In this episode of the cityCURRENT Show, Andrew Bartolotta sits down with Rob Baughman of Ironsmith Fire to break down one of the most overlooked — yet critical — aspects of running a business: fire protection and safety compliance.

From sprinkler systems and fire pumps to inspections and NFPA regulations, fire protection is more complex than many business owners realize — and missing key requirements can lead to costly surprises, failed inspections, or even serious safety risks.

In this conversation, we cover:

• What fire protection really includes beyond alarms and sprinklers

• Key requirements for commercial buildings and business owners

• What to look for before buying or leasing a property

• How building use changes can impact fire code compliance

• What annual inspections actually involve — and why they matter

• Common mistakes business owners make when it comes to fire safety

Rob also shares insights on building trust in a relationship-driven industry, growing a service-based business, and balancing the technical side of work with creativity and personal passions.

Whether you’re a business owner, property manager, or entrepreneur, this episode offers practical, real-world guidance to help you protect your building, your team, and your investment.

To learn more, visit ironsmithfire.com or connect with Rob Baughman online.