1. Performing Commercial Fire Inspections
Based on 2015 International Fire Code

3. Chapter #1
Administration

4. SECTION 103 DEPARTMENT OF FIRE PREVENTION
[A] General. The department of fire prevention is established within the jurisdiction under the direction of the fire code official. The function of the department shall be the implementation, administration and enforcement of the provisions of this code.
[A] Appointment. The fire code official shall be appointed by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction; and the fire code official shall not be removed from office except for cause and after full opportunity to be heard on specific and relevant charges by and before the appointing authority.
[A] Deputies. In accordance with the prescribed procedures of this jurisdiction and with the concurrence of the appointing authority, the fire code official shall have the authority to appoint a deputy fire code official, other related technical officers, inspectors and other employees.

5. Liability
[A] Liability. The fire code official, member of the board of appeals, officer or employee charged with the enforcement of this code, while acting for the jurisdiction, in good faith and without malice in the discharge of the duties required by this code or other pertinent law or ordinance, shall not thereby be rendered civilly or criminally liable personally, and is hereby relieved from all personal liability for any damage accruing to persons or property as a result of an act or by reason of an act or omission in the discharge of official duties.

6. A quick commercial… and no I do not get a kickback!

7. Legal Defense
[A] Legal defense. Any suit or criminal complaint instituted against any officer or employee because of an act performed by that officer or employee in the lawful discharge of duties and under the provisions of this code shall be defended by the legal representatives of the jurisdiction until the final termination of the proceedings. The fire code official or any subordinate shall not be liable for costs in an action, suit or proceeding that is instituted in pursuance of the provisions of this code; and any officer of the department of fire prevention, acting in good faith and without malice, shall be free from liability for acts performed under any of its provisions or by reason of any act or omission in the performance of official duties in connection therewith.

8. General Authority and Responsibilities
104.1 General. The fire code official is hereby authorized to enforce the provisions of this code and shall have the authority to render interpretations of this code, and to adopt policies, procedures, rules and regulations in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies, procedures, rules and regulations shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code and shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.

9. Right of Entry
104.3 Right of entry. Where it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the provisions of this code, or where the fire code official has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in a building or upon any premises any conditions or violations of this code that make the building or premises unsafe, dangerous or hazardous, the fire code official shall have the authority to enter the building or premises at all reasonable times to inspect or to perform the duties imposed upon the fire code official by this code. If such building or premises is occupied, the fire code official shall present credentials to the occupant and request entry. If such building or premises is unoccupied, the fire code official shall first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner, the owner’s authorized agent or other person having charge or control of the building or premises and request entry. If entry is refused, the fire code official has recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure entry.

10. Notices and Orders
Notices and orders. The fire code official is authorized to issue such notices or orders as are required to affect compliance with this code in accordance with Sections and

11. Inspections
Inspections. The fire code official shall keep a record of each inspection made, including notices and orders issued, showing the findings and disposition of each.

12. Authority
Authority at fires and other emergencies. The fire chief or officer of the fire department in charge at the scene of a fire or other emergency involving the protection of life or property, or any part thereof, shall have the authority to direct such operation as necessary to extinguish or control any fire, perform any rescue operation, investigate the existence of suspected or reported fires, gas leaks or other hazardous conditions or situations, or take any other action necessary in the reasonable performance of duty. In the exercise of such power, the fire chief is authorized to prohibit any person, vehicle, vessel or thing from approaching the scene, and is authorized to remove, or cause to be removed or kept away from the scene, any vehicle, vessel or thing that could impede or interfere with the operations of the fire department and, in the judgment of the fire chief, any person not actually and usefully employed in the extinguishing of such fire or in the preservation of property in the vicinity thereof.

13. Authority
Obstructing operations. Persons shall not obstruct the operations of the fire department in connection with extinguishment or control of any fire, or actions relative to other emergencies, or disobey any lawful command of the fire chief or officer of the fire department in charge of the emergency, or any part thereof, or any lawful order of a police officer assisting the fire department.

14. Section 106 Inspections
[A] Inspection authority. The fire code official is authorized to enter and examine any building, structure, marine vessel, vehicle or premises in accordance with Section for the purpose of enforcing this code.

15. Section 106 Inspections
106.2 Inspections. The fire code official is authorized to conduct such inspections as are deemed necessary to determine the extent of compliance with the provisions of this code and to approve reports of inspection by approved agencies or individuals. Reports of such inspections shall be prepared and submitted in writing for review and approval. Inspection reports shall be certified by a responsible officer of such approved agency or by the responsible individual. The fire code official is authorized to engage such expert opinion as deemed necessary to report upon unusual, detailed or complex technical issues subject to the approval of the governing body.

16. Section 107 Maintenance
107.1 Maintenance of safeguards. Where any device, equipment, system, condition, arrangement, level of protection, or any other feature is required for compliance with the provisions of this code, or otherwise installed, such device, equipment, system, condition, arrangement, level of protection, or other feature shall thereafter be continuously maintained in accordance with this code and applicable referenced standards.

17. 107. 5 Rendering equipment inoperable
107.5 Rendering equipment inoperable. Portable or fixed fire-extinguishing systems or devices, and fire-warning systems, shall not be rendered inoperative or inaccessible, except as necessary during emergencies, maintenance, repairs, alterations, drills or prescribed testing.

18. Overcrowding
107.6 Overcrowding. Overcrowding or admittance of any person beyond the approved capacity of a building or a portion thereof shall not be allowed. The fire code official, upon finding any overcrowding conditions or obstructions in aisles, passageways or other means of egress, or upon finding any condition that constitutes a life safety hazard, shall be authorized to cause the event to be stopped until such condition or obstruction is corrected.

19. IFC 108 Maintenance
[A] Maintenance of safeguards. Where any device, equipment, system, condition, arrangement, level of protection, or any other feature is required for compliance with the provisions of this code, or otherwise installed, such device, equipment, system, condition, arrangement, level of protection, or other feature shall thereafter be continuously maintained in accordance with this code and applicable referenced standards.
[A] Testing and operation. Equipment requiring periodic testing or operation to ensure maintenance shall be tested or operated as specified in this code.

20. Unlawful Acts
109.1 Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful for a person, firm or corporation to erect, construct, alter, repair, remove, demolish or utilize a building, occupancy, premises or system regulated by this code, or cause same to be done, in conflict with or in violation of any of the provisions of this code.

21. Responsibility
109.2 Owner/occupant responsibility. Correction and abatement of violations of this code shall be the responsibility of the owner or the owner’s authorized agent. Where an occupant creates, or allows to be created, hazardous conditions in violation of this code, the occupant shall be held responsible for the abatement of such hazardous conditions.

22. 109.3 Notice of violation. Where the fire code official finds a building, premises, vehicle, storage facility or outdoor area that is in violation of this code, the fire code official is authorized to prepare a written notice of violation describing the conditions deemed unsafe and, where compliance is not immediate, specifying a time for reinspection.

23. [A] Service. A notice of violation issued pursuant to this code shall be served upon the owner, the owner’s authorized agent, operator, occupant or other person responsible for the condition or violation, either by personal service, mail or by delivering the same to, and leaving it with, some person of responsibility upon the premises. For unattended or abandoned locations, a copy of such notice of violation shall be posted on the premises in a conspicuous place at or near the entrance to such premises and the notice of violation shall be mailed by certified mail with return receipt requested or a certificate of mailing, to the last known address of the owner, the owner’s authorized agent, or occupant.

24. [A] 109. 3. 2 Compliance with orders and notices
[A] Compliance with orders and notices. A notice of violation issued or served as provided by this code shall be complied with by the owner, the owner’s authorized agent, operator, occupant or other person responsible for the condition or violation to which the notice of violation pertains.

25. Prosecution
Prosecution of violations. If the notice of violation is not complied with promptly, the fire code official is authorized to request the legal counsel of the jurisdiction to institute the appropriate legal proceedings at law or in equity to restrain, correct or abate such violation or to require removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy of the structure in violation of the provisions of this code or of the order or direction made pursuant hereto.

26. Tampering
[A] Unauthorized tampering. Signs, tags or seals posted or affixed by the fire code official shall not be mutilated, destroyed or tampered with, or removed, without authorization from the fire code official.

27. Violation Penalties
109.4 Violation penalties. Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or do work in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the fire code official, or of a permit or certificate used under provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a [SPECIFY OFFENSE], punishable by a fine of not more than [AMOUNT] dollars or by imprisonment not exceeding [NUMBER OF DAYS], or both such fine and imprisonment. Each day that a violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense.

