Fire inspection
Service description
A fire inspection (or fire prevention inspection) in NRW is a regular inspection of buildings and facilities with an increased risk of fire or explosion in accordance with the Act on Fire Protection, Assistance and Disaster Control (BHKG NRW). The aim is to identify hazards to people and the environment, take preventive measures to prevent fires and ensure that firefighters can save people and fight fires effectively. Implementation is mandatory for owners and occupiers, and the responsible municipalities can charge fees for this.
Objectives and scope of the fire inspection
Assessment of fire risks:
The fire inspection assesses which factors are conducive to the development of fires and the spread of fire and smoke.
Securing escape routes:
It is checked whether escape routes are guaranteed by structural measures or technical equipment.
Evaluation of extinguishing water retention and alarms:
The extinguishing water supply, operational fire prevention measures and fire detection and alarm systems are assessed.
Legal basis
Law on fire protection, assistance and disaster control (BHKG)
The law forms the legal basis for the fire inspection by stipulating that it must be carried out in certain properties at risk of fire.