An annual fire safety statement is a document that certifies that the essential fire safety measures in a building have been inspected, tested and maintained to ensure that they are in good working condition. One of the essential fire safety measures in a building is the doors, which must meet specific requirements to prevent the spread of fire and smoke. This article will discuss the role of an annual fire safety statement in relation to doors, including what it does, why it's necessary, why you need one, how to get one and what to expect from the process of getting one. 

What Does an Annual Fire Safety Statement Do? 

An annual fire safety statement is a legal requirement under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000 (NSW). It certifies that the essential fire safety measures in a building have been inspected, tested, and maintained in compliance with the relevant standards, codes and regulations. The statement must be issued by a qualified and accredited practitioner, such as a fire safety professional or a competent fire contractor. 

Why Is an Annual Fire Safety Statement Necessary? 

An annual fire safety statement is necessary to ensure that the essential fire safety measures in a building are in good working condition and capable of performing their intended function in the event of a fire. The statement provides assurance to the building occupants, the fire authority and the insurance company that the building is compliant with the fire safety regulations and is safe to occupy. Penalties, fines and legal action can occur for failure to provide an annual fire safety statement. 

Why Do You Need an Annual Fire Safety Statement? 

If you own, manage or control a building, you are responsible for ensuring that the essential fire safety measures are installed, maintained and tested regularly. You must also provide an annual fire safety statement to the council and the fire brigade certifying that the measures are in good working condition. Failure to do so can result in penalties and fines. 

How to Get an Annual Fire Safety Statement for Doors 

To get an annual fire safety statement for doors, you need to engage a qualified and accredited practitioner, such as a fire safety professional or a competent fire contractor, to inspect, test and maintain the doors in compliance with the relevant standards and codes. The practitioner will inspect the doors for damage, wear and tear, corrosion and functionality. They will test the doors for resistance to fire and smoke, as well as for self-closing and latching mechanisms. If the doors do not meet the requirements, the practitioner will recommend repairs or replacement. 

What to Expect from the Process of Getting an Annual Fire Safety Statement for Doors 

The process of getting an annual fire safety statement for doors can vary depending on the size, complexity and age of the building. Generally, the practitioner will inspect, test and maintain the doors in accordance with the relevant standards and codes. They will issue a report detailing their findings and recommendations, which you must implement to ensure compliance. Once the required measures are in place, the practitioner will issue the annual fire safety statement certifying that the doors are in good working condition. 

An annual fire safety statement is a legal requirement that certifies that the essential fire safety measures in a building are in good working condition. The statement is necessary to ensure compliance with the fire safety regulations and to provide assurance to the building occupants, the fire authority, and the insurance company. If you own, manage, or control a building, you must provide an annual fire safety statement to the council and the fire brigade, including a certification for the doors. Engaging a qualified and accredited practitioner to inspect, test and maintain the doors is the best way to ensure compliance and obtain the annual fire safety statement.  

For more info about annual fire safety statements, contact a local company.