28. Unsafe conditions. Structures or existing equipment that are or hereafter become unsafe or deficient because of inadequate means of egress or which constitute a fire hazard, or are otherwise dangerous to human life or the public welfare, or which involve illegal or improper occupancy or inadequate maintenance, shall be deemed an unsafe condition. A vacant structure that is not secured against unauthorized entry as required by Section 311 shall be deemed unsafe.

29. Structural hazards. Where an apparent structural hazard is caused by the faulty installation, operation or malfunction of any of the items or devices governed by this code, the fire code official shall immediately notify the building code official in accordance with Section

30. [A] Evacuation. The fire code official or the fire department official in charge of an incident shall be authorized to order the immediate evacuation of any occupied building deemed unsafe where such building has hazardous conditions that present imminent danger to building occupants. Persons so notified shall immediately leave the structure or premises and shall not enter or re-enter until authorized to do so by the fire code official or the fire department official in charge of the incident.

31. Stop Work Order
111.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the fire code official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.
111.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be liable to a fine of not less than [AMOUNT] dollars or more than [AMOUNT] dollars.

32. IFC 113 Service Utilities
[A] Authority to disconnect service utilities. The fire code official shall have the authority to authorize disconnection of utility service to the building, structure or system in order to safely execute emergency operations or to eliminate an immediate hazard. The fire code official shall notify the serving utility and, where possible, the owner or the owner’s authorized agent and the occupant of the building, structure or service system of the decision to disconnect prior to taking such action. If not notified prior to disconnection, then the owner, the owner’s authorized agent or occupant of the building, structure or service system shall be notified in writing as soon as practical thereafter.

33. Abatement
Abatement of violation. In addition to the imposition of the penalties herein described, the fire code official is authorized to institute appropriate action to prevent unlawful construction or to restrain, correct or abate a violation; or to prevent illegal occupancy of a structure or premises; or to stop an illegal act, conduct of business or occupancy of a structure on or about any premises.

34. Chapter 2
Definitions

35. Definitions
201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the International Building Code, International Fuel Gas Code, International Mechanical Code or International Plumbing Code, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those codes.
201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies. Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, 11th Edition, shall be considered as providing ordinarily accepted meanings.

36. Chapter 3 – General Requirements
2015 International Fire Code
Chapter 3 – General Requirements

37. Housekeeping requirements
Housekeeping requirements can be very subjective. As such the inspector should be careful to be fair and consistent within their jurisdiction.

38. Combustible waste material – 304
Ignition sources – 305
Open burning – 307
Open flames – 308
Powered industrial trucks and equipment - 309

39. Smoking – 310
Vacant premises – 311
Vehicle impact protection – 312
Fueled equipment – 313
Indoor displays – 314
General storage – 315
Hazards to firefighters - 316
Rooftop gardens and landscaped roofs – 317
Laundry carts - 318

40. Chapter 4 emergency planning
2015 International Fire Code
Chapter 4 emergency planning

42. Section 407 Hazard Communication
407.2 Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
407.3 Identification
407.5 Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement
407.6 Hazardous Materials Management Plan

43. Chapter 5 fire service features
2015 International Fire Code
Chapter 5 fire service features

45. Section 503 Fire Apparatus Access Roads
503.3 Marking
503.4 Obstruction
503.5 Gates or barricades
503.6 Security gates

46. Example of
fire department
access
Requirements
(503)

47. Section 504 Access to building openings and roofs
504.1 Required access
504.2 Maintenance of exterior doors and openings
504.3 Stairway access to roof

48. Section 505 - 510 Section 505 Premises Identification
Section 506 – Key boxes
Section 507 – Fire Protection Water Supplies
Section 508 – Fire Command Center
Section 509 – Fire Protection and Utility Equipment Identification and Access

49. IFC 509 - FIRE PROTECTION AND UTILITY EQUIPMENT IDENTIFICATION AND ACCESS
509.1 Identification. Fire protection equipment shall be identified in an approved manner. Rooms containing controls for air-conditioning systems, sprinkler risers and valves, or other fire detection, suppression or control elements shall be identified for the use of the fire department. Approved signs required to identify fire protection equipment and equipment location shall be constructed of durable materials, permanently installed and readily visible.
Utility identification. Where required by the fire code official, gas shutoff valves, electric meters, service switches and other utility equipment shall be clearly and legibly marked to identify the unit or space that it serves. Identification shall be made in an approved manner, readily visible and shall be maintained.

