450-RICR-00-00-8
450-RICR-00-00-8. RI Life Safety Code (version Technical Revision, 01/01/2013 to 02/25/2019)
8.1 INTRODUCTION
Pursuant to R.I. Public Laws
Chapter 12-337, the Life Safety Code of the National Fire Protection
Association, Inc., Standard 101 (NFPA 101), 2012 edition, with
annexes, except those portions specifically reserved, deleted,
altered, added to, or otherwise amended as outlined in § 1.85 of
this Part herein, and including all of the specific amendments to
Standard 101, as outlined in section 8 herein, is hereby adopted by
reference as the Rhode Island Life Safety Code. Copies of NFPA 101,
2012 edition, are available from the National Fire Protection
Association, 1 Batterymarch Park, P.O. Box 9101, Quincy,
Massachusetts 02269-9101. The National Fire Protection Association’s
telephone number is 1-800-344-3555. Copies of NFPA 101, 2012 edition,
have also been made available to state-operated libraries in Rhode
Island.
Electronic copies of the
reservations, deletions, alterations, additions and other amendments
to this code, also known as the Rhode Island Fire Code Section 8,
will be initially made available on the Fire Board’s website at
http://www.fsc.ri.gov/. Copies shall subsequently be available
from LexisNexis/Matthew Bender & Co., 1275 Broadway, Albany, N.Y.
12204-2694. The LexisNexis telephone number is 1-800-446-3410.
The State Fire Marshal is the
sole authority having jurisdiction for the strict enforcement of the
Rhode Island Life Safety Code. The Fire Safety Code Board of Appeal &
Review is the sole authority having jurisdiction for administration
of the Rhode Island Life Safety Code.
Except as outlined below, the
Fire Safety Code Board of Appeal & Review is the sole authority
having jurisdiction to grant variances, waivers and amendments from,
or to review and accept any proposed fire safety equivalencies and
alternatives to, the strict adherence to the provisions of the Rhode
Island Life Safety Code and all referenced standards therein.
Notwithstanding the above, the State Fire Marshal and his or her
designees are hereby authorized to approve dimensional relief within
the egress systems of any existing building in accordance with NFPA
101 and its annexes. Such dimensional relief shall be known as “AHJ
modifications”. All “AHJ modifications” must be in writing and
submitted to the State Fire Marshal's Office for recording. Once
recorded by the State Fire Marshal's Office, the “AHJ modification”
shall remain as permanent relief for the building as long as the use
and/or occupancy of the building remains the same. Any change of use
and/or occupancy shall subject the building to review under the
relevant codes and reconsideration of the “AHJ modification” in
light of the new use or occupancy.
For the purposes of uniform
administration, and with the exception of “AHJ Modifications” as
outlined above, all other exceptions listed in the Rhode Island Life
Safety Code and its referenced standards, allowing for a
discretionary waiver by the authority having jurisdiction, shall be
referred directly to the Fire Safety Code Board of Appeal &
Review as outlined in Fire Safety Code section 6-1-1 et seq. The only
official formal and binding interpretations of the provisions of the
Rhode Island Life Safety Code and its referenced standards are those
approved and published by the Fire Safety Code Board of Appeal &
Review pursuant to the procedures outlined in Fire Safety Code
Section 6-1-3 et seq.
All new buildings and
structures, for which a building permit was issued on or after
January 1, 2013, shall be subject to the provisions of the Rhode
Island Life Safety Code addressing the new occupancy unless this
requirement is specifically modified by the issuance of a blanket
variance by the Fire Safety Code Board of Appeal & Review to
allow a grace period for plans, submitted after the above date, to be
reviewed under the prior Code.
All existing buildings and
structures, and those buildings and structures for which a building
permit was issued prior to January 1, 2013, shall be subject to the
provisions of the Rhode Island Life Safety Code addressing the
existing occupancy.
Any existing building or
structure, subject to the provisions of the Rehabilitation Building
and Fire Code for existing Buildings and Structures, shall also
comply with the existing occupancy provisions of the Rhode Island
Life Safety Code addressing the current or proposed occupancy.
All existing required
protection systems, such as sprinklers, fire alarms, emergency
lighting and exit signs, installed in existing buildings, shall
continue to be properly maintained. Non-required systems shall either
be maintained, have the devices removed, or marked, to the
satisfaction of the AHJ, so as to notify the public as the absence of
these systems. Prior to the removal or marking of any non-required
system, the system’s owner must first comply with the procedures
outlined in Section 4.6.12.2.1 of this Code. The above marking of any
de-activated system shall be at the direction and to the satisfaction
of the State Fire Marshal or his or her designee
The effective date of the
“Rhode Island Life Safety Code” is January 1, 2013. The
provisions of NFPA 101, 2012 edition, as amended and referenced
below, and incorporated herein as the “Rhode Island Life Safety
Code”, shall be preceded by the acronym “RILSC”. All of the
remaining provisions of NFPA 101, 2012 edition, adopted as the “Rhode
Island Life Safety Code”, but not specifically addressed below,
shall likewise be identified by the acronym “RILSC” preceding it.
(Accordingly, “Chapter 1” below would be identified as “RILSC
1”. Likewise, “Section 1.1.2” below would be identified as “as
RILSC 1.1.2”.)
8.1.1 CHAPTER
1 - ADMINISTRATION
1.1 Scope
(Amd) 1.1.1 Title.
The Title of this code
shall be known as the “Rhode Island Life Safety Code”, is cited
as such, and shall be referred to herein as “this Code” or “the
Code”.
(Add) 1.1.1.2 Relationship
to other fire codes.
The “Rhode Island Life
Safety Code” (NFPA 101, 2012 Edition, as amended) and the “Rhode
Island Fire Code” (NFPA 1, 2012 Edition, as amended) comprise the
“Rhode Island Fire Safety Code” as mandated R.I. Gen. Laws
Chapter 12-337.
The “Rhode Island Life
Safety Code” is the major component of the “Rhode Island Fire
Safety Code” which includes all other statutory mandates found in
R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 23-28 along with any additional rules and
regulations adopted, by the Fire Safety Code Board of Appeal and
Review, pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 23-28.3-3 and 23-28.1-2.
1.3 Application
(Amd) 1.3.1 New and
Existing Buildings and Structures.
The Code shall apply to both
new construction and existing buildings and structures. All new
buildings and structures, for which a building permit was issued on
or after January 1, 2013, shall be subject to the provisions of Rhode
Island Fire Safety Code addressing the new occupancy. All existing
buildings and structures, and those buildings and structures for
which a building permit was issued prior to January 1, 2013, shall be
subject to the provisions of the Rhode Island Fire Safety Code
addressing the existing occupancy. Any existing building or
structure, subject to the provisions of the Rehabilitation Building
and Fire Code for Existing Buildings and Structures, shall also
comply with the existing occupancy provisions of the Rhode Island
Fire Safety Code addressing the current or proposed occupancy. All
active fire protection systems, such as sprinklers, fire alarms,
emergency lighting and exit signs, installed in existing buildings
shall be properly maintained.
(Amd) 1.4
Nothing in this Code is
intended to prevent the use of systems, methods, or devices of
equivalent or superior quality, strength, fire resistance,
effectiveness, durability, and safety over those prescribed by this
code provided that any proposed equivalent systems, methods and
devices are first approved by the Fire Safety Code Board of Appeal &
Review.
(Amd) 1.4.2 Approval.
The system, method, or device
shall be approved for the intended purpose by the Fire Safety Code
Board of Appeal & Review.
(Amd) 1.4.3 Equivalent
Compliance.
Alternative systems, methods,
or devices approved as equivalent by the Fire Safety Code Board of
Appeal & Review shall be recognized as being in compliance with
this code.
(Amd) 1.6 Enforcement and
Administration.
(Add) 1.6.1 Enforcement.
The State Fire Marshal is the
sole authority having jurisdiction for the strict enforcement of the
provisions of this Code. The State Fire Marshal shall have authority
to appoint and certify as many deputy state fire marshals and
assistant deputy state fire marshals as are deemed necessary to
strictly enforce the provisions of this Code. All such deputy state
fire marshals and assistant deputy state fire marshals maintain their
certification at the pleasure of the State Fire Marshal. Accordingly,
all deputy state fire marshals and assistant deputy state fire
marshals shall be allowed to enforce this code as long as they
maintain their certification in the above positions by the State Fire
Marshal.
(Add)
1.6.1.1 Modifications.
The
State Fire Marshal and his or her designees are hereby authorized to
approve dimensional relief within the egress systems of any existing
building in accordance with NFPA 101 and its annexes. Such
dimensional relief shall be known as “AHJ modifications”. All
“AHJ modifications” must be in writing and submitted to the State
Fire Marshal's Office for approval and recording. Once approved and
recorded by the State Fire Marshal's Office, the “AHJ modification”
shall remain as permanent relief for the building as long as the use
and/or occupancy of the building remains the same. Any change of use
and/or occupancy shall subject the building to review under the
relevant codes and reconsideration of the “AHJ modification” in
light of the new use or occupancy.
(Add) 1.6.2 Administration.
The Fire Safety Code Board of
Appeal & Review is the sole authority having jurisdiction for
administration of this Code. Accordingly, the Fire Safety Code Board
of Appeal & Review is the sole authority having jurisdiction to
grant variances, waivers and amendments from, or to review and accept
any proposed fire safety equivalencies and alternatives to, the
strict adherence to the provisions of this Code and all referenced
standards herein. For purposes of uniform administration, all
exceptions listed in this Code, and its referenced standards,
allowing for a discretionary waiver by the authority having
jurisdiction, shall be referred directly to the Fire Safety Code
Board of Appeal & Review as outlined in Fire Safety Code Section
6-1-1 et seq .
(Add)
1.6.2.1
Procedures,
adopted by the Fire Safety Code Board of Appeal & Review,
addressing administrative appeals, are outlined in Fire Safety Code
sections 6-1-1 through 6-1-12.
(Add)
1.6.2.2
Procedures,
adopted by the Fire Safety Code Board of Appeal & Review,
addressing administrative hearings and court appeals, are outlined in
Fire Safety Code sections 6-2-1 through 6-2-25.
(Add)
1.6.2.3
Procedures,
adopted by the Fire Safety Code Board of Appeal & Review,
addressing the Board’s rule making authority, are outlined in Fire
Safety Code sections 6-3-1 through 6-3-5.
(Add)
1.6.2.4
Procedures,
adopted by the Fire Safety Code Board of Appeal & Review,
addressing code interpretation by the board, are outlined in Fire
Safety Code 6-4-1 through 6-4-6.
(Add) 1.6.3
Police and other enforcement
agencies shall have authority to render necessary assistance in the
enforcement of this Code when expressly requested to do so by the
State Fire Marshal.
(Add) 1.6.4
The State Fire Marshal may
delegate to other qualified individuals such powers as are necessary
for the proper enforcement of the Code. The Fire Safety Code Board of
Appeal & Review may delegate to its appointed staff such powers
as are necessary for the proper administration of this Code.
(Add) 1.6.5
The State Fire Marshal is
authorized to inspect, at all reasonable times, any building or
premises for dangerous or hazardous conditions or materials as set
forth in this Code and the general provisions of the Fire Safety
Code. The State Fire Marshal may order any person(s) to remove or
remedy such dangerous or hazardous condition or material. Any
person(s) failing to comply with such an order shall be in violation
of the Fire Safety Code. Any person so charged with a violation of
this Code shall have the right to appeal the order of the State Fire
Marshal to the Fire Safety Code Board of Appeal & Review. An
appeal shall automatically stay the State Fire Marshal’s order.
However, where the State Fire Marshal, or his or her designee,
advises that such an automatic stay would endanger the public and/or
the owner’s tenants or employees, the chairperson of the board, or
his or her designee, may, for such good cause shown, suspend the
automatic stay of the State Fire Marshal's order pending review by
the full board.
(Add) 1.6.6. Abatement.
The State Fire Marshal, or
his or her designee within the division, or an assistant deputy state
fire marshal in accordance with the guidelines established by the
State Fire Marshal, has the authority to summarily abate any
condition which presents immediate danger to life. The conditions
that present an “immediate danger to life” are outlined under the
definition of “abatement or to abate a condition” found in fire
safety code section 4. A failure to abate a condition that presents a
clear and immediate danger to life shall be grounds for the person
issuing the order to abate, to require that the premises be vacated.
Any such order to vacate the premises shall be either approved in
writing by the State Fire Marshal or a designee of the State Fire
Marshal who has been given advanced written authority by the State
Fire Marshal to approve such actions.
(Add) 1.7
When a conflict between the
language of the original 2012 Edition of NFPA 101-Life Safety Code
and any specific Rhode Island amendment occurs, the conflict shall
initially be resolved by the Office of the State Fire Marshal.
8.1.2 CHAPTER
2 - REFERENCED PUBLICATIONS
8.1.3 CHAPTER
3 - DEFINITIONS
(Amd) 3.3.36.3 Apartment
Building.
A building or portion
thereof containing four or more dwelling units with independent
cooking and bathroom facilities.
(Add) 3.4 Rhode Island
Specific Definitions
(Add) 3.4.1 Abatement or to
Abate a condition: Abatement, or to abate a condition, is the
reduction, decrease, or diminution of a hazardous condition that
presents immediate danger to life. The term "immediate"
denotes that action is or must be taken either instantly or without
any considerable loss of time. The condition may be singular or may
be a set of conditions that in combination present an “immediate
danger to life”. Such conditions, that present an “immediate
danger to life”, shall include improper management or use of
flammable and combustible materials, liquids and gases, pyrotechnics,
fireworks or explosives, malfunctioning automatic sprinklers, fire
alarms and emergency lighting, malfunctioning heating and electrical
systems, blocked or inadequate exits or means of egress, the
overcrowding of assembly occupancies and such other conditions as may
be established by the Fire Safety Code Board of Appeal and Review.
(Add) 3.4.2 Adult Day-Care. A
building or portion thereof used for less than 24 hours per day to
house more than three adults requiring supportive care, maintenance,
and supervision by other than their relatives.
(Add) 3.4.3 Authority Having
Jurisdiction (Enforcement). Unless specifically defined to the
contrary in this code, the authority having jurisdiction for the
enforcement of this code shall be the state fire marshal. The state
fire marshal may delegate this enforcement authority to any deputy
state fire marshal or assistant deputy state fire marshal that he or
she certifies and appoints pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-28.2-1 et
seq . However, as a condition of their continued certification,
all such appointed deputy state fire marshals and assistant deputy
state fire marshals shall apply the code, consistently and uniformly
across the state, under the guidance of the state fire marshal.
(Add) 3.4.4 Bed and Breakfast
Home.: An owner and/or innkeeper occupied building that provides
sleeping accommodations for up to sixteen (16) guests. Every “Bed
and Breakfast Home” must further have originated as a private home
and must have at least 300 square feet of common space (i.e., dining
room, living room, etc.) for guest use, and must further provide
breakfast. Finally, the owner and/or innkeeper must occupy the
building twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, while guests are
utilizing the facility. The owner and/or innkeeper of the Bed and
Breakfast Home shall have a plan of action, approved by the local
official, to assure the safety of the guests in the event the owner
or innkeeper is required to temporarily leave the facility
unsupervised for limited periods during the day.
