The standards are designed as the basis for assuring that a Fire Inspector I has a clear understanding of the Fire Prevention Code, laws, rules, and regulations which have been adopted to make Virginia communities a safer place to live, work and play. Upon successfully completing the course, the student will have a clear understanding of how to conduct a fire prevention inspection and what action is required to have hazardous conditions corrected.

It is not the intent of this course to produce an experienced Fire Inspector or Fire Marshal, but to supply the basic knowledge and skills necessary for functioning at a satisfactory level in this position while continuing to gain experience and knowledge.

The students meeting these prerequisites will be certified as meeting the provisions of N.F.P.A. (National Fire Protection Association) Standards Number 1031 for Fire Inspector I as adopted by the Virginia Fire Services Board and incorporated by reference and made a part of these regulations.

Upon satisfactorily completing the Inspector I course, or meeting the requirement for equivalency, passing the test developed for this course of study and satisfactorily completing the field work, the individual will be certified an Inspector I.

Instructors will be State Certified Fire Instructors who have experience and knowledge in the subject area or persons who have special knowledge or skills in a particular subject and who have been approved by the Department of Fire Programs.

Law-enforcement subjects will be taught by certified Department of Criminal Justice Services personnel.

Legal matters will be instructed by a representative from the Attorney General's office, a Commonwealth's Attorney, or an attorney who is knowledgeable in such matters.

The instructor may choose to use a wide variety of reference material and teaching aids; however, the subject matter will be taken from the currently state accepted BOCA (Building Officials and Code Administrators International, Inc.) Codes and the IFSTA (International Fire Services Training Association) manual 110-Fire Prevention and Inspection Practices promulgated by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development.

Other reference material may include:

Forest Fire and Related Laws, Virginia Department of Forestry

Uniform Statewide Building Code

Statistics from Virginia Fire Incident Reporting System

N.F.P.A. Handbook and Standards.

All other reference materials used shall be approved by the Manager of Investigations and Inspections of the Department of Fire Programs.

When the student has successfully completed the Fire Inspector I training, he shall work for a minimum of 15 hours in his own community under the supervision of an Inspector II having two or more years experience. If there is no such experienced Inspector in his community, he shall make arrangements for working with an experienced Inspector II from a neighboring community, state or federal agency.

The Inspector under whom the student works shall submit a written report recommending that the student be certified or he shall state why he feels the candidate needs additional training.

Any member in good standing of any fire department or fire brigade who is responsible for making Fire Prevention Inspections or Fire Safety Inspections may make applications to attend the course. Candidates who wish to be certified under the N.F.P.A. 1031 Standards shall successfully complete the Inspector I course.

Any individual who is responsible for fire inspection or prevention activities may make application to attend the Inspector I course. Course applications shall be approved by the Manager of Investigations and Inspections.

Upon satisfactory course completion:

1. Those individuals who meet Department of Fire Program's Firefighter II qualifications and Department of Criminal Justice Services medical requirements will receive a Department of Fire Program's certificate for Inspector I; or

2. Those individuals not certified as Firefighter II will receive a certificate for completion of the Fire Inspector I course.

All grades, reports, and records will be submitted to the Department of Fire Programs within 15 working days following the completion of the course. The procedure for grading will be as follows:

1. All written examinations shall include a minimum of two questions for each hour of mandatory instruction. This requirement likewise includes the classroom instruction on performance-oriented subject matter; however, those subjects which exceed five hours of instruction, 10 questions will suffice as an acceptable minimum.

2. All students shall attain a grade of 85% to satisfactorily complete mandatory training, and shall be tested at the mid-term and course final examination. Any student who does not attain 85% will be allowed one retest.

3. Performance testing, when utilized, will be graded on a satisfactory or unsatisfactory basis. A satisfactory rating on all performance testing will be required to satisfactorily complete the school. The determination of satisfactory or unsatisfactory performance on any performance test will be determined by the instructor administering the test.

No more than 10% absenteeism for the course will be allowed for any reason. Students who are absent will be required to make up any material missed. If for any reason a student must be absent from the class, he shall advise the instructor or the Manager of Investigations and Inspections of the Department of Fire Programs immediately upon learning this fact.

