COMPANY NEWS: The revelation that almost 90 per cent of Victoria’s multi-storey apartment buildings fail to meet fire safety standards is a stark warning that urgent action is needed to protect Australian lives.
Building surveyor Dr Stephen Scimonello’s research at Victoria University’s Institute for Sustainable Industries and Liveable Cities reveals this critical gap in fire safety compliance.
Property owners, often unaware of their obligations, are struggling to maintain increasingly complex fire systems, which puts lives at risk.
Fires spreads through modern homes in about five minutes, compared to 29-minutes in the 1970s. The smoke is more toxic and materials in homes are far more flammable.
Andrew Cox, CEO of Sensor Global, said, “We’re seeing more than one fatality a week from house fires in Australia, many preventable. An operational smoke alarm is the difference between life and death.
“With more than 40 per cent of alarms in some buildings non-operational, there is an urgent need for greater accountability and smarter solutions to ensure fire safety devices are properly maintained.
“Technology now allows for real-time reporting, compliance checks, and audit trails ensuring these critical systems function 24/7. The industry must take advantage of these advancements to prevent avoidable tragedies.”
Mr Cox said fire safety is not a “set and forget” responsibility.
“Ensuring that essential life-saving measures, such as smoke alarms, are installed and functioning 24/7 must be a top priority for property owners and regulators alike.
“Without clear compliance mechanisms, mandatory reporting, and greater enforcement, residents will continue to face unacceptable risks.”
The Victorian government’s proposed reforms to strengthen the Victorian Building Authority’s oversight are a step in the right direction. However, without real-time visibility and stricter accountability for fire safety maintenance, apartment residents will remain vulnerable.
By comparison, NSW requires building owners to certify compliance annually. But compliance and enforcement still have a long way to go.
“The time for action is now,” Mr Cox said.
About Sensor Global
Sensor Global is a leading provider of smart safety technology solutions, to enhance fire safety and compliance. Sensor Global’s flagship product, SENSORInsure, is designed for landlords and offered through real estate agencies, providing seamless compliance management, increased property protection, and peace of mind. By addressing critical gaps in fire safety compliance, Sensor Global helps protect lives and properties. Learn more at sensorglobal.com