(Add) 3.4.5 Certificate of
Occupancy.: After the building official inspects the building or
structure and, after consultation with the AHJ enforcing the
provisions of this code, finds no violations of the provisions of
this code or other laws that are enforced by the department of
building safety, the building official issues an official document
known as a “certificate of occupancy” that generally contains the
following:
1. The
building permit number.
2. The
address of the structure.
3. The
name and address of the owner.
4. A
description of that portion of the structure for which the
certificate is issued.
5. A
statement that the described portion of the structure has been
inspected for compliance with the requirements of this code for the
occupancy and division of occupancy and the use for which the
proposed occupancy is classified.
6. The
name of the building official.
7. The
edition of the code under which the permit was issued.
8. The
use and occupancy, in accordance with the provisions of the State
Building Code.
9. The
type of construction as defined in the State Building Code.
10. The
design occupant load.
11. If
an automatic sprinkler system is provided, whether the sprinkler
system is required.
12. Any
special stipulations and conditions of the building permit.
(Add) 3.4.6 Citation System:
A system of enforcement outlined in R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-28.2-14.
(Add) 3.4.7 Code: The term
"code" means this Fire Safety Code established under the
provisions of R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-28.1-1.
(Add) 3.4.8 Compliance Order:
For the purposes of this Code, a compliance order is defined as a
command or direction authoritatively given to a building owner or
occupant to provide conformance with the Fire Safety Code. A
compliance order takes effect when a building owner or occupant,
after proper notice, has exhausted his/her administrative appeals or
has failed to avail himself/herself of appropriate administrative
appeals within a reasonable period of time after receiving proper
notice.
(Add) 3.4.9 Emergency Shelter
Occupancy: An occupancy or portion thereof used on a temporary
basis to provide sleeping accommodations for transient or displaced
individuals who have no other shelter arrangements during periods of
severe weather or during the aftermath of a natural or man-made
disaster.
(Add) 3.4.10 Family Day Care
Home: The term "family day care home" means any home other
than the child's home in which child day care in lieu of parental
care and/or supervision is offered at the same time to at least four
(4) but not more than eight (8) children who are not relatives of the
care giver, and which is licensed by the state department of
children, youth, and families and subject to the department's
regulations.
(Add) 3.4.11 Funeral
Establishment: An assembly occupancy, as defined by R.I. Gen. Laws §
5-33.2-1(11) as a “fixed place, establishment or premises, licensed
by the department of health, devoted to the activities which are
incident, convenient, or related to the care and preparation,
arrangement, financial and otherwise, for the funeral,
transportation, burial or other disposition of human bodies and
including, but not limited to, a suitable room with all instruments
and supplies used for the storage and/or preparation of dead human
bodies for burial or other disposition”.
(Add) 3.4.12 Organized Dining
Facility: A place of public accommodation which is characterized as a
facility where private events are held and where the primary source
of revenue, in general, is derived from rental charges for use of the
facility and service of food. Such a facility shall not provide for
cover charges or have as a primary attraction any event where
entertainment is provided by a live band or recorded music. Such a
facility primarily provides for organized banquets, private parties,
fund raisers, wedding receptions, ceremonial events and the like.
(Add) 3.4.13 Nightclub: A
place of public accommodation, which in general is characterized by
all of the following:
1. Provides
entertainment by a live band or recorded music generating above
normal sound levels.
2. Has
as its primary source of revenue, in general, the sale of beverages
of any kind for consumption on the premises and/or cover charges.
Food, if served, is considered a secondary attraction.
3. Has
an occupant load in total or in any single area or room of at least
100 patrons.
Nothing in this definition
shall be construed to include any place of public accommodation or
any event within a place of public accommodation, which is in its
nature distinctly private.
(Add) 3.4.14 Place of
Worship: A building or structure, or an area thereof, the occupancy
of which is for the religious rites and services and communal
functions of a congregation, and which shall include sanctuaries,
gathering halls, meeting rooms and offices and related facilities of
the congregation, which may be located in the same, in connected, or
in proximate structures.
(Add) 3.4.15 Suspended
Ceiling: A ceiling system consisting of a grid of channels or
“T-bars” suspended from the structure above for readily removable
acoustical tiles or lay- in panels.
(Add) 3.4.16 Temporary
Certificate of Occupancy: The building official may issue a temporary
certificate of occupancy before the completion of the entire work
covered by the permit, provided that such portion or portions shall
be occupied safely. The building official shall set a time period
during which the temporary certificate of occupancy is valid.
(Add) 3.4.17 Three Family
Apartment Building.
A building or portion thereof
containing three dwelling units with independent cooking and bathroom
facilities. This code shall provide reasonable standards for the
installation of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in three family
apartment buildings.
8.1.4 CHAPTER
4 - General
(Add) 4.6.9.3
The Authority Having
Jurisdiction (AHJ) for the enforcement of this code may approve the
issuance of a temporary certificate of occupancy (TCO) by the
building official provided the major life safety systems (sprinkler,
fire alarm, approved egress system, etc.) are operational in the
area of the building to be so occupied. The AHJ is further
authorized to require any additional safeguards he or she deems
necessary to ensure the life safety of the temporary occupants.
(Add) 4.6.12.2.1 Existing
fire protection systems, or portions thereof, shall only be removed
in accordance with the following procedure:
1. The building owner shall
request that the State Fire Marshal or local AHJ conduct a full
inspection of the facility to determine whether the fire protection
system is currently required and if there are any other fire code
deficiencies in the subject facility. All such deficiencies must be
corrected before removing or modifying the fire protection system.
2. The State Fire Marshal or
the local AHJ conducting the full inspection shall further advise
the owner if any variances, previously granted, would be voided in
the absence of the fire protection system. If such variances were
granted, the owner must either correct the underlying deficiencies,
or secure additional relief from the Fire Board, before removing or
modifying the fire protection system.
8.1.5 CHAPTER
5 - PERFORMANCE-BASED OPTIONS
(No Modifications)
8.1.6 CHAPTER
6 - CLASSIFICATION OF OCCUPANCY AND HAZARD OF CONTENTS
(Add) 6.1.14.4.5
Sections
6.1.14.4.1 through 6.1.14.4.4 above shall not be construed as to
require that any or all occupancies be separated. These sections
simply establish the separation requirements necessary if a building
owner chooses to have a portion of the building not comply with the
most restrictive requirements of the occupancies involved. All
non-separated occupancies are mixed occupancies, as defined in
section 6.1.14.2.2, and must comply with the provisions of this code
covering mixed occupancies.
8.1.7 CHAPTER
7 - MEANS OF EGRESS
(Add) 7.2.8.9 Maintenance
(Add) 7.2.8.9.1 All fire
escape stairs shall be maintained in good physical repair and remain
useable at all times.
(Add) 7.2.8.9.2 Maintenance
of fire escape stairs shall include:
1. Exit
access shall remain clear and unobstructed at all times.
2. All
moving parts shall remain operable at all times.
3. All
structural members including landings, railings, stair components,
handrails, guards, and support or mounting components shall be free
of rust and corrosion.
4. All
surfaces subject to corrosion shall be painted.
(Add) 7.2.8.9.3 Fire escape
stairs that are not properly maintained and show signs of structural
instability shall be repaired prior to continued use. All repairs
shall be inspected by a person or firm acceptable to the State Fire
Marshal.
(Add) 7.2.9.4 Maintenance
(Add) 7.2.9.4.1 All fire
escape ladders shall be maintained in good physical repair and remain
useable at all times.
(Add) 7.2.9.4.2 Maintenance
of fire escape ladders shall include:
1. Exit
access shall remain clear and unobstructed at all times.
2. All
moving parts shall remain operable at all times.
3. All
structural members including landings, railings, stair components,
handrails, guards, and support or mounting components shall be free
of rust and corrosion.
4. All
surfaces subject to corrosion shall be painted.
(Add) 7.2.9.4.3 Fire escape
ladders that are not properly maintained and show signs of structural
instability shall be repaired prior to continued use. All repairs
shall be inspected by a person or firm acceptable to the State Fire
Marshal.
8.1.8 CHAPTER
8 - FEATURES OF FIRE PROTECTION
(No Modifications)
8.1.9 CHAPTER
9 - BUILDING SERVICE AND FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT
(Amd) 9.1.3.2
New generator controllers
shall be monitored by the fire alarm system, where provided, or at an
attended location approved by the AHJ, for the following conditions:
1. Generator running
2. Generator fault
3. Generator switch in
non-automatic position
Exception: A generator remote
annunciator may be installed adjacent to the fire alarm control panel
or fire alarm remote annunciator with the approval of the AHJ to
satisfy this requirement.
(Add) 9.1.3.3 Where a
building fire alarm system is provided, existing emergency generators
shall be monitored by the fire alarm system for generator running.
Exception: A generator remote
annunciator may be installed adjacent to the fire alarm control panel
or fire alarm remote annunciator with the approval of the AHJ to
satisfy this requirement.
(Add) 9.2.4.5 Where a
building fire alarm system is provided, it shall be interconnected to
the building’s heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC)
line voltage controls so that the fan(s) supplying 2,000 ft³/min.
(cfm) (56.63 m³/min.) or greater capacity of any ventilating system
not used for pressurization of a fire safe area shall automatically
shut down any time, other than drills or when testing, that any
initiating device connected to the fire alarm system is activated as
provided in 9.6.5.2 (6).
(Add) 9.2.4.6 The
requirements of 9.2.4.5 may be omitted in areas where shut down may
interfere with clean room operations, temperature controlled
environments protecting sensitive equipment, or other building
operations as approved by the authority having jurisdiction.
(Amd) 9.4.2.1
Except as modified herein,
new elevators, escalators, dumbwaiters, and moving walks shall be in
accordance with the requirements of ASME A17.1/CSA B44, Safety Code
for Elevators and Escalators and the Rhode Island Elevator Safety
Code.
(Amd) 9.4.2.2
Except as modified herein,
existing elevators, escalators, dumbwaiters, and moving walks shall
conform to the requirements of ASME A17.3, Safety Code for Existing
Elevators and Escalators and the Rhode Island Elevator Safety Code.
(Amd) 9.4.2.3
Elevators in accordance
with ASME A17.1/CSA B44.7, Performance-Based Safety Code for
Elevators and Escalators, shall be deemed to comply with ASME
A17.1/CSA B44, Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators, or ASME
A17.3, Safety Code for Existing Elevators and Escalators and the
Rhode Island Elevator Safety Code.
(Amd) 9.4.3.2
All existing elevators
shall conform to the Fire Fighters’ Emergency Operations
requirements of ASME A17.3, Safety Code for Existing Elevators and
Escalators and the Rhode Island Elevator Safety Code.
(Amd) 9.4.6.1
Elevators shall be subject
to periodic inspections and tests as specified in ASME A17.1/CSA B44,
Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators and the Rhode Island
Elevator Safety Code.
(Amd) 9.4.6.2
All elevators equipped with
fire fighters’ emergency operations in accordance with 9.4.3 shall
be subject to a monthly operation with a written record of the
findings made and kept on the premises as required by ASME A17.1/CSA
B44, Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators and the Rhode Island
Elevator Safety Code.
(Amd) 9.4.6.3 The elevator
inspections and tests required by 9.4.6.1 shall be performed at
frequencies complying with the Rhode Island Elevator Safety Code.
(Add) 9.6.1.1.1
The Authority having
jurisdiction (AHJ), for the purpose of enforcing the Rhode Island
Life Safety Code, Section 9.6 shall be the state fire marshal or his
or her designee and those parties certified by the state fire marshal
as prescribed by R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-28.2-6.
(Amd) 9.6.1.3*
Where required, a fire
alarm system shall be installed, tested, and maintained in accordance
with the applicable requirements of this Chapter, NFPA 70, National
Electrical Code, and NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code.
Any conflicts between the provisions of this Chapter, as amended and
NFPA 72 shall be resolved in favor of the provisions of this chapter
as determined by the State Fire Marshal.
(Amd) 9.6.1.4
All systems and components
shall be approved for the purpose for which they are installed, and
listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.
(Amd) 9.6.1.6 Where a
required fire alarm system is out of service for more than 4 hours in
a 24-hour period for repair, maintenance or testing, the authority
having jurisdiction shall be notified, and the building shall be
evacuated, or an approved fire watch shall be provided for all
parties left unprotected by the shutdown, until the fire alarm system
has been returned to service.
(Add) 9.6.1.6.1 With the
written approval of, and subject to any additional safeguards
mandated by the AHJ, the fire alarm systems, or portions thereof may
be temporarily disabled for events or other occasions where
environmental, mechanical or human factors would lead to unnecessary
nuisance, accidental or intentional false alarms.
(Amd) 9.6.1.8.1* Automatic
smoke detection shall be installed to provide notification of fire at
the following locations:
1. Each fire alarm control
unit
2. Notification appliance
circuit power extenders
3. Supervising station
transmitting equipment
(Res.)
9.6.1.8.1.1
(Add) 9.6.2.2.1
Manual fire alarm boxes
shall be double-action, colored red, key locked and shall be keyed
the same as the fire alarm control panel unit door lock. Manual fire
alarm boxes shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 72.
(Add) 9.6.2.2.2
Manual fire alarm boxes,
new and existing, used in systems not intended for emergency forces
notification shall be marked “In case of emergency, pull handle,
then call 9-1-1”.
(Amd) 9.6.2.8 Where a
sprinkler system provides automatic detection and alarm system
initiation, it shall be provided with an approved alarm initiation
device that operates within 90 seconds when the flow of water is
equal to or greater than that from a single automatic sprinkler.
(Amd) 9.6.2.9 Where a total
(complete) coverage fire alarm system is required by another section
of this Code, automatic detection shall be provided as follows:
1. Automatic detection shall
be located in all areas of the building as required by NFPA 72,
National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, for total (complete)
coverage;
2. The detection required by
9.6.2.9 (1) shall include automatic smoke detectors in all common
corridors, top of all stairwells, stairwell landings at each floor
level, elevator machine rooms and machine spaces, and all elevator
landings; and
3. Areas of the building not
identified in 9.6.2.9 (2), but requiring detection based on 9.6.2.9
(1), shall be permitted to be protected by automatic heat detectors
or an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system.
(Amd) 9.6.2.11 Where
required by Chapters 11 through 43, an automatic fire detection
system for initiation of the signaling system shall be provided in
accordance with all of the following:
(add) (1) Smoke detectors
installed in accordance with NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and
Signaling Code, shall be provided in all common corridors, lobbies,
top of all stairwells, stairwell landings at each floor level,
elevator machine rooms and machine spaces, and all elevator landings.
(add) (2) Combination rate
of rise and one hundred thirty-five degrees (135º) F to one hundred
forty degrees (140º) F fixed temperature heat detectors installed
in accordance with NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code,
shall be provided in kitchens within dwelling units, storage rooms
greater than 24 square feet, utility rooms, electrical rooms,
mechanical equipment rooms, maintenance shops, locker rooms,
projection booths, above stage areas, below accessible stage areas,
integral or attached garages and elevator hoistways.
