During a recent workplace inspection, one of our Jim’s Fire Safety technicians identified several common but serious fire safety oversights. These issues often go unnoticed in the day-to-day running of a business but can pose significant risks in an emergency and result in non-compliance with key Australian Standards.
1. Missing Fire Hose Reel Signage - AS2441 & AS1319
Under AS2441:2005 (Installation of Fire Hose Reels) and AS1319 (Safety Signs for the Occupational Environment), all fire hose reels must be marked with clear, visible signage that indicates their exact location. This requirement is in place to ensure that, during an emergency, people can quickly and easily locate essential firefighting equipment.
In situations involving smoke, low light, or panic, the ability to spot a fire hose reel without hesitation is critical. Missing or poorly placed signage can lead to confusion and delays, reducing the chances of effectively controlling a fire in its early stages and increases the risk of injury. Every second counts in an emergency, and clear signage can make the difference between a minor incident and a major disaster.
2. Non-Compliant Fire Extinguisher - AS1851
A fire extinguisher located next to the hose reel was found to be worn and missing a current inspection tag. Under AS1851:2012 (Routine Service of Fire Protection Systems and Equipment), fire extinguishers must be serviced at least every six months and kept in a ready-to-use condition. If an extinguisher is damaged, overdue for inspection, or lacks a visible service tag, it does not meet compliance requirements and may fail during an emergency. An unmaintained extinguisher puts lives at risk and increases the potential for serious property damage, making regular inspections essential for safety and compliance.
3. Exit Light Not Operational
During the inspection, it was noted that emergency and exit lighting was not fully operational. According to AS2293 (Emergency Escape Lighting and Exit Signs for Buildings), this lighting must remain functional at all times. The standard requires testing every six and twelve months to ensure the lights activate during a power outage. Failure of these lights can hinder safe evacuation, particularly in dark or smoke-filled environments where clear visibility is essential.
4. Restricted Paths of Travel - Building Code of Australia (BCA) & AS3745
During the walkthrough, the technician also identified several blocked or partially obstructed paths of egress. This poses a serious safety risk and breaches both the Building Code of Australia (Volume 1, Section D) and AS3745:2010 (Planning for Emergencies in Facilities), which require all evacuation routes to remain clear at all times. Obstructions can delay evacuation, trap occupants, and create confusion or panic in an emergency. Even a minor blockage can slow movement, increase the risk of injury, and reduce the chances of a safe and orderly exit.
Common obstructions include:
- Stock or deliveries placed in front of exits
- Locked or blocked fire doors
- Equipment stored in corridors or stairwells
Protect Your Business with Jim’s Fire Safety
These issues each point to gaps in fire safety readiness. Individually, they present serious concerns, but collectively they emphasise the importance of routine inspections and ongoing compliance with Australian Standards.
Jim’s Fire Safety technicians are equipped to detect and resolve these failures, delivering expert servicing and scheduled maintenance to help keep your workplace safe, compliant, and prepared for any emergency.
Protect your people, property, and peace of mind. Book an inspection with Jim’s Fire Safety today and ensure your site is up to standard.
