A fire blanket is a critical piece of fire safety equipment designed to extinguish small fires in kitchens, workplaces, and industrial settings across Australia.
Crafted from fire-resistant materials like fibreglass, it smothers flames by cutting off oxygen, stopping fires before they spread.
Here’s how to ensure your business or home stays compliant and safe with fire blankets—and answers to common queries about their application, usage, testing and compliance.
What Are Fire Blankets Used For? Key Applications in Australian Settings
Fire blankets are used for tackling small, contained fires, making them indispensable under Australian safety regulations.
They’re ideal for:
- Kitchen Fires: Safely extinguish grease fires caused by cooking oils (common in cafés, restaurants, and homes).
- Clothing Fires: Wrap around a person to stifle flames (critical in workshops or labs).
- Electrical Fires: Smother fires in appliances without risking electrocution (ensure power is off first!).
- Workshop/Industrial Fires: Address small chemical or machinery fires in compliance with SafeWork Australia guidelines.
Fire blankets come in different sizes to suit varied Australian environments:
- Small (1m x 1m): For homes, food trucks, or office kitchens.
- Large (1.8m x 1.8m): Industrial settings, factories, or workshops (aligns with AS 1851-2012 standards).
Check your state’s regulations to choose the right size for your business.
How Is a Fire Blanket Used? A Step-by-Step Guide
- Pull the tabs: Quickly release the blanket from its wall-mounted container (marked with a fire blanket sign).
- Cover the flames: Shield your hands and drape the blanket over the fire, starting from the edge to trap smoke and heat.
- Cut off oxygen: Leave the blanket in place for 15–20 minutes until the fire is fully smothered.
- Evacuate if needed: If the fire grows, exit immediately and call 000.
Always train staff on this process—workplace safety starts with preparation!
How to locate a Fire Blanket? Signs & Symbols Compliance in Australia
Australian Standards require clear fire blanket symbols and signage to ensure quick identification during emergencies. Look for:
- A white flame graphic on a red background: The universal fire blanket sign per AS 1851-2012.
- Wall-mounted labels: Install near blankets with instructions like “Pull to release.”
Tip: Audit signage annually to meet local council and Work Health Safety (WHS) requirements.
Fire Blanket Testing and Replacement
Regular inspections ensure that your fire blankets are in working condition:
- Fire Blanket Inspection Frequency: Check for damage, expiry dates, or obstructions every 6 months as per AS1851:2012 standards.
- Fire Blanket Replacement eplace immediately if used: Fire blankets should be replaced if they show signs of wear or have been used in an emergency. Even a minor deployment weakens the material.
- Upgrade outdated blankets: Pre-2012 models may not meet current AS/NZS standards.
Ensure your workplace is equipped with fire blankets and is up to date with testing to guarantee quick fire response.