How often must the conductivity test for carbon dioxide fire extinguisher hose assemblies be performed?

The conductivity test for carbon dioxide fire extinguisher hose assemblies must be performed annually to ensure that the hose is capable of conducting electricity properly and is safe for use. This is particularly important because carbon dioxide extinguishers are designed to displace oxygen and can lead to hazards if the hose develops electrical conductivity issues. Annual testing helps to identify potential problems before they become serious, ensuring that the extinguisher operates effectively when needed.

Regular testing frequencies, such as monthly or quarterly, can be excessive for the conductivity of this type of hose, as well as potentially impractical for maintenance schedules. Conversely, extending the interval to every two years may allow critical issues to go undetected for too long, increasing safety risks. Thus, the annual requirement strikes a balance between safety and practicality for maintaining these fire safety equipment components.