Fire safety is a critical component of workplace health and safety in Australia. Beyond being a
regulatory requirement, properly maintained fire equipment can mean the difference between a
minor incident and a catastrophic event. This blog explores why regular testing and
maintenance of fire safety equipment is essential for every Australian business.
Legal Requirements in Australia
In Australia, fire safety compliance is governed by a robust framework of legislation and
standards:
• Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act and Regulations mandate that employers provide
a safe working environment, including adequate fire protection
• Australian Standard AS 1851 outlines the minimum requirements for the routine
service of fire protection systems and equipment
• Building Code of Australia (BCA) specifies the minimum fire safety measures required
in commercial buildings
• State-specific regulations may impose additional requirements depending on your
location
Non-compliance with these regulations can result in significant penalties, including fines of up
to tens of thousands of dollars for serious breaches.
Critical Fire Equipment Requiring Regular Maintenance
Fire Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers must be inspected every six months and undergo a comprehensive pressure
test every five years. These inspections check for proper pressure, signs of damage, and ensure
the extinguisher is appropriate for the potential fire hazards in its location.
Fire Hose Reels
These require six-monthly inspections to ensure they function correctly, with more thorough
testing required annually.
Fire Blankets
Though simple in design, fire blankets need regular inspection to ensure they remain accessible
and undamaged.
Fire Detection Systems
Smoke alarms, heat detectors, and fire indicator panels require monthly testing, with more
comprehensive assessments conducted every six months.
Emergency Lighting and Exit Signs
Monthly tests ensure they function during power outages, with more detailed battery and
system tests conducted every six months.
Sprinkler Systems
These complex systems require monthly visual inspections and more thorough testing annually
to ensure they will activate correctly during a fire emergency.
Why Regular Maintenance Matters
1. Life Safety
The primary purpose of fire equipment is to protect human life. Equipment that fails during an
emergency can lead to tragic consequences that could have been prevented with proper
maintenance.
2. Business Continuity
A fire can devastate a business, with many never recovering from major incidents. Functioning
fire equipment can contain small fires before they become catastrophic, potentially saving your
business.
3. Legal and Insurance Compliance
Besides avoiding regulatory penalties, maintaining detailed fire equipment service records is
often required by insurance providers. In the event of a fire, insurers may refuse claims if
equipment was not properly maintained according to standards.
4. Early Detection of Issues
Regular inspections often identify potential problems before they lead to equipment failure. This
preventative approach is far more cost-effective than dealing with the consequences of faulty
equipment during an emergency.
5. Reduced Liability
Properly maintained fire equipment demonstrates due diligence, which can be crucial in
limiting liability should a fire-related incident occur.
Best Practices for Fire Equipment Maintenance
Establish a Comprehensive Schedule
Create a calendar of inspections based on Australian standards, clearly indicating when each
piece of equipment requires testing.
Use Qualified Technicians
Fire equipment testing should be conducted by trained professionals with the appropriate
qualifications and understanding of Australian standards and regulations.
Maintain Detailed Records
Document all inspections, tests, and maintenance activities. These records are vital for
compliance and may be required during building inspections or insurance claims.
Train Staff
Ensure employees understand basic fire safety procedures, including how to use fire equipment
and the importance of reporting damaged or missing equipment.
Conduct Regular Fire Drills
Testing equipment is only part of fire safety. Regular drills ensure staff know how to respond in
an emergency, including evacuation procedures and assembly points.
The Cost of Neglect
The financial implications of neglecting fire equipment maintenance can be enormous:
• Property damage from fires that could have been contained
• Business interruption costs while repairs are conducted
• Increased insurance premiums or denied claims
• Legal penalties for non-compliance
• Potential legal action from affected parties
• The incalculable cost of injuries or loss of life
Conclusion
Fire equipment testing and maintenance is not merely a box-ticking exercise for compliance—
it’s a critical investment in your business’s safety and future. By ensuring all fire equipment is
regularly tested, maintained, and ready for use, Australian businesses protect their most
valuable assets: their people, their property, and their operations.
Remember that fire safety is an ongoing commitment. As your business evolves, so should your
fire safety equipment and procedures. Regular reviews of your fire safety plan, in conjunction
with proper equipment maintenance, create a comprehensive approach to fire safety that will
serve your business well for years to come.
