Fire inspectors are responsible for visiting and inspecting businesses and sites of assembly every year to make sure that these locations are meeting local and state fire codes. In addition, they may also work in coordination with planners and developers to evaluate and approve any plans for new buildings as well as inspect buildings that are under construction.
They may also test and inspect fire detection equipment and systems to verify whether or not these systems are installed correctly and in accordance with state and local laws and fire codes. To ensure public safety, they also develop and evaluate fire exit plans and conduct fire drills to monitor evacuation procedures. A forest fire inspector and specialist is responsible for identifying fires from a watchtower and then reports them through telephone or radio to headquarters. In addition, they patrol areas to make sure that visitors, campers and travelers are in compliance with local fire regulations.
Summary
- Most fire inspectors have a high school diploma and receive on-the-job training.
- Fire inspectors work with developers and planners to evaluate and approve plans for new buildings and inspect those that are under construction.
- Their work is carried out in different locations including outdoors, and they may have to work under various types of weather and temperatures.
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the average annual wage for fire inspectors and investigators was $56,310.
- Employment in this field is forecasted by the BLS to grow as fast as the average due to the growth of cities and other areas that will need buildings inspected.
Work Environment for Fire Inspectors
Fire inspectors may visit different locations and may work outdoors and indoors to conduct inspections. While working outdoors, they may be exposed to various types of weather and temperatures.
Education, Training and Licensing
Most fire inspectors possess a high school diploma and have previous experience in fire suppression. They receive on-the-job training in fire inspection or can attend a training academy.
Employment Figures, Projections, Outlook and Earnings for Fire Inspectors
According to research published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), fire inspectors and investigators held approximately 12,180 jobs in May 2009. Most of these jobs were for local and state government. Other jobs were with investigation and security services, colleges, universities and professional schools and support services.
Employment in this field is forecasted by the BLS to grow as fast as the average. Demand for workers will stem from the growth of cities and other areas that will need more buildings inspected for fire safety codes. The employment of fire inspectors should increase relative to growth in the population.
BLS records for May 2009 indicate that the average annual wage for fire inspectors and investigators was $56,310. The middle 50% earned between $41,570 and $69,010. While the lowest 10% had a yearly salary of $33,040 or less, the highest 10% earned upwards of $85,400 annually.