50. IFC 509 - FIRE PROTECTION AND UTILITY EQUIPMENT IDENTIFICATION AND ACCESS
509.2 Equipment access. Approved access shall be provided and maintained for all fire protection equipment to permit immediate safe operation and maintenance of such equipment. Storage, trash and other materials or objects shall not be placed or kept in such a manner that would prevent such equipment from being readily accessible.

51. Building services and systems
2015 International Fire Code
Building services and systems

52. Section 603 Fuel Fired Appliances
Section 604 Emergency and standby power systems

53. Section 605 Electrical equipment, wiring and hazards
605.1 Abatement of electrical hazards
605.2 Illumination
605.3 Working space and clearance
Labeling
605.4 Multiplug adapters
605.5 Extension cords
605.6 Unapproved conditions
605.9 Temporary wiring
Attachment to structures

54. 605. 10 Portable electric space heaters 605
Portable electric space heaters Solar photovoltaic power systems
Access and pathways
Roof access points

55. Inspect electrical systems
The electrical systems usually are the source of most violations. The most common types of violations include use of extension cords, open junction boxes, and use of unlisted adapters at receptacles. (IFC Code Section 605) - Electrical equipment, wiring hazards

56. Requirements for the electrical system
Check electrical equipment, wiring and hazards
Doors to enter electrical control panel rooms are properly marked with a plainly visible and legible sign stating “ELECTRICAL ROOM.”
Verify that a working space and clearance of no less than 30 inches wide by 36 inches deep by 78 inches high is provided in front of electrical service equipment. If the equipment is wider than 30 inches, the working space must be at least as wide as the equipment.

58. Requirements for the electrical system
Verify than no open junction boxes or open wiring boxes exist
Check extension cords
Check re-locatable power taps

59. Section 607 Elevator operation, maintenance and fire service keys
607.3 Emergency signs
607.7 Elevator key location

60. Section 609 and 610 609 Commercial Kitchen Hoods Cleaning Inspection
Tags
Extinguishing systems

61. Chapter 7 Fire and Smoke protection features
2015 International Fire Code
Chapter 7 Fire and Smoke protection features

62. Section 703 Fire-Resistance-Rated-Construction
703.1 Maintenance
703.2 Opening protectives
Signs
Hold open devices
Door operation

63. IFC PENETRATIONS
703.1 Maintaining protection. Materials and firestop systems used to protect membrane and through penetrations in fire-resistance-rated construction and construction installed to resist the passage of smoke shall be maintained. The materials and firestop systems shall be securely attached to or bonded to the construction being penetrated with no openings visible through or into the cavity of the construction. Where the system design number is known, the system shall be inspected to the listing criteria and manufacturer’s installation instructions.

65. Section 704 Floor Openings and Shafts
704.1 Enclosure
Opening protectives

66. IFC JOINTS AND VOIDS
704.2 Opening protectives. Where openings are required to be protected, opening protectives shall be maintained self-closing or automatic-closing by smoke detection. Existing fusible-link-type automatic door-closing devices are permitted if the fusible link rating does not exceed 135°F.

67. IFC 705 - DOOR AND WINDOW OPENINGS
Hold-open devices and closers. Hold-open devices and automatic door closers, where provided, shall be maintained. During the period that such device is out of service for repairs, the door it operates shall remain in the closed position.
Door operation. Swinging fire doors shall close from the full-open position and latch automatically.
Smoke- and heat-activated doors. Smoke-activated doors shall be maintained to self-close or automatically close upon detection of smoke. Existing fusible-link type automatic door-closing devices are permitted if the fusible link rating does not exceed 135°F (57°C).
Testing. Horizontal and vertical sliding and rolling fire doors shall be inspected and tested annually to confirm proper operation and full closure. Records of inspections and testing shall be maintained.

69. Inspect for additional fire protection issues
Check fire-resistance rated construction
Verify that fire doors and smoke barrier doors are not blocked, obstructed or otherwise made inoperable.
Verify that fire and smoke barrier doors are not modified Examine fire door assemblies for modifications such as improper hardware, added glazing ort unapproved hinges.

70. Inspect for additional fire protection issues
Verify that devices to hold open or automatically close fire doors are maintained or kept closed.
Verify that horizontal and vertical sliding and rolling fire doors have been inspected and tested annually top confirm proper operation and full closure. Request to see the maintenance record to verify this has been done.

