All public exits must have a visible exit sign
As obvious at it seems, one of the most frequent violations of fire codes stem from leaving access routes blocked. This is particularly common in busy workplaces where deliveries are left unattended in passageways that provide a means of exit in the event of a fire. Cages, boxes and trolley are also regularly left in front of emergency exit doors and trying to negotiate them in an emergency can have potentially life-threatening consequences.
Electrical panel boxes of any type must have a working space of not less than 30 inches in width, 36 inches in depth and 78 inches in height shall be provided in front of electrical service equipment. Where the electrical service equipment is wider than 30 inches, the working space shall not be less than the width of the equipment. Placing furniture, equipment or any other obstruction in access areas to electrical sources is another common fire code violation that can be easily remedied with due care and attention. ADDITIONALLY: Be sure all space not used by by a breaker are filled with a spacer
Perhaps the biggest fire code violation of all is the use of extension cords. These can only be used on a temporary basis and must not be installed for permanent use. Extension cords shall not be affixed to structures, extended through walls, ceilings or floors, or under doors or floor coverings, nor shall such cords be subject to environmental damage or physical impact. Extension cords can not energize power strips.
All fire extinguishers in a building or place of work should be annually maintained. Minimal knowledge is necessary to perform a monthly “quick check” or inspection. A trained person who has undergone the instructions necessary to reliably perform maintenance and has the manufacturer’s service manual shall service the fire extinguishers no more than 1 year apart. Even the single use of a water fire extinguisher will need replenishment. Keep annual test tag visible on extinguisher. To prevent fire extinguishers from being moved or damaged, they should be mounted on brackets or in wall cabinets with the carrying handle placed 3-1/2 to 5 feet above the floor. Spacing is 75 feet between extinguishers.
Sprinkler systems shall be serviced and tested annually by a licensed fire protection contractor. Be sure the sprinkler control room is clearly marked, and service test tag is visible.
Fire suppression systems for commercial cooking operations must be serviced and tested at every six months by a licensed fire protection contractor. Be sure service tag is attached to hood system.
Hoods, grease-removal devices, fans, ducts and other appurtenances shall be cleaned at intervals necessary to prevent the accumulation of grease. Cleanings shall be recorded, and records shall state the extent, time and date of cleaning. Such records shall be maintained on the premises.
Any electrical outlet must remain covered. This applies to junction boxes, circuit breaker panels and any type of outlet box.
New and existing buildings shall have approved address numbers, building numbers or approved building identification place in a position that is plainly legible and visible from the street or road fronting the property. These numbers shall be Arabic numeral or alphabet letters. Numbers shall be a minimum of 4 inches high with a minimum stroke width of 0.5 inch.
Fire Alarm Systems are inspected annually. If these systems are tied into fire panels, be sure fire panels are clearly marked and accessible. Proof of service test needs to clearly posted on alarm panel.
