The Fire Marshal Wrote You Up – Now What?

Receiving a citation from the fire marshal can be stressful, but it’s not the end of the world. Fire marshals conduct regular inspections to ensure that buildings meet fire and life safety codes. If violations are found, facilities must correct them promptly to avoid penalties, potential fines or operational disruptions.

The good news? Tyger River HVAC & Fire is here to help you address compliance issues quickly and efficiently.

Common Reasons a Facility Gets Cited by the Fire Marshal

Understanding why a facility might be written up can help you stay ahead of compliance issues. Here are some of the most frequent fire safety violations:

1. Firestop Violations

Fire barriers are essential for preventing the spread of fire and smoke in a building, but over time, penetrations from pipes, cables, and ducts can compromise their integrity. A facility may be cited if:

  • Penetrations in fire-rated walls, floors or ceilings are left unsealed. These gaps allow fire and smoke to spread rapidly.

  • Incorrect firestop materials were used. Not all sealants and materials are rated for firestop applications and improper use can result in compliance failures.

  • Fire-rated joints and curtain walls are compromised. Expansion joints and curtain walls must be properly sealed to maintain fire barriers.

2. Fire Damper & Smoke Damper Issues

Fire and smoke dampers are critical for preventing the spread of fire and smoke through a building’s HVAC system. Facilities may receive citations if:

  • Dampers are not inspected and tested regularly. NFPA codes require periodic inspections to ensure dampers close properly in an emergency.

  • Dampers are blocked or obstructed. If access panels are covered or dampers are stuck open, fire can travel unchecked through the system.

  • Dampers are damaged or non-functional. A broken actuator or missing fusible link can prevent the damper from closing as required.

3. Fire Extinguisher Deficiencies

Fire extinguishers are the first line of defense in an emergency, but they must be properly maintained. A fire marshal may issue citations for:

  • Missing or improperly placed extinguishers. Fire extinguishers must be easily accessible and placed according to NFPA standards.

  • Expired or uninspected extinguishers. Fire extinguishers must undergo monthly visual inspections and annual professional servicing to ensure they are functional.

  • Obstructed extinguishers. An extinguisher blocked by furniture, equipment or clutter can be deemed non-compliant.

4. Blocked or Improperly Marked Exit Routes

Safe and accessible exits are essential in an emergency, and facilities can be cited for:

  • Blocked or locked emergency exits. Fire exits must remain clear and unlocked during business hours.

  • Missing or non-illuminated exit signs. Exit signs must be properly lit and visible, even in power outages.

  • Non-functional emergency lighting. Pathway lighting must work in the event of a power failure to guide occupants to safety.

5. HVAC & Life Safety Compliance Issues

HVAC systems play a role in fire and life safety, and citations can occur if:

  • Filters are clogged or not replaced regularly. Dirty filters can restrict airflow and contribute to poor indoor air quality and fire hazards.

  • Fire-rated ductwork is compromised. If HVAC duct penetrations are not properly sealed, fire can spread through the system.

  • Smoke control systems are not functioning. If an HVAC system fails to contain smoke as required, it can put building occupants at greater risk during a fire.

How We Can Help You Get Back in Compliance—Fast

At Tyger River HVAC & Fire, we specialize in firestop services, fire damper inspections, and monthly fire extinguisher inspections, helping facilities correct violations quickly and effectively.

Our team will:

  • Conduct a detailed assessment of your violations
  • Provide expert firestop solutions to seal penetrations and restore fire barriers
  • Perform fire damper inspections to ensure functionality and compliance
  • Offer ongoing fire extinguisher maintenance to help prevent future citations

Don’t let a fire marshal citation disrupt your operations. Contact us today to schedule an assessment and get your facility back in compliance—fast!