Preparing for Your Annual Fire Inspection

 Ensuring that your building's Essential Fire Safety Measures are maintained and in working condition is a regulatory requirement under the EP&A Regulations and relevant standards. Regular maintenance ensures that these systems are operable throughout the year, safeguarding building occupants and property. Building owners hold the ultimate responsibility for maintaining these measures, and an Annual Fire Safety Statement (AFSS) must be submitted to the relevant council and displayed within the building.

Fire Safety Inspection Checklist: Key Items to Prepare

1. Collect Previous Inspection Reports
   
   • Gather copies of past inspection reports and document any measures taken to address prior violations. This proactive approach demonstrates your commitment to meeting fire safety standards.

1. Proof of Service and Inspection
   
   • Ensure you have up-to-date paperwork verifying that licensed professionals have serviced and inspected fire alarms, extinguishers, sprinklers, and pumps according to AS 1851 requirements, which call for monthly, annual, and five-year checks.

1. Schedule Outstanding Maintenance
   
   • Address any pending maintenance for safety and heat-producing systems, such as fire pumps, alarms, and kitchen hood suppression systems, by making appointments with certified contractors.

1. Protect Special Hazard Areas
   
   • Safeguard spaces with high concentrations of flammable materials (e.g., server rooms or chemical storage) as outlined in Section 7 of AS 1851-2012. Ensure these areas are protected with well-maintained systems.

1. Maintain Clear Exits
   
   • Ensure all hallways, corridors, and stairwells are free from obstructions to provide safe and efficient egress. Fire doors and exits must remain unobstructed and easily operable.

1. Store Flammable Materials Properly
   
   • Flammable and combustible materials should be stored in approved containers, away from heat sources, and in accordance with state regulations.

1. Keep Incompatible Chemicals Separate
   
   • Maintain a safe distance of at least 6 meters or use a noncombustible partition between incompatible chemicals to prevent hazardous reactions.

1. Ensure Fire Department Access
   
   • Make sure your building has visible address numbers and unobstructed fire lanes. Install fire department lock boxes for rapid access during an emergency.

1. Maintain Water Access for Firefighters
   
   • Keep fire hydrants clear with at least 1 meter of space around them, and ensure fire department connections are marked and accessible.

1. Label Electrical Panels
   
   • Label circuits clearly and maintain a 76 cm clearance around electrical panels to provide easy access in an emergency.

1. Use Extension Cords Safely
   
   • Use heavy-duty, grounded extension cords only for temporary purposes, and avoid running them under rugs or stapling them to walls. For permanent wiring needs, use certified electrical solutions.

1. Power Strips for Computers
   
   • Plug computers into surge protectors with built-in circuit breakers to prevent electrical fires.

1. Test Exit Signs and Emergency Lights
   
   • Ensure all exit signs and emergency lights are operational with both main and backup power sources.

1. Assess Fire Extinguisher Placement
   
   • Verify that fire extinguishers are located within easy reach and marked clearly throughout the building.

1. Check Sprinkler Head Clearance
   
   • Maintain at least 45 cm of clearance below ceiling-mounted sprinkler heads for effective water distribution.

1. Post Required Signage
   
   • Display clear evacuation routes, maximum occupancy signs, and reminders to use stairs during an emergency. These should be placed near exits, main rooms, and elevators.

The Importance of Fire Safety InspectionsRegular fire inspections ensure the safety of everyone in the building and help prevent devastating loss or damage due to fire. While inspections can seem time-consuming, they are vital for compliance and, more importantly, for the protection of lives and property.

Coastal Fire Solutions: Your Partner in Fire SafetyCoastal Fire Solutions offers comprehensive inspection, testing, maintenance, and repair services to prepare your building for fire safety compliance. Our expertise covers fire sprinklers, alarms, extinguishers, kitchen hood suppression systems, emergency lighting, and more. Contact us today to ensure your property meets fire safety standards and remains protected.