The Manager of Investigations and Inspections of the Department of Fire Programs, will schedule Inspector I classes, as deemed appropriate, based on the number of inquiries and applications received. The Manager of Investigations and Inspections will select the sites where the classes will be held based on availability of facilities and student interest.

In order to remain certified and comply with the N.F.P.A. 1031 standards at the Inspector I level an individual shall attend a minimum of 16 hours of training every two years which is approved by the Department of Fire Programs. This training shall include the following:

Review of constitutional law

Update on state codes

Review of latest court decisions affecting code enforcement

Review of the fire prevention code

Update on code reference material and N.F.P.A. standards.

A. Candidates shall possess a valid driver's license for the Commonwealth of Virginia and shall identify state and local laws governing the operation of emergency vehicles.

B. Candidates shall demonstrate:

1. An ability to clearly express themselves orally;

2. An ability to clearly express themselves in writing;

3. A knowledge of occupationally related personal safety practices and procedures; and

4. Through tests, or interview, or both, their ability to interact with the public, under conditions of code enforcement, fire investigation, or fire prevention education duties, with tact, discretion, and without loss of authority.

C. The candidates shall meet the requirements specified for Firefighter II unless such requirements are waived by the executive director.

Fire Inspector I shall demonstrate:

1. A knowledge of the legally established responsibilities and authority related to the performance of the inspector's duties;

2. A knowledge of the established procedure for modification of requirements;

3. A knowledge of the established appeals procedure and judicial review process for the jurisdiction in which the inspector is employed;

4. A knowledge of other agencies which may be referred to for assistance in correcting hazards; and

5. An ability to initiate corrective procedures for fire hazards discovered during fire inspections.

The Fire Inspector I shall:

1. Identify and explain general properties of flammable and combustible liquids;

2. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the definition of flash point;

3. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the definition of ignition temperature;

4. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the basic effects of temperature and pressure on flammable and combustible liquids;

5. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the definition of flammable and explosive limits;

6. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the definition of specific gravity;

7. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the definition of boiling point;

8. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the basic class of flammable and combustible liquids as defined by NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code;

9. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the definition of toxicity; and

10. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the definition of reactivity.

The Fire Inspector I shall demonstrate a basic understanding of the regulatory labeling and placarding systems used for flammable and combustible liquids identification.

The Fire Inspector I shall:

1. Identify the general properties of compressed and liquefied gases;

2. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the effects of temperature and pressure as they relate to compressed and liquefied gases;

3. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the definition of specific gravity particularly as it relates to compressed and liquefied gases; and

4. Demonstrate a knowledge of the differences between compressed and liquefied gases.

The Fire Inspector I shall demonstrate the acceptable practices relative to compressed and liquefied gases container installation and storage.

The Fire Inspector I shall demonstrate a basic knowledge of the practices and procedures involved in the transfer of compressed and liquefied gases.

The Fire Inspector I shall demonstrate a basic knowledge of the means of compressed and liquefied gases leakage control.

The Fire Inspector I shall demonstrate a basic knowledge of the regulatory labeling and placarding regulations relative to compressed and liquefied gases.

A. The Fire Inspector I shall identify the classifications of explosives (See NFPA 495, Code for the Manufacture, Transportation, Storage and Use of Explosive Materials)

B. The Fire Inspector I shall understand the need for security of explosives.

The Fire Inspector I shall understand the regulations relative to the transportation of explosives, including fireworks, within the jurisdiction in which the inspector is employed.

The Fire Inspector I shall identify the common hazards associated with the typical storage, handling and use of explosives, including fireworks.

The Fire Inspector I shall:

1. Demonstrate a knowledge of regulatory labeling and placarding systems relative to explosives, including fireworks; and

2. Have a knowledge of the sources from which detailed or technical information on explosives, including fireworks, might be obtained.

The Fire Inspector I shall:

1. Have a knowledge of the code requirements and regulations for the storage of explosives, including fireworks; and

2. Have a basic knowledge of the type and construction of storage facilities required for the various classes of explosives.

