It’s time for fire-maintenance-companies-lets-step-up-2 to step up the game in maintenance, Victoria! Ensuring your fire safety systems are well-maintained is crucial to keeping your property protected.
Reflecting on my early years in the fire industry, I recall a time when smartphones were a novelty and the internet was in its infancy. We leaned heavily on obsolete standards and depended on our reliable Nokia 3110s to liaise with superiors. Contemporary communication tools like FaceTime and YouTube were unthinkable then.
One could question the necessity for convening a group FaceTime session during system startups. After all, wouldn\’t a traditional phone call suffice?
In my dual capacity as a maintenance fitter and entrepreneur, I sometimes perceive our role to be less appreciated than that of the installers. Our profits might not be astronomical, our tasks may be intricate and demanding, and the smallest data discrepancy could result in a lost client. With multiple authorities to respond to, this line of work is not for the faint-hearted.
This piece aims to illuminate the regulatory landscape of Victoria\’s fire industry. Despite the meticulous regulation of installation practices, the input of sprinkler fitters within the maintenance sector is unduly neglected.
Fire Maintenance Victoria Sprinkler fitters bring a wealth of diverse experiences to their roles. In my journey, I have successfully completed three fire industry apprenticeships. This multi-faceted background is common amongst our ranks, with former real estate agents, welders, marketers, and even apprentices from families with sprinkler fitting backgrounds. These unique perspectives add significant value to our industry.
However, with the growth of the industry, the crucial role of sprinkler fitters within the maintenance sector, especially in Victoria, has been overlooked. Numerous fitting companies perceive maintenance as an ancillary requirement rather than a core function. The focus is often on rapid installations and adequate remuneration, with little consideration given to post-installation concerns.
The industry\’s complexity has increased over time. With the rise of high-rise buildings, widespread fire panels, and sprinkler systems, the scarcity of experienced building managers, and insufficient regulation and corporate oversight, a gap in knowledge and skill is evident. Regrettably, apprentices often receive limited exposure to service and maintenance tasks, contributing to a deficient learning experience.
The booming cityscape has seen an influx of companies venturing into the fire maintenance market. This seemingly positive trend has a darker side. Seasoned maintenance professionals have raised concerns about questionable practices amongst companies managed by inexperienced fire contractors. There\’s a growing trend of hiring unqualified individuals and a shift towards companies purporting to offer all-encompassing services.
For instance, a significant metropolitan maintenance company that established in the late 90s, despite having a vast workforce and managing numerous sites, raises eyebrows. Upon scrutiny, it becomes clear that their senior leadership team lacks sprinkler fitters, plumbers, or electricians. This disparity underscores the pressing questions about the future trajectory of our industry. Regrettably, Melbourne hasn\’t seen the birth of a bona fide fire protection company, driven by seasoned fitters or fire sparkies, in the last decade.
When selecting your fire protection company, it is prudent to carry out thorough research. Scrutinise their track record, their operation procedures, and invest time in understanding their business. It is paramount to make an informed choice.
Let\’s come together, Victoria, and raise the standards in our fire maintenance industry!
Drew