Breaching fire protection & safety laws is more than a safety concern – it ignites a hefty fine too. In 2017, a company and body corporate in Townsville; Reelaw Pty Ltd and Body Corporate for Metro Community Title Scheme 28454, were slapped with fines totalling $42,000. Fines were ordered by the Townsville Magistrates Court after the parties failed to ensure the buildings they were responsible for were compliant with building fire safety regulations. The sentences followed successful prosecution by Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES).
Company Charges
The occupier of the Flinder Street building, Reelaw Pty Ltd, pleaded guilty to six charges related to the Fire and Emergency Services Act 1990 and the Building Fire Safety Regulation 2008. Fines to Reelaw Pty Ltd totalled $12,000.
Body Corporate Charges
Occupier of Metro Quays, Body Corporate for Metro Community Title Scheme 28454, pleaded guilty to six charges related to the Fire and Emergency Services Act 1990. They were hit with a $30,000 fine.
Fire Protection & Safety Offences Committed
The offences were committed between October 2016 to April 2017. Offences included failing to maintain prescribed fire safety installations and failing to comply with rectification notices. These breaches were identified throughout a number of routine building fire safety inspection checks by QFES officers.
QFES Statement
According to QFES Commissioner Katarina Carroll, this matter was a severe breach of the building occupants’ trust. Failure to meet any obligations stipulated under the legislation is a grave concern.
“It is vital fire safety is taken seriously, particularly when the impact on an occupant’s well-being could be life-changing,” Ms Carroll said.
“We have a duty of care to work with the relevant authorities to ensure occupiers are meeting fire safety protocols, and if not, are being held accountable for their actions.
“Hopefully, this result acts as a strong reminder to any building occupiers who underestimate the importance of fire safety.”
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