In 2024, the Finnish Rescue Act underwent a significant change, shifting the responsibility of smoke alarms from residents to housing companies. This new law requires housing companies to purchase, install, test, and upkeep smoke alarms in all apartments, resulting in improved fire safety measures.
This shift carries immense importance as functional smoke alarms play a vital role in ensuring safety in residential buildings. Neglecting maintenance or using outdated alarms can lead to severe consequences, making this law crucial for the wellbeing of residents.
In practical terms, housing companies now have the responsibility of procuring, installing, testing, and maintaining smoke alarms in all apartments. This includes ensuring there is at least one smoke alarm per 60 square meters, complying with the EN 14604 standard, regular testing (at least once a year), and replacing outdated alarms.
Residents Obligations
While residents still have the obligation of notifying the housing company of any defects or battery replacements, they are encouraged to conduct regular tests themselves to ensure proper functioning.
Transition period of 2 years
This legislation took effect on January 1, 2024, but housing companies have a two-year transition period to fulfill their duties. Within this time frame, housing companies must prepare a plan for procuring, installing, and maintaining smoke alarms.
The impact
The amendment to the Rescue Act marks a momentous stride towards enhancing fire safety in residential complexes. Its impact is anticipated to transcend the well-being of occupants and financial state of housing corporations, extending its reach to society as a whole. It is imperative for both housing companies and residents to be very aware of the fresh obligations and duties, and collaborate diligently to fulfill them.
Implementing LoRaWAN for remote management
Housing companies should consider implementing smoke alarms with LoRaWAN technology because these smart systems enable automatic testing and monitoring remotely, greatly enhancing fire safety management. By leveraging this IoT capability, companies can significantly reduce the manual labor and costs associated with regular inspections while ensuring compliance with safety regulations. The real-time alerts provided by LoRaWAN enabled smoke alarms empower property managers to respond swiftly to any issues, such as low battery levels or malfunctions, ultimately enhancing tenant safety and reducing liability risks. Adopting this innovative technology not only streamlines maintenance processes but also demonstrates a commitment to modern fire safety solutions.
