Who is Responsible for Updating a Building’s Fire Safety Plan?

In Vancouver, commercial building owners are ultimately responsible for ensuring their property follows fire safety regulations. According to Vancouver Fire Bylaw 12472, every commercial property must have an approved fire safety plan on file and is responsible for its maintenance.

Specific responsibilities include:

  • Annual Updates: Owners must update the fire safety plan every year or whenever building use changes.
  • Plan Submission: Property owners must submit their plan to the local fire authority for approval.
  • Site Maintenance: Owners and property managers must ensure all fire suppression and alarm systems are maintained and that emergency procedures are posted on-site.
  • Plan Reviews: The fire safety plan is considered a living document that must be reviewed after renovations, occupancy changes, or updates to regulations to remain in compliance with the BC Fire Code.

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