Building and Energy is examining regulation of fire systems installation work in WA as part of the State Government’s response to recommended building reforms.

The review will focus on regulation of this 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,” Building Commissioner Saj Abdoolakhan said.

“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.”

Beginning with two forums this winter, Building and Energy will seek the views of industry, unions and other stakeholders.

The review will include several phases consistent with the State Government’s commitment to good regulatory design. More information is available in the Review Paper.

The project is part of the State Government’s broader response to recommendations of the Building Confidence Report, which considered improvements to building regulation across Australia.

The WA response has so far included a code of conduct for building surveyors, a registration scheme for building engineers – including fire safety engineers – and the Building Better decision paper on substantial reforms to WA’s building regulatory framework, which the State Government is working to implement.

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Media contact: BEmedia@dmirs.wa.gov.au