FPA Australia

FPA Australia Code of Practice Compliant

FPA Australia (Fire Protection Association Australia) was recently featured on Network 10’s The Project regarding safety of apartment buildings after a fire caused extensive damage to a high rise in Melbourne’s Docklands.

More than 500 people were evacuated from the 20-storey high-rise apartment building as the fire broke out, damaging at least seven floors.
The blaze was believed to have started in an air conditioning unit on the balcony of a second floor apartment in the Latrobe Street building. The damage to the building is estimated to be in excess of $2 million.

Matthew Wright, Chief Technical Officer / Deputy CEO said the incident represented a positive outcome with all residents evacuated safely and sprinkler heads inside the building operating, helping to protect people and property.

The incident highlights the importance of vigilance for residents of apartment complexes, both in understanding their emergency exit procedures in their building and in taking notice of fire alarms when they are sounded.

The fire is also another example of why it is critical that trained and competent persons are utilised to inspect, test and maintain lifesaving fire protection systems and equipment to ensure they operate as intended when required.