AS1851-2012 is the Australian Standard for routine service of fire protection systems and equipment. If you own or manage a building with fire protection systems, this standard governs how and when those systems need to be serviced.
What Does AS1851 Actually Require?
The standard specifies inspection and testing frequencies for different types of fire protection equipment:
Why an Asset Register Matters
AS1851 doesn't just say "service your equipment." It expects you to maintain records proving the work was done. That means documenting what was inspected, when, by whom, and what the result was.
An asset register is the foundation of this evidence base. Without one, you're relying on your service provider's records — which means you're relying on someone else to prove YOUR compliance.
The Annual Fire Safety Statement
Every year, building owners need to submit an Annual Fire Safety Statement confirming their essential fire safety measures have been maintained. The evidence supporting this statement comes directly from your asset records.
Having your own independent register — separate from your service provider’s system — means you always have access to this evidence, regardless of your provider relationship.
Start with What You Have
You don't need to map every asset on day one. Start with your fire protection equipment, build the register site by site, and grow it over time. The important thing is to start.