The Inspector and AI: Working Together, Not Competing

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly becoming part of everyday life.

From assisting in drafting documents and analysing information to managing data and improving efficiency, AI is now being used across a wide range of industries. The fire safety sector is no exception.

As with any new technology, opinions vary. Some view AI as an opportunity. Others remain sceptical. Many are concerned that technology may eventually replace professional judgement and experience.

In reality, the relationship between inspectors and AI should not be viewed as a competition.

It should be viewed as a partnership.

The Role of the Inspector

A fire door inspection involves far more than recording measurements and identifying defects.

Inspectors are required to assess evidence, understand context, recognise limitations, apply judgement and communicate findings clearly to clients.

These responsibilities cannot be delegated entirely to software or automated systems.

Professional judgement remains fundamental to the inspection process.

What AI Does Well

Artificial Intelligence can process large amounts of information quickly and consistently.

When used appropriately, AI can assist with:

• Report drafting

• Data analysis

• Information organisation

• Consistency checking

• Identifying trends and patterns

• Producing summaries and supporting documentation

These capabilities can significantly reduce administrative workloads and improve efficiency.

What AI Cannot Do

Whilst AI can assist with information processing, it cannot physically inspect a door.

It cannot determine whether information provided is complete, accurate or representative of the circumstances encountered on site.

Most importantly, AI cannot accept professional responsibility for the conclusions reached.

The accountability for inspection findings and recommendations remains with the competent person undertaking the inspection.

Supporting Competence, Not Replacing It

The most effective use of AI is not as a replacement for competence but as a tool that supports competent people.

Technology can assist with managing information, improving consistency and reducing administrative burdens.

This allows inspectors to spend more time applying professional judgement and engaging with clients.

Used responsibly, AI has the potential to improve both efficiency and the quality of information provided.

The Importance of Verification

One of the limitations of AI is that outputs should never be accepted without review.

Information generated by AI should be verified, challenged and assessed by a competent person before being relied upon.

The principle remains simple:

Technology may assist the process.

Professional judgement remains responsible for the outcome.

Looking Forward

The use of AI within fire safety is likely to increase significantly over the coming years.

Those who embrace technology responsibly may benefit from improved efficiency, consistency and communication.

However, the future is unlikely to belong solely to technology.

It is more likely to belong to competent professionals who understand how to combine technology with experience, judgement and accountability.

A Practical Partnership

The debate should not be whether AI replaces inspectors.

The more useful question is:

"How can technology help competent people perform their role more effectively?"

When viewed in this way, AI becomes what it should be — a tool that supports competence rather than a substitute for it.

About the Author

David Smith is the Director of AF Fire Compliance Ltd and provides independent fire door inspection services throughout London, the South East and South West. He is a FireQual Certified Fire Door Inspector and an Affiliate Member of the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE), specialising in clear, proportionate and evidence-based fire door inspections to support informed decision-making.