FIRE SAFETY
Preventing Fire Hazards at Work: A Practical Checklist
Fire prevention at work isn't one big task — it's a handful of small, checkable things kept current: electrical equipment, fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, and clear paths out. Here's a practical checklist a business owner can actually run through.
Published 29 July 2026
Reviewed by Fadi Raslan, licensed technician (TTT69067)
Fire prevention is a year-round job, not just a winter one — though portable heaters and electric blankets do add real risk over the colder months (see our guides on portable heater hazards and electric blanket safety). This checklist covers the areas that matter most for a typical NSW workplace.
Electrical leads and appliances
- ✓Check cords and plugs for visible damage before use
- ✓Don't overload power boards — spread equipment across multiple outlets where possible
- ✓Keep portable heaters and electric blankets well clear of combustible material
- ✓Make sure all portable electrical equipment is on a current test and tag schedule under AS/NZS 3760
Fire extinguishers
These figures are a general guide, not a substitute for a proper assessment — exact requirements depend on your site's fire class and hazard level.
- ✓Generally at least one extinguisher per 200 m² of floor area in lower-risk areas
- ✓Generally no more than 15 metres of travel distance to reach an extinguisher
- ✓Extinguishers serviced every 6 months under AS 1851
- ✓Clearly signed, visible, and with unobstructed access
Emergency and exit lighting
- ✓Tested every 6 months under AS/NZS 2293, with an annual 90-minute full battery discharge test
- ✓Exit signs illuminated and clearly visible
- ✓Egress paths kept clear of anything that could obstruct emergency lighting coverage
Clear egress
- ✓Exit paths and doors never blocked by stock, furniture, or equipment
- ✓Fire doors kept closed and unobstructed
- ✓Evacuation diagrams current and displayed where staff and visitors can see them
Safe appliance use
- ✓Never leave heaters or other high-draw appliances running unattended
- ✓Follow manufacturer guidance for any electrical appliance
- ✓Report damaged equipment immediately rather than continuing to use it
How we help
We bundle electrical test and tag with fire extinguisher servicing, emergency and exit lighting testing, and fire blanket inspection in a single visit through our fire safety compliance service — one provider, one appointment, same-day digital certificates, from a $120 + GST minimum covering your first 30 items.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a fire safety checklist for my workplace?
How often should I run through this checklist?
Can one provider handle both electrical and fire safety compliance?
Where can I find the official fire safety codes referenced here?
Related Articles
Need Test & Tag or Fire Safety Compliance?
We come to your Sydney workplace. Same-day certificates. Automatic reminders.