Which NFPA standard covers portable fire extinguishers?

• A. NFPA 10
• B. NFPA 13
• C. NFPA 72
• D. NFPA 25

Answer: (A)

NFPA 10 governs portable fire extinguishers. It defines what types of extinguishers to have for different hazards, how they’re rated, and how they should be selected, placed, and used. It also lays out the maintenance and testing requirements, including monthly visual inspections, annual service by a qualified technician, and the intervals for hydrostatic testing and recharging after use. This standard is specifically focused on portable extinguishers, whereas the other standards cover related systems: NFPA 13 deals with sprinkler design and installation, NFPA 72 covers fire alarm and signaling systems, and NFPA 25 addresses inspection and maintenance of water-based protection systems. So, for portable extinguishers, NFPA 10 is the applicable standard.