Table Of Contents
- Fire Inspector Job Duties
- Fire Inspector Job Requirements
- Fire Inspector Skills
- Fire Inspector Work Environment
- Fire Inspector Trends
- How to Become a Fire Inspector
- Advancement Prospects
- Job Description Example
- Similar Jobs
Fire inspectors are responsible for ensuring that businesses and organizations comply with local, state, and federal fire safety regulations. They commonly inspect commercial properties to ensure they have the proper equipment and procedures in place to prevent fires from starting or spreading.
Fire inspectors may also be tasked with investigating fires that do occur to determine their cause and origin. This information is then used by firefighters and other emergency responders to plan how best to respond to future incidents.
Fire Inspector Job Duties
Fire inspectors have a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:
- Inspecting commercial and residential buildings for fire hazards such as overloaded electrical circuits, malfunctioning smoke detectors, or blocked exit doors
- Evaluating fire department operations and protocols, including training programs and equipment maintenance schedules
- Inspecting local businesses to ensure that they are complying with fire codes and other regulations related to fire safety
- Performing fire inspections of commercial properties, including restaurants, schools, and warehouses
- Investigating fires and explosions to determine the cause of the blaze
- Inspecting fire alarm systems and smoke detectors in businesses and residences, testing batteries, and replacing those that are not functioning properly
- Investigating fires in public buildings, such as schools and theaters, to determine the cause of the fire
- Working with insurance companies to determine the cause of a fire or explosion in order to settle claims with affected parties
- Conducting initial investigations into fires in order to determine their cause and origin, as well as identifying potential hazards that could lead to future fires
Fire Inspector Salary & Outlook
Fire inspectors’ salaries vary depending on their level of education, years of experience, and the company size and location. They may also earn additional compensation in the form of overtime.
- Median Annual Salary: $52,500 ($25.24/hour)
- Top 10% Annual Salary: $121,000 ($58.17/hour)
The employment of fire inspectors is expected to grow at an average rate over the next decade.
The need to ensure the safety of buildings and their occupants will continue to drive demand for fire inspectors. Fire departments will need to hire more inspectors to cover the large number of new commercial buildings that are expected to be built in the next decade.
Fire Inspector Job Requirements
A fire inspector typically needs to have the following qualifications:
Education: Fire inspectors typically need a high school diploma or General Education Diploma (GED). Some fire inspectors choose to pursue a two-year associate degree in fire science. This degree provides a foundation in fire science and safety principles.
Training & Experience: Fire inspectors receive most of their training through the completion of their education. They may also receive on-the-job training from a more experienced fire inspector or fire prevention officer. This training may include learning about the specific needs of the organization, the fire prevention policies and procedures and the use of any specialized equipment.
Certifications & Licenses: Fire inspectors typically need a certification to operate equipment such as a fire extinguisher and water hose, as well as the ability to pass a test on the laws governing fire inspection in their state. A certification can also help a fire inspector more easily find work, and may give her an advantage over uncertified competitors.
Fire Inspector Skills
Fire inspectors need the following skills in order to be successful:
Fire safety knowledge: Fire inspectors need to have a thorough understanding of fire safety regulations and standards. They need to know how to properly inspect a building for fire hazards and how to identify potential risks. This knowledge can help them develop effective fire prevention strategies and emergency response plans. Fire inspectors also need to know how to properly use firefighting equipment and how to handle a fire emergency.
Communication skills: Fire inspectors use communication skills to convey information to others. They also use these skills to explain complex information to the public and other professionals. Effective communication skills can help you to collaborate with others and share information to solve problems.
Attention to detail: Fire inspectors use attention to detail to ensure they notice any potential fire hazards in a building. They also use this skill to identify any potential safety issues that could lead to a fire. Fire inspectors use attention to detail to ensure they follow all safety protocols when inspecting a building. This includes knowing how to operate firefighting equipment and following all safety procedures when entering a building.
Problem-solving skills: Fire inspectors use problem-solving skills to identify potential hazards and develop solutions to prevent them. They use these skills to develop fire prevention plans, develop fire safety training programs and create fire safety regulations. Fire inspectors also use problem-solving skills to identify the cause of fires and determine the best way to put them out.
