14 June 2026 · FireWire System Solutions
The standard that governs fire extinguisher servicing in South Africa, in plain language: what must be done, how often, by whom, and what you should receive.
SANS 1475 is the standard most often cited and least often read. Here is what it actually obliges you to do.
Annual servicing is not a guideline
Every portable fire extinguisher on your premises must be serviced at least once every twelve months. Not inspected — serviced, by a registered person, with a record. The twelve months runs from the date on the service label, not from your financial year.
Only a registered technician may do it
The person doing the work must be registered with SAQCC Fire. Ask for the number. A certificate from an unregistered contractor is worth nothing to your insurer, and an insurer only checks after a fire.
Pressure testing runs on a longer clock
Servicing is annual. Hydraulic pressure testing is not — most extinguisher types require it every five years, and CO2 cylinders every ten. It is the interval most commonly missed, because it falls outside the annual rhythm everyone remembers.
What you should be given
A Certificate of Compliance, a dated label on each unit, and an asset register listing every extinguisher by location, type and serial number. If you were given only a certificate, ask for the register — it is what makes next year's service verifiable.