Fire inspectors are responsible for inspecting various establishments and structures to ensure compliance with fire codes. Their duties include reviewing fire safety documents, testing fire alarms and extinguishers, enforcing corrective measures, and producing inspection reports.
To become a fire inspector, you’ll need to be a good communicator and have strong organizational skills. You’ll also need to understand fire codes’ intricacies and laws to accurately identify and resolve any violations.
How to Become a Fire Inspector
A fire inspector is a public safety professional who collaborates with local government agencies to ensure that buildings are safe and meet fire codes. Their duties include:
- Inspecting residential and commercial structures.
- Testing fire alarms and extinguishers.
- Reviewing evacuation plans.
- Conducting educational programs.
If you are interested in becoming a fire inspector, the first step is to get started on your fire inspector classes and training. Most employers require at least a high school diploma, but some also have specialized certification requirements.
To become a fire inspector, you need to complete an accredited program that covers a variety of topics related to the industry. Fire inspectors work with building code agencies and contractors to ensure that buildings are properly constructed and have fire-safety equipment installed. They also educate the public about fire safety and collaborate with local, state, and federal government agencies and building contractors to help achieve important goals.
Education and Training
Fire inspectors are trained in federal, state, and local fire safety codes and can work with building code agencies, contractors, and building owners to ensure they comply with these standards. They also test fire alarms and extinguishers and conduct fire safety education programs.
A high school diploma is usually required for this career, but a two-year or four-year degree in fire science, engineering, chemistry, and fire-prevention systems can help prepare you for this job. Some employers prefer candidates who have completed a firefighting or emergency medical technician (EMT) training program.
The AFSA ITM Inspector Development Program is a comprehensive training and certification program that combines back-to-back online learning modules with robust on-the-job and mentoring training. This course enables participants to pass NICET Level II water-based inspection certification exams in less than two years. The course covers preplanning, professionalism, safety, liability, documentation, and practice exams. It includes advanced inspection and testing training on standpipes, private fire service mains, water storage tanks, obstructions, and fire pump performance.
Certification
As a fire inspector, you conduct inspections of buildings to ensure that they comply with safety and building codes. You also investigate reports that reveal hazardous conditions or other violations of the codes.
Typically, you work in a government agency or as part of a fire department. To become a fire inspector, you must earn a high school diploma and complete specialized training.
You may also need to obtain certification from a professional organization. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and International Code Council offer certifications for various fire-related positions.
You also need strong communication skills to communicate with building managers, occupants, or owners about their needs and concerns about fire safety. You may be asked to present information about fire safety issues to them and give them recommendations on keeping their building safe.
On-the-Job Training
Fire inspectors often receive on-the-job training from a fire department, but they can also attend educational programs offered by government agencies and private businesses. They may also be required to attend court hearings on cases regarding code violations.
A fire inspector is a professional who collaborates with local governments to ensure that buildings such as schools, hospitals, and businesses are in safe operating condition and following fire codes. They also test fire extinguishers and other safety equipment to ensure they are working properly.
The role requires physical agility, near vision, and critical thinking ability. It also requires good communication skills and problem-solving skills when investigating code violations. A high school diploma is usually enough to start this career, though some employers prefer candidates with a degree in fire science.
