3 Common Fire Code Violations in Calgary & Strathmore Buildings

Summary

• Did you know that you must keep your fire safety maintenance records at the premises for up to five years?

• The National Fire Code 2023 Alberta requires building owners to keep fire safety maintenance records at the premises for inspections.

• If authorities found out that the owners are not meeting standards for fire safety services, they may be fined up to $100,000 or 6 months of imprisonment on the first offence.

• It is a grave violation to hire unqualified people to test, inspect, or maintain fire safety systems.

   

Fire Code Violations: Does Your Company Maintain On-Site Records?

Did you know that you must keep your fire safety maintenance records for up to five years? Yes, this is true. This is one of the most common fire code violations that many owners make.

Owners need to keep in mind one crucial aspect. They are required to keep a printed copy of all fire safety records at the site so that the fire safety codes officer can check it any time.

So that the records are readily available for inspections and the maintenance of building life safety systems.

Some of the core requirements as per the National Fire Code 2023 Alberta Edition NFC(AE) are summarised here:

• The original or a copy of records shall be retained at the premises for examination.

• Records of fire evacuations and fire safety drills shall be retained at the premises for examination.

• The initial verification or test reports for each system shall be retained throughout the life of the systems.

  
  

The government of Alberta specifically recommends owners keep a ‘Life Safety Records’ binder.

You see, the government authorities are so specific in these guidelines. The core reason is to pinpoint areas where owners generally make mistakes.

This reminds us that the fire safety protocols are there for a reason. We should be aware of these common fire code violations so that we avoid them and protect our property.

Why Missing or Outdated Fire Safety Plans Are a Big Problem?

It is crucial for owners to make sure that the property doesn’t have any missing or outdated fire safety plans. Fire safety systems require constant maintenance, and it is a living document that needs regular attention.

Failing to meet these requirements can land the owner in deep trouble that includes hefty fines or even imprisonment. 

If authorities found out that the owners are not meeting safety standards, they may be fined up to $100,000 or 6 months of imprisonment on the first offence. In case of second or third offences, the owners may face fines up to $500,000 or 12 months of imprisonment.

While annual inspections are mandatory, not all types of buildings have similar protocols.

For instance, day centres, high-rise buildings, and laboratories need more frequent fire safety drills compared to other buildings.

The fire department makes it compulsory for all owners to update their safety plan if there are any major changes to the nature of operations in their buildings. 

For example, if you plan to alter the characteristics of the building, like any expansion or any change in the type of business, you need to get it approved by the fire department. 

Similarly, it is the responsibility of the owner to train the ‘supervisory staff’ before giving them any responsibilities regarding fire safety.

How Can Unqualified People Land You in Big Trouble?

Another common misconception among owners is that anyone can inspect or test a fire safety system. No, this is completely true.

It is a grave violation to hire unqualified people to test, inspect, or maintain fire safety systems. 

It will be the sole responsibility of the building owner in case of any such violation of the Safety Codes Act. Moreover, it is also the responsibility of the owner to verify the qualification or credentials of the technician and not the contractor.

How Can SAFEblu Help You?

SAFEblu can help you protect your business in a number of ways. Our fire & safety services are not limited to Strathmore; we also serve clients in Calgary. 

Since both Strathmore and Calgary follow the National Fire Code 2023 Alberta Edition, we have kept our presence in both regions. 

We have an expertise of over 20 years, and our experts are capable of handling all kinds of workplace safety measures, including industrial safety services. 

Contact us today for fire protection services, and we will be available to extend our support.