How To Maintain The Fire Equipment In Your Workplace

If you've been assigned to organise the maintenance of the fire equipment in your workplace, you might wonder what's involved. You can hire a company that deals in fire system maintenance, as they'll know what regulations need to be followed. Typically, the maintenance procedure will include different phases.

Inspection

A visual inspection of the equipment, such as extinguishers, fire doors, and smoke alarms, is carried out first. Looking at the equipment and the setting can uncover problems that an electrical test may not. For example, the inspectors may notice that the clearance under the fire door is too thin as new flooring has been installed in the office. They will also visually inspect equipment like hoses and fire blankets to check that they're in functioning condition.

Testing

The equipment will also need to be tested using various methods. For example, the pressure rating on the fire extinguisher will be noted to ensure it's correct, or the extinguisher can be weighed if it doesn't have a pressure gauge display. Regulations will also outline other maintenance that needs to be carried out over the long term, and the upkeep will be recorded on attached tags.

Maintenance

Even if everything is in good order and nothing is damaged, preventative maintenance will usually be done. For example, the batteries in smoke alarms are changed after a set period. Extinguishers may be emptied and repressurised every few years.

Recording

The company doing the fire system maintenance will usually provide a report of what they found during the inspection and testing and what steps have been taken or will need to be taken to make the system compliant with the relevant regulations.

Standards That Regulate Fire Equipment Maintenance

Australia has standards for the maintenance of fire equipment. But the applicability of these standards varies depending on what state of Australia you live in. In some cases, regulations are mandatory, but this is not always the case. 

Each state has localised guidelines as well, which you may need to comply with. Additionally, fire equipment and safety issues are also addressed in building codes and occupational health and safety regulations. A company in your region that inspects and maintains fire equipment will know the local guidelines that you need to comply with. Failure to comply can result in fines and harsher penalties.

Reach out to a maintenance company in your area for more information about fire system maintenance.