Question: Our entry gate from the main road can only be opened using a keypad or a single remote. Is this a fire or an emergency hazard?
We have moved into a strata managed property with 8 townhouses. There is an entry gate from the main road which can only be opened using a keypad or one remote provided. Is this a fire or an emergency hazard?
How does an emergency vehicle gain access to the lot?
Answer: The National Construction Code requires that a person is able to exit a site to a safe outside location.
The National Construction Code requires that a person is able to exit a site to a safe outside location – such as a driveway or back yard. A fence on a driveway into a set of units in my opinion complies with the National Construction Code.
Having said that we often see pedestrian gates installed alongside vehicle gates to enable people to exit the whole site. These gates don’t allow people to enter, only exit.
With regard to emergency vehicle access, the Fire Service have tools to enable them to bypass gates, while it may increase response times it has no significant impact. This happens to every warehouse or factory that is surrounded by a gate which is locked after hours. If you are concerned you should contact the local fire station and offer them a remote to open the gate.
Alan Short
Fire & Emergency Services SA Pty Ltd
T: 08 8262 9245
E: alan@fessa.com.au
This post appears in Strata News #545.
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