a valid certificate of registration may take orders
for the performance of any act or acts for which authorization has not been
granted. These orders shall be consigned to the licensed company for which
they have a binding reciprocal agreement on file with the State Fire Marshal and
who is qualified and authorized to perform such act or acts.
(c) A person holding a valid certificate of registration shall not perform
any act for a fee unless the person also holds a valid license or is employed by
concern possessing a valid license.
(d) Persons possessing a Certificate of Registration and employed by a
licensed concern may perform only those acts which the licensed concern is
authorized to do and for which the employee is qualified. In the case of an
independent contractor, franchisee, or any other arrangement in which the
certificate of registration holder is an independent business concern, a valid
license is required to be in the name of the independent concern.
EXCEPTION: Contractual arrangements between persons possessing a
certificate of registration and a licensed concern are permitted only if the
licensed concern provides the State Fire Marshal written evidence that a
contractual agreement is in effect, that the contracted person is insured (as
specified in section 595.13), and that the licensed concern will assume full
responsibility for the actions of the contracted person with respect to these
(e) To be issued or have renewed a Certificate of Registration, an
individual has to either hold a valid portable fire extinguisher company license or
be employed by a company possessing a valid portable fire extinguisher
cited: Sections 13160, 13162, 13175, Health and Safety Code.
595.10. Examination Procedures.
(a) Every person who performs any act or acts within the scope of a
Certificate of Registration shall pass a written examination which may be
supplemented by practical tests when deemed necessary on such act or acts in
(b) Any applicant who has failed the examination may re-apply and take
another examination not less than fifteen (15) days from the date of the first
examination after filing a new application and paying the required fee.
(c) Beginning on January 1, 1994, every four years at time of renewal
when deemed necessary by the State Fire Marshal, applicants for renewal of
certificates of registration shall successfully pass a written examination as
required by Section 13177, Health and Safety Code.
(d) Any applicant failing to take an examination applied for within thirty
(30) days of the date of eligibility must re-apply for the intended examination
with payment of appropriate fees.
(e) Every person taking an examination for a certificate of registration has
the right to contest the validity of individual questions in such examination.
(1) Upon conclusion of the examination process, the person taking the
examination may request review of the test with staff of the Office of the State
(2) Any challenge as to the validity of individual questions of an
examination must be made in writing within 72 hours after taking said
examination. Challenges shall state the reason for the objection.
(3) The decision as to the action to be taken on the submitted challenge
shall be by the State Fire Marshal and such decision shall be final.
(4) The action taken by the State Fire Marshal shall be reflected in all
future examinations but shall not affect the grades established in any past
NOTE: Authority cited: Section 13160, 13175, 13177 Health and Safety Code.
Reference cited: Sections 13160, 13177, 13178, 13185, Health and Safety
595.11. Possession of Certificate of Registration.
Certificates of Registration shall be carried by the person to whom it is
issued whenever he or she is performing functions or services regulated by this
cited: Section 13178, Health and Safety Code.
595.12. Employer&#39;s Responsibility.
Every licensed concern shall annually, within seven days of employment
and within seven days of termination of employment, report to the State Fire
Marshal in writing, the name, address, and certificate of registration number and
type, of every person performing any act of maintenance, recharging or
hydrostatic testing of portable fire extinguishers for such licensed concern.
cited: Section 13174, Health and Safety Code.
595.13. Insurance.
(a) Any person, firm, or corporation applying for a license or the renewal
of a license to service portable fire extinguishers shall furnish to the State Fire
Marshal and maintain and keep in force at all times a current policy of public
liability and property damage insurance. The policy shall provide limits of bodily
injury and property damage of not less than one million dollars ($1,000,000.00)
combined single limit for each occurrence annually as payment for damages to
persons or property which may result from or be caused by the negligent
servicing of portable fire extinguishers by the licensee, his, her, or its agents,
servants, employees or certificate holders performing the service.
EXCEPTION: “Persons, firms, corporations or public entities,” not engaged in
the business of servicing fire extinguishers for a fee, who only maintain their
own portable fire extinguishers.
(1) That the insurer will not cancel the insured&#39;s policy without fifteen days
prior written notice to the State Fire Marshal; and
(2) That the insured license-holder, and all certificate holders acting as
employees under the license-holder, are included as additional insureds, but
only insofar as operations within the scope of the licensing requirements are
covered; and
(3) That the State of California shall not be responsible for any premiums
or assessments on the policy.
