Maintenance Checks vs. Fire Safety Audits – What’s the Difference?
Many building managers and body corporates in Queensland assume that fire safety audits and maintenance checks are interchangeable. However, while both are crucial for fire safety, they serve distinct roles. Knowing the difference helps ensure your building remains compliant and safe for occupants.
Maintenance Checks: Keeping Fire Safety Systems Operational
Maintenance checks are routine inspections carried out by qualified technicians or service providers to ensure that fire protection systems are functioning correctly. These checks focus on the operational readiness of key equipment, including:
- Testing and servicing smoke alarms and fire detection systems
- Inspecting fire extinguishers for pressure, damage and expiry dates
- Checking sprinkler systems, pumps and hydrants for proper operation
- Verifying emergency lighting and exit signs are working
- Ensuring fire doors and escape routes are unobstructed
Regular maintenance prevents equipment failure and ensures that all systems will perform as expected in an emergency. However, while maintenance keeps your systems running, it doesn’t guarantee compliance with Queensland’s fire safety laws—that’s where audits come in.
Fire Safety Audits: Ensuring Legal Compliance
A fire safety audit is an independent, in-depth assessment of a building’s fire safety measures against Queensland’s strict regulations, such as the Building Fire Safety Regulation 2008. Conducted by accredited auditors, these audits evaluate:
- Whether fire safety systems meet current legal standards
- The adequacy of evacuation plans and emergency exit paths
- Documentation compliance, including maintenance records and certification
- Potential risks or non-compliance issues that need correction
Unlike maintenance checks, audits don’t involve servicing equipment—instead, they assess whether your building meets all legislative requirements. Failing an audit can result in penalties, increased insurance costs, or even forced building closures.
Why You Need Both
While maintenance checks keep your fire safety systems working, audits ensure they meet Queensland’s legal requirements. Ignoring either can lead to fines, safety hazards or system failures in an emergency. By scheduling regular maintenance and professional audits, building managers and body corporates can protect both occupants and their legal interests.
Need a fire safety audit? Contact our team today to ensure your building is fully compliant and safe. Stay proactive, stay protected!
