How often should portable fire extinguishers undergo checks?

Portable fire extinguishers should be checked monthly to ensure that they are in proper working condition and readily accessible in case of an emergency. This routine check includes verifying that the extinguisher is mounted correctly, checking the pressure gauge to ensure it is within the operational range, inspecting for any physical damage, and ensuring that the labels are clean and legible. Performing these monthly inspections helps to identify any potential issues early on, which is crucial for safety, as extinguishers that are not functional or accessible could lead to dire consequences in the event of a fire.

The other options, while they suggest checks at differing intervals, do not align with the standard practices recommended by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), which emphasizes the importance of monthly checks for portable fire extinguishers. Yearly checks and checks after each use are also important, but they do not replace the necessity for the more frequent monthly inspections to ensure ongoing readiness.