As a strata manager, facilities manager or building owner, ensuring the safety and protection of the properties you own or manage is of utmost importance. One key area of concern is fire safety, and understanding the fire protection codes and regulations in New South Wales (NSW) is essential. We will discuss the fire protection codes that you in NSW need to know.

Building Code of Australia (BCA)


The Building Code of Australia (BCA) is a national code that outlines the minimum requirements for the design, construction, and performance of buildings in Australia. It includes provisions for fire safety and specifies the types of fire protection systems that must be installed in buildings.

You must ensure that the buildings you manage comply with the BCA’s fire safety provisions. This includes having a fire safety system installed and conducting regular fire safety inspections.

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979


The Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 is the primary legislation governing the planning and development of buildings in NSW. It outlines the requirements for building approvals and inspections, including fire safety inspections.

You must ensure that any new buildings or renovations comply with the fire safety requirements outlined in the Act. This includes ensuring that the building has a fire safety system installed and that the system is regularly maintained and tested.

NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000


The NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000 set out the specific fire safety requirements for buildings in our state. It includes provisions for fire alarms, fire extinguishers, fire doors, and emergency lighting.

You must ensure that the buildings you manage comply with the fire safety requirements outlined in the regulation. This includes ensuring that the building has the necessary fire safety equipment installed and that the equipment is regularly maintained and tested.

Australian Standard AS 1851-2012


The Australian Standard AS 1851-2012 outlines the requirements for the maintenance of fire protection systems and equipment in buildings. It includes provisions for the testing and maintenance of fire alarms, fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, and smoke detectors.

In the role of looking after a building, you must ensure that the fire protection systems and equipment in the buildings you manage are regularly maintained and tested in accordance with AS 1851-2012. This will help ensure that the systems and equipment are functioning correctly and will be effective in the event of a fire. A thorough understanding of the Fire Safety Regulations in NSW is essential for the livelihoods of the building occupants

If you are concerned that your fire equipment is needing a health check or you are in need of an Annual Fire Safety Statement call us on (02) 8244 1122

 

 

 

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