During winter, ice icicles forming on building eaves and gutters pose a real risk of injury to employees and can cause significant material damage. The Bucharest–Ilfov Inspectorate for Emergency Situations reminds that building owners and administrators have a legal responsibility to remove these icicles in order to prevent accidents caused by their detachment.
According to the legislation in force, including Decision of the General Council of the Municipality of Bucharest No. 120/2010, both individuals and legal entities are required to remove ice icicles from buildings and to clear snow and ice from the sidewalks adjacent to the properties where they live or carry out their activities. In the case of commercial premises located on the ground floor of buildings, this responsibility lies with the economic operators during business hours. Failure to comply with these obligations may result in sanctions imposed by the Local Police.
In situations where icicles are located at considerable heights or cannot be safely removed by owners or administrators, the Inspectorate for Emergency Situations may be contacted. Firefighters’ intervention is justified when there is an imminent danger to lives or property. Prevention and timely intervention remain the most effective measures for avoiding accidents during the cold season.