by Grant Lobdell, General Manager
There are a variety of standards in the fire protection industry that require periodic inspection, testing, and maintenance of dry chemical agents.
NFPA 10
The current, 2018 edition of NFPA 10 Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers allows the reuse of dry chemical agent reclaimed using a closed recovery system provided the chemical is thoroughly checked for proper type, condition, and contamination (7.8.3.4).
NFPA 17
The current, 2021 edition of NFPA 17 Standard for Dry Chemical Extinguishing Systems requires periodic maintenance (semiannually for agents not stored under pressure/every 6 years for agent stored under pressure) that includes an examination of the dry chemical (11.3.1.1).
IMO 1432
The current edition (dated 31 May 2012) of IMO MSC.1/Circ. 1432 Revised Guidelines for the Maintenance and Inspection of Fire Protection Systems and Appliances requires the dry chemical powder from a fixed dry chemical powder system be tested for moisture content every 2 years (8.2.4).
If you have any questions regarding this article, please contact Dyne Fire Protection Labs at lab@dyneusa.com or (800) 632-2304.
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