Fire Blanket Guidelines for Compliance and Safety in Australia

Essential Fire Blanket Compliance and Safety Guidelines for Australia

Fire safety is not something anyone plans to deal with—but when an emergency happens, being prepared can save lives. In Australia, where fire risks range from kitchen accidents to bushfires and industrial hazards, having the right fire safety equipment is essential. Among all firefighting tools, fire blankets are often overlooked, yet they play a critical role in controlling small fires before they turn catastrophic.

This guide explores fire blanket requirements in Australia, including legal considerations, Australian Standards, correct installation, maintenance, and real-world use cases. Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, landlord, or safety manager, this article will help you understand exactly when fire blankets are required, where they should be installed, and how to ensure compliance.

What Is a Fire Blanket and How Does It Work?

A fire blanket is a specially designed safety device used to extinguish or control small fires. It is typically made from fire-resistant woven glass fibre or similar materials that can withstand extremely high temperatures.

Fire blankets work by cutting off the oxygen supply that a fire needs to burn. When placed correctly over a flame, the blanket smothers the fire, preventing it from spreading. This makes fire blankets particularly effective for:

• Cooking fires

• Clothing fires

• Small flammable liquid fires

• Electrical fires (in early stages)

Unlike fire extinguishers, fire blankets are simple to use, require no training, and do not create residue or secondary damage.

Why Fire Blankets Are Especially Important in Australia

Australia is uniquely vulnerable to fire risks. From extreme summer heat to bushfires, industrial activity, and dense urban living, fire incidents can escalate quickly.

Fire blankets are an important part of Australia’s broader fire safety approach because they:

• Provide immediate response in the early stages of a fire

• Are safe for use by untrained individuals

• Reduce reliance on extinguishers for small, containable fires

• Minimise injury and property damage

In many situations, a fire blanket is the fastest and safest option available.

Australian Standards for Fire Blankets (AS/NZS 3504:2006)

Fire blanket requirements in Australia are governed by AS/NZS 3504:2006, the Australian and New Zealand Standard for fire blankets.

To be compliant, a fire blanket must meet the following criteria:

• Minimum size: No less than 1 metre x 1 metre

• Material: Fire-resistant fabric capable of withstanding high temperatures

• Performance: Must pass flame spread and heat resistance tests

• Labelling: Clear instructions for use, manufacturer details, and compliance markings

• Packaging: Designed for quick and safe deployment in an emergency

Choosing a blanket that complies with this standard ensures it will perform reliably when needed most.

Are Fire Blankets a Legal Requirement in Australia?

One of the most common questions is: Are fire blankets legally required?

The short answer is: not always, but often.

Fire blankets are not universally mandated by federal law. However, they are frequently required under:

• State and territory fire safety regulations

• Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) laws

• Building codes and industry-specific standards

• Risk assessments and insurance conditions

In many commercial and high-risk environments, the absence of a fire blanket can be considered a failure to provide adequate fire protection.

Fire Blankets and Workplace Health and Safety (WHS)

Under Australian WHS legislation, employers have a legal duty to eliminate or minimise fire risks as far as reasonably practicable.

This often includes providing:

• Fire extinguishers

• Smoke alarms

• Emergency exits

• Fire blankets

If a fire blanket is identified as necessary in a risk assessment and not provided, this could lead to legal liability in the event of an incident.

When Is a Fire Blanket Required?

Fire blankets are required or strongly recommended in situations where small, fast-spreading fires are likely.

1. Kitchens (Residential and Commercial)

Kitchens are the number one location for fires in Australia. Fire blankets are ideal for:

• Oil and grease fires

• Pan fires

• Clothing catching fire

Commercial kitchens often require fire blankets by regulation, while residential kitchens are strongly encouraged to have one installed.

2. Restaurants, Cafés, and Food Trucks

Hospitality venues face increased fire risks due to:

• High-heat cooking

• Open flames

• Fat and grease build-up

Fire blankets are commonly required alongside extinguishers and must be easily accessible near cooking areas.

