You need to know what the fire inspection authorities are looking for when you comply with the most important building fire safety regulations. Knowing businesses’ frequent fire code violations will help you pass fire safety inspections.

You should take note of the most common building fire code violations:  

1. Improper use of extension cords
   You should not attach an extension cord to another extension cord, not use it for permanent use, and not pass it through holes in the wall. It is better that you get rid of extension cords and add more outlets instead.  

2. Blocked exits or fire doors, valves, and exterior access points
   You should always keep exits or fire doors open and accessible to firemen in case of fire for them to instantly connect to the fire hydrants and connecting valves.  

3. Exit signs with faulty lighting and no backup power
   You should check exit signs monthly and equip them with backup batteries so building occupants can safely evacuate in the dark, with the emergency backup lighting ensuring calm evacuations.  

4. Improper storage in fire pumps and riser rooms
   You should only house fire protection equipment in fire pumps and riser rooms, and not mops, brooms, and miscellaneous items.   

5. Incorrect sprinkler systems
   You should match the design and hazard classification of the sprinkler systems according to the dimension of your establishment, the commodities sold, and the number of your business occupants.  

6. Fire extinguisher issues
   You should make sure that fire extinguishers are not missing, outdated, damaged, or even partially used. Any used fire extinguishers should be fully refilled and inspected properly by the fire inspection authorities.  

7. Faulty or broken smoke detectors
   Your business’ smoke detectors should always have new batteries and be fully charged. As much as possible, have them replaced every 5 or 10 years or so, whether they’re still working or not.  

8. Unmaintained or outdated fire alarms and fire protection systems
   Your fire protection systems should be up-to-date or upgraded and tested annually by a licensed technician.  

9. Fire alarm pull stations blocked or not working
   You should ensure that fire alarm pull stations are working properly and not blocked for they must always remain visible to occupants in case of fire.  

10. Hanging items from sprinkler heads or pipes
    You should not use sprinkler heads or pipes to hang any clothing, or support anything even lightweight items, as doing so may cause unwarranted activation of the sprinkler system.  

11. LPG tank leaks
    You should check for any possible leaks from a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tank, for any lit matchstick or cigarette may accidentally ignite a fire.  

12. Open flame from cooking through gas and electrical stoves
    If your business is into restaurant and food services, you should always control the level of flames from your establishment’s cooking equipment.  

13. Exposure to heat of combustible materials
    You have to keep away materials that can easily burn or inflame once exposed to heat such as heating appliances or lit cigarettes.  

14. Improper keeping of inspection and repair records
    You as the owner or company manager should always retain copies of inspection and repair records as proof of compliance with fire codes.  

Bear in mind that following the Fire Code Rules will ensure public safety and contain all kinds of destructive fires.