Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, every business in South Africa is obliged to safeguard personnel by completing a fire risk assessment at least once per year. Chubb Fire and Security South Africa offers a fire risk assessment that will highlight any risks at a site and recommend changes to align with the Department of Labour’s requirements. The assessment includes an individually-tailored report with a priority action list on aspects such as fire equipment, safe exit points and available training courses.
Chubb fire products consultant and member of the FFETA (Fire Fighting Equipment Traders Association), Steve Bastuba explains that before businesses move into premises or build new facilities, there are certain processes that need to be completed, which will lead to the issuing of a certificate of occupancy. “This includes the approval of plans, as well as getting a local fire inspector from the municipality to inspect the premises to recommend what fire equipment needs to be put in place.”
In addition, an annual fire risk assessment is required, which consists of identifying hazards and risks as well as any re-rating if changes have been made to the building. This is to ensure that systems meet regulatory requirements.
Aspects of a business’s fire risk assessment include, but are not limited to:
• Onsite survey to appraise equipment in place.
• Is the equipment adequate and has it been properly maintained?
• Does equipment meet South African Bureau of Standards requirements?
• Has the occupancy or use of the premises changed?
• Have construction changes occurred that may result in new risks?
• Are there trained staff on site, sufficient escape exits and ventilation?
• Are evacuation drills performed?
• Does the building have first aid boxes and adequate signage?
• Does the building comply with local bylaws and building regulations?
• Are goods stored or stacked to meet legal requirements?
• Are there any gas cylinders or inflammable liquids on site that could pose a risk in case of an emergency?
Fire legislation is enacted from the Department of Labour, and enforced via the National Building Regulations, the South African Bureau of Standards, the Standards Act (No. 8 of 2008) and other recognised bodies.
The mandatory fire equipment onsite are defined by the National Buildings Regulations. This is subject to the occupancy rating (what type of facility it is, i.e. theatrical and entertainment work vs. office work), as well as the use of the premises. Local bylaws may also come into effect as each area may have differing and specific regulatory requirements. Once the occupancy is determined, the necessary fire protection levels are then set.
Fire risk assessments are conducted to ensure a safe working environment while meeting all legal standards and requirements. Chubb Fire and Security South Africa can assist in providing clear recommendations in a complex regulatory environment, and partners with customers to ensure fire regulations are met with the right fire safety products and systems in place.
According to Bastuba, it is recommended businesses use only recognised and certified fire risk assessment officers.
“With its team of qualified fire risk assessment officers, Chubb Fire and Security South Africa can provide good insight as to what a company’s legal responsibilities are, offer advice and tips as to how companies may comply and assist in implementing any recommended solutions,” he concludes.
© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd. | All Rights Reserved.
printer friendly version