Introduction

Running a shop in Tamil Nadu?Not only is fire safety compliance required by law, but it’s also a vital duty that safeguards your assets, staff, and clients. As fire incidents continue to pose serious threats to commercial spaces, the Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services (TNFRS) has outlined specific regulations that all shop owners must follow.

1.Obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for fire safety

Before starting operations, every commercial shop in Tamil Nadu must obtain a Fire Safety NOC from the local fire department. This certificate confirms that your premises comply with basic fire safety norms, including exit routes, extinguisher placements, and equipment readiness.

Tip: Qstores can assist you with compliant equipment required for obtaining your NOC.

2.Install the Right Fire Extinguishers Based on Risk Type

Using the wrong extinguisher might make a fire worse. Tamil Nadu regulations specify appropriate extinguisher types based on fire risks:

ABC Type – For wood, paper, electrical, and flammable liquid fires.

CO₂ Type – Ideal for electrical and electronic fires.

K-Class – Mandatory for kitchens using oils and fats.

Pro Tip: All extinguishers should have BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) approval.

3.Conduct Regular Fire Extinguisher Servicing & Refills

Fire extinguishers are not “install and forget.” They must be:

Serviced every 6 months

Refilled immediately after use

Checked for pressure and nozzle condition

Neglecting maintenance is a direct violation of Tamil Nadu’s safety norms and can attract penalties.

4.Ensure Emergency Exits Are Clearly Marked & Unobstructed

Shops must have clearly visible emergency exit signs with battery backup lighting. The pathways should be:

Unblocked at all times

Wide enough for safe evacuation

Free from storage or clutter

In case of a fire, blocked exits can lead to loss of life — something no owner should risk.

5.Train Staff in Basic Fire Safety & Equipment Use

As per state fire safety guidelines, business owners must train their employees in:

Operating fire extinguishers

Evacuation procedures

First aid and emergency response

Suggestion: Host quarterly drills or contact Qstores for staff training programs.

6.Install Smoke Detectors and Fire Alarms

Every shop, especially those in malls or crowded areas, must have functioning:

Smoke detectors

Heat sensors

Manual alarm systems

Early detection saves lives — and Tamil Nadu’s updated 2025 regulations make this mandatory in all commercial properties over 500 sq. ft.

7.Maintain a Fire Safety Logbook

A fire safety logbook helps track:

Equipment servicing dates

Staff training sessions

Safety audits and inspections

Tamil Nadu’s fire authorities may request your logbook during inspections. A missing or incomplete log may lead to penalties.

Conclusions

Fire safety is an essential layer of protection for your livelihood, not just a formality. By following these seven essential rules, you not only stay compliant with Tamil Nadu’s 2025 fire safety regulations, but also ensure the well-being of your employees, customers, and shop property.

Looking for BIS-approved fire safety equipment in Tiruppur?
👉 Visit Qstores – Tiruppur’s No.1 Fire & Industrial Safety Store.