What is a life-safety audit?

• A. A formal review of a facility's life-safety features, policies, and procedures to identify gaps and compliance issues.
• B. A routine inspection of electrical systems for fire hazards.
• C. A drill schedule evaluating response times.
• D. A certification of building code compliance for new construction.

Answer: (A)

A life-safety audit is a formal, comprehensive assessment of a facility’s life-safety features, policies, and procedures to identify gaps and compliance issues. It looks beyond individual components and drills to evaluate how well fire protection systems, means of egress, emergency lighting, occupant safety protocols, maintenance programs, training records, and incident history work together to protect occupants. The goal is to produce actionable recommendations and an action plan to close gaps and improve ongoing readiness, with attention to both technical systems and organizational practices.

This is distinct from a routine electrical inspection, which focuses narrowly on electrical hazards; from a drill schedule, which concentrates on testing response times and training execution; and from a certification of building code compliance for new construction, which verifies that a new building meets code during design and construction rather than assessing an existing facility’s current safety readiness.