Fire Blanket Inspections Under AS1851: Guide to Compliance, Safety, and Best Practices

Fire Products Direct
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Essential Guide to Fire Blanket Inspections Under AS1851 for Safety and Compliance

Fire safety is not something you can afford to overlook—especially when lives, property, and business continuity are at stake. Among the many fire protection tools available today, fire blankets remain one of the simplest yet most effective solutions for controlling small fires, particularly in kitchens and high-risk environments. However, owning a fire blanket alone is not enough. Regular fire blanket inspections, carried out in accordance with AS1851 guidelines, are essential to ensure that this critical safety device performs as expected during an emergency.

In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about fire blanket testing, inspection schedules, compliance requirements, lifespan, and best practices. Whether you’re a business owner, facility manager, or homeowner, this article will help you understand why biannual inspections matter and how they contribute to a safer environment.

Understanding AS1851 and Fire Blanket Inspection Requirements

AS1851 is the Australian Standard that outlines the routine servicing of fire protection systems and equipment. While it covers a wide range of fire safety devices, fire blankets are specifically included due to their importance in first-response fire control.

Under AS1851 guidelines, fire blankets must be inspected every six months. These inspections are designed to confirm that the blanket is:

In good physical condition
Easily accessible
Correctly installed
Ready for immediate use

Failing to comply with AS1851 inspection requirements can expose businesses to increased risk, potential penalties, and insurance complications. More importantly, it can compromise safety when a fire emergency occurs.

What Is a Fire Blanket and Why Is It So Important?

A fire blanket is a flame-resistant safety blanket, typically made from woven fibreglass or similar fire-retardant materials. Its primary function is to smother flames by cutting off the oxygen supply, making it highly effective for:

Class F fires (cooking oils and fats)
Clothing fires
Small bench-top or appliance fires

Because fire blankets are simple to use and do not require technical knowledge, they are ideal for kitchens, food trucks, laboratories, workshops, and even residential homes. When used correctly, a fire blanket can prevent a minor fire from turning into a major disaster.

Why Biannual Fire Blanket Inspections Are Essential

Fire blankets may appear low-maintenance, but that doesn’t mean they are maintenance-free. Over time, environmental factors, mishandling, or improper storage can reduce their effectiveness.

Biannual inspections every six months ensure that:

The blanket has not been damaged or contaminated
Pull tabs function correctly
Instructions remain legible
The blanket can be deployed smoothly and safely

Regular inspections are not just a regulatory requirement—they are a proactive safety measure that protects people and property.

Who Should Conduct Fire Blanket Inspections?

While basic visual checks can be performed by staff, formal AS1851 fire blanket inspections should be carried out by trained and qualified technicians. These professionals understand compliance requirements and know what to look for during a detailed assessment.

Qualified technicians will:

Inspect the fire blanket for defects
Confirm compliance with AS1851
Reinstall or replace the blanket if required
Record inspection results for audit and compliance purposes

Relying on trained experts ensures your fire blanket is always ready for use when seconds matter most.

How to Properly Inspect a Fire Blanket: Step-by-Step Guide

Knowing how a fire blanket inspection works helps you understand what technicians look for and why each step matters.

Step 1: Visual Examination

The inspection begins with a thorough visual check. The technician looks for:

Holes or tears
Frayed edges
Discolouration
Signs of contamination such as grease or dust

Any visible damage can significantly reduce the effectiveness of the fire blanket and usually means replacement is required.

Step 2: Unfolding the Fire Blanket

The blanket is carefully removed from its container and fully unfolded following manufacturer instructions. This step ensures:

There are no hidden defects
The material is flexible and intact
The blanket can fully cover a fire source

Creases or improper folding may affect deployment speed during an emergency.

Step 3: Checking Pull Tapes and Release Mechanisms

Most fire blankets feature pull tabs or tapes for quick release. These are checked to ensure:

They are securely attached
They pull smoothly
They release the blanket without obstruction

If pull tabs fail, valuable seconds may be lost during a fire emergency.

Step 4: Reviewing Manufacturer Instructions

Clear instructions are essential for safe and effective use. Inspectors verify that:

Instructions are present
Text and diagrams are legible
Usage steps are accurate

If instructions are missing or damaged, the fire blanket may not meet compliance standards.

