Over one-third of all fires occur in commercial or residential buildings, resulting in over $14 billion in damages across the U.S. annually. While fires can be unpredictable, many are preventable if your home or business complies with fire safety codes. Violations of these codes put the occupants at risk and can lead to significant financial and legal consequences. Fortunately, you can easily avoid these issues with regular inspections and proactive maintenance.
Let’s explore five common fire code violations and practical steps to correct them, ensuring compliance and maximizing safety.
1. Blocked Exits or Pathway Obstructions
Hazardous clutter, misplaced furniture, improperly stored materials and equipment, and automatic door locks can obstruct evacuation routes. This is one of the most serious fire code violations because it can delay or prevent occupants from safely exiting the premises. It also restricts access to first responders, who only have minutes to rescue someone inside.
How to Correct It:
- Check all exits and pathways regularly to ensure they’re clear of obstructions.
- Make sure everyone does their part to remove clutter and maintain accessible exits.
- Install clear, illuminated signs to mark the exits in an emergency.
- Implement routine fire drills to reinforce and fine-tune the building’s evacuation routes.
2. Inadequate Fire Sprinkler Maintenance
Fire sprinkler systems are crucial in controlling and often extinguishing fires before they can spread. Despite their proven effectiveness in controlling fires 97 percent of the time, some building owners neglect maintaining their sprinkler systems. This lack of maintenance can lead to violations of fire codes and system malfunctions, ultimately putting lives at risk.
How to Correct It:
- Schedule inspections once or twice a year with a licensed fire sprinkler technician to ensure the system is operational.
- Check the sprinkler heads and plumbing for any visible signs of corrosion, leaks, or other damage.
- Remove potential obstructions, such as dust, paint, furniture, or wall décor, that could inhibit the sprinkler heads’ water flow.
- Follow manufacturer guidelines and municipal fire codes for maintenance and testing.
3. Malfunctioning Fire Alarm Systems
Fire alarms detect flames or smoke and immediately alert occupants so they can evacuate the building promptly. However, alarm malfunctions—resulting from faulty batteries, out-of-date technology, or inadequate maintenance—can create significant safety risks.
How to Correct It:
- Test all fire alarm sensors monthly to ensure they are in working order.
- Replace the batteries at least once a year or as often as the manufacturer advises.
- Upgrade any older fire alarm systems to meet the current fire safety protocols.
- Have your fire alarms serviced by a professional once every six months to confirm the system is reliable and operational.
4. Not Enough Fire Extinguishers Onsite
Portable fire extinguishers are typically the first line of defense when a small fire breaks out. According to FEMA, these devices can effectively extinguish a fire 94 percent of the time—often in just two minutes. However, despite their effectiveness, many buildings store fire extinguishers in hard-to-reach locations or do not have an adequate number available.
How to Correct It:
- Store all portable fire extinguishers in easily accessible locations—ideally near kitchens, electrical panels, and emergency exit doors.
- Conduct monthly inspections to check for adequate pressure and any potential damage.
- Replace any expired or malfunctioning portable fire extinguishers immediately.
5. Faulty Electrical Circuits and Wiring
Circuit overloads, faulty wiring, or improper use of extension cords cause approximately 51,000 electrical fires each year. Hiring a certified electrician is essential to prevent these problems from leading to fire code violations. A professional can ensure that all wiring and circuits meet fire safety standards.
How to Correct It:
- Do not plug too many electric devices or appliances into one outlet; distribute the plugs evenly to prevent the circuits from overloading.
- Use surge protectors and circuit breakers to minimize the risk of electrical hazards.
- Call a qualified electrician to replace any malfunctioning wires or circuitry.
- Unplug all devices or electronics from their respective outlets when not in use.
- Only use extension cords when necessary, and never daisy-chain multiple cords together.
Tackle Fire Code Violations at Their Source
Fire code violations are frequent but entirely preventable with the right approach. Proactively identifying and addressing potential infractions at their source can create a safer environment for everyone. Implementing these essential safety measures ensures compliance with the latest municipal codes and may also be instrumental in saving lives should a fire occur.
Reach out to our dedicated team of experts at A&A Fire Protection today. Together, we can schedule a thorough inspection to verify that your building meets all safety standards and is well-prepared to protect those within it.
