A fire safety officer inspects buildings to ensure compliance with fire prevention codes, investigates the cause of fires, and creates fire safety education programs. They must have knowledge of building designs and plans, communicate effectively, and establish policies and procedures for fire personnel. Requirements include a high school diploma, fire science classes, and experience with a fire department.
A fire safety officer inspects commercial and industrial buildings to determine if the locations comply with fire prevention codes. Traditionally, he is also required to investigate the origins and reasons for fires in homes and businesses. A significant part of his work is public education. This requires him to create appropriate fire safety education programs for presentation to schools, community organizations and the general public.
Inspecting buildings for compliance requires a fire safety inspector to be competent in reading and interpreting building designs and plans. Plans can be for newly constructed structures or blueprints for older buildings. He usually needs to have the knowledge necessary to identify infractions and inconsistencies in buildings related to electrical safety standards, sprinkler systems and fire safety codes. Issuing compliance permits for fire extinguishing systems, sprinklers, and alarms is a common responsibility of a fire safety officer.
After a fire has broken out, the police officer is often called upon to inspect the remains to determine the cause of the fire. This typically entails checking electrical systems for shorts and overloads and looking for evidence of candles or other objects producing heat or flames that may have started the fire. Determining whether smoke alarms or sprinkler systems were working is also typically part of your report.
A significant part of a fire safety officer’s job involves oral and written communications. He is expected to be comfortable talking to large and small groups and efficiently answering questions related to fire prevention and safety. Professional firefighter associations may also require him to give presentations and attend educational seminars. He can regularly communicate with engineers, architects and contractors about fire code requirements. Detailed written reports of your inspections and investigations are also often required.
In addition to communication and inspection duties, a fire safety officer is often required to establish policies and procedures for fire personnel. These guidelines are typically based on guidelines developed by local and regional fire prevention and code agencies. The fire safety inspector’s job regularly requires him to ensure that employees understand and are performing their jobs in accordance with these guiding principles.
Typically, applicants for this position are required to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Completed classes in fire science or related subjects are often a prerequisite for consideration. Three years of experience with a fire department in a paid or volunteer capacity is a common requirement. It is usually necessary to pass written and oral tests as well as obtain certifications to become a fire safety officer.
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