(add) (3) Combination rate
of rise and one hundred thirty-five degrees (135º) F to one hundred
forty degrees (140º) F fixed temperature heat detectors installed in
accordance with NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code,
shall be provided in spaces of twenty four inches (0.61 m) or more
above suspended ceilings.
(add) (4) Automatic fixed
temperature heat detectors with a rating of one hundred ninety
degrees (190º) F to two hundred degrees (200º) F installed in
accordance with NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code,
shall be provided in kitchens with cooking equipment, boiler or
furnace rooms, common laundry rooms and accessible attics.
(Add) (5) Spaces twenty-four
inches (0.61m) or more above suspended ceilings shall be exempt from
the requirements of 9.6.2.11 (3) if the space is built of non-
combustible construction and the space contains only wiring, ductwork
and fixtures, properly installed under this Code or the State
Building Code.
(Add) 9.6.2.12
In locations where heat
detectors and/or smoke detectors are required, the type and/or
temperature rating of the heat detector or smoke detector may be
modified if the type or temperature rating of the device is
unsuitable due to environmental or structural conditions unique to
that location or where multiple nuisance alarms have occurred.
(Add) 9.6.2.13 Where a
specific temperature rating or type of heat detector is specified
elsewhere in this code, rate anticipation detectors, line-type
detectors, beam detectors or other type detectors listed for the
application may be installed where approved by the AHJ.
(Res) 9.6.3.2.1
(Amd) 9.6.3.2.2 Where
duct-type smoke detectors are installed in HVAC systems, the
duct-type smoke detectors shall be connected to the fire alarm
control unit to signal an audible and visual supervisory signal at
the fire alarm control unit and annunciator. An alarm condition shall
not occur unless specifically requested and authorized by the AHJ.
(Res) 9.6.3.2.3
(Res) 9.6.3.5.3
(Res) 9.6.3.5.4
(Amd) 9.6.3.9 Automatically
transmitted or approved live voice evacuation or relocation
instructions shall be permitted to be used to notify occupants and
shall comply with either 9.6.3.9.1 or 9.6.3.9.2.
(Amd) 9.6.3.9.1 Automatically
transmitted or approved live voice evacuation or relocation
instructions shall be in accordance with NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm
and Signaling Code
(Amd) 9.6.3.9.2* Where
permitted by Chapters 11 through 43 and subject to the approval of
the authority having jurisdiction, automatically transmitted or live
voice announcements shall be permitted to be made via a voice
communication or public address system that complies with the
following:
1. Occupant
notification, either live or recorded, shall be initiated at a
constantly attended receiving station by personnel trained to respond
to an emergency.
2. An
approved secondary power supply shall be provided for other than
existing, previously approved systems.
3. The
system shall be audible above the expected ambient noise level.
4. Emergency
announcements shall take precedence over any other use.
(Amd) RILSC 9.6.4.2 Where
emergency forces notification is required by this Code and installed
in a building in a city, town, or fire district having a municipal
alarm system, the fire alarm system within the building shall be
connected into the municipal system via a local energy master box,
auxiliary transmitter, radio master box, or other approved method so
that any fire alarm signal within the building will be automatically
transmitted to the community’s public fire service communications
center.
(Add) 9.6.4.2.1 Systems
installed in buildings in a city, town, or fire district not having a
municipal alarm system shall be connected to the community public
fire service communications center via a supervised leased telephone
line, transmitters, remote stations or other method in a manner
approved by the AHJ so that any fire alarm signal within the building
will be automatically transmitted to the community’s public fire
service communications center.
(Res) 9.6.4.3
(Add) 9.6.4.4 All fire
alarm control panels (FACP) connected to the local Public Fire Alarm
Reporting System shall be configured to restore the circuit when an
alarm signal is silenced or acknowledged.
(Add) 9.6.4.5 Multiple-zone
signaling from the protected premises shall be provided in any
jurisdiction capable of receiving multiple-zone signals and shall be
provided as required by the AHJ.
(Add) 9.6.4.6 In complexes
consisting of multiple building clusters, a single means of
connection in accordance with 9.6.4.2 may be used to accomplish
emergency forces notification provided that each building is clearly
identified visually on site in a manner approved by the AHJ (i.e.:
strobe lights, etc.)
(Amd) 9.6.5.2 Where
required by another section of this Code, the following functions
shall be actuated:
1. Release of hold-open
devices for doors or other opening protective’s
2. Stairwell or elevator shaft
pressurization
3. Smoke management or smoke
control systems
4. Unlocking of doors
5. Elevator recall and
shutdown
6. HVAC shutdown
7. Operation of exterior
horn/strobe notification appliances
(Add) 9.6.5.3 Where the
functions identified in 9.6.5.2 (5), 9.6.5.2 (6) or 9.6.5.2 (7) are
provided, they shall be actuated upon the initiation of any manual
fire alarm box, automatic fire detector or extinguishing system
operation installed within the building.
(Add) 9.6.5.4 A manual
override for each fire safety function identified in 9.6.5.2 shall be
provided at the fire alarm control unit for drills and testing of the
fire alarm system.
(Add) 9.6.7.2.1 A directory
or zone map as required by the AHJ shall be provided for every fire
alarm system. Fire alarm annunciator location shall meet the
requirements of the AHJ. The map shall be mounted in a location
deemed proper by the AHJ.
(Amd) 9.6.7.3 For the
purposes of alarm annunciation, each floor of the building shall be
considered as not less than one zone, unless otherwise permitted by
9.6.7.4.4, 9.6.7.4.6 or another section of this Code.
(Amd) 9.6.7.4.3 Where a
building is protected by an automatic sprinkler system in accordance
with 9.7.1.1 (1), any alarm originating from a sprinkler or a Class
II or Class III standpipe connection shall provide two (2) separate
indications on the system annunciator, one to indicate
“sprinkler/standpipe” and one to indicate the activated zone
(Amd) 9.6.7.4.5 Where a
building is protected by an automatic sprinkler system in accordance
with 9.7.1.1 (3), any alarm originating from a sprinkler or a Class
II or Class III standpipe connection shall provide two (2) separate
indications on the system annunciator, one to indicate
“sprinkler/standpipe” and one to indicate the activated zone
(Add) 9.6.7.4.6 Where an
existing building that is not classified as a high-rise is protected
by an existing sprinkler system in accordance with 9.7.1.1 (1) or
9.7.1.1 (3), the sprinkler system shall be permitted to be
annunciated on the fire alarm system as a single zone.
(Add) 9.6.7.6.1
Supervisory signals, including the operation of valve supervisory
switches or duct type smoke detectors, shall be permitted to
annunciate as a trouble signal on existing fire alarm systems.
(Add) 9.6.7.8 In complexes
consisting of multiple building clusters without emergency forces
notification, each building shall be clearly identified visually on
site in a manner approved by the AHJ (i.e.: strobe lights, etc.).
(Add) 9.6.8 Equipment
(Add) 9.6.8.1 The fire alarm
system owner shall provide a 24-hour emergency telephone number of
the owner or owner’s representative for the fire department to call
in the event of an alarm or trouble condition. This telephone number
shall be conspicuously posted at the fire alarm control unit.
(Add) 9.6.8.2 Where emergency
forces notification is provided in accordance with 9.6.4.2, the fire
alarm system shall be provided with a standby battery source capable
of supplying the entire system for sixty (60) hours.
(Add) 9.6.8.3 Where emergency
forces notification is not provided in accordance with 9.6.4.2, a
weather-proof horn/strobe shall be installed on the exterior of the
building at a location approved by the AHJ.
(Add) 9.6.8.4 The provisions
of 9.6.8.3 shall not apply to residential board and care occupancies
equipped with a weather-proof strobe notification appliance installed
on the exterior of the building at a location approved by the AHJ.
(Add) 9.6.8.5 Fault isolation
modules or bases shall be installed on all signaling line circuits to
prevent a wire-to-wire short circuit fault from disabling more than
twenty-five (>25) devices on the circuit.
(Add) 9.6.8.6 When a common
signaling line circuit serves more than one floor of a building,
fault isolation modules shall be installed to prevent a wire-to-wire
short circuit fault on one floor from disabling the remainder of the
SLC on any other floor.
(Add) 9.6.8.7 When control
and/or signaling modules are used for the activation of notification
appliance circuits or to initiate emergency forces notification,
fault isolation modules shall be installed on each side of the
control or signaling module.
(Add) 9.6.8.8 Low-Power Radio
(Add)
9.6.8.8.1 Low-Power Radio (Wireless) Systems shall comply with all
provisions of this Chapter. All systems shall be UL listed as a
commercial or industrial fire alarm system - systems listed only
for household or residential applications shall not be permitted.
(Add)
9.6.8.8.2 Wireless components of the system shall not be required to
comply with 9.6.9; however, any hard-wired component(s) of the system
including initiating device circuits, notification appliance
circuits, signaling line circuits or auxiliary circuits shall fully
comply with 9.6.8.4.2.1 through 9.6.8.4.2.3.
(Add) 9.6.8.8.2.1 Wiring
between wireless control panel(s) and remote annunciation may be #18
AWG solid unlimited footage if installed in conduit or type MC Cable.
(Add) 9.6.8.8.2.2 Wiring
between wireless control panel(s) and remote receiver(s) may be #18
AWG solid unlimited footage if installed in conduit or type MC Cable.
(Add) 9.6.8.8.2.3 Wiring from
a transmitter to a single device shall be limited to twenty feet
(20’) and may be #18 AWG solid if installed in either the cavity of
the wall or in conduit or type MC Cable.
(Add)
9.6.8.8.3 If there is interference to the system causing multiple
false alarms or numerous trouble indications that cannot be resolved
to the satisfaction of the AHJ, the wireless system shall be removed
and a hard-wired system installed in compliance with the Code. The
contractor shall notify the owner of this requirement in writing
prior to the installation of the wireless system.
(Add)
9.6.8.8.4 The Control Panel shall have the capability of
acknowledging an alarm and restoring the municipal connection while
maintaining all other functions, if a municipally connected system as
described in 9.6.4.4.
(Add) 9.6.8.8.4.1 The Control
panel shall have its means of acknowledgement, silence, activation,
reset, or any other functions which require manual intervention to be
performed by either key switches or other controls secured behind a
key-locked cover to prevent unauthorized operation.
(Add) 9.6.8.8.4.2 The maximum
allowable response delay from activation of an initiating device to
activation of required alarm functions shall be ten (10) seconds.
(Add)
9.6.8.8.5 Low-Power Radio (Wireless) Repeater/Receiver The
Repeater(s) and/or Receiver(s) shall be UL Listed 864 (UOXX), Control
Unit Accessories/Systems and must comply with the provisions of NFPA
72.
(Add) 9.6.8.8.5.1 The
repeater/receiver shall be listed for use with the listed control
panel.
(Add) 9.6.8.8.5.2 When
repeaters and/or receivers are used, the system must provide for a
Class “A” signaling as defined in NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm and
Signaling Code (2010), Chapter 10. An alternative communications path
shall exist between the wireless control panel and peripheral devices
used to establish initiation, indication, control, and annunciation.
(Add) 9.6.8.8.5.3 When the
means of transmission to a wireless control panel is accomplished by
means other than air, such as through wiring, the requirements of the
Installation and Wiring section of this chapter shall apply. A
redundant path must be established requiring the installation of a
second repeater in order to establish a redundant communication path
back to the control panel.
(Add) 9.6.8.8.5.4 Reception
of an unwanted (interfering) signal, which is continuous for a period
of twenty (20) seconds or more, shall cause the repeater to report
this condition to the control panel at intervals not exceeding two
hundred (200) seconds.
(Add) 9.6.8.8.5.5 Loss of
primary AC power to a repeater shall cause a distinct indication at
the control panel and shall latch until a normal condition is
restored.
(Add)
9.6.8.8.6 Low-Power Radio (Wireless) Smoke Detector, Heat Detector,
Supervised Normally-Open Monitor Modules, and Manual Fire Alarm Boxes
shall operate as follows:
1. shall be listed for use
with the listed control panel.
2. shall have the ability to
send initial and repeat alarms.
3. shall have a minimum
battery life of one (1) year under normal operation.
4. In the event of a low
battery, the device must be able to remain operable for a minimum of
seven (7) days and this condition must be displayed at the control
panel indicating a low battery signal and the exact device.
5. Low battery signals shall
be sent no less than once every four (4) hours for a minimum of seven
(7) days.
6. All devices shall be
supervised for tamper (removal). This signal shall be sent to the
control panel and indicate a tamper condition and the exact device.
This condition must continue to report no less than every two hundred
(200) seconds or latch until restored.
7. Devices installed on a
removable ceiling tile must have the ability to indicate the removal
of the tile through a tamper indication.
8. Devices shall send test
signals not less than once every ninety (90) minutes.
(Add) 9.6.9 Installation and
Wiring
(Add) 9.6.9.1 Transponders,
Data Gathering Panels, Nodes, etc. shall communicate with the Central
Processing Unit (CPU) via a Class "X" Signaling Line
Circuit (SLC) meeting the requirements as described in NFPA 72.
(Add) 9.6.9.2 Signaling line
circuits (SLC), initiating device circuits (IDC) and notification
appliance circuits (NAC) shall be installed utilizing Class “A”
pathways meeting the requirements as described in NFPA 72.
(Add) 9.6.9.3 The requirement
of 9.6.9.2 shall not apply to fire alarm systems not requiring
emergency forces notification in accordance with 9.6.4.2.
(Add) 9.6.9.4
All fire alarm system wiring
within a building and between buildings in multiple building clusters
shall be installed in metal raceway with steel couplings and box
connectors or type MC cable rated as FPL and 2-hour fire rated for
penetrations by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. Cast "LB"
or "T" type connectors shall be permitted. An
equipment-bonding conductor shall be provided in all flexible
metallic raceways unless otherwise exempted elsewhere in this Code.
(Add) 9.6.9.5
Wiring between buildings may
be buried if enclosed in PVC conduit using approved IMSA cables, or
installed either using approved direct burial type MC cable or run
aerially with approved IMSA shielded cable(s) subject to approval by
the AHJ.
(Add) 9.6.9.6
All conductors shall be
minimum #16 gauge and be solid copper, type “thhn”, “thwn” or
“tfn” unless otherwise recommended by the manufacturer. All
wiring shall be run continuously from device to device. With the
approval of the AHJ, junction points may be made due to construction
hardships where a continuous run would be impractical.
(Add)
9.6.9.6.1 Junction points between devices shall be permitted on
existing fire alarm systems provided the junction points are
terminated on terminal strips.
(Add) 9.6.9.7
UL listed type MC cable
connectors with insulated bushings and screw type cable attachments
or box clamps with anti-short inserts shall be used in all MC cable
installations. Connectors shall be made of steel, not the cast type.
(Add) 9.6.9.8
The color code for all newly
installed fire alarm system conductors shall be as follows:
1. INITIATING
DEVICE CIRCUIT shall be red and black. Red shall be positive and
black shall be negative [IDC/SLC].
2. NOTIFICATION
APPLIANCE CIRCUIT shall be blue and white. Blue shall be positive and
white shall be negative. When speakers, bells, chimes or other
audible/visual devices are used in lieu of horns, this color code
shall be followed [NAC].
