According to NFPA regulations, how often must dry chemical extinguishers be discharged and inspected?

• A. Every 6 months
• B. Once a year
• C. Every 2 years
• D. Every 5 years

Answer: (B)

Under NFPA regulations, dry chemical extinguishers must be discharged and inspected at least once a year. This annual inspection is crucial because it ensures that the extinguishers are in proper working condition and ready for use in the event of a fire. During this inspection, the extinguisher should be checked for physical damage, pressure levels, and the effectiveness of the agent inside.

Regular annual maintenance helps to identify potential issues before they escalate, ensuring that the equipment remains compliant and reliable. Moreover, adhering to this schedule contributes to overall fire safety within facilities, particularly in environments like airports where the risk of fire can be heightened due to the presence of flammable materials and high passenger traffic.

The other timeframes listed are associated with different maintenance practices or types of equipment, but for dry chemical extinguishers, annual inspections are the standard requirement according to NFPA guidelines.