(c) Persons, firms, corporations or public entities not engaged in the
business of servicing fire extinguishers, for a fee, who only maintain their own
portable fire extinguishers shall annually provide to the State Fire Marshal a
written statement that the State of California shall be held harmless from any
and all actions of their employees who maintain a valid certificate of registration
while performing their portable fire extinguisher activities.
cited: Section 13165, Health and Safety Code.
596.    General.
(a) Annual Maintenance Tags, Verification of Service Collars, and
Hydrostatic Test Labels required in accordance with this chapter shall be
approved by the State Fire Marshal and shall conform with the provisions of this
Article. One facsimile or printers proof showing both sides of each tag, collar, or
label shall be submitted to the State Fire Marshal for approval with each original
and renewal application for license, when the licensed concern changes
address or license type(s), and whenever tags, collars, or labels are redesigned
or revised. Tags, collars, or labels shall not contain false and misleading
statements as determined by the State Fire Marshal. Tags, collars, or labels
approved by the State Fire Marshal shall not be used for any purpose other than
to reflect servicing or selling of an approved portable fire extinguisher.
(b) Annual Maintenance Tag.
(1) Each fire extinguisher that has undergone annual maintenance as
required in this Chapter shall have an Annual Maintenance Tag attached in
(c) Verification of Service Collar.
(1) Each extinguisher that has undergone maintenance, which includes
internal examination or has been recharged as required in this chapter shall
have a Verification of Service Collar attached in accordance with this Article.
EXCEPTION: Cartridge/cylinder-operated fire extinguishers do not require a
Verification of Service Collar.
(d) Hydrostatic Test Label.
(1) All low pressure fire extinguishers successfully passing a hydrostatic
test shall have a hydrostatic test label affixed in accordance with this Article.
cited: Sections 13160, 13183, 13190.1, 13190.2, 13190.3, Health and Safety
596.1. Required Information.
(a) Annual Maintenance tags shall bear the following information machine
(1) The words &quot;Do Not Remove by Order of the State Fire Marshal&quot; shall
be placed at the top of the tag.
(2) Concern Name as listed on license.
(3) Concern Business Location in accordance with Section 595.7.
(4) License Number (&quot;E&quot; Number.) and License Type
(5) Service Maintenance/New Extinguisher Block.
(6) Date service performed.
(7) Certificate of Registration. Provide printed &quot;EE&quot; number followed by
space for individuals number (note format Section 596.4.)
(8) The Seal of Registration of the Office of State Fire Marshal. (See
Section 596.11).
(9) Space or line for signature of person performing or supervising the
(10) Valid local telephone number for the licensed concern.
(b) The above information shall appear on one side of the Annual
Maintenance tag. All other desired printing or information except association or
company logos shall be placed on the reverse side of the tag. Association and
company logos if printed on the information side of the tag shall be confined to
the area of the tag used for the name and address of the licensee.
(c) Verification of Service Collars shall bear the following information
machine printed on them;
(1) The words “Do Not Remove by Order of the State Fire Marshal.”
(2) The words “Verification of Service.”
(3) License Number (“E” Number).
(4) Date (month and year) maintenance performed.
(5) Certificate of Registration. Provide printed “EE” Number followed by
space for individuals number (note format Section 596.4)
(6) Space for signature of person performing or supervising the service
(7) Concern name as listed on license.
(d) Hydrostatic Test Labels shall bear the following information machine
(1) Concern Name.
(2) Concern Address.
(4) D.O.T. RIN (if applicable).
(5) Date (month and year) test performed.
(6) Means to record the hydrostatic test pressure used in PSI.
(7) The letter “S” (for modified test method, if applicable).
Sections 13160, 13183, Health and Safety Code.
596.2. Size Color and Material.
(a) Annual Maintenance Tags shall be machine-printed, four and three-
fourths inches (4 3/4&quot;) in length and two and three-eights inches (2 3/8&quot;) in width
with a one-half inch (1/2&quot;) deviation for each dimension permissible.