The Fire Inspector I shall:

1. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the regulatory labeling and placarding systems for various types and quantities of hazardous materials;

2. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the code requirements and regulations for the typical storage, handling and use of various types and quantities of hazardous materials; and

3. Possess a knowledge of sources of detailed and technical information about various hazardous materials.

Fire Inspector I shall:

1. Have a basic knowledge of the characteristics of corrosives and shall be able to name the more common corrosives;

2. Have a basic knowledge of reactive material characteristics and shall be able to name the more common reactive materials;

3. Have a basic knowledge of unstable material characteristics and shall be able to name the more common unstable materials;

4. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of toxic materials characteristics and shall be able to name the more common toxic materials;

5. Have a basic knowledge of radioactive material characteristics and shall be able to name the more common radioactive materials;

6. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of oxidizing material characteristics and shall be able to name the more common oxidizing materials;

7. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the general fire hazard properties of the various types of plastics; and

8. Demonstrate a knowledge of the code requirements and regulations for the typical storage, handling and use of natural and synthetic fibers.

The Fire Inspector I shall demonstrate:

1. An understanding of combustible metal characteristics and shall be able to name the more common combustible metals; and

2. A knowledge of the code requirements and regulations to the typical storage, handling, and use of combustible metals.

The Fire Inspector I shall:

1. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of combustible dust characteristics and shall be able to name more common combustible dusts.

2. Understand the basic fire and explosion characteristics of the various combustible dusts; and

3. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the code requirements and regulations relative to the typical storage and handling of combustible dusts.

The Fire Inspector I shall:

1. Have a basic knowledge of the types of portable fire extinguishers (See NFPA 10, Standard on Portable Fire Extinguishers);

2. Demonstrate a working knowledge of portable fire extinguishers;

3. Demonstrate an ability to evaluate the operational readiness of portable fire extinguishers;

4. Demonstrate a knowledge of the capability of extinguishing agents and the proper method for agent application;

5. Demonstrate a knowledge of code requirements and regulations relative to the distribution and location of portable fire extinguishers; and

6. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of portable fire extinguishers maintenance requirements and procedures.

The Fire Inspector I shall demonstrate:

1. A basic understanding of fixed fire extinguishing systems;

2. An ability to evaluate the operational readiness of fixed fire extinguishing systems;

3. A working knowledge of fixed fire extinguishing systems; and

4. A knowledge of the capabilities of the extinguishing agent and the proper procedures for agent application in a fixed fire extinguishing system.

The Fire Inspector I shall demonstrate:

1. A basic knowledge of the different types of sprinkler systems (See NFPA 13, Standard on Sprinkler Systems.);

2. A working knowledge of sprinkler systems and their appurtenances;

3. An ability to evaluate the operational readiness of a sprinkler system; and

4. A knowledge of the capabilities or limitations of sprinkler systems.

The Fire Inspector I shall demonstrate:

1. A basic knowledge of the types of standpipe and hose systems (See NFPA 14, Standard on Sprinkler Systems);

2. A working knowledge of standpipe and hose systems and their appurtenances;

3. An ability to evaluate the operational readiness of a standpipe and hose systems; and

4. A knowledge of standpipe and hose system equipment use and capabilities.

The Fire Inspector I shall demonstrate:

1. A basic knowledge of private water supply systems; and

2. An ability to evaluate the operational readiness of a private water supply system.

The Fire Inspector I shall demonstrate:

1. A basic knowledge of heat, smoke and flame detection systems and devices;

2. An ability to evaluate the operational readiness of heat, smoke and flame detection systems or device; and

3. A basic knowledge of the proper installation locations of heat, smoke and flame detection devices.

The Fire Inspector I shall:

1. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of local fire alarm systems and devices;

2. Demonstrate an ability to evaluate the operational readiness of local fire alarm systems and devices;

3. Demonstrate a knowledge of the warning capability of local fire alarm systems and devices;

4. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of municipal fire alarms systems;

5. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the interconnection between local and municipal fire alarm systems;

6. Differentiate between home, local, proprietary, central station, and municipal fire alarm systems; and

7. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the proper installation locations of fire alarm system components or devices.

The Fire Inspector I shall demonstrate:

1. A basic knowledge of the fire hazards related to the various types of heating and cooking equipment;

2. A knowledge of the general fire safety safeguards incorporated in the various types of heating and cooking equipment systems;

3. A basic knowledge of the fire hazards and code requirements related to installation and fuel storage of heating and cooking equipment; and

4. A knowledge of sources of detailed and technical information about heating and cooking equipment.

The Fire Inspector I shall have:

1. A basic knowledge of applied elementary electrical theory;

2. A basic knowledge of the construction of and safety devices used in electrical systems;

3. A basic knowledge of the fire and life hazards associated with the typical uses of electricity and electrical systems; and

4. A knowledge of sources of detailed and technical information related to electricity and electrical systems.

The Fire Inspector I shall have a basic knowledge of the code requirements, regulations, basic operational features, and fire hazards presented by various occupancies and, particularly, public assembly, residential, business, mercantile, office, storage, industrial, manufacturing and utility occupancies.

