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Fire Safety5 min read

Fire Safety Audit Checklist: What Inspectors Look For

November 8, 2025
Fire Safety Division

Comprehensive Fire Safety Audit Preparation

Fire safety inspections are critical for protecting lives and property. Understanding what inspectors evaluate helps you maintain continuous compliance and avoid violations.

Fire Extinguisher Requirements

Fire inspectors will check:

Placement and Accessibility

  • Extinguishers mounted on brackets or in cabinets
  • Travel distance to nearest extinguisher (75 feet maximum for Class A hazards)
  • Clear access path - no obstructions within 36 inches
  • Mounting height: handle 3.5-5 feet from floor (based on extinguisher weight)

    • Inspection and Maintenance

  • Monthly visual inspections documented
  • Annual professional maintenance with dated tag
  • Hydrostatic testing per schedule (5-12 years depending on type)
  • Proper extinguisher class for hazards present

    • Emergency Exit Requirements

    Exit Signs and Lighting

  • Illuminated exit signs at all required exits
  • Emergency lighting that activates during power failure
  • 90-minute battery backup minimum
  • Monthly functional tests and annual duration tests documented

    • Exit Paths

  • Exits clearly marked and visible from all directions
  • Exit paths clear of storage and obstructions
  • Minimum corridor width of 44 inches (28 inches for <50 occupants)
  • No locks that prevent egress from inside

    • Exit Doors

  • Swing in direction of egress travel (for 50+ occupants)
  • Panic hardware where required
  • Self-closing and latching fire doors
  • No wedges, chains, or blocks preventing closure

    • Fire Alarm and Detection Systems

    System Components

  • Control panel in normal condition (no trouble signals)
  • Smoke detectors clean and unobstructed
  • Pull stations accessible and unobstructed
  • Notification devices (horns/strobes) functioning

    • Testing and Maintenance

  • Annual inspection by licensed contractor
  • Sensitivity testing of smoke detectors
  • Battery replacement schedule maintained
  • Records of all tests and inspections

    • Sprinkler System Requirements

    Visual Inspection Points

  • 18 inches clearance below sprinkler heads
  • No painted, corroded, or damaged heads
  • Correct temperature rating for location
  • Control valves open and sealed/supervised

    • System Maintenance

  • Quarterly inspections documented
  • Annual full system inspection
  • 5-year internal pipe inspection
  • Main drain test records

    • Fire Doors and Barriers

    Fire Door Requirements

  • Self-closing devices functioning properly
  • No gaps greater than 1/8 inch at edges
  • Proper labels intact and legible
  • Latching hardware functioning

    • Fire Barriers

  • Penetrations properly sealed with rated materials
  • No holes or openings in rated walls
  • Duct dampers in place and functional
  • Documentation of barrier integrity

    • Electrical Safety

    Common Violations

  • Extension cords used as permanent wiring
  • Electrical panels blocked (36-inch clearance required)
  • Missing knockout covers on junction boxes
  • Overloaded circuits or power strips daisy-chained

    • Housekeeping and Storage

    General Requirements

  • Storage at least 24 inches from ceiling (18 inches for sprinklered buildings)
  • Proper storage of flammable materials
  • No accumulation of combustible waste
  • Clear access to fire protection equipment

    • Documentation to Have Ready

    Prepare these documents for inspector review:

  • Fire alarm and sprinkler inspection reports
  • Fire extinguisher maintenance records
  • Emergency lighting test logs
  • Fire drill records
  • Employee training documentation
  • Hot work permits
  • Fire watch logs (if applicable)

    • Creating a Fire Safety Culture

    Beyond compliance, build a culture of fire safety:

  • Conduct regular fire drills (annual minimum, more for high-risk occupancies)
  • Train employees on fire prevention and response
  • Establish clear roles for emergency response
  • Review and update emergency action plans annually

    • Critical Dynamics provides comprehensive fire safety audits and helps organizations maintain continuous compliance. Schedule your fire safety assessment today.

    Need Help With Your Safety Program?

    Our team of certified safety professionals is ready to help you implement the strategies discussed in this article.

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