It is not uncommon for service companies now to simple perform a service exchange when they inspect your extinguishers. This involves them replacing the existing unit with a pre-tested one. The only problem with this is that you may end up with an inferior model. You might currently have high quality models such as those produced by Chubb Fire and they then get replaced by a cheap foreign import. Is this really what you paid for? So always ensure you get a like for like model. Saying that, this service is very cost effective considering how much a fire extinguisher gmao can cost new. You could be saving nearly 50% of the cost involved which makes good business sense.
An alternative is to check the major retailers online and see what prices you can buy a new one for. It is often a fraction of the cost of buying one from your service company. A quick search online will bring up several suppliers who can sell you the exact same models you currently have from the same manufacturer.
Now simply recycle the old units by taking them to a recycle centre or having them collected by a licensed firm. Never just bin them as they could present a threat to people and the environment.
A part of your legal obligation under the new laws is that you must perform a visual check of the extinguishers in your work place on a monthly basis. This is easy to do and shouldn't take much time. It can also save you money in the long run and help to further protect the lives of your employees.
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