What type of facility must fire extinguishers be examined by before sale?

Fire extinguishers must be examined by an Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or FM (Factory Mutual) approved lab before sale because these organizations set the safety and performance standards for fire extinguishers. Their rigorous testing processes ensure that the products meet specific requirements for reliability, effectiveness, and safety.

Underwriters Laboratories is widely recognized for its comprehensive testing and certification standards in the fire protection industry, and only those extinguishers that pass these stringent tests are allowed to carry their mark. Similarly, FM Global has its own set of criteria that products must meet, focusing on loss prevention and risk management.

This certification is crucial not only for compliance with regulatory standards but also ensures that consumers are using equipment that has been thoroughly vetted for quality and reliability. In contrast, options like a state-approved testing lab or a customer-specified lab may not have the same level of recognition or established standards, and a general business license does not guarantee expertise in fire safety equipment.