Essential Safety Measures
Essential Safety Measures are the safety features required in a building to protect occupants in the event of a fire. If a fire occurs, well maintained Essential Safety Measures (ESMs) can provide residents with more time to exit the building and lessen the chance of fire spreading. ESMs require ongoing care and maintenance.
https://www.youtube.com/embed/GQ63zX6DNnU?autoplay=0&start=0&rel=0
If you are an owner or owners corporation you are legally required to:
- Ensure that the building’s ESMs, such as fire detection and alarm systems and fire extinguishers, have been maintained and can operate during an emergency.
- Keep fire doors clear of obstructions, closed and unlocked at all times.
- Ensure all occupiers know the building’s evacuation plan and fire safety procedures.
Looking for more information about fire safety?
For more information on fire safety, refer to our practical fire safety tips and download Fire Rescue Victoria’s Home Fire Safety booklet.
For more information about gas safety, visit Energy Safe Victoria.
Updated 8 October 2025
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