Finland's Rescue Act 2024: Shifting Smoke Alarm Responsibility to Housing Companies Boosts Fire Safety
A significant change was made to the Finnish Rescue Act in 2024, transferring the responsibility for smoke alarms from residents to housing companies. This means that housing companies are now required to purchase, install, test, and maintain smoke alarms in all apartments. The change improves fire safety by ensuring that all apartments have functioning smoke alarms.
Why is this change important?
Maintaining functional smoke alarms is a crucial aspect of fire safety in residential buildings. Poorly maintained or outdated smoke alarms may not detect a fire in time, which can lead to serious consequences. The new law aims to ensure that all dwellings have adequate and functioning smoke alarms, thereby improving residents' safety.
What does the change mean in practice?
Housing Companies' Responsibilities:
Housing companies are now responsible for the procurement, installation, testing, and maintenance of smoke alarms in all apartments. This means that housing companies must ensure that:
- Each apartment has a sufficient number of smoke alarms (at least one smoke alarm per 60 square meters)
- Smoke alarms comply with the SFS EN 14604:2010 standard
- Smoke alarms are tested regularly (at least once a year) and maintained as needed
- Outdated smoke alarms are replaced
Residents' Obligations:
Residents are still responsible for notifying the housing company of any defects in the smoke alarms or if the batteries run out. Residents are also advised to test the smoke alarms regularly themselves to ensure they are working properly.
Transition Period:
The new legislation came into effect on January 1, 2024, but housing companies have a two-year transition period to fulfill their new obligations. Within this timeframe, housing companies should prepare a plan for the procurement, installation, and maintenance of smoke alarms.
Impact of the Change:
Overall, the amendment to the Rescue Act is a significant step forward in improving fire safety in residential buildings. The change is expected to have several positive effects, extending beyond the safety of residents and the finances of housing companies to society at large. However, it is crucial that housing companies and residents are aware of the new obligations and responsibilities and work together to fulfill them.
