Fire Extinguisher Maintenance —
What is the Requirement?
When it comes to the safety of your staff, your clients, and your buildings, maintaining your fire equipment in line with Australian Standards just makes sense. The common theme we hear from prospective clients when calling about our services is:
We just want to make sure that every person in our building has the best possible chance of making it to safety should an emergency occur!!
Keeping your people and your buildings safe is at the core of what we do at AWTT. Australian Standard AS 1851-2012 states that:
As a building owner or occupier in Australia, you have a responsibility to ensure that all fire equipment installed in your building is being inspected and tested on a regular basis.
How We Keep You Safe and Compliant
Visual
Inspection:
We visually inspect every fire extinguisher in your building for signs of damage or deterioration. We also ensure that there is a regulation “Fire Extinguisher” sign placed 2 metres above each extinguisher.
Testing:
We remove each extinguisher from its bracket, check that the pin has not and can not be removed, and check that the pressure gauge indicates that pressure is at the appropriate level. We then clean the equipment and replace it in its bracket.
Tagging:
Once testing is complete, we will apply a compliance label to demonstrate this and to indicate the testing schedule which applies for this type of device and the date next due for testing.
Reporting:
If the report indicates that any of your fire equipment is non-compliant and needs rectification or replacement, we will recommend a solution. This report along with all other maintenance records and reports will need to be retained.
The Guiding Document
The inspection, test, and maintenance regime for fire extinguishers, fire blankets, & fire hose reels requires that they be serviced every 6 months as per Australian Standard AS 1851-2012.
Part of your obligation as a building owner or occupier is to then utilise these service records to create your state’s version of annual certification. Each state and territory within Australia has different requirements that need to be carried out. Here is a link to an article highlighting current state and territory requirements.
Want a customised compliance solution?
Our team will work with you to develop a plan that suits your business.