Fire Extinguisher Testing in Melbourne: How Often & Who Does It
How Often Should Fire Extinguishers Be Tested in Melbourne? (2024 Guide)
A coffee machine gets serviced more often than some Melbourne fire extinguishers - and that's a problem. Under AS 1851-2012, your extinguishers need professional testing every 6 months, no exceptions. Get it wrong, and you're risking more than fines - you're gambling with lives.
Here's what facility managers and hospitality owners need to know about testing schedules, costs, and Melbourne's top service providers.
1. The Legal Requirements: AS 1851-2012 Breakdown
Testing Frequency
- Every 6 months: Full pressure testing and inspection by licensed technician
- Monthly: Visual checks by staff (log these!)
"We fined a Southbank office $3,850 last month for expired extinguisher tags," warns a Fire Services Victoria inspector. "The building manager thought annual checks were enough."
What Gets Tested?
✔ Pressure levels
✔ Nozzle obstructions
✔ Corrosion (especially important in bayside suburbs like St Kilda)
✔ Tamper seals
2. Melbourne Suburb Spotlight: Testing Costs & Providers
SuburbAverage Cost (6-month test)Special ConsiderationsCBD$45-$65 per unitAfter-hours premiums (Docklands towers often pay +20%)Brunswick$35-$55Heritage buildings need gentle handlingDandenong$30-$50Industrial sites need chemical-resistant unitsMornington$40-$60Coastal corrosion checks
Pro Tip: Bundling with Emergency Exit Lighting inspections can save 15-20%.
3. The 5-Step Testing Process (What to Expect)
- Tag Removal - Technician replaces dated compliance tag
- Pressure Test - Checks for leaks/weak spots
- Weighing - Ensures correct chemical volume
- Part Replacement - Seals, hoses, pins as needed
- Documentation - You receive:
- Service report (keep for 5 years)
- New compliance tag (colour-coded by year)
4. Common Melbourne Failure Points
Hospitality (Fitzroy/Carlton):
- Grease buildup on kitchen extinguishers
- Missing CO² units near deep fryers
Offices (CBD/St Kilda Rd):
- Extinguishers blocked by furniture
- Expired units in server rooms
Warehouses (Truganina):
- Damaged units from forklifts
- Incorrect powder types for chemicals
5. DIY Checks Between Professional Tests
Every month, staff should:
✓ Verify the pin seal is intact
✓ Check for visible damage
✓ Confirm pressure gauge is green
"Can't I Just Test Annually?" - The Risks
A 2023 Footscray factory fire proved why not:
- Their annual-tested extinguishers failed mid-blaze
- $280,000 in damages
- WorkSafe prosecution still ongoing
Additional risks:
- Voided insurance (common claim denial reason)
- $4,950+ fines under the Building Act 1993
Melbourne Testing Services Next Steps
✔ Schedule testing: Most providers book 2-3 weeks out in peak seasons
Behind on testing? Our Melbourne team offers priority fire safety services with 24-hour turnaround for urgent cases.