3. STROBE
CIRCUIT, if a separate feed is required, shall be blue and white.
Blue shall be positive and white shall be negative.
4. SMOKE
DETECTOR CIRCUITS, if a separate power feed is required, shall be
brown and violet. Violet shall be positive and brown shall be
negative.
5. “LOCAL”
SMOKE DETECTOR CIRCUITS, if an interconnect wire between sounder
bases is required, shall be violet.
6. AUXILIARY
REMOTE POWER SUPPLY CIRCUITS shall be brown and violet. Violet shall
be positive and brown shall be negative.
7. ELECTRO-MAGNETIC
DOOR HOLDBACK CIRCUITS shall be gray and gray if powered by 24 vDC or
black and white if powered by 120 vAC.
8. MUNICIPAL
MASTER BOX TRIPPING CIRCUITS shall be orange and orange. Conductors
for this circuit shall be installed in a separate raceway.
9. ELEVATOR
CAPTURE CIRCUITS shall be brown and yellow.
10. HVAC
SHUTDOWN CIRCUITS and AUDIO/VISUAL SYSTEMS SHUTDOWN CIRCUITS shall be
orange and yellow.
11. REMOTE
ANNUNCIATOR CIRCUITS shall be violet and numbered at each end or as
required by the control unit manufacturer.
12. MUNICIPAL
FIRE ALARM LOOP from the master box to the municipal loop shall be
black and white.
(Add) 9.6.9.9
Primary AC power and/or
battery charger circuits shall be on a dedicated branch circuit(s).
Circuit disconnecting means shall have a red marking, shall be
accessible only to authorized personnel, and shall be identified as
“FIRE ALARM CIRCUIT”. Where the disconnecting means is a circuit
breaker located within a distribution panel, a circuit breaker lock
listed for use with that breaker shall be provided. The location of
the circuit disconnecting means shall be permanently identified
inside the fire alarm control unit. AC and DC portions of the system
shall be installed in separate raceways.
(Add) 9.6.9.10
Terminal cabinets shall be
provided at all junction points. Terminal cabinets shall be red with
hinged locked covers. All conductor splices or terminations shall be
made on screw- type terminal blocks - wire nuts, butt or crimp type
connectors shall not be used. All terminals within a terminal cabinet
shall be properly identified.
Exception:
Crimp-type connectors may be used on bonding conductors.
(Add) 9.6.10 System Acceptance
(Add) 9.6.10.1 A
pre-acceptance test will be held with the installer and the
manufacturer's technical representative present. The pretest shall be
a 100% test as follows:
1. Manually
operate every manual fire alarm box, activate every rate of rise type
heat detector and rate anticipation heat detector with heat.
2. Manually
operate or electrically short out every non-restorable fixed
temperature heat detector.
3. Activate
every smoke detector with smoke generated from a wick/punk source or
in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations to demonstrate
that smoke can enter the chamber and initiate an alarm.
4. Activate
all automatic extinguishing system switches.
5. Activate
and time every water sprinkler/standpipe flow switch by a flow of
water through the inspectors' test valves.
6. All
notification appliances shall be verified as operational at the time
of this test.
(Add) 9.6.10.2 Prior to the
final operational acceptance test, a NFPA 72 Fire Alarm System Record
of Completion shall be prepared and submitted to the fire alarm
system owner and the AHJ. The contractor shall prepare and submit a
single line diagram of each installation, as built, indicating wiring
between equipment and locations of control units, initiating and
notification devices to the owner and AHJ.
(Add) 9.6.10.3 The installing
contractor shall conduct a final acceptance test including a complete
functional test of the system in the presence of the AHJ and the
manufacturer's authorized technical representative. During this test
each circuit will be tested by class, or style or both, to assure the
circuit’s capability to continue to operate during specified fault
condition.
(Add) 9.6.10.4 The fire alarm
system may be placed in operation prior to final acceptance if in
the opinion of the AHJ it will enhance public safety or provide
property protection during the final phases of construction. In this
case all devices will be thoroughly cleaned or replaced prior to the
system acceptance test. The system will not be placed in operation
without the written permission of the AHJ. Under no circumstances
will this be considered a final acceptance test.
(Add) 9.6.11 Maintenance
and Testing
(Add) 9.6.11.1 All fire alarm
systems shall be tested at least once every three (3) months with
twenty-five percent (25%) of all initiating devices operated with
each test. A different twenty-five percent (25%) of the
above-mentioned devices will be operated at each inspection so that
the entire system will have been tested at the end of a twelve (12)
months period as per NFPA 72.
(Add) 9.6.11.2 A fire alarm
system with twenty-four (24) or less initiating devices shall be
tested at least once every six (6) months with fifty percent (50%) of
all initiating devices operated with each test so that the entire
system will have been tested at the end of a twelve (12) months
period as per NFPA 72.
(Add) 9.6.11.3 Certification
of tests and results shall be forwarded to the AHJ and the fire alarm
system owner from the person(s) or firm performing the test within
ten (10) days of the completion of the test. The person(s) or firm
performing the testing of the fire alarm shall notify the AHJ within
five (5) days, in writing, after any cancellation of a testing
agreement with the fire alarm owner.
(Add) 9.6.11.4 Certification
of any periodic testing required by the Code shall be on Uniform
Testing Report (UTR) as prescribed in NFPA 1, Section 1.13.1(3). This
UTR shall be utilized by all persons and firms performing fire alarm
testing and inspections pursuant to this Code and shall bear the name
and license number of the licensed person performing the test.
(Add) 9.6.11.5 In addition to
the testing requirements, all system smoke detectors located within
the protected premises shall be externally cleaned at least once
every twelve (12) month period.
(Add) 9.7.2.3 Whenever any
supervised automatic sprinkler supervisory signal is required to
sound and be displayed at a location that is constantly attended by
qualified personnel, signals that sound and are displayed in a public
or common area of the building shall be deemed to be in compliance.
8.1.10
CHAPTER 10- INTERIOR FINISH, CONTENTS, AND FURNISHINGS
(No Modifications)
8.1.11 CHAPTER
11 - SPECIAL STRUCTURES AND HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS
(Add) 11.8.4.3 Emergency
voice/alarm communication systems shall also be provided with standby
amplifiers equal to the amount of amplification required for the
complete system operation.
(Add) 11.8.4.4 Smoke
detectors shall be installed in stairwells at the first floor, every
third floor thereafter and at the top of every stairwell.
(Add) 11.8.4.5 Stairwell
smoke detector activation shall not cause an evacuation signal to be
sounded; however; emergency forces notification shall occur.
8.1.12 CHAPTER
12 - NEW ASSEMBLY OCCUPANCIES
(Amd) 12.3.4.1.1 Assembly
occupancies shall be provided with an approved fire alarm system in
accordance with 9.6.1 and 12.3.4, unless otherwise permitted by
12.3.4.1.2 or 12.3.4.1.3.
(Add) 12.3.4.1.3 Places of
worship with a calculated occupant load of seventy four (74) or less
occupants and no more than one (1) story above grade shall not be
required to be provided with a fire alarm system.
(Amd) 12.3.4.2.1 Initiation
of the required fire alarm system shall be all of the following
means:
1. Manual
means in accordance with 9.6.2.1(1).
2. Where automatic sprinklers
are provided, initiation of the fire alarm system by sprinkler system
waterflow.
3. An approved fire detection
system in accordance with 9.6.2.11.
(Res) 12.3.4.2.2
(Res) 12.3.4.2.3
(Add) 12.3.4.2.4 A manual
fire alarm box shall be installed on every stage, near any fixed
lighting control panel and in any projection booth.
(Add) 12.3.4.2.5 Manual
fire alarm boxes, with the approval of the AHJ, may be omitted from
required exits and installed in such supervised locations as bar
areas, hostess stands, refreshment stands, ticket booths or other
areas attended by permanent staff.
(Amd) 12.3.4.3
Notification. Occupant notification by both audible and visible means
shall be provided automatically in accordance with 9.6.3.
(Amd) 12.3.4.3.3 Audible
occupant notification in places of assembly classified as theaters
shall be by means of voice announcements in accordance with 9.6.3.9.
(Res) 12.3.4.3.4
(Amd) 12.3.4.3.6 Evacuation
or relocation instructions shall be permitted to be made via a voice
communication or public address system in accordance with 9.6.3.9.2.
(Res) 12.3.4.3.7
(Add) 12.3.4.3.8 Upon the
activation of any fire alarm system in any nightclub place of
assembly or theater, the fire alarm system shall be interconnected
with the building systems so that all emergency lights or other
appropriate lighting shall activate and that all other conflicting
sounds and visuals shall cease.
(Add) 12.3.4.3.9 Emergency
forces notification shall be provided in accordance with where one of
the following conditions exists:
1. The
place of assembly has a total occupant load of three hundred one
(301) or greater.
2. The
place of assembly is classified as a nightclub place of assembly and
has an occupant load of one hundred fifty (150) or greater.
3. The
place of assembly is classified as a theater.
(Add) 12.3.4.4 Detection
(Add) 12.3.4.4.1 Where a fire
alarm system is required, a fire detection system in accordance with
9.6.2.11 shall be provided.
(Add) 12.3.4.4.2 In any
assembly occupancy where the exemption to the requirement for
automatic sprinklers is utilized, the fire alarm system shall meet
the requirements for total (complete) coverage.
Exception:
Places of Worship.
(Res) 12.4.7.5
(Add) 12.4.11 Nightclubs
(Add) 12.4.11.1
All nightclubs, as defined in
3.4.13, shall comply with the requirements of 12.4.11.2 through
12.4.11.4 and shall be inspected annually by the AHJ.
(Add) 12.4.11.2
Each stage area, within a
nightclub, shall be provided with two fire extinguishers maintained
in accordance with NFPA 10, Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers
and approved by the AHJ.
(Add) 12.4.7.11.3
The responsible management of
each nightclub shall provide an audible announcement of the location
of emergency exits prior to each act or set.
(Add) 12.4.7.11.4
The responsible management of
each nightclub shall have an emergency plan for the rapid evacuation
of the premises approved by the state fire marshal. The plan shall
identify the egress system of the building, explain, on a
step-by-step basis, how the crowd manager on duty will complete the
evacuation, and explain how the crowd manager will direct the
occupants to safety in the event of one or more blocked exits.
(Add) 12.7.1.4
In places of assembly which
have scheduled activities for recreational, educational, political,
fraternal, social, or amusement purposes, the owner or management
must inspect every exit from the building not more than ninety (90)
minutes prior to the beginning of any meeting, concert, etc. If the
inspection reveals blocked exits, the scheduled presentation must not
begin until the exits are cleared and made easily accessible,
assuring the safety and welfare of the patrons.
(Add) 12.7.3.1
The use of open flame
devices or pyrotechnic devices, outlined in 12.7.3, shall be limited
to the places of assembly with occupancy loads in excess of 1000
persons and to those places of assembly, that are theaters, with
occupancy loads of greater than 300 but less than 1001. All such
places of assembly must be fully sprinkled and further protected by a
fire alarm system providing emergency forces notification.
Exception: Places of Worship.
(Amd) 12.7.6 Crowd Management
(Amd)
12.7.6.2
The crowd manager shall
receive appropriate training in emergency planning and basic crowd
control techniques, by the state fire marshal, or his or her
designee.
(Add) 12.7.6.2.1
The
crowd manager(s) identified in 12.7.6.1 shall be in addition to the
detail fire fighter(s) identified in 12.7.6.4 through 12.7.6.10.
(Add) 12.7.6.3 Admissions
supervised.
Admissions to all places of
assembly shall be supervised by the responsible management or by the
person or persons delegated with the responsibility by the
management, and the responsible person shall not allow admissions in
excess of the maximum occupancy posted by the State Fire Marshal or
his or her designee.
(Add) 12.7.6.4
All places of assembly with
an occupancy load of greater than 1000 people shall have a uniformed
fire fighter, and any additional uniformed fire fighters on duty when
deemed necessary by the chief of the department.
(Add) 12.7.6.5
All places of assembly, of
less concentrated use, with an occupancy load of greater than 300
people, but less than 1001 people, shall have a uniformed fire
fighter and any additional uniformed fire fighters on duty when
deemed necessary by the chief of the department.
(Add) 12.7.6.6
All places of assembly, of
concentrated use, with an occupancy load of greater than 50 people,
but less than 1001 people shall have a uniformed fire fighter and any
additional uniformed fire fighters on duty when deemed necessary by
the chief of the department except as provided under 12.7.6.7.
(Add) 12.7.6.7
All places of assembly, of
concentrated or less concentrated use, with an occupancy load of
greater than 50 people, but less than 1001 people, being utilized for
activities that could potentially cause the place of assembly to be
unsafe, dangerous or hazardous shall have one uniformed fire fighter
on duty during such activity and any additional uniformed fire
fighters on duty when deemed necessary by the chief of the department
unless this requirement is specifically waived in writing for each
such event.
(Add) 12.7.6.8
The cost of all fire fighters
on duty under 12.7.6.4 through 12.7.6.7 shall be borne by the
management of the facility.
(Add) 12.7.6.9
Fire fighter(s) assigned a
detail pursuant to 12.7.6.4 through 12.7.6.7 shall be equipped with
portable communication devices which shall be provided by the local
fire department to allow direct communication to the dispatcher of
the local fire department.
(Add) 12.7.6.10
The provisions of R.I. Gen.
Laws § 23-28.2-17 shall apply to any fire fighter assigned a detail,
to a place of assembly, pursuant to 12.7.6.4 through 12.7.6.7.
(Add) 12.7.6.11
Any building owner or
occupant may request a partial or full exemption from the mandates of
12.7.6.2 through 12.7.6.10 by the State Fire Marshal and/or the Fire
Safety Code Board of Appeal & Review.
8.1.13 CHAPTER
13 - EXISTING ASSEMBLY OCCUPANCIES
(Add) 13.1.8 Places of Worship
A Place of Worship is
defined as a building or structure, or an area thereof, the occupancy
of which is for the religious rites and services and communal
functions of a congregation, and which shall include sanctuaries,
gathering halls, meeting rooms, rooms used on a limited basis for
religious education, offices and related facilities of the
congregation, which may be located in the same, in connected, or in
proximate structures.
In areas where there are
incidental uses such as non-licensed day care or nurseries the
provisions of the Rhode Island Fire Alarm Code, NFPA 72, as amended,
also shall apply.
Any one, two or three
family residential building that comes under the classification of a
Place of Worship that is utilized as a rectory, parsonage, convent or
other residence used exclusively for religious personnel, shall only
be required to be protected by approved hardwired smoke detectors. In
addition, approved carbon monoxide detectors shall be installed when
these CO units would be otherwise required under the fire code
provisions covering one, two and three family homes.
Any religious-related
business office use of a portion of a one, two or three family
residential building, or a place of worship, as outlined above, that
is confined to a space of less than one thousand square feet of that
building, shall not be required to maintain a fire alarm system
provided that the above required smoke and/or CO detection system is
operational and maintained. Larger business office space, up to the
square footage threshold for fire alarm coverage as outlined in this
code, may be exempted from fire alarm coverage if it is properly
separated from the remainder of the residential building, by approved
“acceptable separation”, as outlined in RIFC 10-5-1 through
10-5-1.5.
