Government mandates sprinklers in nursing homes

Aged care facilities across NSW will be required to install automatic sprinkler systems to reduce the fire risk for elderly and vulnerable residents under a landmark NSW Government initiative.

Minister for Planning and Infrastructure Brad Hazzard announced today the mandatory installation of automatic sprinkler systems in all new and existing accredited residential aged care facilities in NSW.

“In response to the tragic Quakers Hill Nursing Home fire in 2011, the government has committed to decisive action to ensure our most vulnerable are protected,” Mr Hazzard said.

Operators will have up to three years to install sprinklers in existing residential aged care buildings.

"The safety of our elderly is important. It's great to see NSW stepping in line with the requirements already set in Queensland and Victoria," said Ian Stalker, a Senior Hydraulic Engineer at Woolacotts.

The regulation will begin in January 2013. Commonwealth accredited aged care facilities will be given 18 months to retrofit sprinklers.

Woolacotts has a long list of experience designing sprinkler systems in health and aged care facilities. If you would like more information about installing sprinklers in your facility, please contact Jeremy Bierer on +61 414 278 324 or jbierer@woolacotts.com.au.

Read more: nursing home fire protection information sheet.