On Boxing Day 2017, two women were dragged from a burning vehicle that had been involved in a crash. Lisa Elmas (a witness) braved the flames to rescue the two women, but says that fire extinguishes should be made mandatory in all registered cars.
At Jim’s Fire Safety, we know that fire extinguishers in vehicles save lives.
That’s why we offer fire extinguisher testing services to people around Australia.
To give you a little bit more information about the current requirements for fire extinguishers in cars, check out the rest of our blog post and get in touch with us if you have any questions.
VEHICLE FIRE EXTINGUISHER REGULATIONS
Unfortunately, finding clear legislation and advice around fire extinguisher regulations can be a little bit tricky on your own. We’ve put together some of the resources we’ve found regarding fire extinguishers in different types of vehicles.
Whilst it is useful to research your own legislative requirements, we do recommend contacting our team for further advice – especially if you are running a business.
CARS
If you’re using your car for personal purposes, there is currently no legislation to suggest that fire extinguishers be installed in all registered vehicles. If you are using a car for your work, or you supply vehicles for your employees, we highly recommend installation and maintenance of fire protection equipment in all workplace vehicles.
In Australia, you are legally required to provide your employees with a safe working environment as well as adequate means of protection against hazard.
WorkSafe Victoria has included automotive fire extinguishers in their guidance for risk management. Under their recommendation, all work vehicles must have first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and emergency contact numbers.
BOATS
Fire extinguishers in vehicles save lives – even on the water. According to the Department of Transport (under Marine legislation), “if your vessel is fitted with an inboard engine (personal watercraft are exempt) or with cooking, heating, or cooling systems that use flames, you must carry an approved fire extinguisher.”
You can choose your own fire extinguisher as long as it is compliant with Australian standards. Commercial vessels must have their fire extinguishers inspected at least once every six months.
Maintenance tip: waterborne creatures and insects are known to clog up extinguisher nozzles. Check them regularly to clear any debris.
BUSES
Buses are known to overheat and catch fire – in November 2017, a bus caught fire on busy Sydney Road in Melbourne. Luckily, no one was injured. It is a reminder of the accidents that can happen and the importance of fire safety equipment.
According to the Bus Safety Act (2009) and Bus Safety Regulations (2010), “The operator of a bus service must ensure that each bus used in the provision of the bus service is not used unless all fire extinguishers fitted to that bus are maintained in operating condition.”
MISCELLANEOUS VEHCILES
According to the Vehicle standard (Australian Design Rule 44/01 – Specific Purpose Vehicle Requirements) 2006 , motorhomes and caravans must be equipped with fire extinguishers. They must be selected and located in accordance with the relevant Australian standards (see Vehicle Standard for more information).
The standard also dictates that fire extinguishers in vehicles extend to tow trucks. According to the standard, every tow truck needs a fire extinguisher with at least 4.5litres capacity. This fire extinguisher must be chosen and installed in accordance with the AS 2444 standard for portable fire extinguishers (selection and location).
CONTACT JIM’S FIRE SAFETY FOR MORE INFORMATION
Want to know more about fire extinguishers in vehicles? Contact us today. You can get a free quote for fire extinguisher inspection or ask about the supply and installation of fire protection equipment.
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