Fire Inspections

Fire Marshal’s Office

The Richland County Fire Marshal’s Office, a division of the Richland County Emergency Services Department, is charged with conducting fire and life safety inspections for new and existing structures. We strive to provide prompt and professional service to our customers and shareholders by taking a comprehensive, common sense approach to applying code principles.  We are committed to improving the quality service we provide to make Richland County a safer place to work, live, and play.

Before the Inspection

• All utilities should be in working order
• Communication/data lines are in service
• All test of fire protection systems have been performed and applicable NPFA forms have been completed

Scheduling Inspections

Inspections can be scheduled a minimum of 48 hrs. from the desired date of inspection and dispersed to an inspector and scheduled accordingly based on geographic location and availability.  There are two ways in which inspections may be requested.

• An automated telephone system commonly referred to as I.V.R. 
• Online through the eTrakit portal

What Do I Need for the Inspection?

• An approved set of building and fire protection plans/documents should be on site 
• NFPA testing documentation is available for review for fire protection systems
• Manufacturer’s Instructions for fire protection systems are provided
• Essential personnel are present with appropriate testing instruments and equipment

During the Inspection

Inspections may vary according to occupancy type.  However, most new commercial occupancies and structures have a number of general fire and life safety inspection requirements in common. Below is a list of some routine fire and life safety code requirements addressed during new construction projects.

• Exit signs and emergency lights shall be properly maintained where applicable
• Fire Alarm systems shall be properly installed and tested, where applicable, before occupancy
• Sprinkler and Standpipe systems shall be properly installed and tested, where applicable, before occupancy
• Automatic Extinguishing Systems shall be properly installed and inspected by licensed persons
• Fire detection and notification appliances shall be properly installed (for their listing) and operable
• Minimum required Fire extinguishers shall be properly mounted near exits
• All electrical work shall meet the National Electric Code (NEC)
• Vertical openings and penetrations in fire rated walls must be properly sealed
• Address shall be visible from the roadway (at least 4 inches in height)
• All portions of the structure shall be accessible for fire access

After the Inspection

The Inspector will issue a written order citing any corrective action needed, at the conclusion of the inspection.  Based on the results of the inspection, you may be “Approved” or “Disapproved” for occupancy.  Re-inspections should be coordinated through the inspector that conducted the initial inspection and results will be updated within the inspection database.