7156 Parke Avenue in Red Deer was recently the subject of several Safety Code Act violations. (Google Street View)

By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

Red Deer apartment building owner fined $15,000 for Safety Code violations

Dec 9, 2022 | 10:09 AM

Red Deer Emergency Services (RDES) says it recently laid a number of charges for safety code violations.

RDES reminds property owners to be vigilant with fire safety in multi-family properties especially; this after one owner was charged with several offences resulting in $15,000 worth of fines.

Inspections for the noted charges took place numerous times between October 2021 and February 2022 at apartment buildings located at 40 Cardinal Avenue and 7156 Parke Avenue.

After multiple instances of non-compliance with the Safety Code Act, orders were issued to the owner of both buildings, R.K.L Construction.

“When we conduct fire inspections, our top priority is to ensure the safety of residents living in these properties,” said Fire Marshal Tim Kivell, RDES. “We work with property owners to identify and correct safety issues. Unfortunately in some cases we must use the legal system to address ongoing negligence that creates unsafe living situations.”

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As a result of these inspections, the property owner was charged with fourteen violations. On November 23, 2022, R.K.L. Construction Ltd. pled guilty to seven of these charges in Red Deer provincial court, including:

• Failed to comply with order
• Failed to maintain exit signs
• Failed to maintain emergency lighting
• Failed to maintain closures
• Fire Alarm System Records not provided
• Improper storage of combustible materials
• Wedged open fire separation door

The seven charges resulted in $15,000 in fines, however the maximum fine under the Safety Codes Act is $100,000 for each offence and/or imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months.

The other seven were withdrawn, and the properties have since been brought up to code.

“RDES would like to remind property owners that they are responsible for ensuring their buildings meet the minimum requirements under the Safety Codes Act and the National Fire Code of Canada 2019 (Alberta Edition), including providing the required fire protection features in residential buildings, not allowing activities that might cause fire hazards in and around buildings, and providing required ongoing maintenance to ensure safety of residents,” RDES adds in a release.