Business Owner Information

Ten Common Code Violations & 10 Easy Solutions

1. Are there obstructions in exit and passageways that would interfere with quick and safe egress? If so, remove any and all obstructions.
2. Are your exit and emergency lights illuminated and in good working order? If not, provide new light bulbs and/or batteries.
3. Are your fire extinguishers mounted and do they display a current annual certification tag? If not, hang them on approved brackets, clearly visible and have them certified annually.
4. Are your fire alarm and sprinkler systems working? A monthly test to ensure that they are operating is a good idea; however, an annual certified test of both systems is required.
5. Are your smoke detectors working? Make sure they are clean and tested monthly. Replace batteries and/or detectors as needed.
6. Do you keep your fire doors closed? Fire doors must be kept in a "closed" position or held open by a magnetic device. Do not use door stops, wedges or anything else that would prevent the doors from closing in the event of a fire.
7. Are your self-closing fire doors maintained? Conduct a fire alarm test to ensure these doors operate properly.
8. Are you using extension cords? Extension cords may only be used for temporary basis and can never be used as permanent wiring. They can not extend through walls, ceilings, floors, under or through doors and floor coverings. They can not be plugged into one another.
9. Is your electrical panel clearly labeled? Are all junction boxes covered? If not, make sure they are and be certain firefighters can gain access to your panel in the event of an emergency situation where power might need to be shut off.
10. Is the clearance in front of electrical boxes at least 36 inches? Is there storage in furnace rooms? If so, correct by removing and discarding items.