Flashback Arrestor Testing: Do You Know When Yours Expires

1. Flashback Arrestor Testing: Do You Know When Yours Expires? Most Aussie welders know the importance of regular flashback arrestor testing—but did you know these units also have a hard expiry date, even if they pass the test? It’s a little-known fact that’s putting workshops at risk. Flashback arrestors—those small but critical safety devices—aren’t just ‘set and forget’. Like gas cylinders and regulators, they have a finite lifespan. And once that expiry date passes, even a fully functioning unit can’t be trusted to protect your team. It’s a silent risk hiding in plain sight—and it’s one too many workshops overlook. This article explains what a flashback arrestor does, where to find its expiry date (and what to do if it’s missing or unreadable), what details should be logged during inspections, and why relying on an expired unit is a gamble no welder can afford. If your flashback arrestor has never been replaced—or you’re not sure when it was installed—it might be time for a closer look. What Is a Flashback Arrestor and Why It Matters A flashback arrestor is a safety device installed on your gas line—usually on an oxy acetylene kit—designed to stop flame from travelling back into the cylinder. Without it, a simple hose fire could trigger a full-blown explosion.

2. But here’s the catch: just because it’s there doesn’t mean it’s working. These units contain internal check valves and flame filters that degrade over time. Regular flashback arrestor testing is essential—but even tested units must be replaced once expired. Where to Find the Expiry Date on a Flashback Arrestor Every flashback arrestor sold in Australia should have an expiry date stamped or labelled clearly on the body. This date is typically 5 years from manufacture, although some high-grade models may stretch to 10 years. Common expiry date locations include: ● Laser-etched markings on the metal body ● Engraved or printed tags near the inlet/outlet ● Adhesive labels wrapped around the unit If the date is faded or illegible, don’t guess. Replace the unit. Pro tip: Log expiry dates in the same register as your inspection results and treat them as non-negotiable.

3. What Happens If You Use an Expired Flashback Arrestor? Using an expired arrestor is like relying on worn-out brake pads—it may seem fine until it’s suddenly not. Degraded internal components can result in: ● Slower or failed flame arrest during backfire ● Loss of one-way gas control ● Total mechanical failure under pressure An expired arrestor might appear intact, but it cannot be trusted when a real emergency strikes. What to Record During Flashback Arrestor Inspections Routine inspections (every 6–12 months) are key to staying compliant and safe. Here’s what to include in your inspection log: Essential details:

4. ● Serial number of the arrestor ● Inspection date ● Inspector’s name or initials ● Pressure test result (pass/fail) ● Visual observations (e.g. burns, cracks, corrosion) ● Confirmed expiry date ● Notes or actions taken (e.g. unit replaced) Keep a digital copy or file this alongside yourweld and safety documentation. It can protect your business during audits or investigations. When and How to Replace a Flashback Arrestor If your arrestor is expired, visibly damaged, or fails a pressure test, replace it immediately. Key tips: ● Ensure the new unit complies with AS 4603 (Australian Standard) ● Don’t reuse or refurbish expired units ● Check all other connected gear—hoses, valves, welding helmet, regulators—at the same time Think of replacement as part of a full equipment safety check.

5. Testing Alone Isn’t Enough Regular testing is vital—but it won’t extend your flashback arrestor’s life beyond its expiry. These units are designed to age out for a reason. When they do, their performance becomes unreliable—even dangerous. Include expiry checks in your routine safety procedures, and ensure your team knows how to find and record expiry dates. Not sure where to start? A qualified gas safety consultant can walk you through your inspection responsibilities, documentation practices, and how to build a compliant safety system. For more detail, explore our complete guide to Flashback Arrestor Testing. FAQs Q1: Do all flashback arrestors expire? Yes. Most units have a shelf life of 5 years, and expiry dates must be treated seriously. Q2: What if my arrestor still looks brand new? Looks can be deceiving. Internal filters and valves degrade over time—even if the housing looks fine. Q3: Can I use a flashback arrestor with no visible expiry date? No. If the date is unreadable or missing, the arrestor must be replaced. Q4: Should I replace it even if the arrestor passed the last test? Yes. Expiry and test performance are separate. Testing doesn’t override the expiration.

6. Q5: How do I choose a compliant replacement? Only purchase flashback arrestors that meet AS 4603 and include clear documentation of manufacture and expiry dates.