02/19/2026

You Asked... We Answered

You Asked: When must a fire watch be initiated if the fire alarm system is down? 

We Answered: A fire watch must be implemented when a facility’s fire alarm system is out of service for more than four (4) hours within a 24-hour period, or when the automatic sprinkler system is out of service for more than ten (10) hours within a 24-hour period. Facilities are expected to have a written fire watch plan that outlines staff responsibilities, monitoring frequency, documentation expectations, and notification procedures during the impairment period. The Ohio Department of Health has developed a Fire Watch Procedures Template that facilities may use as a guide when developing or revising their policy and documentation tools.