71. Chapter 8 interior finish, decorative materials and furnishings
2015 International Fire Code
Chapter 8 interior finish, decorative materials and furnishings

72. Section 806 and 807
806 Decorative vegetation in new and existing buildings
807 Decorative materials anther than decorative vegetation in new and existing buildings

73. Inspect for additional fire protection issues
Check decorative vegetation
Verify that an automatic sprinkler system must be in use. This is sometimes seen as an unnecessary requirement buy occupants as they have sprayed the trees with a fire retardant. The use of fire retardant is not sufficient to meet the code in this area.

74. Inspect for additional fire protection issues
Check decorations and trim
Check the tags of any curtains, draperies, hangings or other decorative materials suspended from walls or ceilings and verify that they are flame resistant.

76. Chapter 9 fire protection features
2015 International Fire Code
Chapter 9 fire protection features

77. Section 901 General 901.4.5 Appearance of equipment
901.6 Inspection, testing and maintenance
901.7 Systems out of service
901.8 Removing of or tampering with equipment

78. SECTION GENERAL
Appearance of equipment. Any device that has the physical appearance of life safety or fire protection equipment but that does not perform that life safety or fire protection function shall be prohibited.

79. Inspect fire protection systems
Fire protection systems include both active and passive systems.

80. Requirements for the fire protection system
Check automatic sprinkler systems (IFC 903)
Installed as required for hazard present
Check valves
Pumps and tanks
Water levels
Temperatures
Critical air pressures
Water flow switches
Supervised (20 or more heads)

85. Requirements for the fire protection system
Check fire protection water supplies
Verify that a sufficient clear space is maintained around the circumference of the fire hydrants so that fire equipment can be accessed as needed. Local requirements should also be checked for specific requirements.

86. Requirements for the fire protection system
Check alternative automatic fire-extinguishing systems (IFC 904)
Cooking area (hood suppression)
Manual activation device (pull station)
Inter-connected to fuel shutoff
Class K extinguisher
Fusible link and automatic sprinkler head is to be replaced at least annually

90. Chapter 9 905 Standpipe systems 912 Fire department connections
915 Carbon monoxide detection

91. Requirements for the fire protection system
Check portable fire extinguishers (IFC 906)
Maximum travel distance (75 feet)
Located in conspicuous locations
Not obstructed or obscured from view
Readily accessible and immediately available for use
Extinguishers weighing less than 40 pounds is installed so that its top is no more than 5 feet above the floor
Extinguishers weighing more that 40 pounds is installed so that its top is not more than 3.5 feet above the floor.

92. Chapter 10 MeANS OF EGRESS
2015 International Fire Code
Chapter 10 MeANS OF EGRESS

93. Section 1001 Administration
Minimum requirements
It shall be unlawful to alter a building or structure in any manner that will reduce the number of exits or the capacity of the means of egress to less than required by this code

94. Section 1004 occupant Load
Determine the occupant load for a given area
Gross versus net occupant load factors
Posting of occupant load

95. Requirements for exits
Check number of exits and continuity
Verify, based on the occupant load, that the minimum number of exits are available as listed in Table of the 2003 IFC

96. Section 1008 Means of egress illumination
Illumination required. The means of egress serving a room or space shall be illuminated at all times that the room or space is occupied.
Illumination under normal power foot candle at the walking service
Emergency power for illumination.

97. Emergency lighting
[BE] General. In the event of power supply failure in rooms and spaces that require two or more means of egress an emergency electrical system shall automatically illuminate all of the following areas:
1. Aisles.
2. Corridors.
3. Exit access stairways and ramps.

98. Typical illumination setup

99. Exit Signs
Where required. Exits and exit access doors shall be marked by an approved exit sign readily visible from any direction of egress travel. The path of egress travel to exits and within exits shall be marked by readily visible exit signs to clearly indicate the direction of egress travel in cases where the exit or the path of egress travel is not immediately visible to the occupants. Intervening means of egress doors within exits shall be marked by exit signs. Exit sign placement shall be such that any point in an exit access corridor or exit passageway is within 100 feet or the listed viewing distance of the sign, whichever is less, from the nearest visible exit sign.
Exceptions:
1. Exit signs are not required in rooms or areas that require only one exit or exit access.
2. Main exterior exit doors or gates that are obviously and clearly identifiable as exits need not have exit signs where approved by the fire code official.

