Did you know that?
The owner(s) and the owner(s)’ authorized agents are responsible for the provisions of the B.C. Fire Code. That means YOU are responsible for ensuring that you are adhering to all the Code requirements and standards.
What’s a Fire Safety Director?
The B.C. Fire Code requires all buildings with a fire alarm system to draft an emergency plan, also known as a Fire Safety Plan. It also requires you to assign supervisory personnel to take responsibility for implementing the emergency plan. Their titles are Fire Safety Director and Deputy Director, and they must be trained before taking on their role. But a greater question is: are they insured under the average CGL, Directors & Officers, or Volunteer insurance policy to take on their role?
What do Fire Safety Directors do?
Their role includes managing fire drills, ensuring compliance with local fire codes, maintaining fire safety equipment, and coordinating emergency response plans. Their key responsibilities are:
1. Fire Safety Planning
Develop and Maintain a Fire Safety Plan & Updating it Annually: Ensure that the fire safety plan is regularly updated to reflect any changes in building occupancy, layout, or fire safety regulations.
2. Emergency Preparedness
Coordinate Annual Fire Drills & Emergency Evacuation Procedures: Conduct annual fire drills to ensure that all occupants are familiar with evacuation procedures. Ensure that clear and effective evacuation procedures are in place for all types of emergencies, including fire. These procedures should account for people with disabilities or other special needs.
3. Fire Safety Equipment and Systems
Inspection and Maintenance & Record Keeping: Coordinate the regular inspection, testing, and maintenance of fire safety equipment, such as fire alarms, sprinklers, extinguishers, and emergency lighting. Review reports for all equipment to ensure that the service company has done its job per the standards and that the equipment is in good working order and complies with the British Columbia Fire Code. Maintain accurate records of all inspections, tests, and maintenance activities for fire safety systems.
4. Fire Prevention Measures
Conduct Regular Inspections & Enforce Fire Safety Practices: Assign regular fire safety inspections of the building to
identify and mitigate potential fire hazards. Implement and enforce fire safety practices among building occupants, such as prohibiting the use of open flames and ensuring that electrical equipment is used safely.
5. Training and Education
Occupant Training & Staff Training: Provide annual training for building occupants on fire safety practices, evacuation procedures, and the proper use of fire extinguishers. Ensure that the Deputy Director, who has specific fire safety responsibilities, receives adequate training to perform their duties effectively.
6. Liaison with Authorities
Coordination with Fire Department & Compliance Reporting: Serve as the primary point of contact between the building and the local fire department. The Fire Safety Director should coordinate with the fire department for inspections, plan reviews, and during fire drills. Ensure that the building complies with all fire safety regulations and that any required reports or documentation are submitted to the relevant authorities in a timely manner. (See NOTES re: upcoming changes!)
7. Responding to Emergencies
Incident Command: In the event of a fire or emergency, the Fire Safety Director or Deputy typically assumes the role of liaison when the fire department arrives.
Welcome to Life Safety Made Simple
Artemis Fire Consulting Inc. specializes in life safety programs that are specifically designed for strata properties and property management teams. Our focus is on creating and implementing robust fire safety strategies that protect your buildings, residents, and investments. From ensuring compliance with the latest regulations to organizing fire drills and maintaining critical safety equipment, we handle all aspects of fire safety management. By partnering with us, you can minimize risks, avoid costly fines, and most importantly, provide peace of mind to your residents, knowing their safety is in expert hands.
Artemis Fire Consulting Inc. 