When you need a fire escape inspected, you should contact a professional fire escape inspection service. These professionals will perform a multi-point inspection of the fire escape, including its handrails and support brackets. They will make repairs based on the report and have a licensed structural engineer review the repairs. The inspection is followed by a 5-year certification letter, which you can submit to your local fire code official for approval.
Maintenance Of A Fire Escape
The maintenance of a fire escape is fairly simple. The most critical components of the fire escape are the steel beams and angles that penetrate the building wall. They provide structural support for the escape. The fire escape may require a reinforcing plate or supporting angle to reinforce the structure. It is important to replace worn or torn slats and treads. This article will provide a brief overview of the maintenance and repair process.
The first step in performing maintenance is removing the old paint. Fire escapes may need to be wire brushed or sanded down to white metal. This procedure is time-consuming, but can be done on a budget if it’s a simple maintenance job. In addition to removing the old paint, fire escapes must be cleaned with a power-washer. Then, the whole assembly should be painted.
Inspection requirements
The structural condition of a fire escape is vital to the safety of a building. A professional fire escape inspection company can ensure that it is in good condition, and they can also inspect the stairwells and handrails. When an inspection and examination is not enough, a load test is done. Repairs are not usually required to pass this inspection, but they should still pass the fire code. Once you’ve hired an inspection company, make sure they follow the necessary process and provide the proper certification letter.
The inspection process will take one to three weeks, with some exceptions. Once complete, the certification is submitted to the AHJ for approval. There are specific requirements for fire escape inspections, including the load test and the location. The certification is also required for a Certificate of Occupancy. The inspection fee may vary depending on the size and construction of the building. In some cases, the fire escape inspection is required for the Certificate of Occupancy.
Cost Of A Fire Escape Inspection
A fire escape inspection can help you avoid the potential dangers associated with a collapsed fire escape. However, it requires a skilled professional to ensure your safety. These professionals will check the structure of the fire escape and make any necessary repairs. In addition to visual inspection, they also inspect the steel beams and angles that support the fire escape. If any of these elements is compromised, the inspector may recommend adding a reinforcing plate or supporting angle.
Fire escapes built before 1978 may have lead paint. To renovate them, a licensed structural engineer must complete the inspection. Any existing welds must be x-rayed and reinforced. New repairs must be bolted. The EPA fine for welding on lead-painted structures starts at $37,500 per incident. Fortunately, there are several services available that can evaluate the condition of your fire escape.
Requirements For A Fire Escape Inspection
A building engineer must inspect a fire escape every five years to ensure it meets local law 11/98 requirements. The engineer should also note any bent or broken parts, sharp edges, and missing or damaged bricks around penetrations. He or she should also check the condition of any drop ladders. These professionals must have certifications from the State Department of Buildings. This is required for buildings six stories or higher. This type of inspection is mandatory for all buildings in New York City.
The cost of fire escape inspection services varies. Fire escapes are one of the most critical emergency safety equipment in a building. Yet they are often the least inspected. While some inspectors might look for rust on the ladders and cracked treads, a thorough evaluation by a proper fire escape inspection company can prevent fire escape violations in the future. A letter from a welding company is not sufficient. A professional engineering report should be provided.
Companies That Perform Fire Escape Inspections
A fire escape inspector carries out a multi-point inspection of a fire escape. They will check for structural issues, loose parts, or dislocation from the building, among other things. If necessary, they will also conduct repairs. They may also conduct a load test to ensure the system meets fire code requirements. In most jurisdictions, a fire escape inspection takes between two and eight hours to complete. A fire escape inspector is trained to recognize problems, such as missing or unattached stairs.
Building owners are required by law to have fire escapes inspected by a qualified structural engineer every five years. Any fire escape that has deteriorated beyond repair must be immediately repaired. Fire escape inspections by licensed engineers like those offered by Taco Solutions are vitally important, as they help ensure the safety of your building’s fire safety. They will also issue an evaluation report, which can be used to make repairs to deteriorated fire exits.
