A workplace fire can endanger lives and destroy or damage property. A common question for employers is whether every workplace needs fire extinguishers and fire blankets? 

The answer depends on your workplace risks. WHS regulations take a risk-based approach and do not prescribe a universal list of equipment. However, building laws, fire safety codes and Australian Standards may require specific fire protection systems depending on the workplace.

This means considering:

  • the type of work being carried out

  • the materials and substances present

  • the likelihood of a fire starting

  • the potential consequences if a fire occurs

 

Emergency planning is essential

The risk of fire should be considered and appropriate risk controls put in place as part of the general process of planning for emergencies. The person conducting the business or undertaking must ensure that an emergency plan is prepared for that workplace.  
An emergency plan must include: 

  • an effective response to an emergency 

  • evacuation procedures 

  • notifying emergency service organisations at the earliest opportunity 

  • medical treatment and assistance, and  

  • effective communication between the person authorised by the person conducting the business or undertaking to coordinate the emergency response and all persons at the workplace. 

 

Do all workplaces need fire extinguishers?

Not necessarily, but many do. Firefighting equipment should be selected based on your risk assessment. In many workplaces, extinguishers and fire blankets will form part of an appropriate response, particularly where:

  • there is a risk of small, controllable fires

  • cooking equipment is present (e.g. staff kitchens)

  • flammable materials are used or stored

However, fire protection is broader than portable equipment.

 

Fire protection goes beyond extinguishers and blankets 

Note that fire protection and firefighting equipment are not limited to fire extinguishers and fire blankets. Fire protection can be built into building design, doors, materials, and separation distances. Fire equipment can also include automatic sprinkler systems, misting systems, or hose-reels, depending on the circumstances at the workplace.   

 

Suitability, maintenance, and proper use 

Fire extinguishers must be suitable for the types of fires likely to be experienced. They must be properly maintained, and personnel must be trained in their use. Fire blankets can be used to extinguish small fires, including small fires in kitchens. They can also be used to wrap around a person whose clothes have caught alight. If used in conjunction with a kitchen, take care that they are not stored too close to a potential hazard, such as above a stove. 

 

Hazardous chemicals 

In workplaces where hazardous chemicals are used, handled, generated, or stored, there are certain requirements. Such workplaces must be provided with fire protection and firefighting equipment designed and built for the types of hazardous chemicals at the workplace in the quantities in which they are used, handled, generated, or stored at the workplace, and the conditions under which they are used, handled, generated or stored.  
The regulations specify that when deciding what type of fire protection and firefighting equipment to use, and where to situate it within the workplace, the person conducting the business or undertaking must have regard to: 

  • the fire load of the hazardous chemicals 

  • the fire load from other sources, and 

  • the compatibility of the hazardous chemicals with other substances and mixtures at the workplace. 

 

Supporting safe evacuation

Fire safety is not just about equipment. It is also about ensuring workers can exit safely.

Workplaces should have:

  • clearly marked emergency exits

  • unobstructed evacuation paths

  • appropriate signage

  • emergency lighting where required

Workers should also be involved in drills and evacuation exercises where appropriate.

 

Other considerations 

The fire protection and firefighting equipment must be properly installed, tested, and maintained, and it must be compatible with firefighting equipment used by the primary emergency service organisation. 
A dated record must be kept of the latest testing results and maintenance until the next test is conducted.

 

Bottom line

Fire safety is not about having a standard set of equipment. It’s about ensuring your workplace is prepared for the risks it faces. 

By taking a risk-based approach, maintaining effective emergency procedures and ensuring appropriate systems and training are in place, employers can protect workers, reduce risk and meet their WHS obligations.