Top 10 Problems We Find During an Annual Fire Inspection....and how to fix them.

Annual fire equipment inspections are critical for ensuring the safety of building occupants and maintaining compliance with local fire codes and NFPA standards. Yet even well-maintained properties often reveal common deficiencies during these evaluations.

Here are the top 10 deficiencies frequently discovered during annual fire equipment inspections — and what needs to be done to fix them...

1. Expired or Missing Fire Extinguishers

Problem: Fire extinguishers are either past their maintenance date, missing entirely, or not tagged properly.

Solution:

• Replace expired extinguishers immediately.

• Ensure all extinguishers are tagged with a current annual inspection.

• Verify proper type and placement based on room use and square footage.

  
  

2. Obstructed or Covered Fire Sprinkler Heads

Problem: Items are stored too close to sprinkler heads, blocking water dispersion during activation.

Solution:

• Maintain an 18-inch clearance below all sprinkler heads.

• Train staff on proper storage practices, especially in warehouses or storage rooms.

  
  

3. Non-Functional Exit Signs or Emergency Lighting

Problem: Exit signs are not illuminated, and emergency lighting does not function during power loss.

Solution:

• Test emergency lights monthly and replace batteries as needed.

• Replace broken bulbs or signs immediately.

• Install self-testing units where possible to streamline maintenance.

  
  

4. Blocked or Locked Fire Exits

Problem: Exit routes are obstructed by furniture, boxes, or locked doors — a major safety hazard.

Solution:

• Keep all exits clear and unlock all egress doors during business hours.

• Conduct weekly visual checks of all exit paths.

• Use signage to remind occupants not to block exits.

  
  

5. Improperly Mounted Fire Extinguishers

Problem: Extinguishers are mounted too high, too low, or placed on the floor — making access difficult in emergencies.

Solution:

• Mount extinguishers 3½ to 5 feet from the floor, per NFPA 10.

• Ensure visibility and unobstructed access at all times.

  
  

6. Alarm System Faults or Trouble Signals

Problem: Fire alarm panels show “trouble,” “supervisory,” or “fault” signals, indicating issues with wiring, devices, or communication.

Solution:

• Hire a licensed technician to diagnose and clear faults.

• Address loose wiring, power issues, or device failures immediately.

• Ensure the monitoring service is receiving signals properly.

  
  

7. Expired or Missing Inspection Tags on Equipment

Problem: Devices such as sprinklers, extinguishers, and alarms lack current inspection tags.

Solution:

• Schedule an inspection with a certified fire protection company.

• Keep documentation of all inspections and maintenance for compliance.

  
  

8. Corroded, Leaking, or Damaged Fire Sprinkler Components

Problem: Sprinkler heads or piping show signs of corrosion, leaks, or physical damage.

Solution:

• Replace any affected components with manufacturer-approved parts.

• Conduct regular visual checks, especially in areas with high humidity or chemical exposure.

  
  

9. Improper Fire Department Connections (FDCs)

Problem: FDCs are blocked, missing caps, not labeled, or have outdated signage.

Solution:

• Clear vegetation or obstructions.

• Replace missing caps and verify gaskets are intact.

• Update signage to reflect building address and system type.

  
  

10. Inadequate or Missing Fire Safety Signage

Problem: Signage for fire extinguishers, exits, evacuation maps, or fire alarm panels is missing or outdated.

Solution:

• Install clear, durable signage per code requirements.

• Include multilingual or ADA-compliant signs where necessary.

• Update evacuation diagrams annually or after floor plan changes.

  
  

Where to go from here

Identifying and resolving these deficiencies is not just about passing an inspection — it’s about ensuring the safety of everyone in your building. Routine maintenance, staff training, and working with DVS Fire and Life Safety will keep your facility safe and compliant year round!

Need an Inspection or Corrective Service? DVS Fire and Life Safety offers comprehensive fire equipment inspections and repair services. Contact us at 253.400.2351 or info@pacfirenw.com