Melbourne Earthquake Uncovers Building Safety Flaws and Defects

Top 3 issues uncovered by the Melbourne earthquake

1. Cracking in fire-rated wall systems

The compromised integrity of a structure like a firewall can constitute non-compliance. Non-compliance presents 2 distinct and potential consequences. First is the possible failure of the structure to contain the spread of smoke or fire. This would, in turn, endanger occupants in the event of a fire. Secondly, any issues of non-compliance can result in significant penalties or fines.

2. Issues with fire and smoke doors system operations due to frame distortion and movement in associated walls

Much like the previous point, potential occupant exposure to fire and smoke is an issue that must be resolved. The cost of non-compliance here could mean injury or death.

3. Potential issues with equipment associated with active fire protection systems

Environmental factors can compromise the condition or function of active fire protection systems. For example, systems like smoke detectors, fire alarms, sprinkler systems, thermal detectors and automated fire doors. As a result, these active fire protection systems may not function correctly in the event of a fire or other emergency.

Issues with mechanical system functions in fire mode

The consequences of active fire protection system issues can produce a flow-on effect, impacting mechanical building systems such as HVAC controls. Then, this affects their ability to manage airflow or restrict the spread of smoke and airborne contaminants during a fire or other emergency.

You should address each of these risks as rapidly as possible. To do this, we recommend that clients take the following 3 steps.

1. Bring forward annual system interface testing

2. Conduct a full audit of all fire and smoke door systems

Undertake a full audit of all fire and smoke door systems. Doing so will minimise the time a particular component of the building structure or safety measure is compromised. Thus reducing potential risks to occupant safety.

3. Conduct additional annual passive fire rating systems inspection to identify defects in fire and smoke walls

Conduct additional inspections for passive fire rating systems. Adding this measure helps ensure that these components are certified compliant. Or returned to a compliant condition as quickly as possible. Additionally, this measure ensures they will work effectively with the building’s active and passive safety measures.

Creating safer buildings

By moving each of your auditing and testing inspections forward, we can uncover defects and deterioration caused by the Melbourne earthquake or similar environmental factors. As a result, we avoid exposure to non-compliant safety measures.

We encourage all building owners and managers to act quickly to ensure that any non-compliance issues are detected and rectified as soon as possible. The quickest way to do that is to contact our Essential Safety Measures Team to walk through your requirements and arrange inspection and certification as quickly as possible.