The Houston, Texas (TX) fire code requires that all fire sprinkler, fire alarm and fire extinguisher systems be regularly inspected by a licensed fire safety services contractor. The code outlines different requirements for each type of fire safety system.
Fire alarm systems need to be inspected, tested and tagged annually. Testing must include all smoke detectors, manual pull devices, annunciators, visual indicators and strobes, control units, voice/alarm communications systems and any other devices that are a part of the fire alarm system.
Exceptions:
Fire sprinklers should be inspected monthly and quarterly in accordance with NFPA 25. Written records of all monthly and quarterly inspections must be maintained.
Fire sprinklers should be tested and tagged annually. During testing, it is important to check for valve seizure, broken seams, leakage or other issues with the valves.
Dry chemical fire suppression systems should be inspected and tested every six months. Written records must be maintained. When testing a fire sprinkler system, be sure to check the valves for seizure, leakage, broken seams or any other problems.
Clean agent fire suppression systems must be inspected and tested at least every six months or according to the manufacturers’ guidelines and NFPA 2001.
Exception:
Portable fire extinguishers must be inspected and tagged annually by a licensed fire protection services company. Inspection and tagging of portable fire extinguishers should be done in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements.
As of January 1, 2008, all commercial kitchen fire suppression systems must meet UL 300 standards. All kitchen fire suppression systems with vent hoods installed in commercial kitchens must be inspected and tagged every six months and after every activation of the system. Inspections must meet manufacturer’s guidelines and NFPA 17 and 17A codes.
In addition, all commercial kitchen vent hoods, exhaust fans and exhaust ducts must be cleaned and inspected by approved personnel as often as necessary to prevent excessive grease accumulations. At Kauffman Co., we’re able to provide vent hood inspections and repair to help you ensure you’re up to code.
The two different types of fire pumps, diesel and electrical, have different requirements when it comes to inspection and testing procedures:
Failure to follow the fire code guidelines for fire safety systems inspections can result in penalties, including fines worth several hundred dollars. Don’t get caught in violation of code – if you need fire safety inspection, call Kauffman Co. today!
Are you having the fire alarms at your business inspected frequently enough for safety, legal considerations, and liability? You may…
Fall can be a great time of year in the Houston area. Most of the heat of summer is gone,…