Which inspection is conducted when it becomes obvious that an occupancy or process poses a hazard to life and property, such as blocked egress?

• A. New Construction
• B. Imminent Hazard
• C. Change in Occupancy
• D. Owner Request

Answer: (B)

When an occupancy or process presents an immediate danger to life or property, an imminent hazard inspection is conducted. Its purpose is to identify and address the threat right away, giving the inspector authority to require immediate corrections, impose temporary shutdowns, or implement other urgent safety measures to stop the hazard. This is the type of inspection you use for situations like blocked egress, where people cannot exit safely and time is critical.

New construction inspections focus on ensuring building and fire code compliance during the building phase, not on immediate dangers in an occupied facility. Change in occupancy inspections occur when the use of a space changes and may require new or different fire protections. An owner-requested inspection is voluntary and may not be driven by an immediate life-safety threat.