Fire Extinguisher Installation Guide
Correct fire extinguisher installation plays a vital role in protecting people, property, and businesses from fire damage. An incorrectly installed fire extinguisher may not be accessible during an emergency, may fail compliance checks, and can expose your business to unnecessary risk.
Our guide explains how to install fire extinguishers correctly, outlines the key requirements under Australian Standards, and highlights why our professional installation is often the safest and most reliable option.
If you require expert assistance, Fullworks Fire Safety provides professional fire extinguisher installation services across Western Australia, ensuring your equipment is installed correctly and in full compliance. Visit our installation and pricing page for more info.
Installing Fire Extinguishers in Accordance with Australian Standards
Fire extinguisher installation in Australia must comply with AS2444, the Australian Standard that governs the selection, installation, and location of portable fire extinguishers. The purpose of this standard is to ensure that fire extinguishers are suitable for the fire risks present and can be accessed quickly during an emergency.
Installation decisions should consider more than just wall space. Fire hazards, building layout, surrounding environment, and sufficient square metre coverage all influence correct placement. When extinguishers are installed incorrectly, response times increase and insurance companies may deny claims following a fire event.
Fire Extinguisher Location Requirements
Location is one of the most critical elements of installing fire extinguishers. Extinguishers must be easily accessible, clearly visible, and positioned so they can be carried quickly to the fire hazard without obstruction.
Electrical hazards require CO₂ or dry powder extinguishers. These must be installed between 2 m and 20 m from the hazard and are commonly used near electrical equipment, plant rooms, and switchboards.
In commercial kitchens and food preparation areas, wet chemical extinguishers are essential due to the presence of cooking oils and fats. These extinguishers must also be positioned between 2 m and 20 m from the hazard. Fire blankets are typically installed adjacent to cooking areas to provide an additional layer of fire safety.
For significant switchboards, an extinguisher with an E rating is required. Carbon dioxide extinguishers are commonly used and must be installed within the same distance requirements to ensure rapid access.
Correct Installation Height and Visibility
Fire extinguishers must be installed at a height that allows safe and easy access for most people. AS2444 specifies that the bottom of the extinguisher must be no less than 100 mm from floor level, while the handle must not exceed 1200 mm from the floor.
These height requirements improve accessibility for people of different height and visual acuity. Extinguishers must also be mounted in a visible position and not hidden behind doors, equipment, or fixtures that could delay access during an emergency.
Wall Mounting and Bracket Installation
All portable fire extinguishers must be securely mounted using an approved wall bracket. Proper mounting prevents accidental demounting and ensures the extinguisher remains in a ready position.
The type of wall and fixing method is critical. Fixings must be suitable for plaster, brick, concrete, or other wall surfaces and capable of supporting the full weight of the extinguisher. For example, a fully charged 9 kg dry powder extinguisher weighs approximately 14.5 kg.
Before installation, it is essential to identify any hidden cables, pipes, or services within the wall. Incorrect installation can create additional safety hazards and compromise compliance.
Important Fire Extinguisher Installation Considerations
Before installing extinguishers, confirm that the correct type has been selected for the identified fire risks. Coverage must be sufficient for the size and layout of the premises, ensuring extinguishers are not spaced too far apart.
Accessibility is equally important. Extinguishers should not be installed where traffic flow increases the risk of damage or misuse, yet they must remain easy to reach during an emergency. In certain environments, cabinets or protective covers may be required to protect equipment from weather or impact.
Clear signage is mandatory. Every extinguisher must be accompanied by compliant signage that clearly indicates its location.
Legal Requirements for Fire Extinguisher Installation
Australian fire safety regulations require fire extinguishers to be installed and maintained in accordance with the Australian Standard. This includes correct location, appropriate signage, and regular inspection.
Fire extinguishers must be inspected and maintained every six months to ensure they remain operational and certified. The type and number of extinguishers installed must also reflect the fire hazards and layout of the premises.
Failure to comply can result in penalties, failed inspections, increased fire risk, and insurance claims being denied.
Why Professional Fire Extinguisher Installation is Recommended
Professional fire extinguisher installation helps reduce the risk of errors commonly associated with self-installation. Incorrect height, poor positioning, or selecting the wrong extinguisher type can all compromise safety during a fire.
Our experienced technicians assess your premises, identify hazards, and ensure extinguishers are installed securely, correctly, and in full compliance with Australian Standards. This provides confidence during audits, inspections, and emergency situations. Get in contact with our team today to assist with your fire extinguisher installation.
Fire Extinguisher Installation FAQs
How do I know which fire extinguisher is correct for my premises?
The correct extinguisher depends on the fire hazards present. Electrical risks require either CO₂ fire extinguishers or dry powder extinguishers, while cooking oils and fats require wet chemical extinguishers. A proper risk assessment helps ensure the correct type is installed.
How far apart should fire extinguishers be installed?
Fire extinguishers should generally be located no more than 20 metres from any point in a building. Exact spacing depends on the extinguisher rating, building layout, and fire risks present.
Can fire extinguishers be installed at any height?
No. Fire extinguishers must be installed at a regulated height. The bottom must be at least 100 mm from the floor, and the handle must not exceed 1200 mm from floor level.
Can I install fire extinguishers myself?
Yes, but installation must fully comply with AS2444. Incorrectly installed fire extinguishers are a common compliance issue and can increase fire safety risks.
Do fire extinguishers require signage?
Yes. Each extinguisher must have compliant signage installed above it. The sign must be clearly visible and identifiable from an appropriate distance.
How often do fire extinguishers need to be inspected?
Fire extinguishers must be inspected and maintained every six months to ensure they remain operational and certified.
What happens if my installation is not compliant?
Non-compliance could lead to legal penalties, increased fire risk, failed inspections, and insurance companies denying claims after a fire event.
Should fire blankets be installed with fire extinguishers?
In many cases, yes. Fire blankets are commonly installed alongside fire extinguishers in kitchens and food preparation areas to address specific fire hazards.
