Fire safety regulations exist to protect businesses, employees, and customers from preventable harm. Yet, many commercial buildings unknowingly violate key fire safety guidelines, often due to simple oversight. These violations can put lives at risk, increase liability, and lead to costly fines.

Below are some of the most common fire safety violations found in commercial buildings in New England, along with practical steps to help you stay compliant and protect your property.

Blocked or obstructed emergency exits

Why it matters: In an emergency, every second counts. When exits or escape routes are blocked, it can delay evacuation and endanger lives.

Common causes: Storing boxes, furniture, or equipment in front of exit doors or in hallways, or failing to maintain clear signage leading to exits.

How to prevent it:

• Keep exit routes clear and accessible at all times.
• Use illuminated exit signs to guide people safely out.
• Conduct routine walkthroughs to check for obstructions, especially in storage areas.

Improper fire extinguisher placement or maintenance

Why it matters: A fire extinguisher is only useful if it’s easy to find and in working order. If it’s missing, expired, or hard to reach, it can’t do its job.

Common causes: Forgetting inspection schedules, blocking extinguishers with furniture, or storing them in locked rooms.

How to prevent it:

• Follow NFPA 10 guidelines for placement and maintenance.
• Inspect extinguishers monthly and have them professionally serviced each year.
• Train employees on the PASS method (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep) so they know how to respond in an emergency.

Outdated or non-functioning fire alarm systems

Why it matters: A reliable fire alarm system ensures quick response times and helps limit property damage. An outdated or malfunctioning system can mean the difference between a close call and a catastrophe.

Common causes: Neglected maintenance, disconnected systems during renovations, or outdated panels that no longer meet current code.

How to prevent it:

• Schedule routine inspections and testing by a licensed fire protection provider.
• Upgrade older systems to meet current fire code standards.
• Integrate your alarm system with professional monitoring services to ensure 24/7 response.

Overloaded electrical circuits

Why it matters: Electrical issues are one of the leading causes of commercial fires. Overloaded circuits can spark quickly and spread before employees have time to react.

Common causes: Using extension cords as permanent wiring, plugging too many devices into one outlet, or using unapproved power strips.

How to prevent it:

• Have a licensed electrician evaluate your building’s electrical capacity.
• Avoid daisy-chaining cords or running extension cords under rugs or through walls.
• Replace damaged wiring, outlets, or breakers immediately.

Blocked or malfunctioning fire sprinklers

Why it matters: A sprinkler system is one of your building’s most effective fire suppression tools. But it can’t do its job if it’s blocked or damaged.

Common causes: Storing materials too close to sprinkler heads, hanging decorations from them, or failing to repair leaks or corrosion.

How to prevent it:

• Maintain at least 18 inches of clearance below sprinkler heads.
• Include sprinkler inspections in your regular maintenance plan.
• Promptly repair or replace damaged components.
• Audit your space monthly to ensure sprinklers aren’t obstructed.

Inadequate Fire Alarm Monitoring

Why it matters: Even the best fire alarm system can’t help if no one responds when it goes off. Fire alarm monitoring ensures that trained professionals can dispatch help immediately, even when your building is unoccupied.

How to prevent it:

• Connect your fire alarm to a UL-listed central monitoring station.
• Verify your system is tested regularly and that notifications reach the correct emergency contacts.
• Work with a trusted monitoring partner like American Alarm, which provides 24/7 protection for businesses across New England.

Final Thoughts

Fire code compliance isn’t just about avoiding penalties, it’s about protecting your people and your property. By staying proactive with inspections, maintenance, and monitoring, you can catch small issues before they become serious hazards.

If you’re unsure whether your building’s fire systems are up to code, American Alarm can help. Our team of licensed professionals provides complete fire alarm monitoring and maintenance services to keep your business safe and compliant year-round.

• Contact us today to learn more about security and surveillance.
• Learn more about what home and business security means to us.
• Subscribe to our blog to stay informed about the latest security news and insight.