Phil Davern, the Municipal Building Surveyor of the Alpine Shire Council is undertaking building surveying consultancy and enforcement services on behalf of the Mount Hotham Resort Management Board (MHRMB).  The MHRMB is naturally anxious to establish whether lodge owners are fulfilling their obligations under the Building Act 1993 in relation to the on-going maintenance of essential (fire safety) measures within their building.

In this regard, it is his intention to systematically inspect all facilities prior to the opening of the 2007 ski season. Attendance by a lodge representative is not imperative, however, you are requested to provide advice in regard to access into the building – either the access code(s) or the availability of a key from the MHRMB. Alternatively, if the lodge is now permanently occupied, please advise so that we may inspect at our convenience. 

The inspection will for the most part, focus on the following matters:

1. The existence of current log books recording the regular maintenance of smoke detection and alarm system, emergency lighting/exit signage, smoke and fire doors, and the fire indicator panel.
2. The existence of a fully completed Annual Essential Safety Measures Report which testifies to the maintenance of all required essential services over the proceeding 12 month period.
3. The tagging of fire suppression equipment such as hose reels and portable fire extinguishers.
4. Exit door latches and the existence of non-complying hardware such as deadlocks.
5. General fire safety of the facility.

You are requested to lodge a copy of the completed Report as outlined in item 2 above, with the Council prior to the inspection.

For any questions regarding this matter, please contact Phil Davern on:

Ph: 03 5755 0564 or Mob: 0407 539 464
Email: phild@alpineshire.vic.gov.au.
Facsimile: 03 5755 0569