Fire & Life Safety Specialist

Duke Careers•Durham, NC

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Occupational and Environmental Safety Office (OESO) at Duke Health is responsible for administering all safety programs for Duke University, Duke University Medical Center, and Duke University Health System. The Fire & Life Safety Division within OESO is specifically tasked with designing, implementing, and managing a comprehensive fire safety program. This division conducts periodic assessments to ensure compliance with the Life Safety Code and works to identify and minimize fire risks across all Duke Health System, University, and Medical Center properties. The primary purpose of this position is to assist in the development, implementation, and management of quality assurance programs related to Joint Commission Life Safety and Environment of Care programs for the Fire & Life Safety Division. This includes assisting with contractor-based programs for fire extinguisher, automatic fire alarm testing and maintenance, automatic fire sprinkler inspection and maintenance, and cooking hood cleaning/fire suppression system inspection/maintenance for all Joint Commission Accredited Facilities, including on-site and off-site clinics.

Requirements

Complete working knowledge of Joint Commission Life Safety and Environment of Care Standards as well as NFPA Life Safety Code 101, NFPA 99, and other pertinent standards.
Proven knowledge and familiarity with training techniques.
Knowledge of federal, state and local laws, regulations and standards pertaining to fire and life safety.
Ability to utilize computer technology to develop and access data, maintain records, generate reports and develop training programs. Must be proficient in use of Microsoft Office Applications and programs.
Creative problem solving to recognize and correct fire safety issues and concerns and to develop training programs.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Ability to plan and coordinate work schedules.
Must have a valid driver’s license
Must be able to take and pass the Certified Fire Protection Specialist exam within two years of hire if deemed necessary.

Nice To Haves

Documented 2-4 years’ experience conducting Joint Commission Life Safety and Environment of Care audits and surveys (at the hospital level).
NFPA Certified Fire Prevention Inspector Certification

Responsibilities

Conduct and document Joint Commission Environment of Care (EoC) and Life Safety Audits in accordance with NFPA 99, 101, and other pertinent rules and standards.
Prepare necessary reports for each assigned Joint Commission Accredited License facilities.
Assist in the development of schedules for contract testing/maintenance and verify and coordinate for approval all invoices for services received.
Participate in the inspection, maintenance, and testing of automatic and/or fire alarm systems to include, but not limited to, examinations, adjustment, calibration, parts replacement and cleaning of all systems and system components.
Assist in the management of all scheduled maintenance, inspections, and tests of fire hydrants, sprinklers and standpipes located throughout the University and Health System to include water flow tests, pressure tests, and general maintenance to ensure reliability of equipment in an emergency situation.
Maintain automated records of inspections on fire extinguishers, alarm systems, and related safety equipment.
Conduct fire drills, fire detection/suppression testing to ensure fire safety proficiency in the Joint Commission and University environments.
Assist Fire and Life Safety Division management in implementing general fire prevention policies and measures in accordance with all Federal, State, Local, and Joint Commission EoC and Life Safety standards.
Assist in the development and conduct training courses for employees and students in fire prevention and emergency procedures, fire extinguisher selection/use and other topics promoting fire and general life safety.
Determine fiscal requirements and provide budgetary recommendations for fire safety equipment to include fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and other fire alarm/system equipment.
Conduct general inspections of facilities to detect existing or potential fire hazards. Take appropriate actions to mitigate hazards ensuring compliance with specific codes, regulations and standards.
Review construction plans and documents for new construction, major renovations, and occupancy changes.
Perform administrative functions to include preparing correspondence, filing reports and records, electronic file plans and other administrative duties as directed by the Fire Safety Division Director.
Prepare appropriate reports and track hazard abatement process through close-out.
Attend meetings as determined necessary and serve as the OESO Fire and Life Safety liaison providing input and guidance.
Conduct Community Based Fire and Life Safety Surveillance at special events and in the event of emergency evacuation, implement evacuation procedures IAW local policies and directives.