AgdaPkt 2019-09-23 Joint SA PFA - Laserfiche WebLink

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6.C. - Page 19 of 35 Inspection Process: Building inspections are usually carried out by a mix of prevention inspectors, who have specialized expertise on building code requirements, and regular engine company suppression firefighters. In some fire departments, engine company firefighters conduct most inspections, though in others they are assigned to carry out only simple, routine inspections and prevention personnel carry out the more complex inspections where a higher level of expertise is needed. 19 • Record keeping and data retrieval: Accurate records must be maintained of all inspections completed, the dates performed, building addresses, and the types of building inspected (e.g., school, hotel, apartment building). These records need to be organized and maintained in a manner that allows fire departments to monitor performance of their annual inspection obligations, identify inspections yet to be done, monitor follow up when deficiencies are identified, and report to management and administrative authorities on compliance. In all but the smallest fire departments, this necessitates storing inspection data in electronic databases that can be queried for reports reflecting progress against inspection requirements and follow up to ensure deficiencies are corrected.20 Fire departments' inspection reports completed in the field have, in the past, been filled out on paper. Paper field reports are either filed manually and maintained only in paper form, or data from the field reports is entered into an electronic database to allow storage, retrieval and analysis. Most departments are moving toward the use of electronic tablet devices such as iPads for field reports.21 • Staffing: Adequate specially trained inspectors who understand the requirements of city and state fire codes are needed. Such staff are usually part of prevention units within fire departments.22 3. Grand Jury's review of individual fire departments' inspection programs (a) Written policies and procedures: Of the ten fire departments in San Mateo County, only the following six have written policies and procedures applicable to their mandated annual inspection obligations:23 • Central County Fire Department,24 • Menlo Park Fire Protection District, 19 Grand Jury interviews. 20 Grand Jury interviews. 21 Grand Jury interviews. 22 Grand Jury interviews. 23 The Grand Jury requested each department to submit policies and procedures. Those received were reviewed by the Grand Jury. 24According to written communication, the policy on school inspections was updated 1/30/19. The policy on inspections for all occupancies is in draft form but has not been through the department's approval process. 2018-2019 San Mateo County Civil Grand Jury 11: