The City of Cape Town's Fire & Rescue Service was notified of a fire at the parliamentary complex on January 2, 2022, shortly after 05:00 am (SAST). The fire began on the third floor of the National Council of Provinces building, moved to the office space and gymnasium, and then to the National Assembly. [1] [2]
The next morning, firefighters were still putting out tiny fires across the complex.
Due to strong winds, a fire broke out on the roof of the National Assembly building again on the afternoon of January 3rd.
According to an article written on BBC (Linked below) , President Cyril Ramaphosa - who admitted the building's sprinkler system had not functioned properly - praised firefighters for responding to the "terrible and devastating event" in minutes.
In South Africa, we've seen far too many of these occurrences in recent years. Whether the fire was sparked by terrorism, vandalism, or an accident, it continues to make headlines in our news. This article emphasizes the necessity of ensuring that your structure is fire-safe and capable of dealing with a potential fire.
Fire Risks or Fire Hazard
A building fire hazard increases the risk of a fire starting inside the structure. Objects that prevent people from exiting the building are another hazard in the event of a fire. Because flames pose a risk to persons and property, it's important to have a properly fitted fire alarm system as well as a professional fire specialist inspect the premises for potential fire threats.
Preventing Fire Hazards
Before flames flare up, it's important to understand that fires require a mechanism to ignite, which necessitates the use of fuel as well as oxygen. Focus on things like burning candles, various types of laboratory equipment, and smoking areas where people smoke. An ignition is also possible in circumstances of severe heat. Cooking equipment, heaters, and industrial equipment that runs at extremely high temperatures are examples of dangerous extreme heat goods. Other, less obvious fire threats include lighting placed too close to combustible cloth, which can erupt into flames. In the right conditions, fuel and flammable liquids will also ignite if they come into touch with the right source of ignition.
Commercial property managers and business owners must develop a fire safety plan and have their staff review it on a regular basis. Furthermore, having a professional evaluate your current fire proofing, venting system, and fire apparatus is the most important step in preventing fires.
SFE Services is dedicated to keeping your fire equipment and smoke ventilation systems in good working order. For a free assessment, contact us today.
BBC New fire at South Africa's parliament 'contained'
PHOTO: AFP
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