Common Fire Safety Code Violations in Commercial Buildings Across Australia
Maintaining fire safety in commercial buildings isn’t just good practice—it’s a legal requirement designed to protect lives, assets, and business continuity. Yet, even with regulations in place, many buildings across Australia still fall short of meeting compliance standards. From outdated equipment to blocked exits, common fire safety code violations can expose businesses to serious risks, including fines, legal action, and potential disaster. Below, we explore the most frequent fire safety breaches in Australian commercial properties and how to avoid them.
Obstructed or Inaccessible Fire Exits
One of the most critical violations is the obstruction of emergency exits. In an emergency, every second counts—and any delay due to a blocked door or unclear exit path can be life-threatening. Common issues include:
- Storage of goods in front of exit doors
- Exit signage being obscured or not illuminated
- Doors being locked or difficult to open from the inside
Tip: Conduct regular walk-throughs to ensure all emergency exits are clear, accessible, and well-lit.
Non-Compliant Fire Doors
Fire doors are specifically engineered to contain fire and smoke, providing vital time for evacuation. However, many are compromised by:
- Propping them open with wedges
- Installing non-compliant door hardware
- Removing or disabling self-closing mechanisms
Tip: Never prop fire doors open. Ensure they meet Australian Standards (AS 1905.1) and are regularly inspected for damage or tampering.
Inadequate or Missing Fire Extinguishers
Australian workplaces are legally required to have suitable fire extinguishers installed, maintained, and accessible. Common oversights include:
- Incorrect type or number of extinguishers
- Poor placement, making them hard to reach
- Missing signage or identification tags
Tip: Fire equipment must be maintained in line with AS 1851 and inspected at least every six months.
Lapsed or Incorrect Fire Safety Maintenance
Maintenance of fire safety systems—including alarms, sprinklers, and hydrants—is essential for functional readiness. However, violations often stem from:
- Irregular servicing schedules
- Incomplete or outdated maintenance records
- Use of unqualified service providers
Tip: Stay on top of scheduled servicing, and engage certified professionals for inspections and repairs. Regular upkeep also supports your ability to obtain annual compliance certification, which is essential for demonstrating regulatory adherence.
Faulty or Non-Compliant Fire Alarm Systems
Fire alarms are your first line of defence. But outdated or poorly maintained systems can fail when they’re needed most. Common issues include:
- Dead backup batteries
- Alarms not connected to the building’s main power
- Outdated control panels or incompatible detectors
Tip: Upgrade ageing systems and test alarms routinely to ensure they’re operational and meet AS 1670.1 compliance.
Inadequate Emergency Lighting and Signage
In the event of a power outage or thick smoke, emergency lighting and signage help occupants safely exit a building. Violations often involve:
- Burnt-out bulbs in emergency lights
- Signage that doesn’t comply with AS 2293
- Poor visibility due to dirt or positioning
Tip: Conduct routine checks to confirm that all emergency lights and signs function correctly and are clearly visible.
Lack of Staff Fire Safety Training
Even with compliant infrastructure, human error can lead to disaster. Many businesses fail to properly train staff on:
- Emergency evacuation procedures
- The correct use of fire extinguishers
- Recognising and reporting fire hazards
Tip: Hold regular fire drills and provide refresher training to ensure everyone knows their role in an emergency.
Fire safety compliance is not a once-off task—it’s an ongoing responsibility that requires vigilance, education, and proper documentation
Avoiding these common violations helps protect not only your workforce and customers but also your business’s legal and financial wellbeing. Working with professionals who specialise in fire compliance can greatly reduce your risks and help ensure all obligations are met. regulation.
Remember: A compliant workplace is a safer, more resilient one. Don’t wait for an incident to uncover fire safety issues—address them proactively.
