Bangkok: The government warns of the need to prepare for summer storms and is intensifying inspections of buildings, advertising signs, and structures. Violators face imprisonment of up to three months, a fine of up to 60,000 baht, or both, and an additional fine of up to 10,000 baht per day until compliance is achieved.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Airin Phanrit, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that Thailand has now entered the summer season, a period with a high risk of summer storms and tropical cyclones that could cause damage to life and property. The government is warning the public to ensure their homes and buildings are structurally sound, especially roof tiles, ensuring they are firmly attached to the roof structure. Inspect for any potential collapsing structures and report any incidents to the responsible authorities. During thunderstorms, stay away from structures at risk of collapsing. Furthermore, help monitor and ensure the stability of large advertising signs for safety. The government also urges stricter enforcement of regulations regarding the construction of temporary structures in open areas that may not require permits from local authorities. Relevant officials are instructed to ensure that those undertaking such construction projects strictly inspect and maintain the s tructural integrity and safety of such structures, and to take precautions against the dangers of strong winds.
For large advertising signs, the permit application process for construction or modification must strictly adhere to building control laws. A licensed engineer, in accordance with the Engineers Act, must calculate and certify the structural integrity. For signs with a height of 10 meters or more from the foundation, or an area of 50 square meters or more, in addition to the structural integrity calculations, the design and calculations of the various components of the sign must also be inspected by a qualified civil engineer.
According to the Ministerial Regulation prescribing the types or categories of buildings, criteria, methods, and conditions for inspecting the design and calculations of various parts of building projects, B.E. 2550 (2007), local officials must strictly exercise their authority to enforce the law regarding signs constructed or modified in violation of the law. Anyone who violates this will be subject to penalties under Section 65 bis, which stipulates imprisonment for a term not exceeding three months or a fine not exceeding sixty thousand baht, or both, and an additional fine not exceeding ten thousand baht per day until compliance is achieved. Local officials must also file a report with the investigating officer to initiate criminal proceedings against the offender.
The government has warned the public to be vigilant and inspect buildings, structures, billboards, and trees that may be affected by strong winds. It has also instructed government agencies to prepare personnel, equipment, and raise awareness about safety measures so that they can provide timely assistance to the public.