Who inspects businesses and enforces public safety laws and fire codes?

The role of inspecting businesses and enforcing public safety laws and fire codes is primarily designated to the fire marshal. A fire marshal is a specialized position within the fire service that focuses on fire prevention, investigation, and safety regulation compliance. They are responsible for conducting inspections of buildings and businesses to ensure compliance with fire safety standards, codes, and regulations. This includes checking fire alarm systems, sprinkler systems, and ensuring that means of egress are properly maintained.

The fire marshal may also engage in educational outreach, helping businesses understand their safety obligations and promoting overall community fire safety awareness. Their authority enables them to enforce laws related to fire safety, which can include issuing citations or requiring corrections for safety violations.

While firefighters and fire chiefs play crucial roles in fire suppression and overall department management, their primary functions do not typically include regular inspections of businesses for code compliance. Fire police, often tasked with traffic control and other support duties during emergency incidents, do not have the same responsibility for inspecting businesses or enforcing fire codes.