COVID-19 Restrictions saw local governments across Western Australia shutting the doors of libraries, sport and recreation centres, public pools and community centres. Now, in Phase 2 of the WA Roadmap restrictions are lifting and local governments can consider opening their facilities whilst meeting conditions. Phase 3, will see further restrictions lifted and greater numbers of people accessing facilities.

Shutting down services and the associated buildings (assets) it was important to maintain practices to protect against a possible asset loss or damage. Now that local governments are re-opening buildings they should ensure that the buildings are fit for purpose and haven't suffered any damage.

We recommend that members consider the following to protect assets which are still closed and to test those that are planned to reopen.

Sprinkler / fire systems

• Maintain/test automatic sprinkler and protection systems as well as fire detection systems to ensure they are in full working condition. Continue scheduled inspection, testing and maintenance activities. As a result of limited employee / contractor resourcing or restricted access to sites during the lockdown period, there may have been difficulty in maintaining normal scheduled fire protection system inspections.
• Ensuring all accessible sectional and divisional valves on the sprinkler and hydrant systems are locked in position (lock and chain), and increase the frequency of checks on valves.

Property access and security

• Considering implementing deterrents to unlawful access such as interior / exterior lighting and alarm systems.
• Ensuring valuable items are secured and access to the property is monitored and controlled at all times.
• Increase the frequency of patrols especially in areas containing flammable liquids or gases and idle machinery.
• Keeping yard areas and remote entrances well-lit and ensuring access gates are locked when unattended.
• Keeping yard storage at least 15 metres away from the perimeter fence where possible and away from buildings.

Maintenance and housekeeping

• Maintain all regulated inspections and testing, i.e. pressure vessels, lifts, cooling towers, etc.
• Maintain good housekeeping, especially of combustible debris.
• Disconnect any unnecessary power supplies.
• Monitor the need for hot work, ensuring permits are used and appropriate precautions remain in place.
• Ensuring important records, systems or drawings are duplicated and stored at a secure offsite location.

Staff and communications

• Ensuring contractors are well managed and their locations are known at all times.
• Ensuring emergency response procedures properly reflect the changing conditions and briefing employees so they know how to respond.
• Testing your emergency communications system and ensuring employee contact details are up-to-date.

In these uncertain and rapidly evolving times, taking precautionary measures such as the above can help local governments ensure their key assets stay protected and continue to be well managed in accordance with regulatory and other stakeholder requirements and expectations.

More information and support

For more information and support in protecting your local government in the 'new normal' of COVID-19 contact the LGIS Risk & Governance Team on 9483 8888 or at admin@lgiswa.com.au