Many building owners and managers may be unaware of the Australian Standard AS1851 to maintain fire protection systems. This standard covers a wide range of fire detection and suppression systems and specifies their regular testing, inspection, and maintenance requirements.
It's important to be familiar with this standard if you own or manage a building with one of these systems installed. In some cases, compliance is required by law, so ignorance is not an excuse!
In this article, we'll take a closer look at AS1851 and explain what it means for building owners to comply with it.
What is AS1851?
AS1851 is the Australian Standard for the maintenance of fire protection systems. It covers a wide range of fire detection and suppression systems, including:
Extinguishers and blankets
Sprinklers
Fire Hydrants
Fire and smoke management
Fire doors
Fire alarms
Hose reels
Venting for smoke and heat
Halon 1301
Gaseous
Pumpsets
Pyrogen aerosols
Lay flat hose
Smoke alarms
Water mist
Electrical Wiring Interconnection Systems
Evacuation
Fire monitoring systems
This standard specifies the requirements for the regular testing, inspection, and maintenance of these systems to ensure their safe and effective operation.
What Is It For?
The main reason for the existence of AS1851 is safety. These systems are in place to protect people and property from the dangers of fire, so they must be kept in good working order.
In some cases, compliance with this standard is required by law, so building owners and managers need to be familiar with it. It's a crucial responsibility for building owners or managers to keep these systems in good working condition to ensure the safety of people and property.
Is AS1851 Mandatory?
Compliance with AS1851 is NOT always mandatory, however, there are some cases where it is required by law.
For example, owners and managers of buildings with fire alarm systems or smoke detection systems must comply with the standard. Failure to do so could result in serious penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
In addition to legal requirements, several insurance companies require compliance with AS1851 as a condition of coverage. It is important for anyone with responsibility for fire safety to be aware of the standard's requirements.
What Happens If You Are Not Compliant With The AS1851?
The penalties for not complying with the Standard vary depending on the state or territory. In some cases, you may be subject to a fine, and in others, you may be subject to imprisonment.
However, the most crucial penalty is the risk to life and property that non-compliance poses.
Fire protection equipment is essential for preventing fires from spreading, and all property owners must ensure that their equipment is regularly serviced and maintained.
What Type Of Fire Safety Equipment Needs To Be Checked?
The Standard applies to a wide range of fire protection equipment and systems, including:
Extinguishers and blankets
Sprinklers
Fire hydrants
Fire and smoke management
Fire doors
Fire alarms
Hose reels
Venting for smoke and heat
Halon 1301
Gaseous suppression systems
Pumpsets
Pyrogen aerosols
These are just a few of the systems covered by the Standard. It is essential to familiarise yourself with all of the requirements of AS1851 if you are responsible for managing or owning a building with a fire protection system.
AS1851 Systematic Four-Stage Approach
The Standard adopts a four-stage approach to inspection, testing, and maintenance.
First Stage: Inspection
The first stage is inspection. It involves a visual inspection of all fire protection systems and equipment. This ensures that they are in good condition and are functioning correctly.
Second Stage: Testing
The second stage is testing. It involves the use of suitable test equipment to verify the operation of each system. This stage is essential for verifying the safety and efficacy of each system.
Third Stage: Maintenance
The third stage is maintenance or routine service schedule. This includes the regular cleaning, servicing, and replacement of components as necessary. This stage helps to ensure that all systems are kept in good working order.
Fourth Stage: Record-keeping
The fourth stage is record-keeping, which involves recording all inspections, tests, and maintenance activities. An annual condition report ensures that a comprehensive history of each system is maintained.
Final Words
AS1851 is a comprehensive Standard that outlines the requirements for the inspection and testing of fire protection systems. It is essential for anyone responsible for fire safety to be aware of its contents and ensure that their fire protection systems comply with the Standard.
For Australian business owners or managers, failing to comply with AS1851 can have serious consequences, including fines or imprisonment. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that your fire protection systems are regularly serviced and maintained following the Standard.
If you are looking for professionals who can help you comply with AS1851, don't hesitate to contact Australian Fire Control.
AFC can inspect, report and complete repairs as required on the following equipment:
We are experts in fire safety and can provide you with all the assistance you need to meet the requirements of AS1851.