How to Get Fire Escape Certification- Step-by-Step Checklist

In New York City, fire escapes are integral for the safety of building occupants and other properties. It is the primary egress route during crises like fire breakouts, earthquakes, etc. Nonetheless, the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) is highly stringent about the operational and safety standards of fire escapes. It assures that your fire escape system is accessible, functional, and safe and complies with the local building codes and regulations.

However, if a fire escape does not adhere to the safety standards, you will receive violations, which comprise hefty fines and litigations. Thus, when living in cities like the Bronx, Queens, Manhattan, Long Island, Brooklyn, and Richmond Hill, fire escape certification NYC becomes crucial for sound living.

What is fire escape certification? How to get a fire escape certification? In this blog, we at Fire Escape Painting NYC will discuss everything you need to know about fire escape certification. It will help you stay away from violations!

Understanding Fire Escape Certification

The NYC DOB ascertains that fire escapes must be inspected by a certified professional every five years. Based on the inspection, you will be issued a certificate affirming that your fire escape meets the necessary safety standards and building codes and is secure to use in emergencies.

Hence, fire escape certification is an official document guaranteeing the safety and compliance of a fire escape in a high-rise building. Only a licensed fire escape certification contractor NYC can perform inspections and distribute certificates.

Fire Escape Certification -What Should You Do?

• Hire an Authorized Contractor- You must always hire a licensed professional like a design engineer or an accredited contractor who specializes in fire escape inspections and certifications. They will assess the structural integrity and functionality of your fire escape system.
• Comprehensive Inspection- To get a certification, it is necessary to have a structurally and operationally sound fire escape. So, your contractor will visually examine the structure for any signs of wear and tear, corrosion, and other damages. They will also evaluate accessibility and serviceability. For an in-depth insight into the fire escape’s strength and stability, the fire escape certification company NYC will conduct load tests.
• Repairs and Upgrades- After the meticulous assessment, you will be handed out the report, which will delineate the areas of improvement or shortcomings. So, all the necessary repairs, like tightening of bolts, welding, rust removal, painting, etc., must be addressed to ensure legal adherence.
• Certification Report- Once you have made all the repairs and upgrades, your contractor will prepare a report. This report affirms that your fire escape meets the necessary safety standards and complies with the local building codes. The certification report is then submitted to the fire code official or governing body. You may also be required to submit an affidavit, depending on your local law.
• Certificate Approval- The fire code official will issue a certificate upon approval of the report, substantiating adherence with the local fire escape codes. Certification is indispensable for fire escape installation for maximum safety. Additionally, it also increases property value and promotes the building’s reputation.

Final Notes

Fire escape certification is fundamental not just for legal compliance but also to save lives. As a property owner, you are responsible for the safety of building occupants. So, schedule an inspection and get your fire escape certified. At Fire Escape Painting NYC, we have qualified engineers who perform rigorous inspections and issue certificates. Using advanced diagnostic tools and techniques, we assess damages and fix them effectively for increased safety and aesthetics. Our professionals are committed to securing your building’s safety with the highest quality solutions.