Hon Robin Chapple questions DFES's role in building approvals, specifically regarding liaison, BCA compliance beyond fire intervention, and providing lists of elements for testing/inspection. DFES clarifies its role and legislative basis, stating no fees are charged.

AnsweredQoN 601Legislative Council
Asked
19 November 2013
Portfolio
Emergency Services

QuestionView source ↗

I refer to the 2012 Autumn edition of the Built Environment Branch (BEB) Newsletter, and ask: (a) as stated on page 4, "FESA
will raise issues of concern as a result of little or no liaison over a project
directly with the Building Commission who may audit the new approvals process", what is meant by concerns and
what is the reason for this when legislation does not require this interaction
under the Building Regulations 2012 (as amended); (b) as stated on page 5, "FESA plans assessment will continue to focus on Fire
Brigade Intervention requirements of the BCA.
This will not be exclusive however and should BEB
consider a submission requires comment on other aspects of the BCA, it will not
be precluded from doing so", what is the legislative clause
that requires Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) to comment on other aspects of a submission that are not
associated with Fire Brigade Intervention; (c) with regard to (b), what
fees does the DFES BEB charge for these services; (d) as stated on page 5, "FESA will provide the BS with a list of elements
of the project that it considers should be tested or inspected during
construction or at project completion for inclusion in permit
documentation. FESA considers that this
will ensure the project achieves a level of satisfactory construction and
compliance with BCA and fire service requirements", what is the legislative clause
that requires DFES to provide the building surveyor with this list; and (e) with regard to (d), what fees does the
DFES BEB charge for these services?

AnswerView source ↗

Answered
10 December 2013
Responded by
Attorney General representing the Minister for Emergency Services
Response time
21 days
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) advises:
(a) There is no legislative requirement to liaise with the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) however it is encouraged, as experience has shown that ongoing consultation and liaison with stakeholders throughout the design and construction phases of projects is beneficial in achieving compliance in relation to fire safety.
(b) Building Act 2011, Building Regulations Section 18B (1) 2012 (as amended).
(c) Nil fees.
(d) Building Act 2011, Building Regulations Section 18B (1) 2012 as amended.
(e)  Nil fees.

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