What do annual inspections typically assess within the building?

Annual inspections are designed primarily to assess the fire safety compliance of the entire structure. These inspections are crucial for ensuring that all fire safety systems—such as alarms, sprinklers, and means of egress—are functioning correctly and adhere to the established codes and standards. Inspectors look for potential hazards, review past inspection reports, and ensure that any necessary repairs or updates have been made since the last inspection.

In this context, the focus on overall fire safety compliance covers everything from the structural integrity of fire barriers to the operational readiness of fire protection systems, ensuring that the building can effectively respond to a fire emergency. This comprehensive approach helps protect occupants and minimizes risk, which is the primary aim of conducting annual inspections.