Brunswick property owner could face $70,000 fine over fire risks
A Brunswick property owner has been issued an order by the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) in relation to safety concerns. It leaves them four days to correct the concerns, or a $70,000 fine.
The order, issued last Wednesday, was issued after the VBA undertook an investigation of the Victoria Street building, a three-storey property including a warehouse and a factory.
VBA’s acting director compliance and performance, Murray Smith, said that there were significant problems with the building.
“The problems identified with the building meant that there was a risk to life and safety,” said Smith.
The concerns with the property were the following:
It did not meet the required fire resistance rating
Fire sprinklers were not installed (the building permit indicated that they would be)
No fire hydrant
No provision for smoke hazard management
Exit doors had been fixed shut
No emergency lights or exit signs
Upon receipt of the emergency order, the owner was required to undertake the corrections within four days to comply, otherwise they would face a fine of up to $70,000.