(b) Verification of Service collars shall be made from a single circular
piece of uninterrupted material forming a hole of a size that will not permit the
collar assembly to move over the neck of the container unless the valve is
completely removed. The collar shall not interfere with the operation of the fire
(c) Hydrostatic Test Labels shall be three inches (3&quot;) in width and two and
one-fourth inches (2 1/4&quot;) in length with a one-fourth inch (1/4&quot;) deviation for
each dimension permissible.
(d) Annual Maintenance Tags, Verification of Service collars and
Hydrostatic Test Labels shall not be red in color.
Sections 13160 and 13183, Health and Safety Code.
596.3 Attaching Tag.
(a) One Annual Maintenance Tag shall be attached to each portable fire
extinguisher in such a position as to be conveniently inspected. The annual
maintenance tag may be attached to the extinguisher by means of wire, string,
or plastic ties or by the use of a self-adhesive tag approved by the State Fire
Marshal. Self-adhesive tags shall be placed in such a position as to be
conveniently read but shall not be placed on the front of the extinguisher.
(b) One Verification of Service collar shall be installed on each portable
fire extinguisher as required by Section 596 (d) (1) in the following manner;
(1) The Verification of Service collar shall be installed on the neck of the
fire extinguisher cylinder while the valve assembly is removed for maintenance.
After the valve assembly is replaced and the maintenance completed, the collar
will be trapped by the valve assembly so the collar cannot be removed.
cited: Sections 13190.1, 13190.2 and 13190.3, Health and Safety Code.
596.4. Format.
The following format shall be used for all Annual Maintenance tags,
Verification of Service collars, and Hydrostatic Test labels subject to the use
requirements of Section 596.1, 596.2, and 596.3
(a) The maximum number of blocks identifying the year of service shall
not exceed five (5).
NOTE: Dates shown on tag format are examples only.
(b) Every Annual Maintenance tag, Verification of Service collar, and
Hydrostatic Test label attached to an extinguisher shall be approved by the
State Fire Marshal and conform to this Article.
EXCEPTION: Maintenance tags or Hydrostatic Test labels previously approved
by the State Fire Marshal may be utilized until March 31, 2002.
DO NOT                                   REMOVE
EE     Y
DB      N / JUL / A
R ME AY / JU            UG
O     /M                    /S
R                         E
/ JAN / FEB / M
V / DEC /
(Cert. Reg. No.)
E                                                                                           (Signature)
PA                                   AL                                                                                            Name and
E-      N
NU Y NA
NO       E                                                                                           Address of Firm
AT       MB      ME              DO      RD M
IO        ER                      B          E
OF                                 FIR
SER                      TE
VICE               STA
VERIFICATION OF SERVICE COLLAR                                                                                                               PERFORMED
ANNUAL MAINTENANCE TAG
2002 2003                                 2004          2005   2006                                  2002 2003                                                     2004           2005   2006
1 2 3 4 5                                  6 7       8     9 10 11 12                                1 2 3 4 5                                                      6 7        8     9 10 11 12
CONCERN NAME                                                                                         CONCERN NAME
ADDRESS                                                   RIN                                        ADDRESS
E-NUMBER                                                                                             E-NUMBER
AT    Y ES ED .S
HYDROST ICALL T T AT P .I.                                S - MODIFIED T T
ES                               OST ICALL T T AT P .I.
HYDR AT      Y ES ED .S
1        2                   3     4      5     6     7     8               9          0             1         2                                  3        4        5    6        7   8                                                     9      0
HY     T IC ES
DROS AT T TLABEL                                                                            HY     T IC ES
DROS AT T TLABEL
. PECIFICAT
D.O.T S         ION CYLINDERS                                                                         . PE
NON-D.O.T S CIFICATION CYLINDERS
Authority:            Health and Safety Code Section 13160
Reference:            Health and Safety Code Section 13160, 13183
cited: Sections 13160, 13183, Health and Safety Code.
596.5. Date Serviced and Signature.
On the date service was performed, the date of service, a legible
Certificate of Registration number (EE-----) and the signature of the person
performing or supervising the servicing shall be written on the tag or collar in the
space provided. The signature shall be as defined in Section 557.19 (d) of this
chapter. A rubber stamp of name is not acceptable.
596.6. Restrictive Use.
(a) Portable fire extinguishers permanently removed from service due to
non-conformance with the requirements of this Chapter shall not be tagged
except as provided for in Section 577.1(b).
