As a business owner in Mascoutah, you're responsible for maintaining a fire-safe environment for your employees, customers, and property. This guide covers the basics of commercial fire safety requirements and how to stay compliant.
🧯 Fire Extinguisher Requirements
Placement
Fire extinguishers must be:
- Within 75 feet travel distance (most occupancies)
- Mounted 3.5 to 5 feet above floor (to handle)
- Visible and accessible (not blocked)
- Near exits and high-hazard areas
Maintenance
Required maintenance schedule:
- Monthly: Visual inspection (check pressure gauge, ensure accessible)
- Annually: Professional inspection and certification
- Every 6 years: Extended service (dry chemical)
- Every 12 years: Hydrostatic testing
Types & Ratings
Most businesses need Class ABC extinguishers. Kitchens with cooking equipment need Class K extinguishers in addition to ABC units.
🚪 Exits & Emergency Lighting
Exit Requirements
- Exit doors must swing outward in direction of travel
- Exits must not be locked from inside (panic hardware required)
- Exit paths must be unobstructed at all times
- Minimum 28" clear width for exit doors
Exit Signs & Emergency Lights
- Illuminated EXIT signs at all exit doors
- Emergency lighting in exit paths
- Battery backup required (90-minute minimum)
- Monthly functional test, annual 90-minute test
🔔 Fire Alarm & Sprinkler Systems
Depending on your building type, size, and occupancy, you may be required to have fire alarm and/or sprinkler systems.
Fire Alarm Systems
If required, systems must be:
- Monitored by a UL-listed central station
- Inspected and tested annually
- Maintained by a licensed fire alarm company
Sprinkler Systems
If installed, sprinklers require:
- Annual inspection by licensed contractor
- 5-year internal inspection of piping
- Maintain 18" clearance below sprinkler heads
📋 Inspection Preparation Checklist
Use this checklist to prepare for your fire safety inspection:
✅ Pre-Inspection Checklist
📅 Inspections
ROUTINE INSPECTIONS
Businesses may receive periodic fire safety inspections. Frequency depends on occupancy type and history.
NEW BUSINESS / CHANGES
New businesses, renovations, and change of occupancy require fire inspection before opening.
RE-INSPECTIONS
If violations are found, you'll have time to correct them before a follow-up inspection.
💡 Tip: Request a Courtesy Walk-Through
Opening a new business? Contact us to schedule a pre-opening walk-through. We can identify potential issues before your official inspection, saving you time and hassle.
📚 Training Resources
We offer free training resources for businesses:
📞 QUESTIONS ABOUT FIRE SAFETY?
Contact the Mascoutah Fire Department for guidance on fire code requirements, inspection scheduling, or fire safety planning.
Phone: (618) 566-2970 · Hours: Mon-Fri, 8 AM - 5 PM