100. Requirements for exits
Examine means of egress illumination (cont.)
Verify emergency illumination exists and is operational
Exit access corridors
Exit stairways
Exterior egress components until exit discharge is completed
Interior exit discharge elements
Exterior exit discharge adjacent to doorways

101. Inspecting Exits
One of the basic principals of the code is to allow occupants to get out of a building safely during an emergency.
Examine means of egress
Verify that no obstructions exist
Verify that the path is not diminished
Check occupant load sign
Assembly occupancies
Conspicuous place (maintained by owner)
Examine means of egress illumination
Both Properly lit and continuously lit during occupation

102. Requirements for exits
Inspect means of egress
Examine illumination of exits. Emergency power for illumination of exits in existing buildings is generally dependent on occupancy type. Check that the following occupancy types have illumination for exits that is automatically provided from an emergency system in the event of a power failure:

106. Requirements for exits
Check doors, gates, and turnstiles
Measure doorways (32” min. clear width)
Check door swing (over 50 occupants)
Verify that panic hardware is operational
Check all egress doors and ensure that they are readily openable from the egress side without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort.

107. Requirements for exits
Check doors, gates, and turnstiles (cont.)
If key locking hardware is on the main exit, verify that a readily visible sign stating" This door to remain unlocked when building is occupied” is on or adjacent to the door and that one could easily distinguish that the locking device is locked.
Check exit doors to insure that manually operated flush bolts or surface bolts are not in use.

108. Requirements for exits
Check exit signs (1013)
Verify that exit signs exist where required
Verify that you are no more than 100 feet from the nearest visible exit sign when standing in an exit access corridor

109. Check exit passageways
Examine exit passageways and ensure that they are no less than 44 inches wide, except those that serve an occupant load of less that 50 which must be at least 36 inches wide.

110. Exit passageway width

111. Requirements for exits
Inspect means of egress (cont.)
Check stairways in exiting buildings and verify that floor number markings are provided on the same basis as new stairs. This enables the fire department to promptly respond to the correct floor in the event of an emergency, as well as makes occupants aware of their egress progress under adverse conditions.

112. 1031 Maintenance of the Means of Egress
Reliability
Security devices and egress locks
Obstructions
Exit signs
Nonexit identification
Finishes, furnishings and decorations
Emergency escape and rescue openings

113. Means of Egress

114. Learning Objectives Identify and define Define
Three components of the means of egress
Define
Common path of travel
Dead end
Design occupant load
Horizontal exit
Travel distance

115. Learning Objectives Describe Calculate required means of egress
Gross floor area
Net floor area
Six steps to design or assess means of egress
Calculate required means of egress
Calculate maximum occupant load

116. Three Parts of the Means of Egress
Exit access
Exit
Exit discharge

117. Designing the Means of Egress
Design occupant load
Number and capacity of exits
Maximum travel distance
Exit remoteness
Minimum ratings for enclosures

118. Exit Access Exit Portion of a means of egress system
Leads from any occupied portion of a building or structure to an exit
IBC/IFC
Exit
Portion of a means of egress system
Separated from interior spaces of a building
Fire resistance rated construction and opening protectives
Provides a protected path of egress travel

119. Exit Discharge Public Way
Point of a means of egress system between the termination of an exit and a public way
IBC/IFC
Public Way
Street alley or other opening to outside air leading to a street
Permanently appropriated for public use
Clear width and height of not less than 10 feet

120. Horizontal Exit Path of egress travel
From one building to an area in another building
Approximately the same level
Through or around partition to an area on same level in the same building
Safety from fire and smoke
IBC/IFC

121. Determining occupant load

122. Determining Occupant Load for a room
1. Design occupant load 2. Number of exits

123. Design Occupant Load Factors
5 ft² net / standing space
7 ft² net / concentrated seating
15 ft² net / tables and chairs
30 ft² gross / mercantile areas
100 ft² gross / business areas
100 ft² gross / industrial areas

124. Design Occupant Load Gross floor area Net floor area
All uses are calculated
Multiple loads posted

125. Number of Exits 1 exit 2 exits 3 exits 4 exits
Permitted in certain cases
2 exits
Up to 500 persons
3 exits
501-1,000 persons
4 exits
Over 1,000 persons

126. Travel Distance within Exit Access
Non-sprinklered
Sprinklered
Sprinklered with feet roof vents
High hazard uses

127. Common Path of Travel Portion of exit access
Traversed before two separate and distinct paths
Travel to two exits are available

129. Minimum Sizes of Means of Egress Components
50 persons or less 36” for corridors, passageways, ramps, and stairs
> 50 persons 44” for corridors, passageways, ramps, and stairs

