Random checks for buildings

CARDINIA Shire Council has begun a program of random inspections of commercial, industrial and high-risk premises to ensure safety measures are being maintained.
Mayor Kate Lempriere said fire safety items such as hydrants, fire hose reels, portable fire extinguishers, exits signs and emergency lighting were among the items that would be inspected.
“Building owners have a legal responsibility under building regulations to ensure the proper maintenance of essential safety measures that were required at the time their building was constructed,” she said.
Cr Lempriere said the owner was responsible for the proper functioning of the building and the employer for the workplace procedures.
Municipal building surveyor Graeme Geary said the inspections would occur in an area or street basis throughout Cardinia shire.
“A proper log book is required to be kept on site by the owner and on-the-spot fines of $200 or more can be imposed for breaches of legislation,” he said.
Mr Geary said it was inadequate for owners to say the tenant or lessee was responsible for maintaining fire prevention and life safety equipment, when building legislation clearly stated the owner was liable.