A fire protection inspection is a process whereby a trained individual evaluates the fire safety systems and equipment in a building to ensure they are up to code and functioning properly. This type of inspection is typically conducted by fire marshals or other local authorities.
Educational resources for fire protection inspection:
NFPA Fire Protection Inspection Database- This online database from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provides information about fire protection inspection requirements for a variety of occupancies and buildings.
International Fire Code- The International Fire Code (IFC) is a model code that establishes minimum regulations for fire safety in new and existing buildings. The IFC is adopted by many states and local jurisdictions.
Local fire codes- Each jurisdiction has its own fire code, which may be more stringent than the IFC. Contact your local fire department or building department to learn about the specific requirements in your area.
NFPA Fire Protection Inspection Database- https://www.nfpa.org/~/media/Codes%20and%20Standards/Codes%20and%20Guides%20by%20Topic/Fire%20Protection/NFPADatabaseFinal081718.pdf?la=en
International Fire Code- https://codes.iccsafe.org/public/document/browse/2020%20IFC
Local fire codes- Varies by jurisdiction. Please contact your local fire department or building department for specific requirements in your area.
If you are in the United States, contact the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) for more information about fire protection inspection:
National Fire Protection Association
One Batterymarch Park
Quincy, MA 02169-7471
Telephone: +1 617 770 3000
Website: https://www.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/wildland-fire-and-home-fires/fire-prevention-week
In Canada, contact the Canadian Fire Safety Association (CFSA) for more information about fire protection inspection:
Canadian Fire Safety Association
1235 Bay Street, Suite 600
Toronto, ON M5R 3K4
Telephone: +1 416 362 9700
Website: https://cfsa.ca/en/programs-services/fire-prevention-week.aspx
A typical fire protection inspection includes a review of the following:
Fire alarm systems- Inspectors will verify that fire alarm systems are properly installed and maintained, and that they are in compliance with the applicable codes and standards.
Fire sprinkler systems- Inspectors will check fire sprinkler systems to ensure they are properly installed, maintained, and in compliance with the applicable codes and standards.
Exit signs and emergency lighting- Inspectors will check exit signs and emergency lighting to ensure they are properly installed and functioning correctly.
Fire extinguishers- Inspectors will check fire extinguishers to ensure they are properly installed, maintained, and in compliance with the applicable codes and standards.
General fire safety- Inspectors will also check for other fire hazards, such as cluttered storage areas, and ensure that appropriate fire safety procedures are in place.
A fire protection inspection provides a number of benefits, including:
Ensuring compliance with codes and standards- A fire protection inspection helps to ensure that a building is in compliance with the applicable fire codes and standards.
Identifying fire hazards- A fire protection inspection can identify potential fire hazards that may not be obvious to the untrained eye.
Improving safety- A fire protection inspection can help to improve the overall safety of a building by ensuring that all fire safety systems and equipment are functioning properly.
If you receive a fire protection inspection report, review it carefully and make note of any deficiencies that are noted. corrective action to address any deficiencies that are identified. If you have any questions about the report or the corrective actions that are required, contact the fire inspector who conducted the inspection.
There are a number of software programs that can be used to conduct fire protection inspections. Some of the more popular options include:
Fire Inspection and Reporting Software (FIRS)– FIRS is a software program that is specifically designed for fire inspectors. It includes a number of features that make it easy to create inspection reports, track deficiencies, and follow up on corrective actions.
InspectIT is a general purpose inspection software program that can be used for fire protection inspections, as well as other types of inspections. It includes features such as electronic signatures, report generation, and data exporting.
BuildingReports Mobile Inspector– BuildingReports Mobile Inspector is an inspection software program that is specifically designed for use on mobile devices. It includes features such as GPS tagging, photo attachments, and offline access.
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