Codes

Find some of the most common code violations found during inspections. Please use this list to improve your safety before an inspector arrives:

  • Provide approved address identification for building that includes your suite or unit numbers (or letters), plainly visible, and contrasting to the background color.
    • It's important that your address be visible from the street fronting your property. Suite or Unit numbers/letters should also be plainly visible. For larger complexes or buildings set back from the street, additional signs may be necessary if emergency responders are dispatched to an address. If the address does not readily identify the property location, precious time that can save lives may be lost.
  • Remove obstructions and/or combustible material from exit-ways, stairways, and fire escapes.
    • The safest way out of your place of business in an emergency is through the exits. Make sure that storage and merchandise are kept clear of exits and exit paths.
  • Clearly mark all exits and make sure that illuminated exit signs are fully lit at all times.
    • Generally, all exits including the main entrance are required to have an 'exit' sign. Some businesses with large windows may be exempt. If there are lighted exit signs, all bulbs must be illuminated when the building is occupied. Replace bulbs and check the operation of emergency lighting to ensure they will work in the event of an emergency.
  • Repair or restore fire doors to automatic self-closing and latching condition by removing wedges and door stops.
    • Doors that have self-closing devices are designed to keep fire and smoke from spreading to other areas of the building. Wedges and door stops that hold these doors open reduce your chances of escape in the event of a fire by allowing for the more rapid spread of fire and smoke throughout the building thus increasing the amount of fire damage.
  • Limit or discontinue the use of extension cords and multi-plug adapters.
    • Extension cords are designed only for use with portable appliances (i.e. drill, buffer, grinder) not in place of permanent wiring. Multi-plug outlets can be used for computer or memory equipment but must be mounted to a permanent surface 16 inches to 18 inches above the floor.
    • Caution is urged when selecting extension cords and multi-plug adapters since non-approved cords and adapters may overload the electrical circuit capacity which has been shown to be a major cause of the fire. UL listed multiple-outlet strips with built-in circuit breaker protection are allowed in lieu of extension cords as long as they plug directly into the wall outlet and the appliance plugs into the outlet strip.
  • Provide cover plates for all open electrical boxes and switches.
    • This confines potential arcing to within the safety of the outlet and junction boxes, replace all missing and damaged cover plates.
  • Maintain 30-inch clearance in front of, and clear access to, all electrical panels.
    • Clearance around and access to your electrical panels allows firefighters to access circuit breakers quickly in case of emergency. If your panels are in an enclosed room, provide permanent signage (i.e. "Electrical Room") to indicate location.
  • Inspect fire extinguishers monthly, maintain a written log, or provide annual service through an outside vendor.
    • Annual maintenance by a certified company is required for portable fire extinguishers unless monthly maintenance has been performed by trained individuals and written records maintained. Monthly maintenance checks and written records will, in most cases, allow the service by a certified extinguisher company to be extended to a six-year interval.
  • Fire protection systems need certification every year. Hood systems need certification every six months.
  • A Knox-Box is required on buildings with fire protection systems. City building owners should call 770-534-7193 for more information.