Product Overview

This Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) sets out the high-level procedures, risk controls, and safety measures for the inspection, testing, installation, and maintenance of fire protection equipment and systems. It is a comprehensive, ready-to-use document that supports WHS compliance and consistent, safe management of all aspects of Fire Equipment Inspection Testing and Maintenance on Australian worksites.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Systematic emergency exit testing, including functional checks of doors, latches, panic bars, and clear egress routes
• Inspection and testing of emergency lighting systems to ensure adequate illumination of escape paths during power loss
• Fire alarm testing and enhancement activities, including sound pressure checks, indicator verification, and upgrade works
• Fire detection and alarm system testing, including detectors, call points, panels, and notification devices
• Routine fire extinguisher inspection and servicing, including pressure checks, integrity assessment, and tagging
• Safe installation and maintenance of portable fire extinguishers in accordance with manufacturer instructions and site requirements
• Fire pump servicing, repairs, and commissioning tests to verify reliable water supply for fire protection systems
• Inspection, testing, and maintenance of fixed fire suppression systems, including sprinklers and specialised suppression equipment
• Ongoing maintenance of fire-fighting equipment such as hydrants, hose reels, and associated fittings
• Portable hydrants, hose reels, and fire extinguishers inspection and testing to confirm accessibility, condition, and performance
• Property egress audits to assess signage, travel distances, obstructions, and overall compliance of escape routes
• Pumpset, sprinkler, and tank inspection and testing, including valve operation, flow testing, and level monitoring
• Regular checks of emergency exits to ensure they remain unlocked, unobstructed, and clearly marked at all times
• Safe repair and verification of firefighters’ operation switches and control interfaces for fire systems
• Smoke alarm testing and installation, including positioning, interconnection, and functional verification
• General electrical and working-at-heights risk controls associated with accessing, testing, and maintaining fire safety systems

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for fire protection contractors, electrical and fire service technicians, facility managers, building maintenance teams, and site supervisors responsible for fire equipment inspection, testing, installation, and maintenance.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaces Code of Practice: Guidance for controlling risks when working at heights during inspection, testing, and maintenance activities
• Managing Electrical Risks in the Workplace Code of Practice: Requirements and controls for electrical testing, connection, and maintenance of fire systems
• Managing the Work Environment and Facilities Code of Practice: Expectations for safe access, egress, lighting, and emergency arrangements in buildings
• How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice: Framework for identifying hazards, assessing risks, and implementing controls for fire equipment work
• AS 1851 – Routine Service of Fire Protection Systems and Equipment: Standard for inspection, testing, and maintenance of fire detection, suppression, and alarm systems
• AS 2444 – Portable Fire Extinguishers and Fire Blankets – Selection and Location: Requirements for correct selection and placement of portable fire extinguishers
• AS 2293 – Emergency Escape Lighting and Exit Signs for Buildings: Standards for emergency lighting and exit signage performance and installation
• AS 1670 – Fire Detection, Warning, Control and Intercom Systems: Design and performance requirements for fire detection and alarm systems tested under this SWMS
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017