Ability to work under pressure: Fire inspectors often work in emergency situations, where time is of the essence. They may need to make quick decisions about the best course of action to take to minimize damage and save lives. Working under pressure can help fire inspectors make quick decisions and take action quickly.
Fire Inspector Work Environment
Fire inspectors work in a variety of settings, including office buildings, factories, and other commercial and industrial establishments. They also work in residential settings, such as apartments and single-family homes. Many fire inspectors are employed by local government agencies, such as fire departments, and work a standard 40-hour week. Some fire inspectors, however, work for private companies that provide fire protection services, and their work hours may vary depending on the needs of the client. Fire inspectors typically work indoors in well-lit and ventilated areas. However, they may be exposed to hazardous materials, such as asbestos, and to dangerous conditions, such as fire, when they inspect buildings.
Fire Inspector Trends
Here are three trends influencing how fire inspectors work. Fire inspectors will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace.
More Attention to Fire Prevention
As fire inspector professionals, you are in a unique position to help prevent fires from starting in the first place. This is because you have the knowledge and training necessary to identify potential hazards and make recommendations for how to fix them.
With more attention being paid to fire prevention, fire inspectors will be in high demand as they can help businesses and homeowners reduce their risk of fire damage. In order to stay ahead of the curve, fire inspectors should focus on developing skills in fire prevention and detection.
More Focus on Code Enforcement
Fire inspectors are increasingly being asked to focus on code enforcement rather than just fire inspection. This trend is due to the increasing awareness of the importance of code compliance in preventing fires and other safety hazards.
As fire inspectors become more focused on code enforcement, they will need to develop skills in areas such as building inspections, electrical inspections, and plumbing inspections. Additionally, fire inspectors will need to be able to communicate effectively with property owners and tenants in order to ensure that everyone is aware of the importance of code compliance.
Greater Use of Technology
The use of technology in the fire inspection industry is growing rapidly as fire departments look for ways to improve efficiency and accuracy.
Fire inspectors who are able to utilize technology in their work will be better equipped to handle the demands of the job. They will be able to access information quickly and easily, which will allow them to make more informed decisions about the buildings they inspect.
How to Become a Fire Inspector
Fire inspectors have a rewarding career ahead of them. They can move up the ranks to become chief fire inspector, assistant chief fire inspector, or even chief fire marshal. As they progress in their career, fire inspectors will need to keep up with new technologies and best practices in the field. They should also stay current on local, state, and federal regulations related to fire safety.
To advance their careers, fire inspectors should take courses in fire science, building construction, and public safety. They should also attend training programs offered by national organizations such as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the International Code Council (ICC).
Advancement Prospects
Many fire inspectors start their careers as firefighters and then are promoted to fire inspector positions. Some firefighters may become fire investigators, who determine the origin and cause of fires. Some fire inspectors may be promoted to supervisory or managerial positions. Some may become fire marshals, who are responsible for enforcing fire codes.
Many fire inspectors have previous experience as firefighters. Some have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in fire science, public administration, or a related field. Some fire inspectors may become certified by the National Fire Protection Association or other organizations.
Fire Inspector Job Description Example
The [City/Town] Fire Department is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented professional to fill the role of Fire Inspector. The Fire Inspector is responsible for conducting fire code inspections of commercial and residential properties, investigating fires, and providing public education on fire safety. The ideal candidate will have excellent customer service skills, experience with fire code enforcement, and the ability to work independently. He or she must also be able to climb ladders, work in confined spaces, and lift up to 50 pounds.
This is a great opportunity for a detail-oriented professional with excellent customer service skills to make a difference in the [City/Town].