Step 5: Refolding the Fire Blanket Correctly

Once inspection is complete, the fire blanket is refolded according to manufacturer guidelines. Proper folding ensures:

Quick deployment
Correct orientation during use
Reduced risk of tangling or snagging

Incorrect folding can render a fire blanket ineffective when needed most.

Step 6: Documenting and Scheduling Ongoing Maintenance

Finally, the inspection is recorded, and the next six-month inspection is scheduled. Regular documentation is vital for:

Compliance audits
Insurance requirements
Workplace safety records

Fire Blankets in Commercial Kitchens: A Critical Safety Requirement

Commercial kitchens are among the highest-risk environments for fire. Hot oils, open flames, and electrical equipment create the perfect conditions for Class F fires.

In these settings, a tested and fully functional fire blanket is not optional—it is essential. Fire blankets are especially effective for:

Pan fires
Deep fryer incidents
Clothing catching fire

Regular fire blanket inspections ensure that kitchen staff can respond quickly and safely without relying solely on fire extinguishers.

Is a Fire Blanket Necessary for Your Business?

If your business involves:

Commercial cooking
Food trucks or catering
Flammable liquids or oils
Laboratories or workshops

Then fire blankets and regular fire blanket testing should be a core part of your fire safety strategy.

While risks can never be eliminated entirely, being prepared with compliant fire safety equipment significantly reduces the potential for injury, property damage, and business disruption.

The Role of Fire Blanket Inspections in Workplace Compliance

Workplace health and safety regulations place a strong emphasis on risk management and emergency preparedness. Fire blanket inspections demonstrate that you are taking reasonable steps to protect:

Employees
Customers
Visitors

Non-compliance can result in fines, legal liability, and reputational damage. Regular inspections help ensure your workplace meets both safety expectations and regulatory standards.

Understanding the Lifespan of a Fire Blanket

Unlike many fire safety products, fire blankets do not have a fixed expiry date. Their lifespan depends entirely on their condition.

A fire blanket can remain in service indefinitely provided that:

It is undamaged
It has not been used
It passes regular inspections

However, once a fire blanket has been deployed, it must be replaced immediately. Fire blankets are designed for single use only, and reuse can compromise their effectiveness.

Common Signs a Fire Blanket Needs Replacement

During inspections, technicians look for signs that indicate replacement is necessary, including:

Tears or holes
Burn marks
Stiff or brittle material
Missing or damaged pull tabs
Contamination with oils or chemicals

Replacing a compromised fire blanket is always safer than taking unnecessary risks.

Proper Storage and Accessibility of Fire Blankets

Even the best fire blanket is useless if it cannot be accessed quickly. Proper storage is a key part of fire blanket compliance.

Fire blankets should be:

Mounted on a wall
Clearly visible
Located near fire risk areas (but not too close)
Free from obstructions

Easy access ensures that anyone can use the fire blanket confidently in an emergency.

Fire Blanket Training: Why Awareness Matters

While fire blankets are simple to use, basic training and awareness can make a significant difference during a real fire incident.

Staff should know:

Where fire blankets are located
How to pull and deploy them
How to protect their hands while using the blanket
When to use a fire blanket instead of an extinguisher

Combined with regular inspections, training strengthens your overall fire safety strategy.

How Fire Blanket Inspections Protect Lives and Property

Fire blanket inspections may seem routine, but their impact is profound. A well-maintained fire blanket can:

Prevent fires from spreading
Reduce injury risk
Minimise property damage
Provide peace of mind

Proactive maintenance ensures that when a fire occurs, your equipment works exactly as intended.

Choosing a Reliable Fire Safety Inspection Provider

Partnering with a trusted fire safety service provider ensures your inspections are thorough, compliant, and stress-free. Experienced technicians bring expertise, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety that goes beyond basic compliance.

A professional inspection team helps you:

Stay compliant with AS1851
Identify risks early
Maintain accurate service records
Prepare for emergencies with confidence

Conclusion: Invest in Fire Blanket Inspections for a Safer Tomorrow

Fire blankets are a vital part of any fire protection system, but their effectiveness depends entirely on regular inspection and proper maintenance. Under AS1851 guidelines, scheduling fire blanket inspections every six months is not just a recommendation—it is a responsibility.

By ensuring your fire blankets are tested, accessible, and free from defects, you protect lives, safeguard property, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to safety. Whether in a commercial kitchen, workplace, or home, proactive fire blanket inspections are a small investment that delivers invaluable peace of mind.

Invest in safety today to secure a safer tomorrow—for yourself, your people, and your property.