INSPECTIONS
In an effort to assist business owners in recognizing potential safety issues in their businesses, the Northshore Fire Department conducts annual fire and life-safety inspections at commercial occupancies throughout the Cities of Kenmore and Lake Forest Park. The inspections are performed under the authority and provisions of the International Fire Code (IFC). A safe environment for people to shop, visit, and do business is essential for the continued vitality of our community.
The annual inspections are divided into two categories: businesses that require an IFC permit and those that do not require permits. The inspections of the occupancies that do not require permits are performed by emergency response personnel. This provides an opportunity for firefighters to familiarize themselves with many of the buildings while having an opportunity to interact with our community in a non-emergency situation. Occupancies that are required by the IFC to obtain permits are inspected by members of the fire prevention division. A permit constitutes permission to maintain, store, use or handle materials, or conduct processes which produce conditions hazardous to life or property. A permit also constitutes permission to install equipment used in connection with such activities. This permission shall not be construed as authority to violate, cancel, or set aside any of the provisions of the code. A permit does not take the place of any license required by law or other governmental agency. A list of required permits can be found on the Permits page.
Personal responsibility is an important component of fire prevention. As your partners in fire safety we have developed the following informational guide.
Fire Safety Tips for Business
The International Fire Code is adopted by the State of Washington and City ordinance to establish minimum fire and life safety requirements. Periodic inspections performed by the Northshore Fire Department have identified common issues that require correction. The following fire safety tips for businesses have been compiled to assist the business owner in maintaining a safe workplace and to be well prepared for a fire safety inspection.
Exterior
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The building address must be visible and legible from the street fronting the property. |
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Fire lanes must be kept clear of parking or obstructions at all times. Painted curbs, surface lettering and signage must be maintained. |
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Storage shall be orderly and not obstruct any exit path or access to the building. Call the fire department with questions regarding hazardous materials storage. |
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If an emergency access key box is mounted on the building, access keys to building must be current. Call the fire department if building locks are changed. |
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Interior
Storage/housekeeping
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Combustible materials storage must be orderly and not create a fire hazard. Waste material shall be cleaned up and properly stored. |
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Storage shall not obstruct exit paths. |
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Materials susceptible to spontaneous ignition, such as oily rags, shall be stored in a listed and approved storage container |
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Flammable liquids shall not be stored near exits or obstruct exit paths. Listed flammable liquids storage cabinets may be required depending on the specific material and quantity on site. |
Exits
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Corridors, hallways, aisles and exit doors shall not be obstructed. |
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Exit signs and emergency lighting shall be functional at all times. |
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Exit doors shall not require the use of a key or special knowledge or effort. |
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Manually operated flush bolts or surface bolts are not permitted. |
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Electrical
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Extension cords shall not be used as a substitute for permanent wiring. Cords shall not be attached to structures and shall not extend through walls, ceilings or floors or under doors or floor coverings. Extension cords shall be used only for portable appliances. |
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A clear working space shall be maintained in front of electrical panels. Not less than 30-inches wide, 36-inches deep and 78-inches high. |
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All electrical boxes shall have approved covers in place. |
Fire walls
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The integrity of walls shall be maintained. Damaged portions shall be repaired to their original state. |
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Openings in fire rated walls shall not be created without the necessary permits and inspections. |
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Fire Protection Systems
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Fire alarm and sprinkler systems shall be tested annually, or more often when required, by qualified technicians. |
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Systems shall not be damaged or compromised in any way. System problems shall be repaired immediately. |
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Any modification of a building may require alterations to the fire protection system. Contact the fire department for specific information. |
Fire Extinguishers
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Portable fire extinguishers shall be mounted in a visible and accessible location. |
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Extinguishers must be rated for the hazards they are protecting. |
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Extinguishers must be fully operational at all times. |
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Annual servicing of fire extinguishers must be provided (unless otherwise approved by the fire marshal). Extinguishers must have current tags |
