He indicated that the total evacuation is mandatory because "the structure may have suffered invisible damage, there is a risk of progressive collapse and there could be secondary gas leaks.".
SANTO DOMINGO.- Architect Edgar Martínez, a specialist in construction and technical supervision, explained the main factors that determine safety in residential buildings and warned about risks that often go unnoticed, especially in inhabited towers.
The reaction comes after the explosion that occurred last Wednesday, December 10, in a residential building in Villa Marina, National District. The expert explained that safety rests on three fundamental pillars: design and construction in accordance with regulations, continuous operation and maintenance, and specific protocols for sensitive installations such as gas systems.
Martínez pointed out that to guarantee a safe project, "specialized technical supervision is necessary in each construction area, throughout the execution of the works," thus ensuring compliance with current structural, electrical, and sanitary regulations.
He added that it is mandatory to incorporate “early detection systems (for smoke and gas), adequate ventilation, and evacuation routes.” Regarding gas, he warned that facilities must strictly comply with NFPA standards and local regulations.
Martínez emphasized that maintenance is a critical element for preserving the building's safety. He noted that "even a well-constructed building can become unsafe if it is not properly maintained" and warned that "a condominium without preventative maintenance exponentially increases the risk of accidents."
Among the necessary actions he mentioned were periodic inspections of the electrical system, leak tests on gas lines, pump checks, duct cleaning, and education of residents through manuals, signage, and drills.
Regarding gas systems , he explained that risks exist in both tank installations and centralized piped systems. He detailed that the hazards can include “leaks during filling, inadequate ventilation in gas rooms, and pipe deterioration” in the case of tanks, as well as “leaks in internal connections, poor installation in kitchens, lack of level-based shut-off valves, and absence of gas detectors” in piped systems. He also warned about aggravating factors such as lack of maintenance , inadequate materials, or interventions by uncertified technicians.
Martínez was clear in explaining what should happen after an explosion. He indicated that a complete evacuation is mandatory because “the structure may have suffered invisible damage , there is a risk of progressive collapse, and there could be secondary gas leaks.” He noted that all electricity, gas, and water supplies must be cut off, and that re-entry should only be permitted after a formal technical assessment.
To determine the building's true condition, he indicated that the evaluation must be carried out by a multidisciplinary team composed of a structural engineer, a forensic fire or explosion expert, a gas specialist, and an electrical engineer. Among the necessary studies, he mentioned “structural inspection: columns, beams, slabs; non-destructive testing; an architectural survey of damage; a gas system leak test; and an evaluation of the electrical system.” He clarified that until these studies are completed, “the building must not be habitable .”
Regarding responsibilities, he explained that if an explosion occurs due to "lack of maintenance, the responsibility lies with the condominium "; if it results from a construction or installation error, it corresponds to the builder ; and if it is due to user manipulation, the responsibility falls on the resident.
Regarding insurance policies, he indicated that insurance generally covers these events as long as the building has an active policy and "the condominium has complied with maintenance requirements," but they might not cover if there is no documented maintenance or if the facilities do not meet regulations.
