🔍 Key Concepts

• Fixed vs. portable CO₂ extinguishers and how they discharge • What it means for a portable extinguisher to be in service and ready for use • Basic inspection vs. recharge vs. hydrostatic test requirements for portable fire extinguishers

💭 Think About

• Think about what happens inside a CO₂ cylinder when you squeeze the handle and discharge agent. Is the seal or valve left in the same condition as before? • Would you want to rely on an extinguisher that has already been partially discharged in an emergency, or should its status be clearly restored/verified? • Hydrostatic tests are done on a time interval; do we normally trigger a hydrostatic test every time an extinguisher is used even briefly?

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify the difference between recharging and hydrostatically testing an extinguisher • Consider whether a partially used extinguisher is considered fully serviceable for life‑safety equipment • Recall that retagging usually records inspections or maintenance — ask what must happen before retagging in this situation