NFPA 10
NFPA 10 is the Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers. It dictates which classes of extinguishers must be installed where, how high they can be mounted, how far apart they must be spaced, and the inspection + maintenance schedule every one of them must follow — from the familiar monthly quick-check to the 12-year hydrostatic test.
Key requirements
- 1
Monthly visual inspection by the owner (or designated employee)
- 2
Annual maintenance by a licensed fire extinguisher service company
- 3
6-year internal maintenance — teardown, inspection, and reassembly
- 4
12-year hydrostatic test on stored-pressure extinguishers (5-year on some wheeled units)
- 5
Travel distance: 75 ft maximum for Class A, 50 ft for Class B hazards
- 6
Mounting height: top of extinguisher no higher than 5 ft (3.5 ft for units over 40 lb)
- 7
Written tag or label with the inspection month/year and technician initials
Published summary for informational use. Fire code adoption varies by jurisdiction and edition. Verify current enforced codes with your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) and consult a licensed fire protection contractor before taking action. Not legal or professional advice.