TFM-04 Fire Extinguisher License – A (FEL-A) Practice Test

When deciding between recharge and disposal, the safety of the cylinder itself is the deciding factor. If the cylinder is punctured or the contents are leaking, the pressure vessel has been compromised and cannot be safely recharged. A puncture or leak means the integrity of the cylinder is unreliable, the remaining contents may be hazardous, and regulatory safety standards require disposing of the unit and replacing it with a new or certified one rather than attempting a recharge.

Other scenarios don’t automatically require disposal. A slight dent may still be within acceptable limits after inspection and hydrostatic testing, so recharging can be appropriate if the cylinder passes safety checks. A unit used only for a minor test has typically been discharged and can be recharged (assuming no damage). A unit that has never been used is simply ready for recharge or fill.

So the scenario with a punctured cylinder or leaking contents is the one that clearly calls for disposal or replacement.