Review fire safety measures in condos

Source : Straits Times - 1 Apr 2009

I RECENTLY visited a friend who lives in a condominium near Changi General Hospital. I noted that the fire engine access driveways and fire engine hardstanding areas were filled with dense landscaping.

This despite signs by the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) mounted on the walls which said, ‘Fire engine hardstanding area. Do not obstruct’ and ‘Fire engine accessway. Do not obstruct’.

Some of these areas were so close to the swimming pool that the driver would have to be extremely skilful in manoeuvring his vehicle or it would land in the pool. Lights and water pipes encased in concrete also protruded up from these areas. If there was a fire and a fire engine ladder was required to evacuate residents, fire engine personnel might be electrocuted. The turning radius at the condominium main entrance was also very narrow for a fire engine.

Although the provisions on the fire engine hardstanding area and width of accessways were in compliance with the SCDF Code of Practice, the design architect has to take into consideration that ease of access is crucial. In the event of a fire, timing is critical.

I suggest that the SCDF and the Building and Construction Authority should make it mandatory that all condominiums must be inspected by SCDF on a yearly basis. Such inspections should be carried out without prior notice to the management committees (MCs).

Building professionals and MCs must note that human lives are at stake if fire engine hardstanding areas and fire engine accessways are obstructed and accessibility is hindered.

Michael Yeo