If you own a building in New South Wales, Australia, you are required by law to have an annual fire safety statement (AFSS) for your premises. An AFSS is a document that certifies that all the fire safety measures installed in your building are working properly and comply with the relevant standards. It also confirms that a qualified person has inspected and assessed the fire safety measures within the last 12 months.
Why do you need an AFSS?
Having an AFSS is not only a legal obligation, but also a way to ensure the safety of your staff, customers, and property. A fire can cause devastating damage to your business, resulting in loss of life, injury, property damage, legal liability, and reputation damage. By having an AFSS, you can reduce the risk of fire and its consequences, as well as demonstrate your compliance with the fire regulations.
An AFSS also helps you to identify and address any potential fire hazards or defects in your fire safety systems. This can help you to avoid costly fines, penalties, or legal action for non-compliance. Additionally, having an annual fire safety certificate can help you to lower your insurance premiums, as it shows that you have taken steps to minimise the fire risk in your building.
How do you get an AFSS?
To obtain an AFSS, you need to hire a competent fire safety practitioner (CFSP) to conduct an annual fire safety inspection of your premises. A CFSP is a person who has the qualifications, skills, and experience to inspect and assess the fire safety measures in your building. They will check that all the fire safety equipment and systems are functioning correctly and meet the relevant Australian standards. They will also provide you with a report detailing their findings and recommendations.
Once you have received the report from the CFSP, you need to complete and sign an AFSS form and submit it to your local council within 21 days of the inspection date. You also need to display a copy of the AFSS in a prominent location in your building, such as near the entrance or in the reception area. You need to keep a copy of the AFSS and the CFSP report for at least two years.
What are the benefits of getting an AFSS from an accredited provider?
If you want peace of mind that your AFSS has been lodged correctly, you’ll want a team of qualified and experienced CFSPs who can conduct a comprehensive annual fire safety inspection of your premises and provide you with an AFSS certificate. As part of the service, make sure your provider can also help you with any repairs, maintenance, or upgrades of your fire safety systems to ensure they are up to date and compliant.
When selecting a provider to administer your AFSS, look for:
- A hassle-free process: Your provider will handle everything from booking the inspection, conducting the assessment, preparing the report, issuing the certificate, and submitting it to the council on your behalf.
- A competitive price: rates vary depending a number of factors. Find a provider that offers affordable rates for their AFSS services, without compromising on quality or safety.
- A professional service: do your research to make sure your provider has a reputation for excellence and customer satisfaction. We adhere to the highest standards of workmanship and ethics. They must be are fully licensed, insured, and accredited by the relevant authorities.
- A peace of mind: Your provider will ensure that your building is safe and compliant with the fire regulations. They should also provide you with ongoing support and advice on how to maintain your fire safety measures.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Book your annual fire safety inspection today. It’s not only a legal requirement, but also a smart investment for your business.
