What to Expect During a Fire Inspection
The inspector will introduce him or herself, present identification and inform you of the purpose of the inspection, i.e. annual fire inspection. The inspector will ask you for any required paperwork such as a sprinkler and/or fire alarm inspection report. The inspector will then proceed to inspect the entire occupancy. A representative of the occupant is requested to accompany the inspector. The representative should have keys or other methods to access all areas to facilitate the inspection. During the inspection, the inspector will point out violations and corrective requirements.
The most common violations found are:
Exit and emergency lighting out
Exits and exitways blocked, locked, inaccessible
Fire extinguisher annual inspection due
Poor housekeeping, excess rubbish
Merchandise stacked too high, unstable piles
Improper use of extension cords
Fire doors chocked open
Improper storage of propane
Utility access blocked (gas meters, electrical panels)
Range hoods and ducts not cleaned
After the inspection is complete you will receive a written report of all violations found and an “Order to Correct” notice. Normally you will have 30 days to correct all violations. In the case of certain serious violations you may be given a shorter time period, typically 7 days to correct the serious violation. If the violation is deemed to be an “Imminent Hazard” , the premises may be closed down until the hazard is corrected. The Bureau will re-inspect on or about 30 days after issuance of the violation notice. It is expected that all violations will have been corrected at that time. Failure to correct all violations may result in the issuance of a penalty. If all violations have been corrected, a “Certificate of Satisfactory Compliance” will be sent to you.
Information Regarding Fire Safety Permits
The NJ Uniform Fire Act provides that certain hazardous activities need a permit to be issued by the local Fire Official before commencement of the activity. Permits are occupancy and event specific. Blanket permits are not issued. While the list of permit uses is extensive, the most common permits issued are for occasional welding and the use of torches by roofers.
Permits are issued at the Fire Prevention Office during normal business hours. You are strongly advised to call (201) 945-6008 before coming to the office for a permit as we may be in the field on inspections.
