text: Fire safety equipment maintenance routines and workplace fire safety training are essential to a fire safe workplace.
  Every workplace must have fire safety equipment to meet the legal requirements of the Building Code of Australia. These legal requirements are designed to help prevent fire safety hazards to protect the building and its occupants.
  Each state has its own set of fire safety standards. In New South Wales, there are several fire safety requirements applicable to fire safety equipment, its installation, and maintenance.
  An adequately serviced and functional fire alarm system such as a remote serviced alarm system, sprinkler system, or thermal or smoke alarm is essential to workplace fire safety.
  Fire extinguishers are also essential to workplace fire safety. Correct installation requires they be installed in conspicuous, readily accessible locations. Fire and Rescue NSW recommends a surrounding clearance of a minimum 1000mm around each extinguisher.
  It is also vital that your workplaces fire equipment is suitable for the specific fire risks present in your workplace, e.g., foam or dry powder type extinguishers for fires that involve flammable liquids, and carbon dioxide extinguishers for electrical fires.
  Appropriate signage is essential for the swift location and identification of fire equipment and the types of fire it can be used on. Workplace training is another aspect of fire safety in the workplace that is essential to the effective and safe operation of fire safe equipment.
  Prevention is key to fire safety in the workplace. You can prevent electrical fires by scheduling regular inspections and implementing maintenance programs. Be careful not to overload power points and power boards, while regularly checking electrical equipment for damage and faults.
  Ensure all machinery is serviced as recommended by manufacturers and is kept clean. Switch off machinery outside of work hours when offices are unattended.
  Likewise, avoid stockpiling flammable materials such as packaging materials or waste where they can be easily accessed by the public. If your business stores dangerous goods, ensure they are securely and safely stored while adhering to legislative requirements.
  Have a fire door related enquiry? We’re happy to help. Contact Fire Safe Doors at [email protected] or call (02) 9070 0732, and we’ll work through a plan for your needs.