The Fire Inspector I shall:

1. Have a knowledge of the means of egress requirements for various occupancies;

2. Demonstrate an ability to determine if existing egress facilities for the building, floor or room are adequate for the occupancy involved;

3. Demonstrate the ability to determine whether travel distances to exits are within allowable limits;

4. Demonstrate an ability to determine if there is adequate access to egress facilities;

5. Demonstrate an ability to determine if exits are properly illuminated, marked, placed, secured, openable and equipped with hardware;

6. Demonstrate an ability to distinguish between enclosed stairwells and smoke towers and to determine if general construction and access are properly maintained;

7. Demonstrate an ability to determine if egress paths are adequate in width and properly illuminated and maintained; and

8. Have a knowledge of the code requirements and regulations relative to the maintenance of means of egress from various occupancies.

The Fire Inspector I shall demonstrate:

1. An ability to determine the proper interior finish for various areas of an occupancy, particularly that for egress paths;

2. An ability to conduct a field test of interior finish materials;

3. A knowledge of acceptable flame spread and smoke ratings for the various areas of an occupancy;

4. A knowledge of acceptable test methods and markings or labeling for interior finishes; and

5. A knowledge of the purpose and acceptability of fire retardant paints and impregnation treatments.

The Fire Inspector I shall:

1. Have a basic knowledge of the features of fire protection and life safety related to building construction that are germane to various types of occupancies;

2. Demonstrate a knowledge of acceptable test methods and marking or labeling for building construction assemblies or devices;

3. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the types of fire doors and installation requirements;

4. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of where rated building construction is required;

5. Demonstrate a knowledge of building construction components installed for fire-related purposes including, but not limited to, fire stops, draft curtains, fire walls, smoke vents, chimneys, flues, and fire rated floor/roof ceiling systems;

6. Demonstrate a knowledge of the classes of roof covering;

7. Demonstrate a knowledge of the requirements for and construction of special building construction features including, but not limited to, projection booths, stages, proscenium openings, and flammable liquid storage rooms; and

8. Demonstrate a knowledge of building construction classification.

The Fire Inspector I shall:

1. Have a basic knowledge of the types of and installation requirements for building service equipment that are germane to various occupancies and which can, through their operation, affect fire protection and life safety;

2. Demonstrate a knowledge of the proper installation, maintenance and use of heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems from a fire safety standpoint including, but not limited to, attendant devices such as dampers, detection devices, thermostats, and operational controls;

3. Demonstrate a knowledge of the proper installation, maintenance and use of cooking equipment, including hoods and ducts; and

4. Have a basic knowledge of which other jurisdictional authorities may have requirements, or conduct inspections, involving life safety or fire protection.

The Fire Inspector I shall demonstrate:

1. A knowledge of the requirements relative to fire drills which may be required within the jurisdiction in which the inspector is employed; and

2. An ability to conduct or evaluate, or both, fire drills in various occupancies.

The Fire Inspector I shall have:

1. A working knowledge of general fire safety code requirements and regulations including, but not limited to, trash and debris, smoking, open burning, maintaining fire department access, housekeeping procedures, reporting of fire incidents, and limiting combustible decorations and furnishings; and

2. A basic knowledge of the requirements, and the purpose of emergency evacuation plans.

The Fire Inspector I shall:

1. Demonstrate a knowledge of acceptable code enforcement procedures;

2. Demonstrate a knowledge of jurisdictional responsibilities of federal, state and local governments and organizations relative to code enforcement procedures;

3. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of anticipated human behavior relative to code enforcement;

4. Demonstrate a knowledge of local code enforcement procedures;

5. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the judicial system, particularly as it relates to code enforcement procedures;

6. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the legal processes as they relate to code enforcement procedures;

7. Demonstrate a knowledge of recommended courtroom demeanor as it relates to code enforcement procedures;

8. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the moral and legal responsibilities associated with code enforcement procedures;

