FDNY Promotes 35 Fire Inspectors

November 30, 2016

On Wednesday, November 30th, First Deputy Commissioner Robert R. Turner II presided at the promotion of 35 FDNY Fire Inspectors at FDNY Headquarters in Brooklyn.
 
“The work of Fire Inspectors is critical to FDNY’s operations to keep New Yorkers safe,” said Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro. “Their scope of work of inspecting buildings, schools, restaurants, and small businesses has been instrumental in driving fire deaths to historic lows, protecting the communities we serve.”

Commissioner Turner praised the newly promoted Fire Inspectors, adding, “Alarm systems, sprinkler systems, fire escapes, range hoods, these are aspects of safety that so many people in our city may take for granted, but it’s because of each of you  and all those you supervise that they work so efficiently.”

The Bureau of Fire Prevention’s more than 250 Inspectors are extensively trained in inspection oversight and reporting. They are tasked with preventing fire conditions by enforcing the Fire Code and inspecting buildings, schools, and construction sites. The newly promoted members will be assigned to units throughout the FDNY Bureau of Fire Prevention and will inspect locations throughout the city.
 
“As a Chief Inspector, I am tasked with managing the Department’s High-Rise Unit. We administer on-site tests to building’s safety directors to ensure they have efficient plans in place,” FDNY Chief Inspector Fitzroy Benjamin. “Should there be a fire, biological event, chemical leak or even a non-fire emergency such as an active shooter, that person is required to have an action plan in place for the safe evacuation of the building occupants. It is a privilege that the Department entrusts me in making sure that fire and safety requirements are met, which saves lives.”
 
Chief of Department James E. Leonard commended the commitment of Fire Inspectors in continuing FDNY’s importance on fire and safety education. “Today, when our Fire Inspectors make sure there are adequate exits to buildings and that sprinkler and alarm systems function properly, you’re upholding a tradition of safety and prevention that spans more than a century,” said  Chief Leonard.

Michael Berolatti was promoted to FDNY Supervising Inspector Level II. Inspector Berolatti highlighted the essential role Fire Inspectors play as they are trained to educate and protect New Yorkers and the City’s nearly 60 million visitors.

“This job is a great opportunity to be involved with the public, and to ensure safety by enforcing the fire code and Fire Department rules,” said Inspector Berolatti. “It’s especially important in New York City, because there are so many people visiting from outside the city.”
FDNY Supervising Inspector Level I Dwayne Hoyte underscored the importance of mentoring, and relaying training knowledge to oncoming FDNY Fire Inspectors. He also added, “our job is so important because there are minor things that people take for granted that can lead to big issues, for example any holes in the ceiling of a boiler room could cause carbon monoxide to spread throughout the building if there is a leak.”

“Some people say this is a strenuous job but I enjoy it a lot. Our mission is preserving life and ensuring the safety of the citizens of New York,” said Inspector Hoyte.

For pictures of the promotion, click here.