3. Laboratories and Educational Facilities

Science labs contain:

• Flammable chemicals

• Electrical equipment

• Open flames

Fire blankets are essential for personal safety, particularly to extinguish clothing fires.

4. Workshops and Industrial Sites

Workshops involving:

• Welding

• Grinding

• Soldering

• Machinery

often require fire blankets to control sparks and hot material fires quickly.

5. Commercial Buildings and Offices

While offices may not always legally require fire blankets, they are often included in fire safety plans—especially where kitchens, server rooms, or electrical equipment are present.

6. Schools and Childcare Centres

Fire safety is a top priority in environments with children. Fire blankets are often required in:

• Science rooms

• Home economics kitchens

• Staff kitchens

7. Boats, Caravans, and RVs

Confined spaces and gas appliances make fire blankets an essential safety item for:

• Boats

• Caravans

• Motorhomes

They provide a compact, effective solution where extinguishers may be difficult to use.

8. Hotels and Accommodation Facilities

Fire blankets are commonly required in:

• Commercial kitchens

• Staff food preparation areas

• Some in-room kitchenettes

9. Residential Homes

Although not mandatory, fire authorities strongly recommend fire blankets in homes—particularly in kitchens and near heaters.

10. Emergency Preparedness Kits

Fire blankets are increasingly included in:

• Home emergency kits

• Vehicle safety kits

• Community centres and public spaces

Where Should a Fire Blanket Be Installed?

Correct placement is just as important as having the blanket itself.

Fire blankets should be:

• Mounted on a wall

• Easily visible and accessible

• Installed away from direct fire risk

• Positioned between the user and a potential fire source

In kitchens, they are often installed near exits, allowing users to retreat safely after deployment.

How to Use a Fire Blanket Safely

Knowing how to use a fire blanket correctly can prevent injury.

Basic steps include:

1. Turn off the heat source if safe to do so

2. Pull the tabs to release the blanket

3. Hold the blanket in front of you as a shield

4. Gently place it over the fire

5. Leave it in place until completely cool

Never throw the blanket, and never remove it too early.

Fire Blanket Inspection and Maintenance Requirements

Fire blankets are low maintenance, but they still require regular checks.

Recommended practices include:

• Monthly visual inspections

• Ensuring packaging is intact

• Checking instructions are legible

• Replacing blankets after use or damage

Unlike fire extinguishers, fire blankets do not require annual professional servicing, but they must always be ready for immediate use.

Fire Blankets vs Fire Extinguishers

Fire blankets and extinguishers serve different purposes.

Fire blankets are best for:

• Small, contained fires

• Cooking fires

• Clothing fires

Fire extinguishers are better for:

• Larger fires

• Electrical equipment

• Flammable liquid spills

In most environments, the best approach is to have both.

Common Mistakes People Make with Fire Blankets

Some common errors include:

• Installing them too close to heat sources

• Blocking access with furniture

• Not training staff on proper use

• Using non-compliant products

Avoiding these mistakes ensures your fire blanket is effective when needed.

Choosing the Right Fire Blanket in Australia

When purchasing a fire blanket, always ensure:

• Compliance with AS/NZS 3504

• Clear labelling and instructions

• Appropriate size for the risk

• Reputable supplier or manufacturer

Cheap, non-compliant blankets can fail under pressure—quality matters.

Do Fire Blankets Expire?

Fire blankets do not have a strict expiry date, but they should be replaced if:

• The packaging is damaged

• The blanket has been used

• Instructions are missing or unreadable

• The material shows signs of wear

Regular checks help ensure ongoing reliability.

Conclusion: Fire Blankets Are a Small Investment with Huge Impact

Fire blankets may seem simple, but they are one of the most effective and accessible fire safety tools available. In Australia, where fire risks are a constant reality, understanding fire blanket requirements is not just about compliance—it’s about protecting lives, property, and peace of mind.

While fire blankets may not be legally required in every situation, they are strongly recommended and often essential in kitchens, workplaces, laboratories, and public spaces. By choosing compliant products, installing them correctly, and maintaining them properly, you create a safer environment for everyone.

In fire safety, seconds matter—and a properly placed fire blanket can make all the difference.