VENTILATION IN UNDERGROUND CAR PARKS

[Mr Speaker in the Chair]

Dr Wang Kai Yuen asked the Minister for National Development what enforcement policy is in place to ensure that the air ventilation systems of underground car parks are functioning properly.

The Senior Minister of State for National Development (Dr Lee Boon Yang) (for the Minister for National Development): Mr Speaker, Sir, building regulations require all basement car parks to have mechanical ventilation systems providing at least six air changes per hour. This is comparable to standards adopted by other countries.

Owners and management corporations of buildings are required to maintain and keep their car park mechanical ventilation systems in good working condition.

Dr Wang Kai Yuen (Bukit Timah): Can I ask the Minister which department in his Ministry is in charge of enforcing such regulations to maintain the air quality designed into the air ventilation systems?

Dr Lee Boon Yang: Mr Speaker, Sir, the Building Control Division of my Ministry is in charge of enforcing the regulations governing any violation of these rules.