Fireco’s Checklist for Building Owners to Prepare for your IQP Inspecition – 5 Proactive Steps to Take Ahead of your BWOF
Preparing for your BWOF can feel overwhelming, but Fireco’s network of IQPs makes the process straightforward. When your BWOF is due and you’re ready for an IQP inspection, Fireco is here to help building & company owners across Northland and Auckland. We’ll handle the assessment of your building’s specified systems to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Here’s a practical checklist on how to get ready, what Fireco’s IQP will inspect, and steps to take before your Building Warrant of Fitness (BWOF) is due.
1. Review Your Compliance Schedule
Your compliance schedule lists the specified systems in your building that require regular IQP inspection and maintenance – like fire alarms, sprinklers, emergency lighting, and more. Reviewing this document helps make sure that everything is organised and up to date before Fireco’s IQP arrives.
Checklist:
- Confirm that all specified systems are accurately listed on your compliance schedule.
- Ensure you have recent records of any testing or maintenance on these systems.
- Identify and take note of any previous compliance issues or flagged items.
2. Conduct a Preliminary Self-Check of Key Safety Systems
While the IQP will perform the official inspection, a quick, informal self-check of key areas could help avoid surprises.
Checklist:
- Inform tenants or staff of the inspection date and anticipated areas of access.
- Make sure that no scheduled activities or operations will obstruct inspection areas, such as blocked fire doors or access to alarm systems.
- Check that all fire exits, fire extinguishers, and emergency lights are unobstructed.
3. Get in Touch with Fireco to Schedule Your IQP Inspection
Once you’re prepared, reach out to Fireco to schedule your IQP inspection. Fireco’s team will send a qualified IQP to inspect your building’s systems, check for compliance with New Zealand’s Building Act, and verify that everything meets the BWOF requirements.
During the inspection, Fireco’s IQP will conduct a thorough assessment of each specified system. Here’s an overview of the areas they’ll focus on:
- Fire Protection and Suppression Systems: Fire sprinklers, hydrants, and pumps are checked to confirm they’re operational and ready for use in emergencies.
- Fire Alarm Systems: Alarms are tested to ensure they’ll work properly if triggered.
- Emergency Lighting and Exit Signs: These are inspected to verify they’re visible and functional, aiding safe evacuation during emergencies.
- Fire and Smoke Separations: Fire doors, smoke barriers, and other separations are reviewed to confirm they’ll contain a fire and prevent smoke spread.
- Automatic Doors and Access Control Systems: These systems are checked to ensure they’ll release correctly in case of an evacuation.
Fireco’s IQP inspection provides peace of mind by confirming that your systems are safe, compliant, and functioning as they should.
4. Ensure Your Documentation Is Up-to-Date
Accurate and organised documentation makes the inspection process smoother and demonstrates your commitment to BWOF compliance. Fireco’s IQP will review any maintenance records, past inspection reports, and certificates for upgrades or repairs.
Checklist:
- Compile all relevant maintenance logs and inspection records.
- Ensure all records are current, complete, and accessible for the IQP.
- Include certificates for recent upgrades, maintenance, or repairs.
5. Address Compliance Issues in Advance of Your BWOF Due Date
Sometimes, issues arise during an IQP inspection that may prevent your building from achieving compliance. By addressing common compliance issues before the inspection, you can minimise the risk of delays or costly fixes.
Checklist:
- Conduct a walkthrough to identify any blocked exits, obstructed pathways, or visible system issues.
- In high-traffic areas, check for any damage to fire safety systems that might need repairs.
- If the IQP finds any issues, Fireco can work with you to resolve them quickly and get your building back up to code.
Partnering With Fireco for a Stress-Free Inspection Process
With Fireco’s expert IQPs, you don’t need to worry about the details. Fireco is here to support you every step of the way, from scheduling your inspection to ensuring that each system is up to standard and putting together your reporting in accordance of BWOF requirements. For building owners in Auckland and Northland, Fireco’s team makes it easy to stay compliant and keep your property safe.
Get in touch with Fireco to schedule your IQP inspection today and rest easy knowing that your building is in safe hands.
