Fire safety is paramount in every workplace across Victoria, which is why inspecting and testing fire blankets and fire extinguishers is required by law. At Intelligent Training Solutions, we provide specialised test and tag courses aimed at providing an individual with the competence and skills to conduct periodic inspections, testing and maintenance of fire extinguishers and fire blankets in their own workplace or at a customer’s premises. Learn more about fire extinguisher testing courses and other courses offered by us by getting in touch today.
Fire Blanket Inspections and Tests
Fire blankets are ideal for class F fires, involving cooking fats and oils; as well as clothing fires, where the blanket can suffocate and cut off oxygen to the flame. A faulty blanket could be difficult to remove from its casing or have a tear that limits its effectiveness. According to the AS1851, a qualified fire safety technician should test the following every six months:
- Check the fire blanket is visible, in its assigned location, accessible and installed in accordance with safety standards.
- Check that the blanket container is securely supported, clean, damage-free, has a record label and has clear and legible instructions.
- Check that the blanket itself is folded properly and free of any damage or contamination.
From commercial kitchens and food trucks to schools and manufacturing buildings, ensuring a fire blanket is functioning and well-maintained is a fairly simple but vitally important safety consideration.
Fire Extinguisher Inspections and Tests
Periodic inspections and tests of fire extinguishers are an important part of every organisation’s overall fire safety strategy. In Australia, there are various types of fire extinguishers with different purposes and unique contents designed to smother certain types of fires. A qualified fire extinguisher servicing technician is familiar with each type as well as how often they need to be inspected and tested for the following:
- Accessibility
- Anti-tamper device
- Service tag
- External damage and corrosion
- Signage
- Outlet hose assembly
- Pressure indicator
- Support bracket
- Discharge nozzle
- Contents full charge
- Weight
Fire extinguishers are tested and tagged to ensure they are refilled, pressure tested and maintained according to the AS1851. Records of tests and their dates are kept on the metal tag attached to each extinguisher, which must only be maintained by a qualified individual.
Explore Fire Blanket and Fire Extinguisher Testing Courses
If you’re interested in becoming qualified to inspect and test fire blankets and fire extinguishers, study at Intelligent Training Solutions in Victoria. Enrol in one of our test and tag courses today.