What is Included in Fire Escape Certification?

Considering the safety of building occupants and neighboring properties, fire escape maintenance is pivotal. It keeps your fire escape accessible, functional, and safe. Thus, during emergencies, you can rely on the fire escape system for safe egress from the building.

But, how do you know your fire escape is safe? Obviously, a fire escape certification NYC implies that your fire escape system complies with the safety standards furnished by the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB).

During a fire breakout, the occupants or residents in a building, requiring emergency evacuation will most likely try to access the fire escape. However, if your fire escape is not properly maintained, it becomes more of a menace than a rescue route.

Therefore, a fire escape certification is crucial to verify the structural and functional ability of a fire escape. But, how do you get a fire escape certification? What does it comprise? Let’s dig into it.

Fire Escape Certification: What is the Process?

Evidently, fire escape certifications are not distributed on the streets or you can collect them anytime from the local authority. It follows a standard procedure. We have discussed it in the following section.

i.          Inspection- The foremost step in fire escape certification NYC is the  inspection  of the fire escape. Only a certified structural engineer can perform an inspection. So, whenever you hire a fire escape contractor, ensure they possess a license and are authorized to execute the task. The engineer or inspector will thoroughly examine your fire escape to evaluate its overall state. By this, we mean looking out for defects like rust, loose bolts, etc., and scrutinizing the structural integrity, and other elements.

ii.            Verification- After a visual assessment, multiple tests are performed to verify the proper functioning of various parts. It includes load testing, checking the stability of treads and platforms, positioning the ladders, etc. Fire escape certification companies test the performance of all the movable and immovable parts.

 iii.       Conformity- Adherence to the local building codes is crucial to ensure your fire escape does not violate regulations. The inspector will also ensure if there are changes in the local law since the previous inspection and whether your fire escape complies with it.

iv.            Repairs- If there are structural damage or functional flaws, you must perform repairs as needed. Based on the inspection report, repairs are necessary to eliminate defects so your fire escape complies with the building safety codes.

v.            Documentation- You must keep a record of all the tasks you had to undergo including repairs, maintenance, etc. These documents are evidence of the condition of your fire escape.

vi.            Certification- Lastly, once you have submitted the documents, all you have to do is wait! An official from the local authority will inspect your fire escape to verify the submitted documents. You will receive a certification if your fire escape is in compliance with the safety regulations.

Fire escape certification cost varies depending upon the condition of your fire escape and the repairs you underwent. Nonetheless, always consider it to be a critical record.