130. Minimum Sizes of Means of Egress Components
Doors
Minimum width 32”
Clear unobstructed width

131. Special Requirements Main exits from assembly buildings
Revolving doors
Locks and latches
Special locking arrangements

132. Means of Egress Identification
All spaces requiring more than one exit or exit access
Illuminated signs
No point over 100’ from visible sign

133. Means of Egress Illumination
Exit access
Exit
Exit discharge
Illuminated at one foot-candle

134. Quick steps to determine proper exiting
Number of Exits
How many exits or exit access doors are available?
Travel distance
Do they meets the requirement for maximum travel distance?
Generally 150’-200’ for non-sprinklered
200’-300’ for sprinklered
Depending on code and
Depending on use

135. Step 3 - Do Exit Components Conform?
Door swing
Locks
Latches
Exit signs
Means of egress illumination

136. Summary
Model codes recognize three distinct parts of the means of egress
Exit access
Exit
Exit discharge
Occupants cannot be exposed to a greater level of danger during egress
Travel distance is regulated to minimize exposure time

137. Summary Exit can serve no other purpose
Exit discharge is often overlooked by inspectors
All portions of the means of egress must be illuminated
Design occupant load is used to determine means of egress requirements
Illegal changes in use can result in inadequate egress components

138. Conducting the Fire inspection

139. Learning Objectives Identify the goal of a fire inspection program.
Types of Inspections
Define the elements of a fire inspection.
Identify methods to conduct a fire inspection.
Identify methods of compliance for inspection findings

140. Why Conduct Fire Inspections?
Identify and correct hazards or conditions that could start a fire or contribute to its spread
Determine conditions that will endanger occupants and firefighters during a fire
Secondary reasons:
Create understanding or awareness
Sell fire prevention behavior

141. Types of inspections There are 4 types of commercial fire inspections:
Scheduled
Complaint
Pre-fire Planning
Personal Observations

142. Scheduled Inspections
The scheduled inspection is an inspection required by law or allowed by law and is usually part of an overall inspection program.

143. Complaint Inspections
This type of inspection originates from a citizen-filed complaint as a customer of the property, owner, lessee, or a passer-by that is concerned about something located at a specific property or business.

144. Pre-fire planning inspections
Pre-fire planning inspections are done on an overall program to reduce the chance that firefighters will get hurt should an incident occur at the property as well as to identify those things that may affect the community during a real incident. While a Pre-fire planning inspection may also be part of a scheduled inspection, it usually has the added task of producing a map and drawing of the property as well as an identification of all hazards and issues that may affect firefighting.

145. Personal observation inspections
The personal observation inspection originates from an inspector's own observation of a possible violation on a property or at a business. The inspector must be very careful to not violate a person’s right when conducting these inspections.

146. Elements of a fire inspection

147. Fire inspector responsibilities
Conducts thorough inspections on new and existing structures
Prepares written reports
Responds to public complaints
May research and interprets fire codes
Performs follow-up inspections

148. Qualities of a good inspector
Ethical
Prompt
Observant
Cooperative
Respectful of Property
Courteous
Non-critical
Knowledgeable
Efficient

149. Effective Communication
A fire inspector should display effective verbal, written and non verbal communication skills. This section examines the qualities that make up effective communication for an inspector.

150. Non-Verbal Communication
Neatness
Punctuality
Organized
Confidence

151. Verbal Communication
Business-like
Descriptive

152. Written Communication
Date
Notes
No abbreviation
Legible
Completeness

153. Fire Inspection Procedures

154. Performing Common Steps in the Inspection process
Most inspections, regardless of occupancy type, share the following common steps:
Preparation
Approach
Conducting the Inspection
Report Conclusion

155. Review the inspection file!

156. Preparing for the inspection
Note if an appointment is necessary and,
if so, schedule with the contact person.
Scheduled inspections
When calling to schedule, explain exactly what you will be looking for.
Consider anyone who should be present in addition to the facility’s contact person.
Consider coordinating inspections with other agencies.
Be punctual.
Allow adequate time.

157. Conducting the Inspection (cont.)
Unscheduled inspections
Engine companies that perform inspections cannot know when they will be available.
Inspectors frequently make unannounced inspections at small businesses in close proximity with one another.

