AS1851 Maintenance Fire: What Every Workplace in WA Needs to Know

Introduction

When it comes to workplace fire safety, compliance isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about protecting people, property, and productivity. In Western Australia, one of the most important standards guiding maintenance for fire protection systems is AS1851. If your workplace or council-managed property uses fire safety equipment, understanding the essentials of AS1851 maintenance fire requirements is critical for legal compliance and peace of mind.

What Is AS1851?

AS1851 is the Australian Standard for the Routine Service of Fire Protection Systems and Equipment. It sets out the minimum inspection, testing, and maintenance schedules for systems designed to detect, control, or suppress fires.

In short, it defines how often and how thoroughly your fire safety assets—like extinguishers, sprinklers, alarms, and hydrants—must be checked to remain compliant.

Key Requirements Under AS1851

The standard outlines detailed procedures and intervals for maintenance, such as:

• Monthly inspections for accessible equipment like extinguishers, hose reels, and exit signs.

• Six-monthly tests for alarm systems, sprinkler systems, and emergency lighting.

• Annual full-service testing including flow testing, pump maintenance, and verification of system performance.

• Five-yearly and ten-yearly major overhauls for components like pressure vessels and hydrant systems.

Failing to meet these intervals can result in non-compliance with the Building Code of Australia and insurance coverage issues.

Common Systems Covered by AS1851

The standard applies to nearly every critical fire safety asset, including:

• Portable fire extinguishers

• Fire hose reels and hydrants

• Fire detection and alarm systems

• Sprinkler and suppression systems

• Emergency lighting and exit signage

• Fire doors and smoke control systems

Each of these systems requires periodic maintenance to ensure they will function correctly in an emergency.

Benefits of Regular AS1851 Maintenance

Beyond compliance, consistent AS1851 maintenance brings practical benefits:

• Reliability: Equipment is less likely to fail during an emergency.

• Insurance protection: Most insurers require proof of AS1851 compliance.

• Audit readiness: Simplifies council or workplace safety audits.

• Longevity: Regular maintenance extends the lifespan of your equipment.

• Peace of mind: Knowing your systems meet national standards means one less risk to worry about.

  
  

How Firecore Solutions Ensures AS1851 Compliance

At Firecore Solutions, we specialise in AS1851 maintenance fire services across regional and metropolitan WA. Our certified technicians:

• Perform inspections and testing to AS1851 standards.

• Provide detailed service reports and compliance documentation.

• Identify early faults to prevent costly downtime.

• Offer tailored maintenance schedules for councils, schools, and industrial facilities.

Whether you manage a shire facility, mining operation, or commercial property, our team ensures every fire protection asset meets its AS1851 requirements.

Final Checklist for Workplaces and Councils

Before your next audit or inspection, confirm:

• All fire safety assets are logged and labelled.

• Testing intervals align with AS1851 requirements.

• Documentation and tags are up-to-date.

• A certified contractor (like Firecore Solutions) has performed your last inspection.

Conclusion

Compliance with AS1851 maintenance fire standards is more than a legal obligation—it’s a commitment to the safety of everyone in your facility. With Firecore Solutions as your trusted partner, you can stay compliant, confident, and ready for anything.

Need help with AS1851 fire maintenance in WA?

Contact Firecore Solutions today for certified inspections, servicing, and complete compliance support across regional and metropolitan Western Australia.