Service tag
A service tag is the inspection or maintenance record attached to, or associated with, a portable extinguisher after a service visit. On this site, we use it as a simple way to refer to the maintenance history you may see on the unit itself. If you want a deeper explanation, see inspection tag terms. A tag is not the same thing as the log entry in Fire Inspection Log, but the two should point to the same unit and date.
Visual inspection and maintenance
OSHA requires a monthly visual inspection where 29 CFR 1910.157 applies, and it also calls for an annual maintenance check. Monthly inspection is the quick look at whether the extinguisher appears ready and in place. Annual maintenance is the more detailed service visit. OSHA also says stored pressure extinguishers do not need an internal examination under that paragraph. Our OSHA inspection guide explains how those two checks differ in the log.
Hydrostatic test
A hydrostatic test is the longer pressure test used on certain extinguishers at intervals set by OSHA Table L-1. The interval depends on the extinguisher type. OSHA says trained people with suitable equipment perform the test, and the record includes the date, the tester’s signature, and an identifier. If you are reading about annual maintenance, keep in mind that this is a different event. The log keeps a separate place for the last annual maintenance date and for test history.
Emergency lighting and exit sign
Emergency lighting and exit signs are the light terms we use for safe egress equipment. OSHA says each exit route is lighted so an employee with normal vision can see along it, exit signs are illuminated, and safeguards such as exit lighting stay in working order. The OSHA small business handbook checklist also says emergency lighting is tested for 30 seconds each month and annually for 90 minutes. See emergency light features for how Fire Inspection Log tracks those dates.
NFPA 10 and NFPA 101
NFPA 10 is the NFPA standard title for portable fire extinguishers, and NFPA 101 is the Life Safety Code. We mention these names because people often search for them while checking extinguisher and lighting records. Fire Inspection Log is not part of NFPA, and this glossary only paraphrases the VERIFIED facts we use in the app. For more on extinguisher terms, visit NFPA 10 notes.
This is a reminder log, not an inspection and not code compliance. Not a substitute for a licensed fire protection inspection. Rules differ by workplace and by the fire code your local authority uses. Fire Inspection Log is not part of OSHA, NFPA, or any fire marshal office.