BCCM Guidelines + How Bodies Corporates Can Proactively Remove Risk From The System.

The accumulation of dirt and other materials in ventilation systems can act as a fire load, increasing the risk of ignition and rapid fire spread throughout the fabric of the building. The Office for the Commissioner for Body Corporate and Community Management (BCCM) addressed this issue in December 2022, stating in Common Ground, Edition 40:

“An owner may want to notify the body corporate to advise that the ventilation system needs maintenance due to the high risk of a fire. Generally, ventilation systems are located outside the boundaries of a lot and accordingly are the body corporate’s responsibility to maintain.”

Furthermore, the article highlighted the importance of understanding potential fire risks and liability to the body corporate:

“The body corporate needs to consider any fire risks associated with blocked ventilation systems as any damage to the lot caused by the body corporate not fulfilling its maintenance obligations under the Act may result in further liability to the body corporate and possible fines under other legislation due to not having adequate safety measures in place.”

To mitigate fire risks and improve building safety, we strongly recommend that building owners and managers deep-cleans of the buildings ventilation system at set intervals. Proactive maintenance not only enhances safety but also ensures compliance with BCCM requirements.

If you have concerns about your building’s ventilation system, notify your body corporate immediately and contact SafeAir for a free site survey and quotation. Together, we can create safer, cleaner, and more efficient buildings for everyone.

What Are The Benefits Of Deep-Cleaning The System?

Deep-clean with SafeAir to remove potential fuel loads.

✅ Fire Prevention – Removing dust, lint, and other debris eliminates potential fire hazards.
✅ Improved Air Quality – Clean ductwork reduces allergens, pollutants, and mould growth, creating a healthier indoor environment for residents and guests.
✅ Enhanced System Efficiency – A clean ventilation system operates more effectively overall.
✅ Compliance with BCCM & BCA Advice – Building and safety, as well as regulatory bodies advise maintenance of the system for safety and liability reasons, as well as providing occupants adequate ventilation.

❌ Increased Fire Risk – Dust and lint buildup can ignite, potentially leading to severe property damage and loss of life.
❌ Poor Indoor Air Quality – Contaminants and blockage in unclean ducts can increase poor airflows in personal toilet, bathroom, ensuite and laundry areas, exacerbating respiratory issues, worsening allergies and contribute to poor health.
❌ Increased Loads On Roof Exhaust Fans – Buildup within the system force ventilation systems to work harder, causing strain on roof exhaust fans.
❌ Potential Legal and Financial Consequences – Failure to maintain ductwork could lead to liability issues for property owners and body corporates.

SafeAir Can Help

Talk with a SafeAir Projects Team member today and arrange a free site survey and quotation for deep-cleaning your buildings exhaust ventilation systems.

Click here to learn more about the deep-clean process, read reviews and feedback from our valued customers or follow @SafeAirAU on Instagram for the latest posts and updates.