Commercial Kitchens

Where fire blankets are listed on the AFSS and where required by WHS regulations, fire blankets are mandatory.

Fire extinguishers should be installed near the exits and preferably at least 2m from a likely fire source. You also don’t want to travel more than 15m to get to an extinguisher.

• First Attack training for how to use an extinguisher, fire blanket and hose reel
• Evacuation and fire drill training.
• Possibly fire warden training for larger kitchens.

We offer tailored fire safety training.

Ventilation is extremely important for removing general fumes caused by cooking and reducing commercial kitchen fire hazards. Therefore, the ventilation system usually operates all the time the kitchen is in use. Ventilation systems can also be important in removing smoke from a fire. They can collect grease (a fuel) and are located near cooking equipment (a heat source). They can become a fire hazard if not properly maintained and cleaned regularly.

• Keep them away from heat and ignition sources.
• Have the correct extinguisher to hand.
• Train staff in their storage and use.
• Consider a flammable good storage cabinet for larger quantities.

We generally price on a point rate. So, the number of extinguishers, detectors, fire doors, emergency lights, etc., that are required to be inspected, tested, maintained, repaired or certified will determine the price of the quote. We can provide a quote over the phone if we are given all this information and all the required standards and legislation we need to work on for the specific property. Alternatively, we can send someone to the site to provide obligation-free quotes. We often find we are not given all the information over the phone; therefore, there are variations once we get to the site. So, we prefer to come to the site. Note: Consultation and investigation work on site is chargeable.

Fire safety requirements are generally defined by the National Code of Construction, EPA, and WHS legislation. The NCC defines multi-dwelling buildings, but Strata is not specifically mentioned. We can assist you in understanding what requirements are necessary depending on your building.

Under the legislation, the building owner is responsible for maintaining the fire safety systems. In the case of strata, the Body Corporate or Owner’s Corporation is considered the building owner.

Australian Standard 1851 recommends when fire safety equipment should be inspected. The EPA states the building must be maintained, and an Annual Fire Safety Statement must be made by the building owner.

If someone is in danger or at a high risk of danger, call the fire brigade or emergency services. If there is a lower risk, the person identifying the risk should do what they can to make it safe without endangering themselves. If they can’t make it safe, they should report it to the building owner/Body Corp/Strata Manager. Our routine maintenance and test & inspect services will notify you of any fire safety hazards and offer advice on how to rectify it.

WHS legislation defines when a work environment requires fire drills. If it is a requirement on the Fire Safety Schedule and AFSS, then yes. If you’re unsure, contact us, and our team can assist in clarifying what applies to your specific property.

Special fire safety considerations for high-rise buildings are defined by the NCC, regardless of whether the building is strata or not. High-rise buildings generally have extra consideration for the extended evacuation routes and the requirement to contain a fire.