NSW Aged Care facilities on track with fire sprinkler installation
Aged and Community Services NSW and ACT (ACS) has welcomed the successful installation of fire sprinkler systems in many of the State’s older residential aged care facilities.
ACS CEO Illana Halliday said achieving the target of 25% completed installations within 18 months was an important milestone.
“These are complicated projects with inherent risks for staff and residents, given the bulk of the work is confined to roof spaces in older buildings,” she said.
“Providers have taken time and care to undertake these works to ensure minimum disruption for frail and vulnerable residents and appropriate support for contractors to complete the projects without undue haste.
“The use of experienced contractors in conjunction with detailed planning, allowing ample time to safely complete installations, has been integral to the entire program of retrofitting sprinklers.
“The completion rate has been impressive given the logistics. However, there are facilities struggling to meet the costs of installing sprinklers – approximately $7000 per bed.
“It is an onerous burden for facilities struggling to meet their operating costs, without additional government funding to support the fitting of sprinklers.
“For a handful, there is a real risk they will be forced to close without funding assistance, compounding the impact on their residents, families and staff.”
Ms Halliday said providers have been genuine in their efforts to meet the agreed timeline. Those facing delays have had to manage complicated issues around compliance, supplies and contractors.
“The close scrutiny and careful oversight of the installations in all identified facilities means the work will be finished and completed to meet all appropriate standards. We are on track to have the bulk of these projects completed on time,” she said.
“The safety of residents and staff in all aged care facilities is and always has been a priority.”
ENDS
Contact: Illana Halliday 0448498016