Inspection of buildings, premises etc.

(1) The nominated authority may, after giving three hours notice to the occupier, or if there be no occupier, to the owner of any building having such height as may be specified by rules framed under the Act, and inspect the said building or premises at any time between sunrise and sunset where such inspection appears necessary for ascertaining the adequacy or contravention of fire prevention and fire safety measures. Provided that the nominated authority may enter into and inspect any building or premises at any time if it appears to it to be expedient and necessary to do so in order to ensure safety of life and property. (2) The nominated authority shall be provided with all possible assistance by the owner or occupier, as the case may be, of the building or premises, for carrying out the inspection under sub-section (1). (3) When any building or premises used as a human dwelling is entered under sub-section (1), due regard shall be paid to the social and religious sentiments of the occupiers; and before any apartment in the actual occupancy of any woman, who, according to the custom does not appear in public, is entered under sub-section (1), notice shall be given to her that she is at liberty to withdraw, and every reasonable facility shall be afforded to her for withdrawing. (2) The nominated authority shall be provided with all possible assistance by the owner or occupier, as the case may be, of the building or premises, for carrying out the inspection under sub-section (1). (3) When any building or premises used as a human dwelling is entered under sub-section (1), due regard shall be paid to the social and religious sentiments of the occupier; and before any apartment in the actual occupancy of any woman, who, according to the custom does not appear in public, is entered under sub-section (1), notice shall be given to her that she is at liberty to withdraw, and every reasonable facility shall be afforded to her for withdrawing. Appointment of any person as 'nominated authority' shall be made in consultation with Chief Fire Officer who will also prescribe the jurisdiction within which such person shall function.