A Werribee aged-care facility has been assessed as safe to live in despite a statewide cladding audit finding expanded polystyrene cladding in the building.
The Heaths Road facility was assessed by the state government, Wyndham council and the CFA as part of last month’s audit.
A statement issued by the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) said the assessment discovered expanded polystyrene cladding in the building.
“As a result, Wyndham council’s municipal building surveyor ordered urgent building works,” the statement said.
The works, which have been completed, included clearing items from exit paths, stairs and balconies; removing potential ignition sources from areas that have cladding; and ensuring extra staff, fire wardens and security are available at all times.
Wyndham Council’s Municipal Building Surveyor has issued building notices to the building owners asking why sections of combustible cladding should not be removed.
The aged-care facility is working with the VBA to inform residents and their families of the situation.
A VBA spokesman said that a team of independent fire safety and building experts has determined the aged-care facility “… remains safe to occupy, but will be subject to strict conditions to ensure the highest safety standards for residents”.
“The safety of residents and staff is our number one priority,” the spokesman said.
