Motor carriers are being cited under 49 CFR §393.95(a)(3) due to misinterpretation of fire extinguisher requirements, specifically the assumption that all extinguishers must have a visual pressure gauge.

Cartridge-operated fire extinguishers are compliant under FMCSA regulations and use an indicator button on top of the fire extinguisher to verify charge status. These differ from stored-pressure (sealed) fire extinguishers, which rely on a visual gauge to indicate charge. Lack of understanding of this distinction has resulted in inconsistent enforcement and improper violations being issued.

Provide clarification and training to enforcement personnel on the design differences between stored pressure (sealed) and cartridge-operated (cartridge seal/indicator) fire extinguishers, including acceptable methods for verifying charge status.

This will promote uniform enforcement, reduce unnecessary citations, and ensure accurate application of 49 CFR §393.95(a)(3).