Law No. 15/2021 "Legal Regime for Fire Safety in Buildings and Venues" was published on 16 August 2021 and will come into force one year after its publication, that is, the Ordinance will come into force on 17 August 2022. The fire department has been added as a functional department to clearly divide the law enforcement authority and have the functions of supervision and punishment. As for the construction works, those that affect fire safety are within the scope of the Land and Works Bureau. The fire safety system is within the purview of the Fire Services Department.

The Bill clearly delineates the responsibilities of the Land and Works Bureau and the Fire Services Department in dealing with obstructions to fire access on constructed buildings. In order to maintain the fire safety conditions of buildings, it is necessary to ensure that the evacuation routes are kept open and clean for a long time. If there are "fixed objects" such as unauthorized construction of iron gates, wooden doors, rooftops, etc., which cause obstruction to the fire escape routes, the Land and Works Bureau will be responsible.

Non-fixed objects, such as debris, large furniture, etc. placed in the fire channel, are handled by the fire department.

In addition, the Bill imposes a maximum fine of (natural person - MOP200,000; Legal person - MOP800,000). The offence of obstructing or occupying stairs or corridors is classified as a very serious offence with a fine ranging from MOP 10,000 to MOP 200,000, or from MOP 5,000 to MOP 50,000 if the offence is considered serious

The past "fire safety regulations" have been used for 25 years, and the law has long been unable to keep up with urban development; There is also confusion between the powers and responsibilities of the Works Bureau and the Fire Services Department in maintaining fire safety in buildings. The Legal Regime for Fire Safety in Buildings and Venues Bill provides a clearer legal framework and establishes a penalty regime.

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Reference materials:

https://www.fsm.gov.mo/cbFireSafety/default.aspx

https://bo.io.gov.mo/bo/i/2021/33/lei15_cn.asp

https://www.exmoo.com/article/180377.html