What to Expect During a Restaurant Fire Inspection
Did you know that cooking leads to more than 50% of all fires in residential areas? In restaurants, cooking can cause just as many fires with hazards like hot oils, open flames, and unattended stations. Because of this, making sure you’re ready for a fire inspection is always crucial.
If you’ve been looking for a fire inspection guide, we’re here to help. Read on for some quick information on a fire inspection and what you should expect.
What’s Being Inspected During Your Fire Inspection?
A fire inspector will look into every detail of your restaurant. You can expect every area to be inspected, from your patio to your restrooms. Here are some of the many things the fire inspectors are looking for.
Fire Related Workplace Safety
One of the most crucial elements of fire safety is how well the workplace is suited to handle a fire. Moreover, a workplace should have measures in place to prevent fires rather than simply react to them.
A fire inspector will look for fire hazards, such as paper products being stored too close to grills or flames. They’ll also make sure that evacuation routes are safely accessible.
Local Codes
Different states and cities have their own codes for fire safety and what makes a restaurant safe. Because of this, you should make sure that you’re up to date with local safety codes. Your fire inspector will undoubtedly check to make sure that you’re following the many fire safety guidelines.
How to Prepare For Your Fire Inspection
If you have an upcoming inspection, there are several things you can do to prepare. Here are some on how to make sure you pass your inspection.
Quick Investigation
Before the fire inspection, you should survey your restaurant. Looking over everything to see any fire risks will show you what you need to fix. Do this often to ensure that your restaurant is safe and make fire inspections easier.
Routine Maintenance
Along with your regular inspections, you should do some routine maintenance. Check smoke alarms and change their batteries if necessary, ensure that alarm systems still work, and check fire doors. You also may want to schedule a professional inspection to make sure nothing is missed.
Some areas may need more frequent inspection than others. For example, the hood fire suppression systems in your kitchen should have inspections at least twice a year. However, just two inspections a year is far from enough – it’s highly recommended that you clean these systems at least once every month, if not more often.
Organize Paperwork
There’s a great deal of paperwork that goes into fire safety. Previous inspection records, certifications, and many other forms will need to be checked by your fire inspectors. Make sure you have all of these forms on hand to make the process go by easier.
Passing Your Fire Inspection
A fire inspection can feel intimidating, but if you’re up to code and staying safe, you’ve passed the inspection before it’s even begun. Make sure your restaurant is practicing proper fire safety for a safer, more efficient workplace.
For more information on passing inspections, feel free to contact us to learn more!