What method should be used to check a CO2 fire extinguisher?

• A. Examine the nozzle for blockages
• B. Weight it
• C. Test the pressure gauge
• D. Inspect the hose for wear

Answer: (B)

The proper method to check a CO2 fire extinguisher is to weigh it. This approach is effective because CO2 extinguishers are charged with a certain amount of carbon dioxide, and any loss of weight indicates a potential issue, such as a leak. Weighing the extinguisher regularly ensures that it is still adequately filled and ready for use. Each extinguisher has a specific weight that indicates it is fully charged, and if the weight is below this value, it may need to be recharged or replaced.

Other methods, while important in their own right, do not provide the same direct assessment of the CO2 content. For instance, examining the nozzle for blockages, checking the pressure gauge, and inspecting the hose for wear are all valuable checks, but they do not confirm whether the extinguisher still contains the required amount of CO2, which is critical for its functionality during an emergency. Therefore, weighing the extinguisher stands out as the most reliable method in this context.