When “that time of year” rolls around – the one where the fire inspector shows up – many businesses run around trying to do everything they’ve let go until the last minute in order to comply with codes, regulations, etc. If you have exit signs, emergency lights, and more that aren’t working in proper order, you will be shelling out some cash. Have you failed previous inspections? Are you worried you’re going to fail a fire inspection this year? Truth be told, it simply isn’t that difficult to pass a fire inspection – particularly if you’ve been in business for a while. You should already be familiar with many of the things fire inspectors look for.

To help you better prepare for the fire inspector’s next visit, we are going to introduce some of the most common reasons for “fails” when it comes to fire inspections and businesses.

Hazardous Material Storage

If hazardous materials (including solids, gases, chemicals, etc.) are being stored without a permit – or are not safely stored – you could be in trouble. For example, near an exit or a doorway, you should never store combustible materials.

Timely Commercial Cooking Operations Servicing

If you have not had fire suppression servicing on your commercial cooking operation area every six months, it might be bad for business. It’s important that areas be kept up to code where commercial food preparation is concerned.

Fire Sprinkler Servicing

Your fire sprinkler system must be serviced by a licensed fire protection official every five years. Insurance-wise, and for your fire inspection, this will present a liability otherwise.

Fire Extinguishers

If fire extinguishers are not present, operable, or visible – and serviced in the last 12 months – it could spell trouble. Don’t be surprised if a fire inspector tests every extinguisher if they find one not working.

Extension Cords

Extension cords are fine… as long as they’re used temporarily, and not for permanent purposes.

Electrical

If you have uncovered junction boxes, circuit breaker panels, or electrical outlets, the fire inspector will take note. There needs to be clear access to panels (30 inches or more), and appropriate cover plates are required.

Lighting

Exit signs, emergency lights, and other emergency lighting units must be properly working for emergency, normal, and a combination of both modes.

Obstructions

Walkways, pathways, aisles, and/or stairways must be clear of storage and/or obstructions.

Exit Doors

If the exit doors are hard to open from the inside of your place of business, this will present a problem during fire inspection. Doors should not be locked nor should a secret password be needed.

Address

On the front of your building, there must be a visible, marked street address so that, in case of emergency, first responders can find your location.

Will Your Business Pass Its Next Fire Inspection?

Consult with ASCO Fire to pass your next fire inspection. Including industrial facility, industrial, and commercial fire detection and fire sprinkler system installation and design – for all your fire protection needs – work with ASCO Fire. To comply with all applicable fire code requirements, we offer a vast array of engineering services. Any number of our clients book our assistance for maintenance/testing/inspection services, fire extinguishers, engineering services, fire alarm systems, fire pumps, fire sprinkler systems, and more.

Some of the areas we cover are as follows:

  • Hudson County
  • Mercer County
  • Essex County
  • Somerset County
  • Warren County
  • Union County
  • Sussex County
  • Bergen County
  • Passaic County
  • Morris County
  • Monmouth County
  • Middlesex County

Contact us today by calling 973-633-7300 or by emailing us to find out more.