(Add) 13.1.8.1 Approved
existing Places of Worship.
Any place of worship,
existing as of January 1, 2008, shall be deemed in compliance with
the provisions of this Chapter 13, upon meeting the following fifteen
requirements within the time frames provided in this code. The owners
and/or operators of any such existing Place of Worship shall not be
required to comply with any additional assembly occupancy
requirements. The owners and/or operators of any such existing Place
of Worship shall be given one year, from the AHJ’s issuance of an
inspection report or plan review approval, to bring the existing
Place of Worship into compliance with the fifteen requirements
outlined below. The AHJ is hereby authorized to extend this time
period in light of good faith efforts by the above owners and/or
operators. The above owners and/or operators may also seek an
additional time extension from the Fire Board.
1. The
building maintains a fire alarm system that complies with the
provisions of Section 9.6 and Chapter 13 of this Code to the
satisfaction of the state fire marshal, deputy state fire marshal
and/or the assistant deputy state fire marshal (hereinafter the
“AHJ”);
2. Buildings
that provide licensed nursery or licensed day care services shall
maintain an approved system of either hardwired or wireless smoke and
carbon monoxide detectors installed in accordance with NFPA 72, 2010
edition, and NFPA 720, 2012 edition and any additional requirements
of these occupancies;
3. The
building maintains emergency lighting approved by the AHJ. Buildings
with an occupant load less than three hundred (300) persons and used
solely for worship shall not required to meet this section. In
addition, one story buildings used only during daylight hours shall
not be required to meet this section;
4. The
building maintains approved exit signage, if so required by the AHJ;
5. The
building shall maintain egress calculated for its maximum occupancy
with a minimum of two means of egress. The egress doors within a
Place of Worship may be allowed to swing opposite to the direction of
exit travel provided that these doors are held in an open position,
to the satisfaction of the AHJ, by either hold-open devices, during
all hours when the Place of Worship is occupied as a place of
assembly or by trained ushers as outlined below. The AHJ may further
approve a plan of action allowing trained ushers to open these doors
during an evacuation of the Place of Worship.
6. The
walls of the internal means of egress are made of plaster and/or
sheetrock, are in good repair, and maintain an approximate fire
rating of twenty (20) minutes. The AHJ is hereby authorized to accept
the existing hard wood or other substantial construction of a
sanctuary and/or fellowship or parish hall and not require these
materials to be coated with a Class A or B flame spread material.
Religious banners, cloth coverings, flowers and other limited
vegetation, in reasonable amounts, shall be permitted. The AHJ is
authorized to approve the temporary placement of a freshly cut
natural Christmas tree in accordance with an approved plan addressing
the care, maintenance and eventual removal of the fresh-cut Christmas
tree.
7. All
combustible covering materials, within the approved egress systems,
such as existing paneling or wainscoting, mounted on approved plaster
or sheetrock walls or ceilings, shall be rendered flame resistant by
the application of an approved Class A flame-spread rated material to
the satisfaction of the AHJ;
8. The
existing dimensions of the egress system appear to adequately support
the rapid evacuation of the building, in the opinion of the AHJ and
the internal means of egress may contain winding stairs;
9. There shall be no smoking
allowed in Places of Worship;
10. Any
furnace or boiler in the building shall be equipped with an approved
remote shutoff switch approved by the AHJ;
11. Any
furnace, boiler or comparable central heating plant above 160,000 BTU
input and all floor mounted units requiring a non-combustible floor
by their listing, shall be either segregated from the remainder of
the building by an enclosure maintaining an approximate one hour
rating or protected by domestically-supplied sprinkler head(s) to the
satisfaction of the AHJ;
12. Portable
fire extinguishers shall be provided in accordance with section
9.7.4.1;
13. Automatic
sprinkler coverage, only if specifically required by the State Fire
Marshal in accordance with R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-28.6-24.
14. Any
commercial cooking equipment shall be protected in accordance with
NFPA 96, Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of
Commercial Cooking Operations, 2001 edition. Provided however, this
requirement shall not apply where the cooking equipment is used only
to reheat or warm food and there is the absence of smoke or
grease-laden vapors. In cases where there is an intermittent use of
commercial cooking equipment used for actual cooking, not exceeding
two (2) hours per week as an annual average, this requirement shall
be waived by the AHJ provided that a plan of action is approved by
the AHJ for each use.
The
management of a Place of Worship shall not allow the operation,
within the facility, of a commercial deep fat fryer unit, such as a
“fry-o-lator”, without first providing that potentially hazardous
commercial deep fat fryer unit with approved ventilation control and
fire protection, in accordance with the referenced edition of NFPA
96, at the direction and to the satisfaction of the AHJ. The above
requirement shall be waived if the deep fat frying unit is currently
protected by a properly maintained ventilation control and fire
protection system that had been previously approved by an AHJ.
15. The use of any open
flame(s) shall be in accordance with 101:13.7.3.
Any new construction,
renovations, alterations, reconstruction and/or additions to an
existing Place of Worship, covered by the above fifteen-point plan,
shall comply with the applicable fire codes covering those activities
in an existing place of assembly. Notwithstanding the above, the
existing portions of a Place of Worship shall not be required to be
sprinkled unless they are not separated, from any new addition
proposed for assembly occupancy, by approximately one hour fire rated
separation. In the absence of an approximate one hour fire separation
between an existing and a new assembly occupancy, the merged existing
and new assembly occupancies shall be calculated on the basis of
fifteen square feet per person to determine whether sprinklers are to
be required.
(Add) 13.1.8.2 Time Table for
Compliance by Places of Worship:
All existing occupancies,
falling under the definition of Places of Worship, as defined in
13.1.8 above, are hereby granted relief, by a time variance as
outlined below, from bringing their facilities into compliance with
the current provisions of the State Fire Code as follows:
Exception:
Any residential occupancy falling under the definition of Places of
Worship shall be equipped with hardwired smoke and CO detectors if
required, on or before January 1, 2013.
1. All
existing Places of Worship shall be inspected by the State Fire
Marshal, or designee, and comprehensive written reports shall be
issued on or before December 31, 2013.
2. All
existing Places of Worship shall be brought into compliance with all
fire code requirements on or before December 31, 2014.
Places of Worship containing
other regulated occupancies, such as licensed Daycare, etc., shall
bring only those portions of the building into compliance with the
fire codes covering that regulated occupancy, at the direction and to
the satisfaction of, and within a reasonable timetable established
by, the State Fire Marshal or his or her designee.
(Amd) 13.3.4.1.1 Assembly
occupancies shall be provided with an approved fire alarm system in
accordance with 9.6.1 and 13.3.4, unless otherwise permitted by
13.3.4.1.2 or 13.3.4.1.5.
(Res) 13.3.4.1.3
(Res) 13.3.4.1.4
(Add) 13.3.4.1.5 Places of
worship with a calculated occupant load of seventy four (74) or less
occupants and no more than one (1) story above grade shall not be
required to be provided with a fire alarm system.
(Amd) 13.3.4.2.1 Initiation
of the required fire alarm system shall be by all of the following
means:
1. Manual means in accordance
with 9.6.2.1(1).
2. Where automatic sprinklers
are provided, initiation of the fire alarm system by sprinkler system
waterflow.
3. An approved fire detection
system in accordance with 9.6.2.11.
(Res) 13.3.4.2.2
(Res) 13.3.4.2.3
(Add) 13.3.4.2.4 A manual
fire alarm box shall be installed on every stage, near any fixed
lighting control panel and in any projection booth.
(Add) 13.3.4.2.5 Manual
fire alarm boxes, with the approval of the AHJ, may be omitted from
required exits and installed in such supervised locations as bar
areas, hostess stands, refreshment stands, ticket booths or other
areas attended by permanent staff.
(Amd) 13.3.4.3
Notification. Occupant notification by both audible and visible means
shall be provided automatically in accordance with 9.6.3.
(Amd) 13.3.4.3.3 Audible
occupant notification in places of assembly classified as theaters
shall be by means of voice announcements in accordance with 9.6.3.9.
(Res) 13.3.4.3.4
(Amd)
13.3.4.3.6 Evacuation or relocation instructions shall be permitted
to be made via a voice communication or public address system in
accordance with 9.6.3.9.2.
(Res) 13.3.4.3.7
(Add) 13.3.4.3.8 Upon the
activation of any fire alarm system in any nightclub place of
assembly or theater, the fire alarm system shall be interconnected
with the building systems so that all emergency lights or other
appropriate lighting shall activate and that all other conflicting
sounds and visuals shall cease.
(Add) 13.3.4.3.9 Emergency
forces notification shall be provided in accordance with where one of
the following conditions exists:
1. The
place of assembly has a total occupant load of three hundred one
(301) or greater.
2. The
place of assembly is classified as a nightclub place of assembly and
has an occupant load of one hundred fifty (150) or greater.
3. The
place of assembly is classified as a theater.
(Add) 13.3.4.4 Detection
(Add) 13.3.4.4.1 Where a fire
alarm system is required, a fire detection system in accordance with
9.6.2.11 shall be provided.
(Add) 13.3.4.4.2 In any
existing place of worship where the exemption to the requirement for
automatic sprinklers is utilized, the fire alarm system shall not be
required to meet the requirements for total (complete) coverage.
(Amd) 13.3.5.1
Unless exempted by another
provision of this chapter, all existing places of assembly shall be
completely protected by an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler
system installed and maintained in accordance with 9.7.1.1(1).
(Add)
13.3.5.1.1
The requirements of 13.3.5.1
shall not apply to the following:
1. Any
place of assembly of less concentrated use, such as an organized
dining facility, with occupancy of 300 or fewer people, calculated at
15 square feet per person. (The above fifteen square feet (15 sq.
ft.) per person calculation shall be exclusive of any separately
calculated limited incidental spaces designated as a waiting area by
the AHJ. The above fifteen square feet (15 sq. ft.) per person
calculation shall also not apply to buildings, containing separately
calculated booths or similar fixed seating, determined not to be
concentrated occupancies by the AHJ.)
2. Any
place of assembly of concentrated use, with an occupancy of 300 or
fewer people, not meeting the definition of a nightclub as outlined
in 3.4.12.
3. Any
place of assembly of concentrated use, meeting the definition of a
nightclub, as outlined in 3.4.13, with a posted maximum occupancy of
less than 150 people.
4. Any
existing building used exclusively as a place of worship as defined
in 13.1.8. (This exemption shall include places of worship with
incidental business offices, religious education programs, and other
programs designed watch children during the limited period of time
that their parents or guardians attend religious services in the
building. It shall also include the temporary programs outlined in
Chapter 27 of this Code. This exemption shall not include places of
worship maintaining such licensed activities as child day care and
bingo. Permission for limited one time or annual events may be sought
from the AHJ in accordance with an approved plan of action. Denial of
this permission may be appealed to the Fire Safety Code Board of
Appeal & Review.)
5. Existing
fully alarmed performance theaters, with occupancies of less than
five hundred (500) patrons, equipped with operational stages, as
defined in section 3.3.262 of NFPA 101, 2012 edition; provided that
the theater maintains double the required remotely located egress
calculated for the theater’s maximum occupancy, and further
provided that the theater’s patrons discharge through code
compliant exit doors directly to grade; and finally provided that the
stage, and other potentially hazardous areas, are protected by an
approved properly engineered system of sprinkler heads, on or before
January 1, 2013.
6. All
existing licensed “funeral establishments”, having an occupancy
capacity of five hundred (500) or fewer persons, shall not be
required to be sprinkled provided they install and maintain a full
coverage fire alarm system, at the direction and to the satisfaction
of the state or local fire marshal with jurisdiction.
As a further condition of the
above relief, the Board directs that there shall be no smoking in all
licensed “funeral establishments” and there shall be no open
flame with the exception of approved gas log fireplaces having glass
doors. Additionally, the Rhode Island Funeral Directors’
Association and the State Fire Marshal’s office will coordinate
crowd management training for the owners and operators of all
licensed “funeral establishments”.
The chemical storage in all
embalming rooms shall comply with NFPA 1 - RIFC, 2012 edition and
its referenced codes and standards. Additionally, all crematoriums
shall be suitably separated and shall further comply with all Federal
and State fire, mechanical, building and health code standards.
Any attached garage(s), not
suitably separated in the opinion of the state or local fire marshal
with jurisdiction, shall be further protected with approved heat
detection connected to the fire alarm system protecting the facility.
Existing boiler rooms may utilize properly engineered,
domestically-supplied, sprinkler head(s), installed in accordance
with local water board requirements (if any), in lieu of the
enclosure requirements. All such facilities shall have egress
approved for their maximum occupant load. Finally, any existing
dimensional issue, determined to be a structural hardship by the
state or local fire marshal with jurisdiction, may be granted a
modification by that state or local fire marshal in accordance with
the procedure outlined in 1.6.1.1.
(Add) 13.3.5.5
The occupancy of any place
of assembly without a required fire alarm system and/or sprinkler
system, shall have its maximum occupancy adjusted by minus ten
percent (10%) for the absence of a fire alarm system and minus twenty
(20%) for the absence of a sprinkler system, when sprinklers are
required by law or regulation. Such downward adjustment in
occupancy shall be cumulative and shall cease to apply when the
premises are in compliance with the requirements for fire alarm
systems and sprinklers, and shall not affect any other requirements
of this Code, or the Fire Safety Code Board of Appeal and Review,
applicable to the premises.
(Add)
13.3.5.5.1
A place of assembly, with an
occupancy of between one hundred fifty (150) and three hundred (300)
people, may avoid the requirements of 13.3.5.6 by requiring a fire
fighter on duty, as outlined in 13.7.6.6, during all hours of
occupancy or by complying with an alternative plan of action approved
by the AHJ. However, the occupancy re-adjustment with the required
firefighter shall not alter the January 1, 2013 deadline for the
installation of sprinklers.
(Add) 13.4.4.1 Existing
high-rise buildings shall be provided with a detection, alarm and
communication system in accordance with 11.8.4 and an emergency
command center complying with 11.8.6.
(Add) 13.4.11 Nightclubs
(Add)
13.4.11.1
All nightclubs, as defined in
3.4.13, shall comply with the requirements of through 13.4.11.4 and
shall be inspected annually by the AHJ.
(Add)
13.4.11.2
Each stage area, within a
nightclub, shall be provided with two fire extinguishers maintained
in accordance with NFPA 10, Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers
and approved by the AHJ.
(Add) 13.4.11.3
The responsible management
of each nightclub shall provide an audible announcement of the
location of emergency exits prior to each act or set.
(Add) 13.4.11.4
The responsible management
of each nightclub shall have an emergency plan for the rapid
evacuation of the premises approved by the state fire marshal. The
plan shall identify the egress system of the building, explain, on a
step-by-step basis, how the crowd manager on duty will complete the
evacuation, and explain how the crowd manager will direct the
occupants to safety in the event of one or more blocked exits.
