What term describes the process of reviewing building plans and specifications to determine the safety characteristics of the proposed building, typically conducted before permission is granted to begin construction?

• A. Policy
• B. Postincident Analysis
• C. Plans Review
• D. Rehabilitation

Answer: (C)

Plans review is the process of examining building plans and specifications to determine the safety characteristics of the proposed building, typically conducted before permission to begin construction is granted. This review is usually carried out by the fire prevention or building department to verify code compliance and the presence of essential life-safety features, such as proper means of egress, fire protection systems (alarms, sprinklers), fire resistance ratings, and appropriate construction details. The goal is to identify any required changes before work starts so the project can proceed safely and with fewer costly revisions later.

Policies describe general guidelines or rules, not a specific review of a particular building’s safety features. Postincident analysis happens after a fire or other incident to learn from what occurred. Rehabilitation refers to restoring or improving a facility or addressing needs after an incident or during response activities.