Cladding now has been a keen issue for the Victoria building authority and Essential Safety measure (ESM) have been put into practice. 

Essential safety measure or ESM are the safety features required in a building to protect occupants in the event of a fire. ESMs may include :

• Fire detection 
• Alarm systems 
• Fire doors
• Emergency lighting 
• Fire hydrants

If maintained adequately these at the time of a fire hazard, are responsible for ensuring everyone can exit the building safely and quickly. Their full functionality is important in case emergency arises.

Owners corporation managers, on behalf of owners, must ensure ESMs are kept up to date and regularly tested. Non-compliance puts occupants, passers-by and adjoining buildings at risk and this can be life threatening as well.  Non-compliance may result in heavy fines. If you would like some more information please contact our partners OC Management Solutions

Essential Safety Measures are more important to be observed around combustible cladding. Combustible cladding does not mean you building is unsafe However, once a fire starts combustible cladding may contribute to the spread of fire.

Non-compliance may result in an infringement notice being issued by your Council or the Fire Authority. Fines may range from $290 to over $17,000 for an individual and over $88,000 if a company is prosecuted.

If you have any questions about how to maintain ESMs, please contact your local fire service fire safety department or your local MBS.

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