Resources
Fire Inspectors: The Unsung Heroes of Disaster Prevention Through Rigorous Safety Checks
Key elements to ensure proper fire protection and safety measures are in place:
1. Adequate fire exits: Ensuring the building has sufficient and clearly marked fire exits, with unobstructed pathways.
2. Fire doors: Checking that fire doors are installed in strategic locations to compartmentalize the building and prevent the spread of fire and smoke.
3. Emergency lighting: Verifying that emergency lights and exit signs are installed and functioning correctly, to provide visibility and guidance during an evacuation.
4. Fire alarms and detectors: Ensuring the building has an appropriate fire detection system, including smoke detectors, heat detectors, and a central alarm system that alerts occupants and emergency services.
5. Fire suppression systems: Confirming the presence and proper functioning of fire suppression systems, such as sprinklers, standpipes, and fire extinguishers complying with local codes.
6. Building materials: Evaluating the fire resistance of building materials used in construction, including walls, floors, ceilings, and doors, to minimize the spread of fire.
7. Electrical systems: Inspecting electrical wiring, outlets, and panels for proper installation and maintenance to minimize the risk of electrical fires.
8. Storage of flammable materials: Verifying that flammable and combustible materials are stored properly, in designated areas with appropriate containment and ventilation.
9. Fire safety plan: Reviewing the building's fire safety plan, which should include details on evacuation procedures, emergency contacts, and maintenance schedules for fire protection systems.
10. Firefighter access: Assessing the accessibility of the building for firefighters and emergency responders, including access roads, fire lanes, and water sources.
11. Occupant capacity: Checking that the building's occupant capacity is in line with fire safety requirements and that it is not overcrowded, which could impede evacuation efforts.
12. Fire drills and training: Confirming that regular fire drills are conducted, and occupants are trained in fire safety and evacuation procedures.
13. Building codes and standards: Ensuring the building complies with all applicable local, regional, and national fire codes and standards.
14. Fire protection system maintenance: Verifying that regular inspections and maintenance of fire protection systems are being performed, and records are up to date.
15. Housekeeping and general maintenance: Assessing the cleanliness and orderliness of the building to reduce potential fire hazards, such as clutter and the accumulation of combustible materials.
“At the time he had no sprinklers to keep the fire from spreading. They rebuilt, and this time spent the money to have them installed.”
HOME SPRINKLER FIRES
Over 80% of fire deaths occur in the home. Home fire sprinklers can save lives and property from fire. They respond quickly and effectively to fire, often extinguishing the fire before the fire department arrives. Only the sprinkler closest to the fire will activate, spraying water on the fire.
Don’t Open Energized Controllers
We’ve probably all heard or used the old adage, “What you don’t know won’t hurt you,” when referring to things that one would better off not knowing, but there are some things that not knowing can indeed hurt you. One such thing that tends to be an unknown to most water-based fire protection system inspectors is the arc flash hazard...