The Lagos State Government has trained facility managers on the need for risk management in high-rise structures and the importance of ensuring the safety of their occupants.
Mr Lanre Mojola, Director-General of the Lagos State Safety Commission, announced this on Monday during a training for facility management businesses in Alausa, Ikeja.
He said, “This topic focuses on tall buildings and according to Section 202 of the International Building Code which is recognised globally, any building from 75 feet (22,860 metres) and above is regarded as a tall building. Tall buildings are unique because they have their distinct ways of management from a regular building and this is due to the hazards that are embedded within them.
“It is important that facility managers have a general understanding of risk assessment of tall buildings. There are issues with ventilation and air conditioning in tall buildings, particularly in the hot climate we are in, causing distress to occupants. We also have issues with electrical fault testing, water safety, and leadership commitment to safety.”
Mr Sesan Ogundeko, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, stated that the commission would first conduct awareness campaigns before enforcing compliance with risk assessment of high-rise buildings across the state.
Mr Segun Adebayo, President of the International Facility Management Association’s Nigeria chapter, advised facility managers to prioritise risk management in their services.
“Of course, data information shows that attention needs to be given more to high-rise buildings and we as professionals will undertake to deliver quality, sustainable and professional services to our employers of labour,” he said.
