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Firewatching services are needed in the case of non-functioning fire alarm systems or sprinkler systems and/or hazardous activities such as hot work operations. These companies offer safety surveillance in the building. However, the owner of the property has to maintain safety from fires, determine patrol routes, and comply with all regulations.
A fire guard company sends trained people to look for fire dangers, smoke, or open flames. They do this when alarms or sprinklers are not working. It is important for business property owners and managers to know when they need to send guards and who is responsible if something goes wrong.
Primary Triggers for Dispatching a Fire Watch
Local Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), like fire marshals, say trained patrols must be sent out when certain rules make it necessary.
- Fire System Problems: If automated fire systems stop working, are being fixed, or stay off for more than 4 hours (for alarms) or 10 hours (for sprinklers), NFPA rules say there must be someone walking and checking the area all the time.
- Hot Work Operations: Work like welding, cutting, and grinding that can create sparks needs someone to watch during the job and for 60 minutes after the job ends. This is in the NFPA 51B rule.
- Construction & Building Changes: Big building jobs that go over set size or height, and where normal safety equipment is off for a while, need active watching.
- Direct Fire Marshal Order: In case you fail to pass safety inspections or receive any actions from the municipality, you may find yourself under an immediate order to engage in monitoring.
Legal Obligations & Compliance
Whereas the third parties perform the actual monitoring process, the primary legal obligation is that of the owner of the property or the property manager.
The failure to deliver the required numbers of guards in the case of a system failure results in an immediate shutdown by the local authorities. This may lead to your insurance becoming void and you getting into major legal trouble.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly must a fire watch be implemented after a system failure?
You should start taking action right away once you find a system failure. You may also need to do this within the time the local fire marshal says. Most of the time, that means you have about 4 hours when there is a problem with the alarm system.
Can existing building employees act as fire watch guards?
Yes, they can do it if they are only focused on fire watch work. They should be trained in what to do during an emergency and in spotting things that can cause problems. They must keep full records of their rounds, and not do their usual work at the same time.
What documentation is required during a fire watch?
Guards need to keep clear patrol logs. These logs must show when they go in, the places they check, the dangers they find, and their signed notes. This is important for AHJ or insurance checks.
Which tools do the fire watches need when performing their duties?
Security guards require dependable methods of communication, which consist of two-way radios and cell phones, a flashlight that is very bright, highly visible uniforms, and full access credentials for all property locations.
How often should patrols be conducted in fire watch?
The intervals between fire patrol visits vary depending on local fire laws and risks; however, the standard requirements state that inspections need to be done every 15-30 minutes in occupied buildings and continuously in hot work areas.
Who pays for a private fire watch?
All expenses associated with fire watch hiring are to be fully covered by the property owners/management company.
Conclusion
When fire safety systems do not work, or when construction risks go up, hiring a licensed fire guard company helps keep people safe. Staying within the rules keeps everyone in the building safe. It also meets local fire rules and keeps property owners away from big legal troubles.