9. Be knowledgeable as to when licenses, or permits, or both, are required for the sale, use, storage or possession of hazardous materials;

10. Be knowledgeable of which processes and procedures of business operations involving fire protection equipment require licenses, or permits, or both; and

11. Demonstrate a knowledge of sources of information on code enforcement procedures.

The Fire Inspector I shall demonstrate:

1. A basic knowledge of report preparation; and

2. A knowledge of accepted filing techniques.

The Fire Inspector I shall demonstrate a basic knowledge of the essential equipment necessary to accomplish code enforcement including, but not limited to, elementary photography equipment and portable flammable and combustible atmosphere detection equipment.

The Fire Inspector I shall be familiar with the procedures required for the processing of plans and specifications.

The Fire Inspector I shall have a basic knowledge of the requirements, need and purpose for fire cause determination and fire investigation.

The Fire Inspector I shall demonstrate:

1. A knowledge of what is required in performing standby fire safety duties in public assembly occupancies;

2. A knowledge of the general procedures for handling complaints; and

3. A basic knowledge of building code contents and requirements.

The standards are designed as the basis for assuring that a Fire Inspector II has a clear understanding of the Fire Prevention Code, laws, rules, and regulations which have been adopted to make Virginia communities a safer place to live, work and play. Upon successfully completing the course, the student will have a clear understanding of how to conduct a fire prevention inspection and what action is required to have hazardous conditions corrected.

It is not the intent of this course to produce an experienced fire inspector or fire marshal, but to supply the basic knowledge and skills necessary for functioning at a satisfactory level in this position while continuing to gain experience and knowledge.

The candidate for Fire Inspector II shall have satisfactorily met the standards for Fire Inspector I, as adopted by the Virginia Fire Services Board.

The students who successfully complete this course will be qualified as having met the requirements of § 27-34.2 of the Code of Virginia and may be granted the powers by their locality.

The students meeting these prerequisites will be certified as meeting the provisions of N.F.P.A. (National Fire Protection Association) Standards Number 1031 for Fire Inspector I and II as established by the Department of Fire Programs.

Upon satisfactorily completing the Inspector II course, or meeting the requirement for equivalency testing, passing the test developed for this course of study and satisfactorily completing the field work, the individual will be certified an Inspector II.

Instructors will be state certified fire instructors who have experience and knowledge in the subject area or persons who have special knowledge or skills in a particular subject and who have been approved by the Manager of Investigations and Inspections of the Department of Fire Programs.

Law-enforcement subjects will be taught by certified Department of Criminal Justice Services personnel.

Legal matters will be instructed by a representative from the Attorney General's office, a Commonwealth's Attorney, or an attorney who is knowledgeable in such matters.

The instructor may choose to use a wide variety of reference material and teaching aids; however, the subject matter will be taken from the current state-accepted BOCA (Building Officials and Code Administrators International, Inc.) Codes and the IFSTA (International Fire Services Training Association) manual 110-Fire Prevention and Inspection Practices.

Other reference material may include:

Forest Fire and Related Laws, Virginia Department of Forestry

Uniform Statewide Building Code

Statistics from Virginia Fire Incident Reporting System

N.F.P.A. Handbook and Standards

All other reference materials used shall be approved by the Manager of Investigations and Inspections of the Department of Fire Programs.

When the student has successfully completed the Fire Inspector II Program he shall work for a minimum of 15 hours in his own community under the supervision of an Inspector II having two or more years experience. If there is no such experienced Inspector II in his community, he shall work arrangements for working with an experienced Inspector II from a neighboring community, state or federal agency.

The experienced inspector under whom the student works shall submit a written report recommending that the student be certified or he shall state why he feels the candidate needs additional training.

Any member in good standing of any fire department or fire brigade who is responsible for making fire prevention or fire safety inspections may make applications to attend the course. All inspectors who wish to be granted the powers permissible under § 27-34.2 of the Code of Virginia shall successfully complete both the Fire Inspector I and Fire Inspector II courses. (See application.)

Any individual who is responsible for fire inspection or prevention activities may make application to attend the Inspector II course. Applications shall be approved by the Manager of Investigations and Inspections.

Upon satisfactory course completion:

A. Those individuals certified as Firefighter II (unless granted waiver by the Manager of Investigations and Inspections), who meet DCJS requirements, and who have completed the course requirements for Inspector II and § 27-34.2 of the Code of Virginia, will receive a certificate for Fire Inspector II.

B. Those individuals not certified as Firefighter II will receive a certificate for completion of the Fire Inspector II course.

C. To meet the training requirements of § 27-34.2, the candidate shall be certified in Parts I through VIII of this chapter (19VAC15-20-10 et seq. through 19VAC15-20-1080 et seq.).

All grades, reports, and records will be submitted to the Department of Fire Programs within 15 working days following the completion of the course. The procedure for grading will be as follows:

1. All written examinations shall include a minimum of two questions for each hour of mandatory instruction. This requirement likewise includes the classroom instruction on performance-oriented subject matter; however, for those subjects which exceed five hours of instruction, 10 questions will suffice as an acceptable minimum;

2. All students shall attain a grade of 85% to satisfactorily complete mandatory training, and shall be tested at the mid-term and course final examination. Any student who does not attain 85% will be allowed one retest; and

3. Performance testing, when utilized, will be graded on a satisfactory or unsatisfactory basis. A satisfactory rating on all performance testing will be required to satisfactorily complete the school. The determination of satisfactory or unsatisfactory performance on any performance test will be determined by the instructor administering the test.

No more than 10% absenteeism for the course will be allowed for any reason. Students who are absent will be required to make up any material missed. If for any reason a student must be absent from the class, he will advise the instructor or the Manager of Investigations and Inspections of the Department of Fire Programs immediately upon learning this fact.

The Manager of Investigations and Inspections of the Department of Fire Programs, will schedule Inspector II classes as deemed appropriate based on the number of inquiries and applications received. The Manager of Investigations and Inspections will select the sites where the classes will be held based on availability of facilities and student interest.

Any student who attends the course shall comply with the rules and regulations established by the Department of Fire Programs and the Department of Criminal Justice Services. The Manager of Investigations and Inspections or instructor will be responsible for the proper enforcement of all rules and regulations. Any student who, in the opinion of the instructor or Manager of Investigations and Inspections, fails to follow the rules or regulations, or who behaves in an unsafe or disruptive manner, may be removed from the class if deemed necessary. The instructor will report to the Manager of Investigations and Inspections immediately after the incident who may expel the individual from the school if after an investigation has been made such action is necessary and appropriate.

Any student who is expelled will be deemed to have not satisfactorily completed the course and will not be awarded a certificate.

The Manager of Investigations and Inspections will immediately report the incident to the executive director of the Department of Fire Programs and to the student's supervisor. The Manager of Investigations and Inspections will make a complete written report of the circumstances associated with the incident and submit it to the executive director of the Department of Fire Programs within 24 hours.

The rules and regulations will be in effect immediately upon the approval by the Department of Fire Programs, the Department of Criminal Justice Services and the Virginia Fire Services Board and will remain in effect until such time as they are amended or repealed.

In order to remain certified and comply with the N.F.P.A. 1031 standards at the Inspector II level an individual shall attend a minimum of 16 hours of training every two years which is approved by the Department of Fire Programs. This training shall include the following:

Review of Constitutional Law

Update on State Codes

Review of latest Court decisions affecting Code Enforcement

Review of the Fire Prevention Code

Update on Code Reference material and N.F.P.A. standards

Candidates shall:

1. Possess a valid driver's license for the state in which they are employed and shall identify state and local laws governing the operation of emergency vehicles;

2. Demonstrate an ability to clearly express themselves orally;

3. Demonstrate an ability to clearly express themselves in writing;

4. Demonstrate a knowledge of occupationally related personal safety practices and procedures;

5. Demonstrate through tests, or interview, or both, their ability to interact with the public, under conditions of code enforcement, fire investigation, or fire prevention education duties, with tact, discretion, and without loss of authority; and

6. Meet the requirements specified for Fire Inspector I unless such requirements are waived by the executive director.

The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate:

1. A basic knowledge of the effect of pressure on the design, size and contents or storage tanks and containers for flammable and combustible liquids;

2. A knowledge of the storage, handling and use conditions of flammable and combustible liquids which are most conducive to the initiation, propagation and spread of fire;

3. A knowledge of the installation and operational requirements of fixed fire extinguishing systems installed concomitant to flammable and combustible liquids storage, handling or use; and

4. A knowledge of how to abate the fire hazards associated with flammable or combustible liquid spills or leaks.

The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate:

1. A basic knowledge of the physical and chemical characteristics of compressed and liquefied gases and cryogenics;

2. A knowledge of the storage, handling and use conditions of compressed and liquefied gases which are most conducive to the initiation, propagation and spread of fire;

3. A knowledge of which organizations have codes or specifications relative to compressed and liquefied gases containers, cylinders, or tanks;

4. A knowledge of the requirements for marking, testing, repair, and maintenance of compressed and liquefied gases containers, cylinders or tanks;

5. A knowledge of the code requirements and regulations relative to quantity limitations, distances, physical damage and protection for aboveground containers for compressed and liquefied gases;

6. A knowledge of the special handling procedures for gas transfer operations involving compressed and liquefied gases;

7. A basic knowledge of the operation and use of excess flow check valves in compressed and liquefied gases piping and storage; and

8. A knowledge of how to abate the fire hazards associated with compressed and liquefied gases spills or leaks.

The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate a knowledge of the installation and operations requirements of fixed fire extinguishing systems installed concomitant to the storage, handling and use of compressed and liquefied gases.

The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate:

1. A knowledge of the requirements for security measures for explosives, including fireworks;

2. A knowledge of which federal or state regulatory agencies govern the transportation of explosives, including fireworks;

3. A knowledge of the effects of temperature and moisture on explosives, including fireworks;

4. A knowledge of sensitivity of stability characteristics of the various types of explosives, including fireworks; and

5. A knowledge of explosives storage facility construction and operation.

The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate a knowledge of the fire hazards associated with the storage, handling and use of natural and synthetic fibers.

The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate:

1. A knowledge of code requirements and regulations governing combustible dusts; and

2. A knowledge of code requirements, regulations and basic installation practices relative to explosion suppression systems for combustible dusts.

The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate an ability to evaluate:

1. The proper installation and testing of all types of fire protection equipment including, but not limited to, fire doors, fire walls, fixed fire extinguishing systems, water supply systems, fire detection systems, and fire alarm systems;

2. The testing of portable fire extinguishers; and

3. The application, capabilities, testing and maintenance of fixed fire extinguishing systems.

The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate a knowledge of:

1. Water system pressure and piping requirements;

2. Hydrant construction, location, and spacing; and

3. The factors that affect fire flow demands.

The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate a working knowledge of:

1. The fire hazards related to the various types of heating and cooking equipment and systems;

2. The fire safety safeguards normally installed concomitant to heating and cooking equipment; and

3. The fire hazards and code requirements related to heating and cooking equipment installation and fuel storage.

The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate a working knowledge of:

1. The fire hazards inherent to industrial ovens and furnace systems; and

2. The fire safety safeguards normally installed concomitant to industrial ovens and furnaces.

The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate a knowledge of the code requirements and purposes for rated interior finishes.

The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate:

1. A knowledge of how to calculate egress requirements;

2. An ability to determine the required location of exits; and

3. A working knowledge of acceptable means of egress devices including, but not limited to, doors, hardware, and lights.

The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate:

1. A working knowledge for specifying interior finish requirements in various areas of a building according to its designated occupancy; and

2. An ability to evaluate tests and test reports of interior finish materials.

The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate:

1. A working knowledge of when to specify enclosed stairs, smoke towers or other methods of egress;

2. An ability to evaluate tests and test reports of building construction assemblies or devices;

3. A working knowledge of what types of fire door assembly are required for the protection of openings of fire rated wall and partitions;

4. An ability to evaluate the tests and test reports of fire doors;

5. A working knowledge of where fire rated building construction may be required for various occupancies; and

6. A working knowledge of the conditions which require that special fire-related building components be installed including, but not limited to, fire stops, draft curtains, fire walls, smoke vents, chimneys, flues, and fire windows.

A. The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate a working knowledge of the conditions which require that fire related equipment be installed including, but not limited to, extinguishing systems, alarm systems, detection systems, fire dampers, kitchen hood and vent systems, standpipe and hose systems, and portable fire extinguishers.

B. The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate a working knowledge of the proper installation of the equipment included in subsection A.

The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate an ability to evaluate the tests and test reports on flame spread and smoke generation of decorations, decorative materials and furnishings.

The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate:

1. An ability to calculate fire loads;

2. A working knowledge of acceptable fire loads for various occupancies; and

3. Knowledge of how to classify building contents according to hazard.

The Fire Inspector II shall:

1. Demonstrate an ability to calculate allowable occupant loads for various occupancies and building areas;

2. Have a working knowledge of code requirements, regulations, basic operational features and fire hazards presented by various occupancies; and

3. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the fire safety regulations and code requirements for industrial occupancies utilizing hazardous processes, equipment or materials.

The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate a basic knowledge of:

1. Fire scene photography; and

2. The legal requirements pertaining to the admissibility of photographs in a civil or criminal court.

The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate:

1. The ability to interpret plans and specifications and symbols related to construction plans and specifications;

2. An ability to read and interpret construction plans and specifications, and recognize standard symbols used by design;

3. A basic knowledge of acceptable construction methods and materials related to fire safety;

4. A knowledge of sources of detailed and technical information relative to plans and specifications details; and

5. A knowledge of the moral and legal responsibilities relative to plans and specifications examination.

The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate:

1. An ability to develop emergency evacuation plans for various occupancies;

2. A basic knowledge of anticipated human behavior during emergencies;

3. An ability to implement fire safety programs for crowd control;

4. A basic knowledge of the role played by each agency and person in implementing an emergency evacuation plan;

5. An ability to coordinate agencies involved in the development of an emergency evacuation plan; and

6. A knowledge of the sources of technical and detailed information relative to emergency evacuation plans.

The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate a working knowledge of fire cause determination procedures.

A. The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate a knowledge of building code requirements as they may affect fire safety for the jurisdiction in which the inspector is employed.

B. The Fire Inspector II shall demonstrate a knowledge of building height and area limitations as they may affect fire behavior.

The Fire Inspector II shall:

1. Demonstrate proficiency in communicating effectively and professionally through written, oral and mechanical media;

2. Understand and have a working knowledge of interpersonal communication;

3. Identify verbal and nonverbal factors which contribute to a negative response from the public; and

4. Given practical simulation role-playing exercises depicting stressful situations of interaction with the public, communicate properly and effectively with various types of persons.

The Fire Inspector II shall:

1. Identify uses of the inspector's field notes;

2. Identify the types of information that should be entered into field notes;

3. Given a practical simulation role-playing exercise, take notes during an interview in such a manner as to not discourage the person being interviewed from talking; and

4. Given word-pictures or audio-visual presentations, properly utilize the fire inspector's notebook by neatly and accurately recording all necessary information in a specified format.

The Fire Inspector II shall:

1. Understand the process for issuance of Virginia Uniform Traffic Summons;

2. Describe the court procedures and violator's alternatives in dealing with an issued summons;

3. Give a blank Virginia Uniform Summons, a word-picture, or audio-visual presentation depicting a fire code violation, and legibly complete the form within the allotted time; and

4. Identify that the required signature on a citation is not an admission of guilt but a promise to appear.

The inspector shall:

1. Understand and have a working knowledge of the organization and operation of the Virginia court system;

2. Identify the organizational structure, constitutional basis and primary responsibility for the Virginia Supreme Court, Circuit Court, General District Court, and magistrates;

3. Define jurisdiction and venue of the Circuit Court, General District Court, and the Juvenile and Domestic Court in the locality employing the fire inspector;

4. Identify the organizational structure of the U.S. Federal Courts;

5. Identify the purposes of bail, arraignment, preliminary hearing, indictment, and trial in criminal cases;

6. Define the difference between a judge and a magistrate;

7. Define the role and functions of the judge, bailiff, Commonwealth's attorney, and defense attorney in the courts; and

8. Given descriptions of several different crimes or violations, identify in which court each would first be tried.

A. The Inspector II shall demonstrate a working knowledge of the proper procedures and legal requirements set forth in §§ 27-98.1 through 27-98.5 of the Code of Virginia for the issuance of a fire inspection warrant.

B. The Inspector II shall be able to demonstrate a working knowledge of the constitutional rights of the owner, operator, or agent in charge of a building, structure, property or premises in which the inspection is to be made.

C. The Inspector II shall demonstrate a working knowledge of Rules of Evidence.