Council has launched a campaign to remind all building owners whose premises house new or existing businesses (Class 1b, 2-9 buildings) of their fire safety obligations.
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We want building owners to be aware of their responsibilities to ensure public safety.
As stipulated under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000 all business premises (Class 1b, 2-9 buildings) must submit an Annual Fire Safety Statement to the council and the Commissioner of Fire and Rescue NSW.
All business premises must also have a Fire Safety Schedule which specifies each of the essential fire safety measures applicable to their specific building – such as portable fire extinguishers and smoke alarms – and the minimum standard by which these measures must be designed, installed and operate.
The Annual Fire Safety Statements must be submitted by the building owner or their agent and must document the assessment and inspection of each existing essential fire safety measure and the building’s exit systems. Annual Fire Safety Statements must also be prepared by an accredited fire safety practitioner.
Heavy penalties apply for commercial building owners who don’t submit Annual Fire Safety Statements, which vary from fines, to prosecution, and even imprisonment.
The council will be writing to all known commercial building owners shortly reminding them of their obligations. Copies of the relevant information will also be made available on the council’s website.
Further information is also available on the NSW Department of Planning and Environment website (www.planning.nsw.gov.au) or by contacting the council’s Environment and Planning Department on 4830 1000.
