Common Fire Code Violations In Fire Safety You Need To Watch Out For

Industrial fire safety compliance — *Fire at an industrial compound. Image source: Wikimedia Commons. Author: Brad Gillette*

With fire risks rising every year, numerous lives are claimed due to fire accidents. Also, property damage is a major negative impact. Fire prevention should be a high priority at all buildings, be it residential or commercial. Vehicular fire prevention should also be at the top of the list for all vehicle owners.

Fire codes should be maintained by all building owners to ensure maximum safety of all occupants. These codes are specified by the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) to reduce fire risks. However, not everyone is aware of the fire codes. Therefore, many end up violating these codes.

Let’s take a look at some of the common fire code violations that should be addressed immediately to eliminate possibilities of fire accidents.

Reduced or Lack of Illumination

While an Exit sign is a vital component of all buildings to signal the emergency exits of the building, it is equally important to light them. These signs should be placed at the positions where they can be located easily by the occupants and these signs should also be illuminated sufficiently. This will ensure maximum visibility and enable the occupants to escape quickly should an emergency arise.

All emergency and exit lights should be tested regularly to ensure that they are working properly.

Improper Maintenance of Fire Extinguishers

This is one of the most common fire code violations.

Firstly, fire extinguishers should be placed at the positions that make it easy for the occupants of the building to locate them. Occupants should be aware of these locations. Additionally, a fire extinguisher will only be useful if everyone knows how to use it.

Once a fire extinguisher is used, it may not have enough fuel to be of use for another similar fire incident at a later date. Therefore, it is crucial to replenish the extinguisher after use. Also, a faulty fire extinguisher may malfunction at the hour of need, thus putting everyone’s lives at risk. This is why the fire extinguishers should be inspected at regular intervals.

Blocked Exits

Blocked exit is usually a common violation in workplaces where office equipment is left in the passageways. For example, boxes, trolleys etc. can crowd the exit ways of a building. This makes it difficult for the occupants to exit the building quickly in the event of a fire. Tackling these elements blocking the passages during emergencies can result in commotion and make it even more dangerous.

Faulty Fire Alarms and Smoke Detectors

Few things can be as dangerous as a faulty fire alarm system. A fire alarm system signals a fire way ahead before it spreads. This allows ample time for the occupants to leave the building quickly. Smoke detectors also have a similar function. These devices should work appropriately to help prevent accidents.

All fire alarms and smoke detectors should be inspected thoroughly to identify any faults in the system. Also, the batteries of these systems should be tested from time to time. The wiring should also be checked for any problems.

In addition to the above, the sprinkler systems should also be assessed as well for a foolproof fire prevention strategy.

Usage of Extension Cords

Extension cords are common sources of fire. Therefore, these should only be used if required and that too, temporarily. You should discontinue the usage of extension cords immediately. These should never be substituted for permanent wiring. The extension cords should never be extended through the walls, floor or ceiling. Extension cords should also not be extended under the doors or plugged into each other.

Other Violations

There are various kinds of violations that may generate or aggravate a fire incident in the building. Electrical circuit breaker panels should be installed properly. All the outlets should be inspected thoroughly from time to time to detect any problems. There should be an ample area of clearance in front of the electrical panels.

Fire doors should not be wedged open. These should only be held open with the help of certified devices. At all other times, these doors should be kept closed.

Sometimes, the cause of fire can be unknown. In those events, it is important to consider accident investigation to identify the cause and implement the right measures to reduce or eliminate the risk. There are various causes of fire accidents. Staying cautious is important to prevent these.

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Katie Smith

Investigator at Auto Fire & Safety Consultant

Katie Smith is a fire expert and her areas of interests and expertise include forensic science and accident or crime scene investigation related matters. She is associated with Auto Fire & Safety Consultant and often conducts fire investigation in Houston. Blogging is her hobby and she is also a consultant blogger, having well-accepted write-ups on a wide range of topics, such as general safety, security and safety equipment.