Fire systems regulation under review in WA

The regulation of fire systems installation work in WA is currently under review by the state’s safety regulator, Building and Energy.

This review is part of the WA Government’s response to broader recommended building reforms laid out in the federal government’s Building Confidence report, which considers improvements to building regulation across Australia.

Building and Energy’s review will focus on regulation of fire systems work in apartment, commercial and industrial buildings. It will consider installation and testing of hose reels, hydrants, sprinkler systems, smoke detectors, alarms, exit lighting and passive fire-rated construction elements required by building codes.

“We will examine evidence of any non-compliance with the current installation and testing requirements for these critical building fire systems,” said Building Commissioner Saj Abdoolakhan.

“Regulation of fire systems can be complex because it involves elements of the regulatory frameworks for plumbing, electrical, building surveying and building, so stakeholder feedback will be crucial to this review.”

To begin with, Building and Energy will hold two winter forums inviting the views of industry, unions and other stakeholders.

The review will consist of several phases. More information is available in the Review Paper.

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