Fire Safety in Melbourne Workplaces
Fire blanket testing is a simple but effective way to protect people, property, and livelihoods in Melbourne. From bustling cafés in the Melbourne CBD, to corporate offices in Docklands, to busy warehouses in Laverton, every workplace faces fire risks. That’s why essential fire safety equipment in Melbourne must be inspected, tested, and maintained under Australian workplace safety standards AS1851:2012 - Routine service of fire protection systems and equipment.
At The Local Guys, our Melbourne-based fire safety technicians provide comprehensive fire blanket testing to help businesses achieve fire safety compliance in VIC. We'll help you keep staff and customers safe in 2025 and beyond!
Why Fire Blankets Are Essential
When it comes to small but dangerous fires, fire blankets are one of the most versatile fire safety tools for workplaces across Melbourne. Fire blankets are designed to smother flames by cutting off oxygen to the fire, which makes them extremely effective against:
- Class F fires caused by cooking fats and oils (common risk in restaurants, school canteens, and commercial kitchens)
- Small Class A fires involving wood, paper, and other combustibles
- Small Class B fires fueled by flammable liquids like petrol
- Garment fires where someone’s clothing catches alight
Because they’re simple to use and quick to deploy, fire blankets can easily prevent injuries and property damage during a fire emergency. When paired with fire extinguishers and other fire safety services, they form an extra layer of protection for Melbourne workplaces.
Fire Blanket Testing: Meeting Australian Standards
To comply with Australian Fire Safety Standards AS1851:2012 - Routine service of fire protection systems and equipment, fire blankets must undergo testing and inspection every 6 months. This ensures they’re ready for action during a fire emergency. If something catches alight, you never want to get caught with expired fire safety equipment.
The Local Guys follow a 4-step fire blanket testing service process:
- Visual Inspection: We check that fire blankets are correctly positioned near potential fire risks, that fire signage is clear, and that nothing blocks access.
- Fire Blanket Testing: The blanket itself is removed and carefully inspected for holes, brittleness, wear, or other signs of damage.
- Container Inspection: We test the housing unit and quick-release tabs to ensure the fire blanket can be accessed instantly in an emergency.
- Service Reporting: A full compliance report documenting locations, test results, and recommendations is provided, along with a Certificate of Compliance.
Routine fire blanket tests are not only required by law, but also give Melbourne business owners peace of mind knowing their fire safety equipment will be reliable at the most crucial moments.
How to Inspect a Fire Blanket
While a professional test is required every 6 months, there are simple checks Melbourne businesses can perform between services:
- Confirm the container isn’t cracked or damaged.
- Check that quick-release tabs are visible and intact.
- Ensure signage is clear, unobstructed, and in line with Australian Standards.
- Verify that the blanket is stored close to high-risk areas such as kitchens, workshops, or staff rooms.
These quick inspections help identify potential issues early. But only a licensed fire safety technician can provide certified fire blanket testing and full compliance reporting.
Beyond Fire Blankets: Complete Fire Safety Services
Fire blankets are just one part of a complete fire protection plan. At The Local Guys, our Melbourne team provides complete fire safety services, supporting businesses across the CBD, Docklands, Southbank, and surrounding suburbs.
We offer a wide range of fire safety services including:
- Fire Extinguisher Testing
- Portable Appliance Testing
- RCD Safety Switch Testing
- Microwave Leakage Testing
- Emergency Exit Light Testing
- Electrical Test and Tag
By combining fire blanket maintenance with other services, you’ll reduce the risk of workplace fires, stay aligned with Australian workplace safety standards, and provide a safer environment for staff and visitors.
FAQs About Fire Blanket Testing in Melbourne
How often should fire blankets be tested in Australia?
Every 6 months, as required by Australian Fire Safety Standards AS1851:2012 - Routine service of fire protection systems and equipment. For complete compliance, pair regular fire blanket testing in Melbourne with routine electrical Test and Tag services.
Do fire blankets expire?
Yes. Most fire blankets last between 7–10 years with good maintenance, but they will need to be replaced earlier if they become damaged or fail their 6-monthly inspection.
What should you not use a fire blanket on?
Fire blankets are not suitable for large fires, spreading flames, or fires involving chemicals or pressurised gases. They are the most effective against Class A, B and F fires.
Will a fire blanket stop an electrical fire?
No, fire blankets are not the recommended tool for electrical fires. Instead, use Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) fire extinguishers or dry chemical powder extinguishers, which are the most effective against Class E fires.
Key Takeaways
Fire blankets are essential fire safety tools, especially in Melbourne kitchens, canteens, restaurants, and workplaces. They can easily smother Class F cooking fires, garment fires, and other small-scale fire emergencies. To meet fire safety compliance in VIC, blankets must be tested every 6 months under AS1851:2012 - Routine service of fire protection systems and equipment.
With The Local Guys’ professional fire blanket testing Melbourne service, your safety equipment will remain safe, accessible, and fully compliant with 2025 Australian Standards. Contact our Melbourne Test and Tag team today for a free, no-obligation quote! Keep your workplace safe and compliant in 2025.