Duties & Responsibilities
- Conduct fire inspections of commercial and residential properties to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal fire codes
- Investigate the cause, origin, and circumstances of fires to determine if they are incendiary or accidental in nature
- Prepare comprehensive reports detailing the findings of each fire inspection and investigation
- Work closely with fire code enforcement officials to ensure that all properties under their jurisdiction are in compliance with fire safety regulations
- Educate property owners and occupants on fire safety best practices and proper use of fire extinguishers and other fire safety equipment
- Assist in the development and implementation of fire prevention programs for both the public and private sector
- Serve as a liaison between the fire department and the community, providing information and education on fire safety and prevention
- Conduct regular training sessions for fire department personnel on fire inspection and investigation procedures
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of changes in fire codes and regulations
- Keep abreast of new technology and developments in the field of fire safety
- Attend conferences and seminars related to fire safety and prevention
- Perform administrative duties such as maintaining records and files, preparing correspondence, and ordering supplies
Required Skills and Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Associate’s degree in fire science, engineering, or related field preferred
- 3-5 years experience as a firefighter or in a related role
- IFSAC Fire Inspector I & II certification or NFPA 1031 Fire Inspector I & II certification required
- Knowledge of local, state, and federal fire codes
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, diagrams, and other technical documents
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Preferred Skills and Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in fire science, engineering, or related field
- IFSAC Fire Officer I & II certification or NFPA 1021 Fire Officer I & II certification
- Experience with computer-aided design (CAD) software
- Experience conducting fire code research
Similar Jobs
- Security Guard
- Police Officer
- Construction Manager
- Safety Manager
FAQs
What are the duties and scope of the Fire Inspector? ›
Fire inspectors inspect building plans to ensure that they meet fire codes. Fire inspectors examine buildings in order to detect fire hazards and ensure that federal, state, and local fire codes are met. Fire investigators, another type of worker in this field, determine the origin and cause of fires and explosions.
What are three important qualities that fire inspectors need? ›The third most common is nfpa on 10.5% of resumes. Three common soft skills for a fire inspector are detail oriented, physical strength and communication skills.
What is the highest pay for a Fire Inspector? ›Fire inspectors on the lower end of that spectrum, the bottom 10% to be exact, make roughly $33,000 a year, while the top 10% makes $70,000. Location impacts how much a fire inspector can expect to make.
What is the goal of a fire inspection? ›Inspections ensure your fire detection system is running properly. Annual fire inspections aren't simply to spot problems but to also ensure your fire detection system is running at its optimum capacity. Think about your annual fire inspection like getting the oil changed in your car.
What are main duties of inspectors? ›Observe testing and inspection done by the contractor as required in the contract documents and coordinate and observe special testing and inspection when requested by the design professional or University.
What are the duties and responsibilities of an inspector? ›Inspectors' duties include monitoring the quality of the materials used, inspecting any defects and discrepancies that might compromise the operations, generating reports to assess the product costing if it meets the budget goals, and utilizing available resources in the market for the highest quality project.
What are the duties of a fire investigator? ›Arson and fire investigators have a number of duties. On the scene, they will collect evidence, identify any potential accelerants, and work towards determining the cause(s) of a fire. They may also interview witnesses, assist in the identification of offenders in cases of arson, and arrest suspects.
What skills do fire inspectors need? ›- Understand written information.
- Write clearly so other people can understand.
- Understand spoken information.
- Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
- Listen to others and ask questions.
- Read and understand work-related materials.
Follow the three P's: prevent, plan and practice. Make sure your home has working smoke alarms, your family has a fire escape plan, and you have practiced it.
What is the lowest salary for a firefighter? ›Entry Level Firefighter Salary. $36,000 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $62,000 is the 75th percentile.
How much does a fire door Inspector earn? ›
Location: London - Salary: £40,000 - £60,000 per annum (Depending on experience) Job Type: Full Time, Permanent - Our client is one of the leading providers of Health and Safety training in the UK and South Africa.
What is the highest paid fire department in America? ›- CITY OF REDWOOD CITY. 4.1 $105,577per year. 17 reviews8 salaries reported.
- City Of San Rafael. 3.7 $99,306per year. ...
- City of Roseville. 3.9 $97,718per year. ...
- City of Carlsbad, CA. 4.3 $91,202per year. ...
- Orange County Fire Authority. 4.1 $88,957per year. ...
- Show more companies.
