Portable Fire Equipment
What is Portable Fire Equipment?
Refers to fire equipment that can be easily identifiable, accessible and used by all occupants. Portable fire equipment plays an integral role in protecting a building and occupants. This is considered the first line or the first step in preventing a fire in the event of an emergency which can be used either by occupants or the fire brigade.
Fire equipment can be found in Class 1B and Class 2-9 buildings. This includes most commercial buildings such as residential complexes, offices, warehouses, shops, schools & universities. Boarding houses, guest houses, and hostels are some other examples which can also include certain Airbnb accommodation.
Examples of Portable Fire Equipment Include:
- Fire Extinguishers
- Fire Blankets
- Fire Hose Reels
- Fire Hydrants
There are various classes and types of fire extinguishers, all in which cater towards different fires ranging from Class A to Class F.
Portable fire equipment required for each building varies. This is because all buildings are different sizes as well as serve different purposes which is covered further in the National Construction Code (NCC).
Just remember one thing, your building is always going to require at least one fire extinguisher.
Requirements for Portable Fire Equipment
Yes, your fire equipment will require routine inspections that involve testing and maintenance that are specified in the Australian Standard AS1851 – Maintenance of Fire Protection Systems and Equipment. This is to ensure that your fire equipment is capable of being used in the event of an emergency.
What’s involved in a routine fire equipment testing?
- Visual inspection of fire equipment – This relates to the integrity of the equipment and whether there’s any physical damage or signs of wear that should be noted.
- Accessibility – Ensure that the equipment is in a designated location in which is easily accessible.
- Punch tag on equipment – This is to indicate the date and year that testing, service and maintenance has been conducted.
- Essential Safety Measures Report – This outlines the service that has been completed in addition to determining whether your building is compliant. Recommendations will be provided for any potential defects.
How often does fire equipment need to be tested?
According to the Australian Standard AS1851, all portable fire equipment will require testing every six months.
Fire extinguishers in particular will require a pressure test which is undertaken every five years. This involves having the extinguisher hydrostatically tested, powder/content being refilled and replaced as well as having the O-Rings replaced.
In this scenario the most common solution is to have the extinguishers replaced for convenience and cost purposes
Similar to to fire extinguishers, fire hydrants also require a five yearly flow test
Unsure on what fire equipment your building needs?
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