It is important to determine the important materials and equipment to ensure not only the safety of the people, but also the safety of the staffs in implementing fire prevention actions and programs. As such, an inspection of the fire safety equipment should be done in a regular basis.
Existing Fire Systems (Briese & Libby, n.d)
1. Are the systems failing to detect any potential fire breakout frequently?
2. Are the components and system parts easy to find and replaced?
3. Are the staffs trained enough to operate the fire systems?
If more than one of the three criteria is not satisfied, then it is suggested to replace the system with new systems.
Criteria for Replacement of Fire Systems (Briese & Libby, n.d)
1. Does the new system comply with the codes and standards of the fire department?
2. Is the new system compatible with the building’s structural and architectural layouts?
3. Is the new system easy to operate and accessible in all areas of the building?
4. Is the new system open for testing with regards to the quality and safety compliances?
Fire Hazards Management (Environment Agency, 2015)
1. Do the combustible materials have separate disposal facility from the non-combustible ones?
2. Is the storage facility fire proof?
3. Are combustible wastes regularly collected and transported to the appropriate dump site outside of the facility?
4. Is the storage facility equipped with fire prevention tools such as fire extinguishers and water lines?
5. Are nearby buildings, such as the industrial and residential areas informed about the presence of a facility for combustible materials?
Emergency Lights (Environment Agency, 2015)
1. Are the emergency lights adequate to illuminate the whole area in case of system faults?
2. Are there emergency lights situated in fire exits and hallways?
3. Is the battery life of the emergency lights long enough to sustain adequate lighting?
4. Are the emergency lights standardized and have uniform design?
5. Do the emergency lights have high tolerance to fire and heat?
Signage (Environment Agency, 2015)
1. Are the warning signs designed according to their purposes and levels of attention?
2. Are the letters, symbols and words large and readable enough to be noticed by most people?
3. Do the warning signs provide clear messages and instructions?
4. Are the facilities labeled enough with proper precautions especially those that are highly hazardous and susceptible to fire?
Hygiene Tests (Environment Agency, 2015)
1. Are the applicable materials (depending on their use) and equipment safe and clear for the visual purposes?
2. Do the applicable materials and equipment emit unwanted noise which can be classified as distraction or noise pollution that affects most of the areas?
3. Do the applicable materials and equipment emit unpleasant odor, and affects most of the areas?
4. Are the applicable materials and equipment protected from possible damages caused by human activities, mechanical failure, chemical attacks, and sudden impacts?
5. Are maintenance and quality tests of the equipment regularly done to preserve their quality and purpose?
6. Are the tests and analysis done on the existing fire systems, materials, and equipment appropriate and produce accurate assessments?
Program and Permit (Regional District of Fraser-Fort George, 2014)
1. Is the fire safety equipment equipped with user’s manuals or guide booklets?
2. Are the personnel informed about fire safety and protection programs, and if they are required to attend fire prevention programs?
3. Are the personnel involved with the handling and management of fire prevention methods and equipment trained and qualified enough for the job?
4. Do the personnel have their designated roles when emergency situation arises?
5. Do field trainings, such as fire drills, have the needed permission to simulate a disastrous situation in a certain place?
Technology (Environment Agency, 2015)
1. Are cameras installed in the strategic part of the vicinity?
2. Are fire detection devices installed for early detection of potential fire accidents?
3. Are robotics and other related technologies needed to provide constant maintenance and inspection of fire prevention tools and equipment?
References
Briese, B., & Libby, R. (n.d.). Replacement of Fire Alarm Systems in Existing Buildings - SFPE. Retrieved April 29, 2016, from http://www.sfpe.org/page/FPE_ET_Issue_6/Replacement-of-Fire-Alarm-Systems-in- Existing-Buildings.htm
Environment Agency. (2015). Fire Prevention Plans. 2, 1-13.
Regional District of Fraser-Fort George. (2014). Fire Services Training Standards. Operational Guidelines Fire/Rescue Manual.
