1) What fire protection systems inspection and testing requirements are changing?

All fire protection systems are required to be inspected and tested by the adopted fire code. Fire protection systems remain an important part of life safety, building protection, and continuity of business operations.

The Poudre Fire Authority (PFA) has for several years served our community by conducting tests of specifically fire sprinkler systems. However, beginning January 1, 2022, all inspection, maintenance, and testing of fire sprinkler systems will now be conducted by a licensed fire sprinkler contractor. Building owners and property managers can select a contractor of their choice. All fire protection system contractors, including fire suppression, fire alarm, and others, are required to be licensed and insured to do work within the City of Fort Collins (when in the city limits) or the State of Colorado (outside of city limits).

To streamline the inspection document(s) submittal process, PFA will be partnering with the company Brycer and using their online tool, The Compliance Engine® (TCE), to collect and store all fire protection system testing documents (see a list of systems that require annual testing below).

It will be the responsibility of the contractor to submit inspection and testing documents directly to TCE.

2) What is Brycer and The Compliance Engine?

Brycer, is a company focused on fire, insurance, and information technology industries.  The Compliance Engine (TCE)® is an internet-based software that assists fire code officials to better collect and store fire code compliance documents and ultimately provide the highest level of fire safety and risk reduction to our community.

3) Is there a cost for submitting fire protection compliance documents to Brycer?

There is a small fee paid by the Fire Protection Company to submit to Brycer for system inspection and testing documents.

4) Why is PFA transitioning away from fire sprinkler testing?

The number and complexity of fire protection systems in our community is growing significantly. Additionally, there are a growing number of licensed contractors in our community well suited to provide inspection and testing and maintenance of most systems.

5) Where can I find a contractor to inspect and test fire protection systems?

A business owner or responsible party can select a licensed fire sprinkler/alarm contractor of your choice to test any system that requires testing (see list below). All fire protection system contractors, including fire suppression, fire alarm, and others, are required to be licensed and insured to do work within the City of Fort Collins (when in the city limits) or the State of Colorado (outside of city limits). It is highly recommended to do research and follow the same process to establish a business relationship with a company that provides these services.

Neither the PFA nor Brycer make any recommendations of contractors to use for these services.

6) Who can repair any fire protection system deficiencies discovered during inspection and testing?

A building or business owner is ultimately responsible to ensure that a licensed contractor correct, and repair fire code deficiencies or violations related to fire protection systems. PFA remains committed to working with all of our community partners to assist with navigating fire code compliance challenges.

7) Will PFA still be conducting general life safety inspections of my business or building?

Yes, PFA inspectors will continue to conduct general fire and fife safety inspections.

8) How often do fire protection systems need to be inspected and tested by a licensed contractor?

All systems must be inspected and tested at least annually. Some special hazard systems may require greater frequency of testing.

• Most common fire protection and life safety systems required to be tested include but are not limited to:
• Automatic fire sprinkler systems
• Alternative automatic fire extinguishing systems
• Clean agent fire suppression systems
• Commercial spray booth suppression systems
• Kitchen hood suppression systems
• Fire standpipe systems
• Fire pumps and associated equipment
• Fire extinguishers
• Fire alarm and detection systems
• Smoke and heat evacuation systems
• Gas detection systems
• Emergency generators
• Emergency responder radio coverage systems
• Private Water Hydrant Systems
• Other systems as required by the IFC and NFPA standards