* EC: Clarifications and Expectations: Testing and Maintaining Gaseous and Portable Fire Extinguishers Examining Standard EC.02.03.05, EPs 14–16  (PDF/QV) [REF: EOC] EC News, October 2015, Vol 18, #10, Pg 8 JCe1510_B7

This article continues (Part 5) the in-depth review of one of the most frequently cited hospital standards, EC.02.03.05. This month, the focus is on points of compliance for EPs 14-16. A paragraph labeled “Survey Activity” under each EP identifies what surveyors are likely to request/look for.
• Re: EP 14 – Gaseous auto fire extinguishing system tests: If you have such a system, make sure the annual testing has been done.
• Re: EP 15 – Monthly fire extinguisher checks: Make sure fire extinguishers are unobstructed, without corrosion/damage and have intact safety seals and proper (green zone) pressure reading at the required monthly interval.
• Re: EP 16 – Annual fire extinguisher maintenance: Ensure annual maintenance includes checking mechanical parts, new safety seals, recharging if needed, a new annual tag and hydrostatic testing at the required interval.
Tip: Collect all 5 parts of the EC.02.03.05 series as a reference for FSA reviews and use the “Survey Activity” descriptions of each EP as EOC survey session preparation.
See also: the Comments section of this article for details of the earlier articles.