Product Overview

Summary: This Fire Risk Assessment Safe Operating Procedure provides a clear, repeatable method for identifying, evaluating and controlling fire hazards across Australian workplaces. It helps businesses demonstrate due diligence under WHS law, reduce the likelihood and impact of workplace fires, and protect people, property and continuity of operations.

Fire is a critical risk for almost every Australian workplace, from offices and retail spaces through to warehouses, manufacturing plants and construction sites. This Fire Risk Assessment Safe Operating Procedure sets out a structured, evidence-based process for identifying ignition sources, fuel loads, vulnerable areas and people at risk, and for assessing the adequacy of existing fire protection and emergency arrangements. It translates legislative and technical requirements into practical, step-by-step actions that can be consistently applied across multiple sites and operations.

By implementing this SOP, organisations can move from ad‑hoc inspections to a robust, documented fire risk management system that stands up to regulatory scrutiny. The procedure supports PCBUs in meeting their WHS duties by ensuring hazards are identified, risk levels are clearly rated, and appropriate controls—such as housekeeping, storage practices, electrical safety, hot work controls, fire detection and suppression systems, and evacuation planning—are systematically evaluated and improved. This not only reduces the likelihood and severity of fire incidents, but also minimises business disruption, protects brand reputation, and provides a defensible record of due diligence in the event of an audit, claim or investigation.

Key Benefits

• Ensure a consistent, defensible approach to fire risk assessment across all sites and operations.
• Reduce the likelihood and potential impact of workplace fires through systematic hazard identification and control.
• Demonstrate compliance with Australian WHS legislation, fire safety regulations and insurer expectations.
• Streamline inspections, documentation and follow‑up actions with a clear, step‑by‑step assessment methodology.
• Support better investment decisions by prioritising fire safety improvements based on clear risk ratings.

Who is this for?

• WHS Managers
• Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs)
• Facility Managers
• Operations Managers
• Site Supervisors
• Fire Wardens and Emergency Coordinators
• Risk and Compliance Managers
• Maintenance Managers
• Business Owners and PCBU Representatives
• Property Managers

Hazards Addressed

• Ignition from faulty or overloaded electrical equipment and cabling
• Accumulation of combustible waste, packaging and dust
• Improper storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids and gases
• Uncontrolled hot work (welding, cutting, grinding) and sparks
• Blocked or inadequate means of egress and emergency exits
• Insufficient or poorly maintained fire detection and alarm systems
• Inadequate fire suppression equipment (extinguishers, hose reels, sprinklers)
• Human factors such as unsafe smoking practices or misuse of heaters
• Arson or unauthorised access to high‑risk areas
• Inadequate emergency response planning and evacuation procedures

Included Sections

• 1.0 Purpose and Scope
• 2.0 Definitions and Key Terms
• 3.0 Roles, Responsibilities and Competency Requirements
• 4.0 Legal and Other Requirements (WHS and Fire Safety)
• 5.0 Fire Risk Assessment Methodology and Risk Rating Matrix
• 6.0 Pre‑Assessment Planning and Information Gathering
• 7.0 Site Inspection Checklist – Common Fire Hazards
• 8.0 Assessment of Fire Protection Systems and Equipment
• 9.0 Assessment of Evacuation Routes, Exits and Emergency Planning
• 10.0 Evaluation of Existing Controls and Identification of Gaps
• 11.0 Action Planning, Risk Treatment and Prioritisation
• 12.0 Documentation, Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements
• 13.0 Review, Monitoring and Re‑assessment Frequencies
• 14.0 Training, Communication and Consultation with Workers
• 15.0 Emergency Response Interface and Continuous Improvement

Legislation & References

• Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth and harmonised state and territory laws)
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011 (Cth and harmonised state and territory laws)
• Safe Work Australia – Managing the Work Environment and Facilities Code of Practice
• Safe Work Australia – Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals in the Workplace Code of Practice
• AS 3745: Planning for emergencies in facilities
• AS 1851: Routine service of fire protection systems and equipment
• AS 2444: Portable fire extinguishers and fire blankets – Selection and location
• AS 1670 series: Fire detection, warning, control and intercom systems
• AS/NZS ISO 31000: Risk management – Guidelines