In an emergency, you need to make sure there is a plan of action in place for your staff to follow. Performing company fire inspections at your workplace will ensure all safety equipment is up to date and that staff are informed of emergency procedures. Additionally, routine inspections can detect and mitigate risk factors to prevent fires from happening in the first place. If you’re unfamiliar with performing company fire inspections, here are some basics to get you started.
Performing Inspections
Company fire inspections should be performed annually or more frequently based on your needs and industry. While certified fire inspections are required by law, there are actions you can take to prepare for an official inspection and keep your place of business safe.
Inspecting Fire Equipment
All workplaces should include the minimum basic fire safety equipment. During your company fire inspection, you can do the following to verify your equipment is in working order for an emergency:
- Ensure fire extinguishers are within their expiration date, are easily accessible, and show no signs of damage. Fire extinguishers should be inspected every month by the building manager.
- Ensure smoke detectors are functioning and have new batteries. Smoke detectors should also be inspected monthly.
- Ensure fire pull stations are not obstructed and are positioned in accessible areas.
- Ensure emergency lighting will remain on for the proper duration when disconnected from power.
- Have a qualified technician inspect your fire alarm system and sprinkler system.
- Outside the building, check to make sure your address is clearly visible from the street and that the nearby fire hydrants are free from obstacles.
Always make sure to notify your local fire department of the time and date of your fire inspections.
Safe Exit Points
Every workplace needs to have safe exit points with visible signage. During your inspection, check that the path to these exit points is free of debris and obstructions. Exit doors need approved locking mechanisms that are easy to open and should never have additional locks installed. Exit doors should never be blocked under any circumstances.
West Coast Fire Protection Conducts Company Fire Inspections
West Coast Fire Protection is the leading provider of fire protection on the West Coast. Contact us or call us at (604) 467-0425. We also provide installation and maintenance services for any problems that need solving.