Welcome to Solution Fire Prevention Inc. blog! Today we will share with you the complete fire inspection checklist.
We all know that fire inspections are an essential part of doing business. Therefore, you must make sure everything is in proper working order to be ready for emergencies. These steps will help you ensure your place is in full compliance with your state’s fire code at all times.
Additionally, fire safety inspections are vital for commercial and residential buildings as it helps you prevent fire hazards. And, as you may already know, fires often bring devastating consequences for anybody.
The best way to remain prepared is to go through our checklist.
Let’s not waste more time, pay attention to every detail. Now we will list the main steps you must follow.
Why Are Fire Inspections Important for Your Place?
Nobody wants to be at a place in which they are at risk. By conducting thorough fire inspections, you can be sure that everyone on your premises will feel safe at all times.
Not only will you be able to mitigate fire and life safety hazards, but you’ll also be able to abide by local codes. The National Fire Alarm Code requires these inspections to business owners.
Moreover, with fire inspections, you’ll likely get better insurance rates due to the discounts companies provide! On the other hand, when you don’t have regular inspections for your place, there’s a chance that these companies will reject your insurance company.
Last but not least, fire inspections help avoid all types of unfortunate expenses. While not all fires end up costing lives, they can result in other types of damages.
Believe it or not, up to 80% of all businesses end up permanently closing. Out of the 20% who stay in the game, their prolonged absence often takes a heavy toll on their customer base.
As you can see, fire inspections are essential for any building. And although they might seem a hassle, they are necessary to make sure that everything is in order. Luckily, you can perform a simple and efficient check-up of your place by following the steps we’ll mention below
Prevent Fire Accidents by Following This Fire Inspection Checklist
Both business and homeowners must inspect their fire suppression systems annually to verify that they are correctly installed and operable for a possible emergency. In this process, you must evaluate several things. Unfortunately, this process may sometimes seem overwhelming to many business owners.
Don’t worry, though!
Here’s where this guide comes real handy. That way, you’ll have an easy time when inspecting your fire systems. The points we’ll mention further on are often things fire marshal inspections include.
Moreover, keep in mind that this is a DIY evaluation. If you wish to get an accreditation, you’ll need to call an expert. Luckily, we are here to help you out in this type of scenario.
Follow this fire inspection checklist for your premise:
- Make sure the emergency lights are working correctly.
- The fire extinguishers must be at strategic locations.
- Inspect the electrical panels and the fire alarm system.
- Your fire sprinkler system is up and running.
- Make sure that you have clear exit passages.
Now that we mentioned each step of the list, it is time to explain how to proceed.
Make Sure the Emergency Lights Are Function Properly
First, you must ensure that the emergency lights are functioning correctly. All units must have backup batteries ready to alert for a minimum of 90 minutes during a fire event. It would help if you verified that the bulbs are working correctly before a fire inspector comes to your place.
Additionally, you must make sure that these lights are visible in case of heavy smoke. This way, people will be able to recognize the exit signs as well.
The Fire Extinguishers Must Be at Strategic Locations
Inspections help you ensure that your fire extinguishers are good working and at the right place in an emergency. That way, the staff will reach them on time; thus, they will avoid fires to grow and spread.
It would help if you had a fire extinguisher every 75 feet of travel distance. Keep in mind that this number may vary depending on the type of business you handle.
Additionally, the extinguishers must be at least a 2ABC size rating and must not exceed 40 pounds in weight. Finally, it must be at the height of 5 feet above the floor.
Inspect the Electrical Panels and the Fire Alarm System
The electrical panels are responsible for controlling the fire alarm system; therefore, they must be perfect. Consider that the fire marshal will inspect your fire alarm panel.
Ensure that your electrical system counts on the inspection dates and no warning lights lit up. If the inspector finds a warning light on, consider this as an automatic citation.
Your Fire Sprinkler System Is Up and Running
Make sure that there is adequate clearance around each sprinkler deflector. We recommend you let 18 inches of clearance around the sprinkler comply with regulations. Also, check if all sprinkler heads are working correctly.
Make Sure that You Have Clear Exit Passages
Lastly, you’ll need to make sure that all paths of egress are free of obstructions. Furthermore, it’s always a good idea to have multiple exits around your place. By doing so, you ensure that everyone in the building can leave safely in an emergency.
Another thing you’ll want to verify is that all staff and customers can reach the emergency exits on time. If they can’t, then these passages don’t have much value.
Your exit doors must follow the following requirements:
- They must have an easy-to-open mechanism.
- These doors must be at least 36 inches wide.
- If you have fire doors, they must close quickly without any obstruction. Moreover, these doors must not open with anything.
With this fire inspection checklist, you can be sure that you won’t have any problems with your fire marshal. Additionally, you can be sure that your premise counts on everything it needs to handle any fires.
Remember that if you have any doubts, you can always contact our crew.