(Add) 13.7.1.4
In places of assembly which
have scheduled activities for recreational, educational, political,
fraternal, social, or amusement purposes, the owner or management
must inspect every exit from the building not more than ninety (90)
minutes prior to the beginning of any meeting, concert, etc. If the
inspection reveals blocked exits, the scheduled presentation must not
begin until the exits are cleared and made easily accessible,
assuring the safety and welfare of the patrons.
(Add) 13.7.3.1
The use of open flame
devices or pyrotechnic devices, outlined in 13.7.3, shall be limited
to the places of assembly with occupancy loads in excess of 1000
persons and to those places of assembly, that are theaters, with
occupancy loads of greater than 300 but less than 1001. All such
places of assembly must be fully sprinkled and further protected by a
fire alarm system providing emergency forces notification.
Exception: Places of worship.
(Amd) 13.7.6 Crowd Management
(Amd)
13.7.6.2
The crowd manager shall
receive appropriate training in emergency planning and basic crowd
control techniques, by the state fire marshal, or his or her
designee, on or before January 1, 2013.
(Add) 13.7.6.2.1
The
crowd manager(s) identified in 13.7.6.1 shall be in addition to the
detail fire fighter(s) identified in 13.7.6.4 through 13.7.6.10.
(Add)
13.7.6.3 Admissions supervised.
Admissions to all places of
assembly shall be supervised by the responsible management or by the
person or persons delegated with the responsibility by the
management, and the responsible person shall not allow admissions in
excess of the maximum occupancy posted by the State Fire Marshal or
his or her designee.
(Add)
13.7.6.4
All places of assembly with
an occupancy load of greater than 1000 people shall have a uniformed
fire fighter, and any additional uniformed fire fighters on duty when
deemed necessary by the designee of the state fire marshal in the
local fire department.
(Add) 13.7.6.5
All places of assembly, of
less concentrated use, with an occupancy load of greater than 300
people, but less than 1001 people, shall have a uniformed fire
fighter and any additional uniformed fire fighters on duty when
deemed necessary by the designee of the state fire marshal in the
local fire department.
(Add) 13.7.6.6
All places of assembly, of
concentrated use, with an occupancy load of greater than 50 people,
but less than 1001 people shall have a uniformed fire fighter and any
additional uniformed fire fighters on duty when deemed necessary by
the designee of the state fire marshal in the local fire department
except as provided under 13.7.6.7.
(Add) 13.7.6.7
All places of assembly, of
concentrated or less concentrated use, with an occupancy load of
greater than 50 people, but less than 1001 people, being utilized for
activities that could potentially cause the place of assembly to be
unsafe, dangerous or hazardous shall have one uniformed fire fighter
on duty during such activity and any additional uniformed fire
fighters on duty when deemed necessary by the designee of the state
fire marshal in the local fire department unless this requirement is
specifically waived in writing for each such event.
(Add) 13.7.6.8
The cost of all fire fighters
on duty under 13.7.6.4 through 13.7.6.7 shall be borne by the
management of the facility.
(Add) 13.7.6.9
Fire fighter(s) assigned a
detail pursuant to 13.7.6.4 through 13.7.6.7 shall be equipped with
portable communication devices which shall be provided by the local
fire department to allow direct communication to the dispatcher of
the local fire department.
(Add) 13.7.6.10
The provisions of R.I. Gen.
Laws § 23-28.2-17 shall apply to any fire fighter assigned a detail,
to a place of assembly, pursuant to 13.7.6.4 through 13.7.6.7.
(Add) 13.7.6.11
Any building owner or
occupant may request a partial or full exemption from the mandates of
13.7.6.2 through 13.7.6.10 by the State Fire Marshal and/or the Fire
Safety Code Board of Appeal & Review.
8.1.14 CHAPTER
14 - NEW EDUCATIONAL OCCUPANCIES
(Amd) 14.1.2.3 In cases
where instruction is incidental to some other occupancy, the section
of this Code governing the other occupancy shall apply. Sunday
schools or church schools that are not used for daily classes
throughout the week shall comply with the section of this Code
dealing with places of worship.
(Amd) 14.3.4.2.1 Initiation
of the required fire alarm system shall be by all of the following
means:
1. Manual means in accordance
with 9.6.2.1(1),
2. Where automatic sprinklers
are provided, initiation of the fire alarm system by sprinkler system
waterflow.
3. An approved fire detection
system in accordance with 9.6.
(Res) 14.3.4.2.2
(Res) 14.3.4.2.3
(Res) 14.3.4.2.3.1
(Res) 14.3.4.2.3.2
(Add) 14.3.4.4 Detection
(Add) 14.3.4.4.1 Where a fire
alarm system is required, a total (complete) coverage fire detection
system in accordance with 9.6.2.9 shall be provided.
(Add) 14.3.4.4.2 The
requirement of 14.3.4.4.1 shall not apply to educational occupancies
equipped throughout with an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler
system in accordance with 9.7.1.1(1) and an automatic smoke detection
system in accordance with 9.6.2.11(1).
(Add) 14.3.4.5
Any conflict between the
provisions of this section and the provisions of amended 9.6 of this
shall be resolved in favor of compliance with the most reasonable
combined requirements as determined by the State Fire Marshal’s
Office.
(Add) 14.7.3.4 Annual
Inspections
All educational occupancies
shall be inspected annually by the AHJ.
8.1.15 CHAPTER
15 - EXISTING EDUCATIONAL OCCUPANCIES
(Amd) 15.1.2.3 In cases
where instruction is incidental to some other occupancy, the section
of this Code governing the other occupancy shall apply. Sunday
schools or church schools that are not used for daily classes
throughout the week shall comply with the section of this Code
dealing with places of worship.
(Amd) 15.3.4.2.1 Initiation
of the required fire alarm system shall be by all of the following
means:
1. Manual means in accordance
with 9.6.2.1(1),
2. Where automatic sprinklers
are provided, initiation of the fire alarm system by sprinkler system
waterflow.
3. An approved fire detection
system in accordance with 9.6.
(Res) 15.3.4.2.2
(Res) 15.3.4.2.3
(Res)
15.3.4.2.3.1
(Res) 15.3.4.2.3.2
(Amd)
15.3.4.3.2.1 Emergency Forces Notification shall be in accordance
with 9.6.4.2.
(Res)
15.3.4.3.2.2
(Add) 15.3.4.4 Detection
(Add) 15.3.4.4.1 Where a fire
alarm system is required, a total (complete) coverage fire detection
system in accordance with 9.6.2.9 shall be provided.
(Add) 15.3.4.4.2 The
requirement of 15.3.4.4.1 shall not apply to educational occupancies
equipped throughout with an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler
system in accordance with 9.7.1.1(1) and an automatic smoke detection
system in accordance with 9.6.2.11(1).
(Add) 15.3.4.5
Any conflict between the
provisions of this section and the provisions of amended 9.6 of this
shall be resolved in favor of compliance with the most reasonable
combined requirements as determined by the State Fire Marshal’s
Office.
(Amd) 15.4.2 High-Rise
Buildings. High-rise buildings shall comply with 11.8.1 and be
provided with a detection, alarm and communication system in
accordance with 11.8.4 and an emergency command center complying with
11.8.6.
(Add) 15.7.3.4 Annual
Inspections
All educational occupancies
shall be inspected annually by the AHJ.
8.1.16 CHAPTER
16 - NEW DAY-CARE OCCUPANCIES
(Amd) 16.1.4.2 Special
Definitions. A list of special terms used in this chapter follows:
1. Day-Care Home. See
3.3.140.1.
2. Flexible Plan and Open Plan
Educational or Day-Care Building. See 3.3.36.6.
3. Self-Preservation (Day-Care
Occupancy). See 3.3.240.
4. Separate Atmosphere. See
3.3.26.2.
5. Adult Day Care. See 3.4.2.
(Add) 16.2.2.2.3.4 It shall
be recognized that, in buildings. or portions thereof, housing
certain clients who exhibit behavior that is harmful to themselves or
others, it might be necessary to lock egress doors to confine and
protect building inhabitants.
(Add) 16.2.2.2.3.5
Buildings, or sections thereof, that primarily house clients who, in
the opinion of the governing body of the facility, the governmental
licensing agency, or authority having jurisdiction, are incapable of
self-preservation under emergency conditions shall be permitted to
have locking arrangements complying with the provisions of
18.2.2.2.5.
(Add) 16.2.2.2.3.6 The
requirements of 16.2.2.2.3.5 shall only apply when staff is available
in all secured client-occupied areas to perform certain fire safety
functions as required in 18.2.2.2.5 through 18.2.2.2.5.2, and 18.7.
(Amd) 16.3.4.1 General.
Day-care occupancies shall be provided with a fire alarm system in
accordance with 9.6.
(Amd) 16.3.4.2 Initiation.
Initiation of the required fire alarm system shall be by all of the
following means:
1. Manual means in accordance
with 9.6.2.1(1),
2. Where automatic sprinklers
are provided, initiation of the fire alarm system by sprinkler system
waterflow.
3. An approved fire detection
system in accordance with 9.6.2.9.
(Add) 16.3.4.4.1 Emergency
forces notifications shall not be required for day care occupancies
with less than nineteen (19) clients, under 3,000 ft 2
(278.71 m2) and located on a ground floor.
(Amd) 16.3.4.5 Detection.
Where a fire alarm system is required, a total (complete) coverage
fire detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.9 shall be provided.
(Add) 16.3.4.5.1 In addition
to the requirements of 9.6.2.9(2), smoke detectors shall be installed
in all lounges, recreation areas and sleeping rooms within the
day-care occupancy.
(Add) 16.3.4.6 Smoke and
Carbon Monoxide Alarms. Every child day-care occupancy shall be
provided with either hardwired or wireless smoke and carbon monoxide
detectors installed in accordance with the referenced editions of
NFPA 72 and NFPA 720. Local smoke alarms shall not be required in
areas protected by system smoke detectors.
(Add) 16.3.4.7
Any conflict between the
provisions of this section and the provisions of amended 9.6 of this
shall be resolved in favor of compliance with the most reasonable
combined requirements as determined by the State Fire Marshal’s
Office.
(Add)
16.6.3.4.6. Carbon Monoxide Alarms.
Day-care homes shall be
provided with either hardwired or wireless carbon monoxide detectors
installed in accordance with the referenced editions of and NFPA 720.
8.1.17 CHAPTER
17 - EXISTING DAY-CARE OCCUPANCIES
(Amd) 17.1.4.2 Special
Definitions. A list of special terms used in this chapter follows:
1. Day-Care Home. See
3.3.140.1.
2. Flexible Plan and Open Plan
Educational or Day-Care Building. See 3.3.36.6.
3. Self-Preservation (Day-Care
Occupancy). See 3.3.240.
4. Separate Atmosphere. See
3.3.26.2.
5. Adult Day Care. See 3.4.2.
(Add) 17.2.2.2.3.4 It shall
be recognized that, in buildings or portions thereof, housing certain
clients who exhibit behavior that is harmful to themselves or others,
it might be necessary to lock egress doors to confine and protect
building inhabitants.
(Add) 17.2.2.2.3.5
Buildings, or sections thereof, that primarily house clients who, in
the opinion of the governing body of the facility, the governmental
licensing agency, or authority having jurisdiction, are incapable of
self-preservation under emergency conditions shall be permitted to
have locking arrangements complying with the provisions of
18.2.2.2.5.
(Add) 17.2.2.2.3.6 The
requirements of 16.2.2.2.3.5 shall only apply when staff is available
in all secured client-occupied areas to perform certain fire safety
functions as required in 18.2.2.2.5 through 18.2.2.2.5.2, and 18.7.
(Amd) 17.3.4.1. General.
Day-care occupancies shall be provided with a fire alarm system in
accordance with 9.6.
(Amd) 17.3.4.2 Initiation.
Initiation of the required fire alarm system shall be by all of the
following means:
1. Manual means in accordance
with 9.6.2.1(1),
2. Where automatic sprinklers
are provided, initiation of the fire alarm system by sprinkler system
waterflow.
3. An approved fire detection
system in accordance with 9.6.2.9.
(Amd) 17.3.4.4.1 Emergency
forces notification shall be accomplished in accordance with 9.6.4.
(Amd) 17.3.4.4.2 Emergency
forces notifications shall not be required for day care occupancies
with less than nineteen (19) clients, under 3,000 ft 2
(278.71 m 2 ) and located on a ground floor.
(Amd) 17.3.4.5 Detection.
Where a fire alarm system is required, a total (complete) coverage
fire detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.9 shall be provided.
(Add) 17.3.4.5.1 In addition
to the requirements of 9.6.2.9(2), smoke detectors shall be installed
in all lounges, recreation areas and sleeping rooms within the
day-care occupancy.
(Add) 17.3.4.6 Smoke and
Carbon Monoxide Alarms. Every child day-care occupancy shall be
provided with either hardwired or wireless smoke and carbon monoxide
detectors installed in accordance with the referenced editions of
NFPA 72 and NFPA 720. Local smoke alarms shall not be required in
areas protected by system smoke detectors.
(Add) 17.3.4.7
Any conflict between the
provisions of this section and the provisions of amended 9.6 of this
shall be resolved in favor of compliance with the most reasonable
combined requirements as determined by the State Fire Marshal’s
Office.
(Add) 17.6.3.4.5. Carbon
Monoxide Alarms.
Day-care homes shall be
provided with either hardwired or wireless carbon monoxide detectors
installed in accordance with the referenced editions of and NFPA 720.
8.1.18 CHAPTER
18- NEW HEALTH CARE OCCUPANCIES
(Amd) 18.3.4.5.1 General. A
total (complete) coverage fire detection system in accordance with
9.6.2.9 shall be provided.
(Res) 18.3.4.5.3
(Add) 18.3.4.6
Any conflict between the
provisions of this section and the provisions of amended 9.6 of this
shall be resolved in favor of compliance with the most reasonable
combined requirements as determined by the State Fire Marshal’s
Office.
8.1.19 CHAPTER
19 - EXISTING HEALTH CARE OCCUPANCIES
(Res) 19.3.4.2.3
(Amd) 19.3.4.5.1 A total
(complete) coverage fire detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.9
shall be provided, unless otherwise permitted by 19.3.4.5.3.
(Add) 19.3.4.5.3 Health
care occupancies built or converted prior to January 1, 2005 shall be
permitted to have a fire detection system complying with 9.6.2.11.
(Add) 19.3.4.6
Any conflict between the
provisions of this section and the provisions of amended Section 9.6
of this shall be resolved in favor of compliance with the most
reasonable combined requirements as determined by the State Fire
Marshal’s Office.
(Amd) 19.4.2.1 All
high-rise buildings containing health care occupancies shall be
protected throughout by an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler
system in accordance with the RIFC, NFPA 1, as amended.
(Res) 19.4.2.2
(Add) 19.4.2.3 High-rise
buildings shall be provided with a detection, alarm and communication
system in accordance with 11.8.4 and an emergency command center
complying with 11.8.6.
8.1.20 CHAPTER
20- NEW AMBULATORY HEALTH CARE OCCUPANCIES
(Amd) 20.3.4.1 General.
Ambulatory health care facilities shall be provided with fire alarm
systems in accordance with 9.6, except as modified by 20.3.4.2
through 20.3.4.5.
(Amd) 20.3.4.2 Initiation.
