It happens every day here in Jacksonville, a business, apartment complex, or hotel is fined hundreds, if not thousands of dollars because they did hire a fire watch service.
Why Do You Need a Fire Watch Guard in Jacksonville?
Whether your fire suppression system is down, your fire alarm stopped working, sprinklers are malfunctioning, you will need to enlist the services of a fire watch guard until the issue is resolved.
When the fire alarm or fire sprinkler system is down
Water supply is shutdown or power loss
If flammable or toxic materials are present
When Hot work occur, involves welding, burning, or operations that can ignite an explosion or fire.
During demolition or construction of a building
This Regulation Is Under The NFPA code 101, Life Safety Code (LSC).
The basics of Fire Watch Regulations and Requirements
Under the NFPA regulations, you are required to have a professional fire watch service if your fire alarm is down or impaired for 4 hours or more in a 24 hour period.
If you have a water based fire suppression system, this window is a little larger. The time frame is 10 hours or more, a fire watch service is required. Either way, you must notify the local fire department.
You also need to comply with your local authorities and Fire Marshal’s Office. These tend to be a bit stricter and may have other requirements
Cost of a Fire watch guard
The cost of hiring a professional fire watch guard services will depend a some factors, such as how long you will need them and how many fire watch guards you will need
Avoiding costly fines and additional costs
If your fire system is down, there are specific guidelines that must be follow according to your jurisdiction. If one fails to comply they are subject to costly fines, which can be significant.
For instance, the Fire Marshal has rules and regulations that must be followed. If not complied with, it can result in the temporary shutdown of your business and hefty fines.
Not having a fire guard means you are accepting all the responsibility if something does happen.
Accurate logs are required by insurance companies and the fire marshal’s office. Keeping detailed records of patrols, hazards found while patrolling and anything pertinent to fire risk.
