Every commercial and industrial building owner in New South Wales has a legal obligation to ensure the safety of occupants in the event of a fire. This includes maintaining a fire safety strategy and having a current fire safety statement (AFSS).
An AFSS is a crucial document that demonstrates your commitment to fire safety compliance. But navigating fire regulations and understanding the role of an AFSS can be confusing. So, why is having a current AFSS so important for your business?
The Significance of Fire Safety
Fires can be devastating. Beyond the immediate danger to life, they can cause significant property damage, disrupt operations for extended periods, and severely impact your company’s financial stability. Investing in fire safety measures, including maintaining a current AFSS, is not just about meeting legal requirements; it’s a smart business decision that protects your people, your assets, and your bottom line.
What is a Fire Safety Statement?
An AFSS is a formal document that confirms an accredited fire safety practitioner has assessed your building’s essential fire safety measures. This assessment verifies that these measures are functional and meet the standards they were designed to. Essentially, an AFSS provides peace of mind that your building’s fire safety systems are in proper working order.
Benefits of Having a Current Fire Safety Statement
Here are some key benefits of maintaining a current AFSS for your NSW business:
- Compliance with Regulations: The Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (NSW) mandates that building owners obtain and maintain a current AFSS. Failing to do so can result in significant fines.
- Reduced Risk of Fire: A comprehensive assessment by a qualified fire safety professional can identify potential fire hazards in your building. Addressing these hazards proactively minimises the risk of a fire incident.
- Lower Insurance Premiums: Many insurance companies offer premium discounts to businesses with a demonstrably robust fire safety plan, including a current AFSS.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your building’s fire safety measures are compliant and functioning correctly provides peace of mind for you, your employees, and your customers.
Understanding the AFSS Process
The process of obtaining and maintaining an AFSS typically involves the following steps:
- Engage an Accredited Fire Safety Practitioner: NSW regulations require a qualified fire safety practitioner to conduct the assessment and complete the AFSS.
- Assessment and Inspection: The fire safety practitioner will conduct a thorough inspection of your building, evaluating essential fire safety measures like fire extinguishers, fire alarms, and emergency exits.
- AFSS Completion: Based on the assessment findings, the fire safety practitioner will complete and lodge the AFSS with the relevant authorities.
The Cost of an Annual Fire Safety Statement
The cost of an AFSS can vary depending on the size and complexity of your building, as well as the scope of services offered by the fire safety practitioner. However, the cost pales in comparison to the potential consequences of non-compliance or a fire incident.
Maintaining Your Fire Safety Statement
An AFSS is valid for 12 months. It’s crucial to schedule regular inspections and maintenance of your fire safety systems to ensure they remain compliant and functional. Many fire safety practitioners offer ongoing maintenance plans to streamline this process.
Conclusion
Having a current fire safety statement is an essential aspect of responsible building ownership in NSW. It demonstrates your commitment to fire safety compliance, helps safeguard your employees and customers, and can even contribute to lower insurance premiums. By partnering with a qualified fire safety practitioner to obtain and maintain your AFSS, you can achieve peace of mind and ensure your business is prepared for any fire emergency.