Initiation of the required fire alarm systems shall be by manual
means in accordance with 9.6.2 and by means of any required sprinkler
system waterflow alarms, detection devices or detection systems.
(Add) 20.3.4.5 Detection. A
total (complete) coverage fire detection system in accordance with
9.6.2.9 shall be provided.
(Add) 20.3.4.6
Any conflict between the
provisions of this section and the provisions of amended 9.6 of this
shall be resolved in favor of compliance with the most reasonable
combined requirements as determined by the State Fire Marshal’s
Office.
8.1.21 CHAPTER
21- EXISTING AMBULATORY HEALTH CARE OCCUPANCIES
(Amd) 21.3.4.1 General.
Ambulatory health care facilities shall be provided with fire alarm
systems in accordance with 9.6, except as modified by 21.3.4.2
through 21.3.4.5.
(Amd) 21.3.4.2 Initiation.
Initiation of the required fire alarm systems shall be by manual
means in accordance with 9.6.2 and by means of any required sprinkler
system waterflow alarms, detection devices or detection systems.
(Add) 21.3.4.5 Detection.
1. (Add) 21.3.4.5.1 A total
(complete) coverage fire detection system in accordance with shall be
provided, unless otherwise permitted by 21.3.4.5.2.
2. (Add) 21.3.4.5.2 Ambulatory
health care occupancies built or converted prior to January 1, 2005
shall be permitted to have a fire detection system complying with
9.6.2.11.
(Add) 21.3.4.6
Any conflict between the
provisions of this section and the provisions of amended 9.6 of this
shall be resolved in favor of compliance with the most reasonable
combined requirements as determined by the State Fire Marshal’s
Office.
8.1.22 CHAPTER
22 - NEW DETENTION AND CORRECTIONAL OCCUPANCIES
(Res) 22.3.4.2.2
(Amd) 22.3.4.3.2.1. Fire
department notification shall be accomplished in accordance with
9.6.4.
(Res)
22.3.4.3.2.2.
(Amd)
22.3.4.4 Detection. An approved fire detection system, including a
smoke detection system throughout all resident sleeping areas and
adjacent day rooms, activity rooms, or contiguous common spaces,
shall be in accordance with 9.6.2.11 as modified by 22.3.4.4.1
through 22.3.4.4.5.
(Add) 22.3.4.5.
Any conflict between the
provisions of this section and the provisions of amended 9.6 of this
shall be resolved in favor of compliance with the most reasonable
combined requirements as determined by the State Fire Marshal’s
Office.
(Amd) 22.4.3 High-Rise
Buildings. High-rise buildings shall comply with 11.8.3, 11.8.4 and
11.8.6.
(Amd) 22.4.4.9 Detection,
Alarm, and Communications Systems (Nonsprinklered Buildings). A fire
alarms system in accordance with 22.3.4 and 9.6 shall be provided.
(Res) 22.4.4.9.1
(Res) 22.4.4.9.2
8.1.23 CHAPTER
23- EXISTING DETENTION AND CORRECTIONAL OCCUPANCIES
(Amd) 23.4.2.1 Initiation
of the required fire alarm system shall be by manual means in
accordance with 9.6.2 and by means of any required sprinkler system
water flow alarms, detection devices, or detection systems, unless
otherwise permitted by the following:
1. Manual fire alarm boxes
shall be permitted to be locked, provided that staff is present
within the area when it is occupied and staff has keys readily
available to unlock the boxes.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes
shall be permitted to be located in a staff location, provided that
both of the following criteria are met:
a. The
staff location is attended when the building is occupied.
b. The
staff attendant has direct supervision of the sleeping area.
(Res) 23.3.4.2.2
(Amd) 23.3.4.3.2.1 Fire
department notification shall be accomplished in accordance with
9.6.4.
(Res) 23.3.4.3.2.2
(Amd) 22.3.4.4
Detection. An approved fire detection system, including a smoke
detection system throughout all resident housing areas, shall be in
accordance with 9.6.2.11 as modified by 23.3.4.4.1 through
23.3.4.4.4.
(Add) 23.3.4.5
Any conflict between the
provisions of this section and the provisions of amended 9.6 of this
shall be resolved in favor of compliance with the most reasonable
combined requirements as determined by the State Fire Marshal’s
Office.
(Add) 23.4.3.1 Existing
high-rise buildings shall comply with 11.8.4 and 11.8.6.
8.1.24 CHAPTER
24 - ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS
24.1.1 Application
(Amd) 24.1.1.1
The Rhode Island Fire
Code’s application to one and two family dwellings is strictly
limited to the installation of smoke and carbon monoxide smoke
detection as outlined in sections 24.6.1 through 24.6.3.1.7 as
outlined below. Sections 24.1 through 24.5.1.2 may therefore only be
otherwise utilized by the AHJ if they are specifically referenced by,
and mandated under, a separate occupancy section of this code.
(Add) 24.6.1
Compliance with State Building
and Minimum Housing Codes.
(Add) 24.6.1.1
All one and two family
dwellings shall remain subject to, and comply with, the State
Building Code, SBC-2, adopted pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-27.3
et seq .
(Add)
24.6.1.2
All one and two family
dwellings shall further remain subject to, and comply with the
Minimum Housing Standards outlined in R.I. Gen. Laws § 45-24.2-1 et
seq .
(Add) 24.6.2 Installation
of Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms-New and converted buildings.
(Add) 24.6.2.1
All buildings hereinafter
constructed or converted for residential occupancy, including mobile
and modular homes, shall be provided with smoke and carbon monoxide
detectors, installed in accordance with NFPA 72, 2010 edition, and
NFPA 720, 2012 edition, at the direction and to the satisfaction of
the AHJ.
(Add)
24.6.2.1.1
The
above smoke and carbon monoxide detectors may be installed as either
separate or combination units approved by the AHJ.
(Add)
24.6.2.1.2
The
above smoke and carbon monoxide detectors may be either hardwired or
wireless units approved by the AHJ.
(Add)
24.6.2.1.3
The
local fire authorities certified by the State Fire Marshal as
prescribed in R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-28.2-6, in cooperation with the
local building code officials, shall enforce the provisions of this
chapter.
(Add)
24.6.2.1.4
Compliance
with the above provisions shall be considered a prerequisite to the
approval, by the fire authority, of any certificate of occupancy
issued by the building official pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws §
23-27.3-120.
(Add) 24.6.2.1.5
It
shall be the responsibility of the owner to maintain in operable
condition smoke and carbon monoxide detection systems, installed as
required pursuant to this chapter, and the owner shall make operable,
within seven (7) days after being notified by certified mail by the
occupant and/or enforcement official, any inoperable system.
(Add) 24.6.2.1.5.1
If the owner fails to make
the system operable within the required seven (7) days, the tenant
may cause the system to be made operable if the reasonable total
reasonable cost of making the repairs does not exceed the sum of
fifty dollars ($50.00), and the tenant may deduct from his or her
rent the actual reasonable cost of repairs not to exceed fifty
($50.00).
(Add) 24.6.2.1.5.2
The payment of the reasonable
costs, outlined in 24.2.1.5.1, shall not exempt the owner from the
payment of fines for violation of this Code as outlined in R.I. Gen.
Laws § 23-28.3-9.
(Add) 24.6.3 Installation of
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms-Existing Buildings
(Add)
24.6.3.1
All occupied residential
properties, including mobile homes, shall, at the responsibility of
the seller before title to the property is transferred, be provided
with smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, installed in accordance
with NFPA 72, 2010 edition, and NFPA 720, 2012 edition, at the
direction and to the satisfaction of the AHJ.
(Add) 24.6.3.1.1
The
above smoke and carbon monoxide detectors may be installed as either
separate or combination units approved by the AHJ.
(Add)
24.6.3.1.2
The
above smoke and carbon monoxide detectors may be either battery
operated, hardwired or low power radio units approved by the AHJ.
Plug-in type carbon monoxide detectors shall not be acceptable.
(Add) 24.6.3.1.3
The
local fire authorities shall enforce the provisions of this chapter.
The State Fire Marshal’s Office may enforce the provisions of this
chapter when so requested to by the local authority or when the local
authority is either unwilling or unable to fulfill its obligations
under this chapter.
(Add)
24.6.3.1.3.1
The local fire authority that
performs smoke and carbon monoxide detector inspections in all
residential occupancies shall, at the time of the inspection, be
allowed to charge a thirty dollar ($30.00) fee for the inspection of
any residential occupancy. The responsibility of this charged fee
will be borne by the seller on each occurrence before title to the
property is transferred. A sixty dollar ($60.00) fee will be allowed
for any subsequent re-inspection of the same residential occupancy
due to improper installation, wrong location, improper wiring method,
or the seller’s failure to maintain a mutually agreed upon
appointment with the local fire authority that performs the
inspection function. The fees collected by the local fire authority
shall be used for fire prevention purposes in that particular city,
town, fire district, or other municipal subdivision.
(Add) 24.6.3.1.4
At
the time of the transfer of title, the seller must provide the
purchaser with a certificate from the fire department for the
community in which the dwelling is located stating that the smoke and
carbon monoxide detector systems have been inspected within one
hundred twenty (120) days prior to the date of sale and has been
determined to be in good working order. The fire department for the
community in which the dwelling is located must inspect the smoke and
carbon monoxide detector systems of the dwelling within ten days of a
request from the owner. The inspection may be conducted by qualified
personnel of the department or the State Fire Marshal’s Office.
Neither the fire department nor the State Fire Marshal shall be
liable for any damage caused by the subsequent malfunction of a smoke
detection system or carbon monoxide detector system which it
inspected.
(Add)
24.6.3.1.4.1
Transfers of real property
are exempt from compliance with the provisions of 24.6.2 and 24.6.3
if:
(1) The
property being transferred does not contain residential dwellings;
(2) Within
the past six months a certificate of use or occupancy has been issued
for the property being transferred;
(3) The
property being transferred currently maintains the smoke and carbon
monoxide detection systems, as certified by the local AHJ, in
accordance 24.6.3.1.3.1;
(4) The
property being transferred is uninhabitable without the issuance of a
certificate of use and occupancy;
(5) The
property is being transferred pursuant to a foreclosure sale, a tax
sale, as a redemption of a tax sale, or in lieu of foreclosure, and
provided further that the requirements of this chapter 24 shall be
met prior to the re-occupancy of the property;
(6) The
property is being transferred by operation of law, or pursuant to an
order of any United States court, or any superior or family court of
the State of Rhode Island, and provided further that such court order
specifically directs non-compliance with this Chapter 24; or
(7) The
property is being acquired by the state for demolition and will not
be sold or used by the state for residential purposes.
(Add) 24.6.3.1.5
It
shall be the responsibility of the owner to maintain in operable
condition smoke and carbon monoxide detection systems, installed as
required pursuant to this chapter, and the owner shall make operable,
within seven (7) days after being notified by certified mail by the
occupant and/or enforcement official, any inoperable system.
(Add)
24.6.3.1.5.1
If the owner fails to make
the system operable within the required seven (7) days, the tenant
may cause the system to be made operable if the reasonable total
reasonable cost of making the repairs does not exceed the sum of
fifty dollars ($50.00), and the tenant may deduct from his or her
rent the actual reasonable cost of repairs not to exceed fifty
($50.00).
(Add) 24.6.3.1.6
Owners
of existing residential properties, previously required to install
smoke detectors, shall maintain those detectors in good operating
condition.
(Add) 24.6.3.1.7
Owners
of existing residential properties, previously required to install
smoke detectors, shall not be required to immediately install the
carbon monoxide detectors. However, full compliance with 24.6 shall
be required with the next transfer of title.
8.1.25 CHAPTER
25 - Three Family Apartment Building.
(Add)
25.1 Compliance with State Building and Minimum Housing Codes.
(Add)
25.1.1
All three family apartment
buildings shall remain subject to, and comply with, the State
Building Code adopted pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter23-27.3 et
seq .
(Add) 25.1.2
All three family apartment
buildings shall further remain subject to, and comply with the
Minimum Housing Standards outlined in R.I. Gen. Laws § 45-24.2-1 et
seq .
(Add) 25.2 Installation of
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms.
(Add)
25.2.1
All three family apartment
buildings hereinafter constructed or converted for residential
occupancy, including modular homes, shall be provided with smoke and
carbon monoxide detectors, installed in accordance with NFPA 72, and
NFPA 720, at the direction and to the satisfaction of the AHJ.
(Add)
25.2.1.1
The
above smoke and carbon monoxide detectors may be installed as either
separate or combination units approved by the AHJ.
(Add)
25.2.1.2
The
above smoke and carbon monoxide detectors may be either hardwired or
wireless units approved by the AHJ.
(Add)
25.2.1.3
The
local fire authorities certified by the State Fire Marshal as
prescribed in R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-28.2.6, in cooperation with the
local building code officials, shall enforce the provisions of this
chapter.
(Add) 25.2.1.4
Compliance
with the above provisions shall be considered a prerequisite to the
approval, by the fire authority, of any certificate of occupancy
issued by the building official pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws §
23-27.3-120.
(Add) 25.2.1.5
It
shall be the responsibility of the owner to maintain in operable
condition smoke and carbon monoxide detection systems, installed as
required pursuant to this chapter, and the owner shall make operable,
within seven (7) days after being notified by certified mail by the
occupant and/or enforcement official, any inoperable system.
(Add)
25.2.1.5.1
If the owner fails to make
the system operable within the required seven (7) days, the tenant
may cause the system to be made operable if the reasonable total
reasonable cost of making the repairs does not exceed the sum of
twenty dollars ($20.00), and the tenant may deduct from his or her
rent the actual reasonable cost of repairs not to exceed twenty
($20.00).
(Add)
25.2.1.5.2
The payment of the reasonable
costs, outlined in 25.2.1.5.1, shall not exempt the owner from the
payment of fines for violation of this Code as outlined in R.I. Gen.
Laws § 23-28.3-9.
(Add)
25.2.2
All three family apartment
buildings, shall, at the responsibility of the owner, be provided
with smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, installed in accordance
with NFPA 72, 2010 edition, and NFPA 720, 2012 edition, at the
direction and to the satisfaction of the AHJ.
(Add) 25.2.2.1
The
above smoke and carbon monoxide detectors may be installed as either
separate or combination units approved by the AHJ.
(Add) 25.2.2.2
The
above smoke and carbon monoxide detectors shall be hardwired or
wireless units approved by the AHJ.
(Add) 25.2.2.3
The
local fire authorities shall enforce the provisions of this chapter.
The State Fire Marshal’s Office may enforce the provisions of this
chapter when so requested to by the local authority or when the local
authority is either unwilling or unable to fulfill its obligations
under this chapter.
(Add)
25.2.2.3.1
The local fire authority that
performs smoke and carbon monoxide detector inspections in all
residential occupancies shall, at the time of the inspection, be
allowed to charge a thirty dollar ($30.00) fee for the inspection of
any residential occupancy. The responsibility of this charged fee
will be borne by the seller on each occurrence before title to the
property is transferred. A sixty dollar ($60.00) fee will be allowed
for any subsequent re-inspection of the same residential occupancy
due to improper installation, wrong location, improper wiring method,
or the seller’s failure to maintain a mutually agreed upon
appointment with the local fire authority that performs the
inspection function. The fees collected by the local fire authority
shall be used for fire prevention purposes in that particular city,
town, fire district, or other municipal subdivision.