(b) Annual Maintenance Tags, Verification of Service collars, and
Hydrostatic Test labels required by this Article shall not be attached to any
portable fire extinguisher unless such service has actually been performed or
supervised by the person affixing such tag.
(c) The Annual Maintenance Tag as described in Section 596.1(a)
bearing the seal of the State Fire Marshal shall not be attached in any manner to
any device or system which is not a portable fire extinguisher.
cited: Sections 13160, 13185, Health and Safety Code.
596.7. Removal of Tags.
(a) No person shall remove any tag, collar or label required by this Article
from a portable fire extinguisher except when service is performed.
(b) No person shall deface, modify, or alter any tag collar or label
required by this Article to be attached to any portable fire extinguisher.
596.8. Listed Labels.
(a) Every portable fire extinguisher shall bear a listed label in accordance
with the standards listed in Section 561.2.
(b) The location of Portable Fire Extinguisher labels shall conform to
596.9. Unlawful Use of Listed Label.
(a) Listed labels bearing the rated classification shall not be placed upon
any fire extinguisher unless specifically authorized by an agency approved and
qualified to perform tests as prescribed in this chapter.
(b) Any label bearing the rated classification of an extinguisher shall not
be permanently removed from such extinguisher.
(c) A fire extinguisher which does not bear a label but was in fact
previously labeled pursuant to these regulations may be serviced, provided that
substantiating evidence of such previous labeling can be documented.
&quot;Evidence&quot; shall mean a copy of a bill of lading, sales receipt or other
documents specifying purchase details, or other conclusive data attesting to the
approval of the fire extinguisher.
596.10. Marking of Fire Extinguishers.
(a) No fire extinguisher shall have markings stamped, engraved, or
otherwise marked on the shell except:
(1) Extinguishers marked at time of manufacture by the manufacturer in a
manner found acceptable to an approved testing agency.
(2) High Pressure Cylinders.
(b) Engraving on the skirt, valve, handle or control lever with a engraving
pencil is permitted.
(c) Existing aluminum shell extinguishers and existing mild steel
extinguishers having engraving on the shell, shall be permitted to remain in
(1) Aluminum shell extinguisher is hydrostatically tested biannually to
ensure their structural integrity.
(d) Existing fire extinguishers of copper, brass or other similar wall
construction which have been engraved on the extinguisher shell with other than
a electric engraving pencil or which have been stamped on the shell in any
manner shall be removed from service and discarded in accordance with
Section 577.1.
(e) All future engraving permitted on any extinguisher shall be performed
with an electric engraving pencil.
596.11. Seal of Registration.
(a) The official Seal of Registration of the State Fire Marshal shall consist
of a series of concentric circles lettered as follows:
Upper Half: &quot;Registered&quot;
Lower half: &quot;Fire Extinguisher&quot;
Upper half: &quot;State of California&quot;
Lower half: &quot;State Fire Marshal&quot;
In the center shall appear five crossed trumpets.
Appended above the outer circle and in a central position shall be a box
provided for displaying type of license issued.
Appended below the outer circle and in a central position shall be a box
provided for displaying the license number assigned to the concern by the State
(b) Every reproduction of the Seal of Registration and every letter and
number placed thereon, shall be no smaller than 8 point size to render
such seal, letter, and number distinct and clearly legible.
cited: Sections 13160, 13165, 13178, 13183, Health and Safety Code.
596.12. Permissive Use.
Licensed concerns shall use the Seal of Registration on every Annual
Maintenance tag required by this chapter and may use such seal for any of the
(1) Labels for containers of approved portable fire extinguishers.
(2) Labels for portable fire extinguishers not otherwise prohibited by this
(3) Printed matter including advertising matter and copy for publication.
(4) Letterhead, personal cards and similar stationery.
(5) Stencils for any of the above.
596.13. Unlawful Use.
No person or concern shall produce, reproduce, or use this seal in any
manner or for any purpose except as provided in this article.
596.14. Cease Use Order.
No person or concern shall continue the use of the Seal of Registration in
any manner or for any purpose after receipt of a cease and desist notice in
writing from the State Fire Marshal or upon the suspension or revocation of the
concern&#39;s license.
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