158. Preparing for Fire Inspections (cont.)
History of occupancy
Construction and use history
Fire loss history
Inspection and fire prevention history
Recent fire protection system tests
Permits for construction and fire prevention
Written correspondence

159. Preparing for Fire Inspections
Determine typical hazards associated with the occupancy.
Determine why these conditions create fire hazards (this information will help you “sell” the need to make a correction).
Determine applicable code requirements.

160. Preparing for Fire Inspections
Proper uniform and equipment
Clipboard
Inspection Forms
Code book/s
Writing tools
Flashlight
Screwdrivers
Pliers
Reaching device
Eye and ear protection

161. Conducting the Inspection
As you arrive
Explain what you are going to do with crew members and emphasize team philosophy
Drive around the facility to become familiar with its layout.
Enter at the front door or main entrance unless requested otherwise.

162. Approaching the inspection
Verbally introduce yourself
Show identification if necessary
Explain the purpose of the inspection
Ask someone knowledgeable to accompany you on the inspection
Assist in gaining entry to all areas
Assure security
Understand what you are writing down
Verify that the occupancy information on your form is accurate

163. Conducting the Inspection

164. Exterior Be systematic. Emergency response items:
Access
Water supply
Visibility
Consider firefighter safety as well as occupant safety

165. Interior Try to do all inspections in the same route
Being organized helps to be more thorough
Display competence
Possible routes
Top to bottom
Farthest from office to main entrance
Note specific discrepancies and locations where you found them

166. Conducting the inspection
Check all areas
If you are barred from entering an area or process, note it on your inspection report
If a specific hazard can be corrected on site, allow the occupant to do so, but note it on the report by indicating “as corrected on site.”
Make sure violations noted actually exist in the code

167. Completing the report
Verify that the report contains the following information:
Name if the inspector
Date of the inspection
Name and address of occupancy
Name and phone number of contact person
Specific fire hazards noted and location
Complete code for reference
Time frame for completion
Signature if inspector and occupancy representative

168. Concluding the inspection
Review the report with the occupancy representative
Ensure the occupancy representative understand the deficiencies
Agree on a time line for completion of repairs
Ask if the occupancy representative has any questions
Leave a copy of the report with the occupancy representative

169. Record Keeping Importance of documentation
Stress that the report is a legal document
The report must be legible and accurate
Signed verification

170. Public Relations Guidelines
Be professional and diplomatic
Constantly seek voluntary compliance
Be understanding of the occupants point of view and help motivate them to comply with the needed corrections
Offer alternative solutions
Provide detailed explanations of why a violation is noted

171. Public Relations
Conflict management
Domination
Compromise
Integration

172. Compliance

173. Gaining compliance
Conduct re-inspection when it is scheduled or as close as possible
Remove corrected violations from inspection report
Note un-corrected violations
Stress need for compliance
Schedule re-inspection
Further corrective action

174. Fire Inspection Priorities
Identify the problem
Determine frequency of incidents by cause
Determine significance of risks by occupancy type
Prioritize in the same order as operational considerations
1. Life safety
2. Property conservation
3. Other considerations

175. A few final thoughts… Make every request in writing.
Sell, sell, and sell.
Always take the high road.
Praise the positive conditions.

176. Summary Importance of fire inspections
Key elements of planning a fire inspection program
Establishing inspection priorities
Preparing for inspections
Conducting the inspection
Inspection compliance
Achieving compliance through empathy and understanding
Need for thorough documentation

177. Questions???

178. Company Fire Inspections
Getting a program started
Company Fire Inspections

179. Getting Started Inform the troops Scope What types of violations
Standard Operation Guidelines
Level of training needed
What types of violations
Housekeeping inspections (tailboard)
In-depth inspections (fire inspector)
Who will be doing the inspections
Engine crew
Truck crew
Ambulance crew
Priority
Calls
Other duties

180. Getting Started When will the inspections be done
Mornings/Afternoons
Weekly
Monthly
How inspections will be documented
Computer program
Pen and Paper
Who will follow-up on re-inspections
Same crew that conducted inspection
Fire prevention bureau
Reporting procedures for “big issues”
What is a big issue?
Process for reporting

181. Training for a C/F/I program
Use this material
Daily training activities
Inspections
Documentation
In-service training
Handouts
Field visits
With qualified inspections
Testing

182. Extending this role Fire department pre-planning Area familiarization
Building familiarization
Public education

183. Evaluation Be prepared to evaluate the program’s successes/failures
Number of inspections completed
Number of referral to the fire prevention bureau
Compliance/non-compliance
How long did it take to get compliance
Positive and negative outcomes