The owners of all commercial/industrial buildings – including boarding houses, hostels, aged and disabled accommodation – must maintain all safety measures contained within that building for the life of the building.
This includes (but is not limited to):
- air-conditioning systems
- early warning systems
- emergency lifts and lighting
- emergency lighting
- emergency power supply
- emergency warning systems
- exit doors
- exit signs
- fire control centres
- fire curtains and doors
- fire extinguishers
- fire detectors and alarm system
- fire hydrants
- fire isolated stairs
- fire rated materials
- fire windows
- mechanical ventilation
- passage ramps
- path of travel to exits
- smoke alarms
- smoke control systems
- sprinkler systems
All buildings constructed after 1 July 1994 must display the Occupancy Permit, Schedule of Safety Measures and Annual Essential Safety Measures Report in the main entry of the building in full view of any person entering the building or in accordance with the relevant building surveyor's direction.
If the building was built before 1 July 1994, owners are also responsible for ensuring that any safety equipment, safety fittings or safety measures are maintained and fulfilling their purpose.
Owners are also required to prepare an Annual Essential Safety Measures Report, including exits and paths of travel to exits. It is also advised that records of maintenance checks, service and repair work be kept so they can be made available for inspection by a municipal building surveyor or chief officer.
More information
For more details regarding essential safety measures and your obligations as an owner, refer to the Building Commission website.