Comments on: What tools do you need?

By: Michael OBrian

Michael OBrian — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 19:01:27 +0000

DSTAUSS, thanks for the comment, are you looking for training on automatic sprinkler system and fire fighters? There are some options but check out this link

http://www.fmglobalcatalog.com/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=P9923CD

or shoot us and email and it may be a great topic for future posting
help@inspector911.com

By: dstauss

dstauss — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 17:52:21 +0000

Iam looking for a basic training program for firefighters. Someting simple and no interpretation of the fire code to be done at the company level.

By: M Spoo

M Spoo — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 13:48:48 +0000

I think the key thing we are all forgetting to pack in a tool bag is our brain and common sense. We get too wrapped up in the letter of the code, is the opening exactly the correct measurement, a device to measure the opening and closing pressure of a door? (come on). Yes I carry a tape measure, a computer, a note book, a clip board. In fact I have more crap in my company truck then I can shake a stick at. However IF you don’t have common sense, know how to interact with people and remember that the one of the biggest goals in fire prevention is to keep our guys as safe as possible then don’t even hit the streets.
That is my opinion I could be wrong.

By: Greg Masters

Greg Masters — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 23:30:46 +0000

Tensionometer for measuring the amount of force required to push or pull an egress door open.

Decibel meter for fire alarm testing.

Lumen meter for egress/emergency lighting.

Infra-red thermometer to check temperatures in concealed spaces where sprinkler piping might be subject to freezing, and ceiling temperatures in hot spaces to make sure appropriate temperature-rated sprinkler heads have been installed.

Roll tape / wheel to measure longer distances: total travel distance to an exit, common path of travel, dead end corridors, etc.

Especially if you’re in uniform, a pocket cpr mask and latex gloves are nice. You never know when you’ll come upon a medical emergency in the field.

And no.. I don’t carry all of this stuff on every inspection, but it’s nice to have available based on whatever is scheduled for a particular day.

By: Michelle M. Caldwell

Michelle M. Caldwell — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 13:59:17 +0000

I carry an electrical outlet tester (with GFCI testing capabilities). You would be surprised how many electrical outlets have issues (i.e., hot/neutral wires reversed, open ground, non-operable GFCI…).

I also carry an extra flashlight and a small multi-purpose tool.

And…appropriate PPEs for the job (of course).

By: Allan Brown

Allan Brown — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 19:19:23 +0000

I always carry a pocket voltage detector. How many times has a wire been determined to be hot when the owner claims it was disconnected.

By: Douglas Hicks, fire suppression system contractor.

Douglas Hicks, fire suppression system contractor. — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 17:07:27 +0000

A copy of the code books. I do carry a copy of the installation manuals and a copy of the Mechanical code. But sometimes, the answer is not in my collection of books. I usually cannot afford to return to my office and wait for your answer. My office is often 100 miles or more from the jobsite, and we are often the last contractor on the jobsite. And like you, I like to see the written code, and will often ask for a copy.

By: Chad Coffelt

Chad Coffelt — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 13:40:12 +0000

I have a laptop and wireless printer with a backpack that I can keep most of my inspection tools in, it is basically my go bag.

By: Wayne Morris

Wayne Morris — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:22:34 +0000

I use a small collapsable pole for checking emergency lights/smoke alarms. this came from a small tabletop camera tripod, I removed the legs and use them in this way. The sections have a detent pin, thus allowing it to be rigid when extended. it folds to approx 10″, and I keep it in a cargo pocket. The tip (which was the bottom of the leg) has a rubber tip which keeps the end from slipping off of the device being tested.