If you’re responsible for fire safety in a business or commercial property, you’ve probably seen the small tags attached to fire extinguishers
These might just look like simple pieces of card or plastic, but these tags actually play a vital role in maintaining fire safety and legal compliance.
Understanding how to read a fire extinguisher tag is part of keeping your extinguishers are in good working order and up to date with their servicing requirements. In this guide, we’re breaking down how to read your fire extinguisher tag, and what to do with the information on it.
Why Fire Extinguisher Tags Matter
In New Zealand, fire extinguishers must be maintained in accordance with NZS 4503:2005 – Hand Operated Fire-Fighting Equipment. This standard requires extinguishers to be serviced at least once every 12 months by a qualified technician.
The extinguisher tag is your proof that this maintenance has been carried out. It shows that the equipment has been inspected, is in working condition, and is ready to be used in an emergency. Without a current and correctly completed tag, your business could be considered non-compliant and at risk in the event of a fire.
What You'll Find on the Tag
Each fire extinguisher tag contains key information recorded by the technician during the service. Here’s what to look for:
- Date of Service
The most recognisable feature is the series of punched holes that mark the month and year the extinguisher was serviced. This makes it easy to see at a glance when the last inspection was carried out. - Next Service Due
Depending on the servicing provider, this might be indicated on the tag or by adding a sticker with a due date. Fire extinguishers must be serviced annually, so check that your next due date is within 12 months of the last one. - Technician Details
The tag will include the name, initials, or registration number of the person who completed the service. This provides accountability and traceability. - Type of Service Performed
The tag may indicate whether it was a standard inspection, a recharge, or more extensive maintenance. If the extinguisher needed repairs or replacement, that should be noted too. - Extinguisher ID or Serial Number
In some cases, tags are matched with individual serial numbers to help track the extinguisher across different service intervals and ensure the correct unit is being checked.
What if the Tag is Missing or Out of Date?
If your extinguisher’s tag is:
- Missing
- Illegible
- More than 12 months old
- Incomplete or incorrectly filled out
Then it’s time to get your fire extinguishers serviced by a qualified technician. Regular servicing is not only a legal requirement – it’s also a practical step in keeping your workplace, staff, and property safe.
Need Help? Fireco Has You Covered
At Fireco, we take the stress out of fire safety. Our technicians will inspect, test, and tag your fire extinguishers in line with New Zealand’s standards, so you’re always compliant and protected. We also provide reporting for your records and can add your extinguishers to a regular maintenance schedule, so you never miss a check.
Ready to get your extinguishers checked?
Contact the team at Fireco today for expert advice, inspections, and servicing across Northland and Auckland.
