Fire Extinguisher Inspection & Testing Competency Guide

	Classification
	Installation requirements
	Knowledge of parts and their sources
	Knowledge of inspection and maintenance procedures
	NFPA Inspection Manual.

	Vancouver Fire By-law
	B.C. Fire Code
	B.C. Building Code
	Vancouver Building By-law
	NFPA 10

Competencies - Technician is able to:

1	Conduct inspection and testing in conformance with applicable codes.
2	Determine the class of fire by type.
3	Determine the occupancy classification.
4	Identify types of extinguishers and their operation.
5	Select fire extinguishers for the applicable hazard.
6	Distribute fire extinguishers as required.
7	Conduct inspections and annual maintenance.
8	Prepare a clear and accurate inspection and test reports.
9	Communicate clearly with the owner or authorized agent.
10	Communicate clearly with the Authority having Jurisdiction.

Performance factors - The technician is able to:

1	Understand and conduct all inspection and testing in conformance with the applicable code requirements.
2	Identify and describe the four classes of fires.
3	Identify and define light (Low) Hazard, Ordinary (Moderate) and Extra (high) hazard occupancies.
4	Demonstrate the ability to operate all types of portable fire extinguishers.
5	Identify and select the type of fire extinguisher for a given situation by the character of the fire anticipated taking into consideration the construction and occupancy of a property, the vehicle or hazard to be protected, ambient temperature conditions, and other factors.
6	Determine the minimum number of fire extinguishers required to protect a property taking into consideration the rating and the travel distance to the fire extinguisher. Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided for the protection of both the building structure and the occupancy hazards.
7	Conduct Annual Maintenance on portable fire extinguishers as required by NFPA10 and maintain records as required.
8	Prepare clear and accurate inspection and test reports and maintain records for the authority having jurisdiction.
9	Communicate with the owner or authorized agent and make recommendations for deficiencies that need to be rectified.
10	Communicate clearly with the authority having jurisdiction and advise him of any problems or unsafe conditions in the building.

Note: The above mentioned competencies are to be used as a guideline for the type of work the technician is required to do. For accurate testing references the appropriate code shall be consulted.