Section 1.2 - Internal Office Safety

Why We Ask These Questions:

To protect client goods, keep staff safe, and meet legal obligations. Proper storage and maintained equipment reduce damage, liability and WHS risk.

What It’s Based On:

WHS Regulations – r.43 (Emergency Plans): Must have documented evacuation procedures and assembly points
WHS Regulations – r.40 (Workplace Facilities): Requires clearly marked, unobstructed exits and basic amenities
WHS Regulations – r.55 (Hazardous Chemicals/Health Safety): Prohibits indoor smoking; signage mandatory under local laws
WHS Regulations – r.42 (First Aid): Accessible, stocked first-aid equipment with documented inspection dates
WHS Regulations – r.41 (Workplace Amenities): Adequate toilets, drinking water, dining and hygiene facilities
AS 1851 – Section 1.6 & Table 1.6.1 (Routine Service of Fire Protection Systems and Equipment): Six-monthly inspection/tagging of extinguishers and hoses
Model Codes of Practice – Emergency Plans and Procedures; Managing the Work Environment and Facilities; First Aid in the Workplace: Best-practice guidance on planning, signage and maintenance for all facilities.
AFRA Constitution – Clause 3 (Code of Conduct): Maintain clean, professional premises that reflect your advertised standards
AFRA Constitution – Clause 9(f): Rectify any safety deficiencies identified during audits

What We’re Looking For:

Question	Why It Matters	What You Need to Show
Visual presentation and condition?	Clients judge your professionalism by how tidy and well-kept your site looks.	Clean reception, offices, and floors.
Evacuation procedures & map displayed in reception & work areas?	In an emergency, everyone needs a clear escape plan.	Wall-mounted evacuation map plus evidence that it’s up-to-date and visible.
Fire extinguishers/hoses accessible, unobstructed & date-stamped?	You are legally obligated to have ready-to-use fire gear and proof it’s been serviced.	Tagged extinguishers/hoses with last-service dates and no obstructions.
Fire exits are marked and clear?	Blocked or unmarked exits result in slow evacuations and risk of lives.	Clear exit signs and passage.
No-smoking signs in place?	Indoor smoking is banned; signs remind staff and visitors.	Visible “No Smoking” signs in all required areas.
First aid kits available, stocked & last-checked date noted?	Quick access to first-aid gear cuts injury impact.	A complete first aid kit, a lit inventory checklist with inspection dates and replace-by notes.
Adequate staff amenities (toilets & staff room)?	Clean facilities keep staff healthy, happy and productive.	Clean toilets, drinking water station and break area.

FIRE EXTINGUISHERS – SERVICING FREQUENCY

Standard Reference:

AS 1851-2012 – Routine Service of Fire Protection Systems and Equipment, Section 1.6 & Table 1.6.1 specify a six-monthly inspection interval for portable extinguishers.

Legal Basis By State/Territory:

State/Territory	Required Frequency	Legal Instrument
NSW	Every 6 months	Environmental Planning and Assessment (Development Certification and Fire Safety) Regulation 2021 (Reg 81A)
VIC	Every 6 months	Building Regulations 2018 (Schedule 8)
QLD	Every 6 months	Fire and Emergency Services Act 1990 , AS 1851
SA	Every 6 months	Ministerial Building Standard MBS 004
WA	Every 6 months	Building Code of Australia (references AS 1851)
TAS	Every 6 months	Fire Service Act 1979 + AS 1851 guidance
ACT	Every 6 months	Fire Brigade (Administration) Act 1974
NT	Every 12 months	Fire and Emergency Act 2016; AS 1851 optional but recommended

FIRST AID KITS – INSPECTION FREQUENCY

Reference Document:

Model Code of Practice: First Aid in the Workplace (Safe Work Australia, 2021 – Section 3.3)

“First aid kits should be checked regularly to ensure the contents are complete and have not expired.”

Legal Framework:

All states (except VIC) follow the model WHS laws without a set inspection interval. It’s up to each employer to keep kits stocked and current.

Best Practice Recommendation: