Certified Certified Fire Inspector I (CFI-I)

The NFPA Certified Fire Inspector I (CFI-I) program is designed to certify individuals who demonstrate proficiency in the application of NFPA codes and standards, as well as the practices and procedures that form the basis of fire prevention and property protection.

The certification focuses on ensuring that inspectors have the knowledge to conduct fire safety inspections that adhere to laws, regulations, and standards.

Target Audience

• Fire inspectors and investigators
• Fire service professionals
• Code enforcement officers
• Health and safety regulators
• Insurance professionals and loss control representatives

Eligibility

• A high school diploma or equivalent
• Work experience in fire inspection, fire safety, code enforcement, or a related field. Specific requirements regarding the length and nature of work experience can vary.
• Completion of an NFPA-approved training program or equivalent education in fire inspection and prevention.
• In addition to passing the written examination, candidates for the NFPA Certified Fire Inspector I (CFI-I) certification may be required to complete a practicum or practical examination component.

Course Content                     

1. Introduction to Fire Inspection and Code Enforcement
   • Overview of the fire inspector's role in public safety and property protection.
   • History and development of fire codes and standards.
   • Legal and ethical considerations in enforcement.
2. Fire Behavior and Combustion
   • The science of fire, including the chemistry of combustion.
   • Fire dynamics and the behavior of materials under fire conditions.
   • The effects of fire on different types of constructions and contents.
3. Building Construction and Occupancy Classification
   • Types of construction materials and methods, and their impact on fire spread.
   • Classification of buildings based on occupancy types and their specific fire safety challenges.
   • Understanding load-bearing structures and fire resistance ratings.
4. Fire Protection Systems and Equipment
   • Detailed study of fire detection, alarm, and suppression systems.
   • Inspection and maintenance requirements for fire protection equipment.
   • Water-based fire suppression systems, fire extinguishers, and special hazard protection.
5. Inspection Procedures for Fire Protection Systems
   • Standard operating procedures for conducting fire safety inspections.
   • Documentation, reporting, and follow-up on inspection findings.
   • Practical application of inspection techniques in various occupancy types.
6. Understanding and Applying NFPA Codes and Standards
   • In-depth review of key NFPA codes, including NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code) and NFPA 1 (Fire Code), among others.
   • How to navigate and interpret the NFPA codes and standards.
   • Application of codes to real-world scenarios and case studies.
7. Plan Review and Permit Processing
   • Basics of plan review processes for new constructions and renovations.
   • Understanding architectural plans and fire protection system drawings.
   • Permitting process, including compliance verification and approval procedures.
8. Emergency Planning and Preparedness
   • Principles of emergency action planning and response.
   • Inspection of emergency and evacuation plans for different occupancy types.
   • Coordination with emergency services and conducting emergency drills.
9. Public Education and Community Risk Reduction
   • Strategies for fire safety education and community engagement.
   • Developing and implementing public education programs.
   • Assessing community risks and developing risk reduction plans.
10. Special Occupancies and Operations
    • Inspection and enforcement strategies for high-risk occupancies, such as industrial sites, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions.
    • Understanding the specific codes and standards that apply to unique or complex environments.