General Inspection Methodology & Procedures

Conducting the Inspection

• Upon arrival at the inspection site, the fire inspector should contact the owner/occupant and confirm the appointment.
• Do not attempt routine inspections without permission.
• The inspector should give management a briefing detailing the inspection and "selling" fire prevention and code compliance.
• It is advisable to have a representative of the property accompany the inspector during the inspection.
• If the occupant participates in developing solutions to the problems, they are more likely to comply with the inspector's recommendations.
• Inspections must be systematic and thorough.
• No area should be omitted.
• It is common for the inspection to begin with an examination of the exterior.
• Inspectors should note: building dimensions, construction materials, exposures, water sources, hydrants, FDC, and valves.
• The location of doors, windows, and fire escapes can be noted.
• After completing the outside survey, the next step is to go either to the lowest or the highest internal location of the building.
• The inspection should go from bottom to top or top to bottom and continue systematically throughout the building.
• While conducting the inspection, observe and record: housekeeping, aisle width, piling of stock, location of doors and fire suppression equipment, and signs.
• As the inspection is conducted make notes, comments and ask questions regarding observations.

           
INDEX General Inspection Methodology & Procedures

FPT 102 - Fire Prevention and Inspection // Instructor: Kevin M. Kolb        Slide #2