How Often Should Fire Equipment Be Inspected?
by Mining Parts Australia
Fire equipment that hasn't been checked can't be trusted. In Australia, routine servicing of fire protection equipment is set out in AS 1851. This guide explains a typical fire equipment inspection schedule and what you can check yourself between professional services.
This is general information only. Requirements vary by state, building type and site. Your fire protection contractor and regulator, such as the NSW Resources Regulator, confirm what applies to your site.
Key Takeaways
• AS 1851 sets routine service intervals for fire equipment in Australia.
• Extinguishers, hose reels and fire blankets are commonly serviced every six months.
• Do quick visual checks between professional services.
• Mine-site dust, heat and vibration justify more frequent checks.
What Is AS 1851?
AS 1851 is the Australian Standard for routine service of fire protection systems and equipment. It sets inspection, testing and maintenance tasks and how often they should be done. Servicing is carried out by qualified fire protection technicians, who record results on service tags and in logbooks.
Typical Fire Equipment Inspection Schedule
Portable fire extinguishers
Extinguishers are commonly inspected and tagged every six months, with additional tasks such as pressure testing at longer intervals set by the standard.
Fire hose reels
Hose reels are also commonly serviced every six months, including checks of the hose, nozzle, valve and water flow.
Fire blankets
Fire blankets are commonly checked at six-monthly service visits for condition and accessibility.
Other systems
Fire detection, alarms, sprinklers and vehicle fire suppression systems have their own schedules. Follow the system manufacturer's and contractor's requirements.
What to Check Between Services
Quick visual checks between professional services help catch problems early. A simple weekly or monthly walk-around can cover:
• Equipment is in its place and not blocked
• Extinguisher gauges are in the green and seals are intact
• Service tags are present and in date
• Hoses are not cracked, kinked or leaking
• Signage is visible and undamaged
• Cabinets are undamaged and doors open easily
Fire Equipment Inspections on Mine Sites
Harsh conditions
Dust, heat and vibration can damage equipment faster than in offices, so more frequent visual checks are worthwhile.
Protecting equipment
Housing extinguishers and reels in extinguisher cabinets and hose reel cabinets reduces damage between services.
Mobile equipment
Check vehicle fire suppression indicators at every pre-start.
Keep Good Records
Keep service records and logbooks up to date and easy to find. They show that equipment is being maintained and help with audits. For a full workshop review, use our mining workshop fire safety checklist.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should fire extinguishers be inspected in Australia?
Under AS 1851, portable fire extinguishers are commonly inspected and tagged every six months, with longer-interval tasks such as pressure testing.
Who can service fire equipment?
Routine servicing under AS 1851 should be carried out by qualified fire protection technicians. Site staff can do visual checks between services.
How often should fire hose reels be tested?
Fire hose reels are commonly serviced every six months under AS 1851, including flow and condition checks.
What should I check on fire equipment between services?
Check that equipment is in place and unobstructed, gauges are in the green, tags are in date, hoses are in good condition and signage is visible.
Protect Your Fire Equipment
Our fire extinguisher cabinets and fire hose reel cabinets help keep equipment in service condition between inspections. Contact us on (07) 5535 2228, or read our complete guide to mining safety equipment.
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