§ 3.2.3. General Fire Safety Inspections

General fire safety inspections are performed on all existing structures. These inspections apply to all structures with the exception of single and two (2) family properties as well as the interior of residential portions of multifamily structures.

Such inspections are performed to examine compliance with the Fire Code. Violations of other City codes may also be noted during inspection and referred to appropriate staff. Typical inspection procedures include, but are not limited to, the following:

A.

General Inspections.

1.

Verify the proper size, type and number of portable fire extinguishers on hand. These extinguishers shall be properly mounted and properly serviced, within the immediately previous 12 months, and shall be ready for immediate use.

2.

Verify accumulations of combustible waste are not present.

3.

Verify cooking appliances are devoid of grease.

4.

Verify approved means of egress are not blocked. Egress doors shall not be locked and means of egress are not used for storage.

5.

Verify that enclosed stairways have required identification and access signs.

6.

Verify exit signs are illuminated and in working order.

7.

Verify "no smoking" signs are posted at appropriate locations and smoking is allowed only in designated areas.

8.

Verify flammable/combustible liquids are kept in approved safety containers and stored in an approved manner.

9.

Verify combustible waste, soiled rags, etc., are stored in approved metal containers.

10.

Verify solvents used in cleaning procedures are of the correct type as regulated by the Fire Code.

11.

Verify all combustible decorations, including drapes and curtains, are adequately treated for fire resistance.

12.

Verify all compressed gas cylinders are stored/used properly.

13.

Verify approved forms of address are posted and maintained on all buildings and visible from the street.

14.

Verify occupant load cards are posted near the main entrance in places of public assembly and that authorized occupant loads are not exceeded.

15.

Verify Fire Department access roadways, fire hydrants and fire fighting appliances are not obstructed.

16.

Verify heating appliances are maintained in proper working order.

17.

Verify fire protection systems have been maintained in working order and serviced as required for the existing use and hazard type.

18.

Verify approved fire evacuation plans are posted at conspicuous locations in high rise buildings and buildings of public assembly when required by the Fire Chief.

19.

Verify all gas meters are properly protected from vehicular damage.

20.

Test the fire protection systems and components in accordance with fire protection system inspection contained in Section 3.2.10 and 3.2.11.

B.

School Inspections. The general procedures used during the inspection of a facility are the same as for the General Fire Safety Inspection outlined in Section 3.2.3 above as well as the items listed below:

1.

Verify fire alarm systems and associated devices have been tested quarterly by a qualified person. In addition, verify the staff has conducted monthly service tests on this equipment and notified a qualified person when problems were detected. All tests, maintenance and repairs are to be clearly documented and certified using documents contained in this manual and made available on site for viewing by the fire inspector.

2.

Verify the school's emergency evacuation and relocation plans are posted in each room for occupant's use. The schools must practice a fire drill in accordance with state law.

3.

Verify emergency numbers for fire, police and ambulance are posted near the telephone in office area.

4.

Verify proper storage of flammable fuels and solvents and fuel-powered equipment.

C.

Storage Inspections. The general procedures used during the inspection of a storage facility are the same as for the General Fire Safety Inspection outlined in Section 3.2.3 above as well as the items listed below:

1.

Verify the classification and configuration of storage is compatible with the fire protection provided.

2.

Verify incoming goods are stored promptly and safely so as not to pose a fire or existing hazard.

3.

Verify boxes and idle pallets are stored properly.

4.

Verify United States licensed warehouses have evacuation plans posted.

5.

Verify fire extinguishers are properly identified.

6.

Verify fire doors operate freely and/are not blocked open.

7.

Verify the proper type and classifications of forklifts are being used and that they are properly maintained with a 2.5 lb. ABC fire extinguisher and properly refueled.

D.

Manufacturing Inspections. The general procedures used during the inspection of a manufacturing facility are the same as for the General Fire Safety Inspection outlined in Section 3.2.3 above as well as the items listed below:

1.

Verify all equipment is free of waste and residual production material and debris.

2.

Verify all the handling and removal of all waste and residual production material and debris is done properly.

3.

Verify all required ventilation components and/or systems are operational and properly maintained.

4.

Verify all electrical equipment and appliances are maintained and carry the listings and ratings required by the Electrical Code.

5.

Verify proper housekeeping is practiced so as to avoid fire hazards.

6.

Verify the proper use, handling and storage of flammable and combustible gases, liquids and solids used in the manufacturing and maintenance processes.

7.

Verify the required permits are posted.

E.

High-rise Inspections. The general procedures used during the inspection of a high-rise building are the same as for the General Fire Safety Inspection outlined in Section 3.2.3 above as well as the items listed below:

1.

Verify fire alarm and detection systems are maintained in working order as approved.

2.

Verify communication systems are maintained in working order as approved.

3.

Verify control equipment within the central control station is maintained as approved.

4.

Verify elevator recall and fire fighter's control systems are maintained as approved.

5.

Verify standby power, light and emergency systems are maintained as approved.

6.

Verify for exits and exit ways:

a.

Where applicable, stairwell door locking systems are operating and maintained as approved.

b.

Where applicable, stairwell telephones/two way communication systems are operating and maintained as approved.

c.

Verify smokeproof enclosures and/or shaft pressurization systems are operating and maintained as approved.

7.

Handicap Provisions. In applicable R-1 occupancies, provisions are made for displaying the room numbers occupied by handicapped persons.