Effective July 1, 2011, the Joint Commission, which accredits and certifies healthcare organizations across the United States, has implemented new and revised fire alarm and fire protection system requirements for hospitals. The revised EP2 requires that hospitals test their water-flow devices at least quarterly instead of every six months. The Joint Commission also created the new EP25 requiring documentation of maintenance, testing and inspection activities for fire alarm and water-based fire protection systems.
Fire alarm and fire sprinkler technicians will inspect entire systems and test components where necessary. Full line fire prevention companies can test any fire alarm system and any fire sprinkler system. The inspection schedules should be computerized so the fire prevention company inspects each system on time and the hospital does not miss any critical dates. In addition, the inspection details should be documented to keep your institution in compliance.
For more information about the Joint Commission’s fire protection system requirements, contact Associated Fire Protection at 973-684-7250 or email info@associatedfire.com