Inspections are important as they allow you to: listen to the concerns of workers and supervisors. gain further understanding of jobs and tasks. identify existing and potential hazards.
What is a fire safety checklist? ›What Is a Fire Safety Checklist? A fire safety checklist assists employers and homeowners to conduct fire risk assessments, and to maintain fire safety standards on their premises. These checklists ensure that every aspect of fire safety is monitored, assessed and corrected if required.
How often should a walk through fire inspection occur? ›We'd always recommend that you check them at least once every six months, but once every three months would be even better. When it comes to the inspection, you should always hire an accredited FDIS inspector to carry it out.
What is the skill needed by an inspector? ›These include people skills such as effective communication, diplomacy and customer service, but also include skills for problem solving, professionalism, integrity and time management.
What qualities should an inspector have? ›- Timeliness.
- A Desire to be Your Own Boss.
- Willingness to Help.
- An Open Mind.
- Ethics and Integrity.
- Attention to Detail.
- A Network of Connections.
- Working Knowledge of Residential Systems.
- Good written and verbal communication skills.
- Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
- Keen attention to detail.
- Basic computer and math skills to calibrate and measure specifications.
- Ability to use measuring devices like gauges, meters, calipers and computers.
A safety inspector usually looks into the safety aspects in workplace environments to develop and recommend safety measures, or initiate and advise for co-ordination among sub departments within an organization. He or she is responsible for evaluating workplace safety to reduce any possibility of injury.
What are the steps of a fire investigator? ›- Step 1: Preliminary Scene Examination/Size-up. ...
- Step 2: Interviewing Witnesses. ...
- Step 3: Full Scene Examination. ...
- Step 4: Follow up Investigation.
What are the six basic elements of a fire safety program? ›
- Prevent the occurrence of fire: ...
- Provide fire compartmentalization: ...
- Provide safe escape routes: ...
- Provide fire alarms: ...
- Provide extinguishing agents: ...
- Provide facilities for the fire brigade: ...
- Provide adequate control and maintenance:
- Life Safety.
- Incident Stabilization.
- Property Conservation & Environmental Protection.
You can do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in engineering followed by an undergraduate or postgraduate specialism in Fire Safety Engineering. Alternatively you may be able to take a specialist undergraduate degree in Structural and Fire Safety Engineering. Some courses offer a work placement.
What are the 5 E's of fire safety? ›Titled “Community Risk Reduction: Getting Ahead of the Call,” the week engages all members of the fire service by encouraging them to use the five Es – Education, Engineering, Enforcement, Emergency Response, and Economic Incentives – to benefit their community.
What are the 3 A's of fire? ›6) To remember the rules of fighting fires, just remember the three A's: Activate, Assist and Attempt.
Which firefighter makes the most money? ›...
10 States Where Firefighters Earn the Most Money.
Rank | State | 2017 Mean Annual Wage |
---|---|---|
1 | New Jersey | $75,880 |
2 | California | $73,860 |
3 | New York | $70,560 |
4 | Washington | $70,300 |
...
Here are the highest paying jobs of 2023:
- Anesthesiologist: $208,000.
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon: $208,000.
- Obstetrician and Gynecologist: $208,000.
- Surgeon: $208,000.
- Orthodontist: $208,000.
- Physician: $208,000.
- Psychiatrist: $208,000.
A fire door inspection is a review of the building's fire doors which determines if they are fit for purpose and compliant with fire safety standards. In the event of a fire, a building's passive fire protection system plays a vital role in reducing the rate at which fire and smoke spreads throughout the building.
How much is fire service salary? ›Federal Fire Service workers make between ₦800,000 and ₦1,400,000 per year on average (we can say that they earn ₦50-120,000 monthly). The largest salary is paid to the General of the Federal Fire Service, which is roughly 1.4 million Naira.
Do you need to be qualified to check fire doors? ›Every six months or even every three months in a busy building. If possible, employ a registered FDIS inspector to check your fire doors. These are people that have achieved a diploma in fire doors and have had their competence and knowledge independently assessed.
What city has the best fire department? ›
Get to know the FDNY. T he Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) is the largest Fire Department in the United States and universally is recognized as the world's busiest and most highly skilled emergency response agency.
What state pays firefighters the most 2022? ›- Highest Paying State. Indiana. See All States.
- Highest Paying City. East Chicago, IN. See All Cities.
- Highest Paying Company. 1 8 3 Lanes. See All Companies.
- Step 1: Vehicle Overview.
- Step 2: Check Engine Compartment.
- Step 3: Start Engine and Inspect Inside the Cab.
- Step 4: Turn Off Engine and Check Lights. ...
- Step 5: Do Walkaround Inspection. ...
- Step 6: Check Signal Lights.
- Step 7: Start the Engine and Check.
In quality control, there are 4 types of quality inspections, namely: pre-production inspection, during production inspection, pre-shipment inspection, and container loading/unloading inspections. Each of these types of inspection has its own purpose.
What are the 5 safety steps? ›- Stop and think.
- Look and identify.
- Assess the risk.
- Control hazards.
- Monitor hazards.
NFPA 291 requires that fire hydrant flow tests be performed every 5 years and fire hydrant inspections be performed annually. Inspections and testing should be performed by a licensed professional.
What Colour are fire warning signs? ›Fire safety signs are usually red and can provide information on emergency escape routes. They are used in areas that are more susceptible to fire, to provide information.
How do you check fire exits? ›Check the gaps between the door and frame – there should be less than 4mm at the top and sides, and less than 8mm at the bottom of the door. Check the certification – all fire doors will have a plug or label on the top (or side) to indicate they are a fully certified fire door.
What is scope of fire safety officer? ›Identify the Occupants are at Risk from each Hazard. To Evaluate the Existing Fire Protection (Control) Measures to Reduce the Risk. To Determine the Required Additional Fire Fighting / Protection Measures.
What powers do fire inspectors have? ›
Inspectors have powers to enter premises for the purposes of undertaking routine fire safety inspections. They can also close (prohibit) or restrict the use of unsafe buildings, issue other legal notices which enforce compliance with current fire safety legislation.
What is the scope of fire engineering? ›B. Tech Safety and Fire Engineering graduates have good job opportunities in electricity boards, government firefighting departments, oil companies, chemical plants, construction firms, refineries, fire safety training institutes, armed forces, etc.
What are the 4 key elements of fire investigation? ›The basics of the scientific method are deceptively simple: observe, hypothesize, test, and conclude.
What are the 5 roles of a safety officer? ›Developing, implementing, and improving the health and safety plans, programmes and procedures in the workplace. Ensuring compliance with relevant health and safety legislation. Identifying OHS-related training needs in the workplace. Conducting safety inspections and risk assessments.
What are six of the most important duties of a safety officer? ›- Plan and implement OHS policies and programs.
- Advise and lead employees on various safety-related topics.
- Prepare educational seminars and webinars on a regular basis.
- Review existing policies and procedures.
- Adhere to all the rules and regulations.
CAL FIRE Investigators respond to fires statewide, move quickly to protect the area of origin, and utilize multiple resources and consultants to help determine the cause of in incidents.
How long does a fire safety inspection last? ›There is guidance on fire safety in purpose-built blocks of flats. This recommended that for low-rise blocks of up to three storeys above ground, built in the last 20 years, fire risk assessments should be: reviewed every 2 years. redone every 4 years.
Who issues a fire safety notice? ›If there is a problem with your Fire Safety Measures, you may receive a Fire Safety Notice. These are issued by Fire Safety Officers from your local Fire and Rescue authorities.
What are the 4 types of fire? ›Class A: solid materials such as wood or paper, fabric, and some plastics. Class B: liquids or gas such as alcohol, ether, gasoline, or grease. Class C: electrical failure from appliances, electronic equipment, and wiring. Class D: metallic substances such as sodium, titanium, zirconium, or magnesium.
What is fire qualification? ›21-35 Years Old. Filipino Citizen. Mentally and Physically Fit. Must not have been convicted by final judgment of an offense or crime involving turpitude or of disgraceful or immoral conduct, dishonesty, examination irregularity, drunkenness, or addiction to drugs.