Fire Safety Compliance FAQs
Maintain Compliance
Staying compliant with fire safety regulations is one of the most common concerns for commercial property owners and fire department leaders alike. From OSHA requirements to inspection schedules and documentation, maintaining compliance is essential to meet legal standards and ensure the safety of your personnel, property, and community.
Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked fire safety compliance questions to help you stay informed and prepared.
FAQs
Blank to keep toggle closed
Do you have to complete OSHA fire safety training every year?
Yes. If you are located in New York State, you are required to complete an annual eight hour OSHA safety training every year.
Do OSHA training mandates apply to both volunteer and career fire departments?
Yes. OSHA requirements apply regardless of whether your department is volunteer, combination, or full-time. However, internal policies and training schedules may vary depending on your department’s governing authority.
What other OSHA-mandated fire service requirements do I need to remain compliant with?
In addition to annual training, OSHA mandates several other requirements all including annual testing and documentation, including:
- Ground Ladder Testing
- SCBA Flow Testing
- Fire Apparatus Pump Testing
- Fire Hose Testing
- Firefighter Personnel Physicals
How often do you need to inspect your fire extinguishers?
Fire extinguishers must be inspected annually by a certified professional to ensure they are in proper working condition and compliant with current standards.
Our sister company, Boss Security & Automation, maintains NFPA certified technicians who provide commercial, industrial, and residential fire extinguisher inspections and services for various types of extinguishers to keep your equipment compliant.
How often do my fire extinguishers need to be hydro-tested?
Fire extinguishers must be hydro-tested every five years to remain compliant.
What maintenance is required for fire extinguishers?
Fire extinguishers are required to have a six year maintenance to ensure the extinguisher operates properly.
Do SCBA cylinders require testing or replacement?
Yes. SCBA cylinders must undergo hydrostatic testing every five years, similar to fire extinguishers. Additionally, SCBA tanks have a maximum service life of 15 years from the date of manufacture. At that point, fire chiefs must replace equipment, regardless of working conditions.
Do you need to document all inspections and testing?
Absolutely. Documentation is critical for compliance. Fire chiefs must maintain accurate records of all inspections, testing, and maintenance. These records may be requested during audits or inspections.
What happens if you fail to stay compliant with OSHA or fire safety regulations?
Failure to comply with OSHA safety requirements can result in costly fines, citations, and increased liability, especially if an incident occurs. In some cases, regulatory agencies may mandate corrective actions or require the purchase of updated safety equipment.
Who enforces OSHA compliance in New York State?
In New York, OSHA standards are enforced by PESH (Public Employee Safety and Health Bureau). They have the authority to inspect facilities, review documentation, and issue citations if violations are found.
Can you request a voluntary safety inspection by OSHA or PESH?
Yes. Departments and commercial facilities can choose to invite OSHA or PESH representatives for a courtesy visit. Citations cannot be issued if OSHA or PESH are voluntarily brought in, but citations can be issued if they show up for a surprise inspection.
Can OSHA training be completed online?
Yes, OSHA training can be completed online in some cases. However, online training often requires testing and certification, while in-person training may not include separate testing.
Partner with Ward Fire Equipment
The best way to stay compliant is to partner with experienced fire safety professionals who can manage inspections, testing and maintenance, and documentation while keeping you informed of regulatory updates. Have more fire safety compliance questions? Contact our team today!