A monthly building fire-safety checklist

The purpose of a monthly check is to detect obstruction, damage, abnormal indications and overdue actions early. Inspectors should make safe visual observations and records only. They should not open live panels, operate valves, test equipment or alter a system.

Statutory inspection, testing, maintenance and certification still require a registered contractor of the appropriate class according to the actual premises requirements.

Walk each floor to inspect corridors, staircases, smoke-stop doors, final exits, exit signs and emergency lighting. Routes should be free of stock, bicycles, refuse and works materials; doors should close and signs should remain visible.

From outside the fire alarm panel, note any fault or isolation indication. Check that call points, alarm sounders and visual warning devices are not covered or damaged. Do not activate or reset the system simply to confirm it.

Confirm that hose reels, sprinkler valve sets, extinguishers and their signs are accessible and show no obvious leak, impact or damage. Pump rooms, fire control rooms and equipment cabinets should not be used for storage.

Keep fire-appliance access, street hydrant areas and the building entrance clear of long-term parking or materials. Record how scaffolding, hoardings or loading arrangements affect emergency access.

Give every finding a unique reference, location, risk description, photograph, interim action, owner, due date and completion evidence. High-risk findings should not wait for the next monthly meeting.

File monthly checks, contractor reports, FS251 records, defect quotations, completion notes and statutory directions separately. A quotation or attendance is not evidence that a defect has been fixed.