(Add)
25.2.2.4
At
the time of the transfer of title, the seller must provide the
purchaser with a certificate from the fire department for the
community in which the dwelling is located stating that the smoke and
carbon monoxide detector systems have been inspected within one
hundred twenty (120) days prior to the date of sale and has been
determined to be in good working order. The fire department for the
community in which the dwelling is located must inspect the smoke and
carbon monoxide detector systems of the dwelling within ten (10) days
of a request from the owner. The inspection may be conducted by
qualified personnel of the department or the State Fire Marshal’s
Office. No fire department nor the State Fire Marshal shall be liable
for any damage caused by the subsequent malfunction of a smoke
detection system or carbon monoxide detector system which it
inspected.
(Add)
25.2.2.4.1
Transfers of real property
are exempt from compliance with the provisions of 25.2.2 through
25.2.2.7 if:
1. The
property being transferred does not contain residential dwellings;
2. Within
the past six months a certificate of use or occupancy has been issued
for the property being transferred;
3. The
property being transferred currently maintains the smoke and carbon
monoxide detection systems, as certified by the local AHJ, in
accordance with 25.2.2.3.1;
4. The
property being transferred is uninhabitable without the issuance of a
certificate of use and occupancy referenced in 25.2.1.4;
5. The
property is being transferred pursuant to a foreclosure sale, a tax
sale, as a redemption of a tax sale, or in lieu of foreclosure, and
provided further that the requirements of this Chapter 25 shall met
prior to the re-occupancy of the property;
6. The
property is being transferred by operation of law, or pursuant to an
order of any United States court, or any superior or family court of
the State of Rhode Island, and provided further that such court order
specifically directs non-compliance with this Chapter 25; or
7. The
property is being acquired by the state for demolition and will not
be sold or used by the state for residential purposes.
(Add) RILSC 25.2.2.5
It
shall be the responsibility of the owner to maintain in operable
condition smoke and carbon monoxide detection systems, installed as
required pursuant to this chapter, and the owner shall make operable,
within seven (7) days after being notified by certified mail by the
occupant and/or enforcement official, any inoperable system.
(Add)
RILSC 25.2.2.5.1
If the owner fails to make
the system operable within the required seven (7) days, the tenant
may cause the system to be made operable if the reasonable total
reasonable cost of making the repairs does not exceed the sum of
fifty dollars ($50.00), and the tenant may deduct from his or her
rent the actual reasonable cost of repairs not to exceed fifty
($50.00).
(Add) RILSC 25.2.2.6
Owners
of existing residential properties, previously required to install
smoke detectors, shall maintain those detectors in good operating
condition.
(Add) RILSC 25.2.2.7
Owners
of existing residential properties, previously required to install
smoke detectors, shall not be required to immediately install the
carbon monoxide detectors. However, full compliance with 25.2.2
through 25.2.2.7 shall be required with the next transfer of title.
(Add) RILSC 25.2.2.8
The
State Fire Marshal is hereby authorized to consult with the Chief
Judge of the Rhode Island Family Court to develop and implement a
plan of action, addressing the installation appropriate limited smoke
and carbon monoxide detection for the immediate safe temporary
placement of children, supervised by the Rhode Island Department of
Children, Youth and Families, in properties covered under this
chapter.
8.1.26 CHAPTER
26 - LODGING OR ROOMING HOUSES
(Amd) 26.1.1.1
The requirements of this
chapter shall apply to buildings that provide sleeping accommodations
for 16 or fewer persons on either a transient or permanent basis,
with or without meals, but without separate cooking facilities for
individual occupants, except as provided in Chapter 24 and/or
26.1.1.1.1 through 26.1.1.1.7 (Bed and Breakfast Homes) as outlined
below.
(Add)
26.1.1.1.1
A “Bed and Breakfast Home”
is defined as an owner and/or innkeeper occupied building that
provides sleeping accommodations for up to sixteen guests. Every “Bed
and Breakfast Home” must further have originated as a private home
and must have at least 300 square feet of common space (i.e. dining
room, living room, etc.) for guest use, and must further provide
breakfast. Finally, the owner and/or innkeeper must occupy the
building twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, while guests are
utilizing the facility. The owner and/or innkeeper of the Bed and
Breakfast Home shall have a plan of action, approved by the local
official, to assure the safety of the guests in the event the owner
or innkeeper is required to temporarily leave the facility
unsupervised for limited periods during the day.
(Add)
26.1.1.1.2
A “No Smoking” policy,
throughout the building, shall be strictly enforced.
(Add)
26.1.1.1.3
With the exception of
fireplaces and/or wood stoves, approved by local fire department
and/or the local mechanical inspector, there shall be no open flame
in the bedrooms of these facilities. Specifically, candles, incense
or similar materials shall not be allowed in the bedrooms. All
approved fireplaces and/or wood stoves shall further be provided with
approved metal screens or glass doors. Any fireplace or wood stove
located in the common areas shall also be approved by local fire
department and/or the local mechanical inspector with the above
safeguards.
(Add)
26.1.1.1.4
All “Bed and Breakfast
Homes” require hardwired, interconnected smoke and carbon monoxide
detectors installed in accordance with the regulations and standards
covering a new single family residence. There shall be approved
detection in each bedroom.
(Add)
26.1.1.1.5
All “Bed and Breakfast
Homes” with a capacity of between four (4) and six (6) guests shall
meet the following requirements for this occupancy:
1. Hardwired
or low power radio wireless interconnected smoke alarms and carbon
monoxide detectors shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 72,
2010 edition, and NFPA 720, 2012 edition.
2. Emergency
lighting shall be installed in any corridors and/or stairways greater
than eight (8) feet in length.
3. Externally
illuminated exit signs shall be installed.
4. An
evacuation plan, containing alternative emergency egress routes,
shall be presented to the local fire authority for approval.
5. The
owner and/or innkeeper shall receive comprehensive fire extinguisher
training.
6. It
is recommended that the facility be annually inspected by the local
fire authority. Any existing curtains, bedding, rugs or similar
flammable materials, shall only be replaced, in the future, by fire
retardant materials, manufactured and/or treated to the satisfaction
of the local fire authority.
7. Any
existing fire detection and/or suppression system shall be maintained
as a required system.
(Add)
26.1.1.1.6
All “Bed and Breakfast
Homes” with a capacity of between seven (7) and sixteen (16) guests
shall meet the following requirements for this occupancy:
1. A
fire alarm system installed in accordance with 26.3.4.1.1 shall be
provided.
2. Hardwired
or low power radio wireless interconnected smoke alarms and carbon
monoxide detectors shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 72,
2010 edition, and NFPA 720, 2012 edition. (May be incorporated into
the above fire alarm system).
3. Solid
core doors, maintaining an approximate fire rating of twenty (20)
minutes, shall be installed in the existing egress system door jambs
with spring-loaded hinges. The local fire authority may approve an
alternative plan of action allowing historically significant doors,
with an approved Class-A flame-spread finish and spring loaded
hinges, to be retained.
4. Emergency
lighting shall be installed in any corridors and/or stairways greater
than eight (8) feet in length.
5. Externally
illuminated exit signs shall be installed.
6. An
evacuation plan, containing alternative emergency egress routes,
shall be presented to the local fire authority for approval.
7. The
owner and/or innkeeper shall receive comprehensive fire extinguisher
training.
8. The
facility shall be annually inspected by the local fire authority. Any
existing curtains, bedding, rugs or similar flammable materials,
shall only be replaced, in the future, by fire retardant materials,
manufactured and/or treated to the satisfaction of the local fire
authority.
9. Any
existing fire detection and/or suppression system shall be maintained
as a required system.
(Add)
26.1.1.1.7
Any building complying with
the above “Bed and Breakfast Home” guidelines, with a capacity in
excess of sixteen (16) guests, shall be required comply with the
requirements for a “Hotel and Dormitory” occupancy as outlined in
the provisions of Chapters 28 or 29, as applicable (new or existing),
of the Rhode Island Life Safety Code.
(Amd) 26.3.4.1.1
Lodging and rooming houses
shall be provided with a fire alarm system in accordance with 9.6.
(Res) 26.3.4.1.2
(Amd) 26.3.4.2 Initiation.
Initiation of the required fire alarm system shall be by manual
means in accordance with 9.6.2, a fire detection system required by
23.3.4.4, and by alarm initiation in accordance with 9.6.2.1(3) in
buildings protected throughout by an approved automatic sprinkler
system in accordance with 26.3.6.
(Amd) 26.3.4.4 Detection. A
fire detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.11 shall be provided.
(Amd) 26.3.4.5.1 Approved
single-station smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with
9.6.2.10 in every sleeping room.
(Res) 26.3.4.5.3
(Amd) 26.3.4.6.1 Carbon
monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide detectors in accordance with 9.8
and 26.3.4.6 shall be provided in lodging or rooming houses where
either of the following conditions exists:
1. Lodging or rooming houses
with communicating attached garages, unless otherwise exempted by
26.3.4.6.3
2. Lodging or rooming houses
containing fuel-burning appliances
(Res) 26.3.4.7
(Add) 26.3.4.8 Any conflict
between the provisions of this section and the provisions of amended
9.6 of this shall be resolved in favor of compliance with the most
reasonable combined requirements as determined by the State Fire
Marshal’s Office.
(Amd) 26.3.6.1
All new lodging or rooming
houses shall be protected throughout by an approved automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with 26.3.6.3.
(Amd) 26.3.6.2
Every existing lodging or
rooming house built, or converted to this occupancy, on or after June
29, 1990, shall be protected throughout by an approved automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with 26.3.6.3.
(Add) 26.3.6.4
Portable fire extinguishers
shall be provided in accordance with 9.7.4.1 of this Code.
(Add) 26.5.2.3
Any furnace or boiler in
the building shall be equipped with an approved remote shutoff switch
approved by the AHJ.
8.1.27
CHAPTER 27- EMERGENCY SHELTER OCCUPANCY.
(Add) 27.1 General
Requirements.
(Add)
27.1.1 Application.
(Add) 27.1.1.1
The
requirements of this chapter shall apply to buildings that provide
temporary emergency sleeping space for 16 or fewer persons unless a
greater number of occupants is specifically approved by the Fire
Safety Code Board of Appeal & Review.
(Add) 27.1.1.2
Places
of worship, maintaining this temporary occupancy in accordance with
the provisions of this chapter, shall not lose their exception from
the requirements of 13.3.5.1 and 13.3.5.1.1 as outlined in
13.3.5.2.1(4) of this Code.
(Add) 27.1.1.3
For
buildings with larger occupancies, the requirements of Chapters 28
and 29 are applicable. The owners of such facilities may seek interim
relief from specific requirements from the Fire Safety Code Board of
Appeal & Review.
(Add) 27.1.1.4
All
emergency shelter occupancies shall be located on the on the first
floor or on the level of exit discharge unless specifically
authorized by the AHJ to be located on a lower or upper level.
(Add) 27.2 Means of Escape
Requirements
(Add)
27.2.1
There shall be at least two
(2) clearly defined means of escape to grade from the space used as
an emergency shelter.
(Add)
27.2.2
The means of escape,
stairways and doors shall comply with the provisions of 26.2.1.1
through 26.2.3 of this Code.
(Add)
27.2.3
The means of escape shall be
further protected with emergency lighting and exit signs approved by
the AHJ.
(Add) 27.3 Protection.
(Add)
27.3.1 Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detection
(Add) 27.3.1.1
Smoke
alarms and carbon monoxide detection shall be immediately provided
and maintained in accordance with the provisions of 26.3.4. All such
facilities shall also be in compliance with 26.3.4 of this Code.
(Add)
27.3.2 Supervision
(Add) 27.3.2.1
At
least one responsible adult, approved by the AHJ and not a resident
of the emergency shelter occupancy, shall maintain a fire watch
during all hours of occupancy of the emergency shelter facility.
(Add)
27.3.2.1.1
In shelters used to
temporarily house families, a responsible adult member of each such
family may be approved by the AHJ to maintain the fire watch
referenced in 27.3.2.1.
(Add) 27.3.2.2
The
responsible adult(s) must be trained in fire prevention techniques,
fire department notification, evacuation procedures and fire
extinguisher operation by the AHJ prior to being approved to oversee
the fire watch.
(Add) 27.3.2.3
The
owner or management of the shelter shall provide the AHJ with a
schedule listing the names of the responsible adults conducting the
fire watch and the times to which they have been assigned this duty.
(Add) 27.3.2.4
A
fire fighter on duty, as defined in 12.7.5.9 and 13.7.5.9 may be
substituted for the responsible adult at the discretion of the owner
or management of the emergency shelter facility.
(Add) 27.3.3 Protection from
Hazards.
(Add)
27.3.3.1
No smoking shall be allowed
in any building utilized as an emergency shelter facility during any
and all periods of this occupancy.
(Add)
27.3.3.2
No cooking shall be allowed
in any building utilized as an emergency shelter facility during any
and all periods of overnight occupancy. If specifically authorized by
the AHJ, cooking, with the appropriate temporary safeguards required
by the AHJ, may be allowed during limited periods when the occupants
are all awake and fully capable of self preservation.
(Add) 27.3.4 Fire
Extinguishers.
(Add)
27.3.4.1
A minimum of two fire
extinguishers, installed at the direction and to the satisfaction of
the AHJ, shall be provided in every emergency shelter facility in
accordance with section of this Code.
8.1.28 CHAPTER
28 - NEW HOTELS AND DORMITORIES
(Amd) 28.3.4.4 Detection.
A fire detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.11 shall be
provided.
(Add) 28.3.4.7 Any conflict
between the provisions of this section and the provisions of amended
9.6 of this shall be resolved in favor of compliance with the most
reasonable combined requirements as determined by the State Fire
Marshal’s Office.
(Amd) 28.3.5.1.
All new hotel and/or
dormitory occupancies shall be protected throughout by approved
automatic sprinkler systems in accordance with 28.3.5.3.
(Amd) 28.3.5.2.
Every hotel and/or
dormitory occupancy, every addition hereafter made to a hotel and/or
dormitory, and every building hereafter converted for the purposes of
a hotel and/or dormitory shall be completely protected by an approved
system of automatic sprinklers installed and maintained in accordance
with 28.3.5.3.
(Add) 28.3.5.9 Portable
fire extinguishers shall be provided in all new hotel occupancies in
accordance with 9.7.4.1 of this Code.
(Add) 28.5.2.3 Any furnace
or boiler in the building shall be equipped with an approved remote
shutoff switch approved by the AHJ.
8.1.29 CHAPTER
29 - EXISTING HOTELS AND DORMITORIES
(Amd) 29.3.4.1 General. A
fire alarm system in accordance with 9.6, except as modified by
29.3.4.2 through 29.3.4.5, shall be provided.
(Amd) 29.3.4.3.3 Guest
rooms and guest suites specifically required and equipped to
accommodate hearing impaired individuals shall be provided with a
visible notification appliance.
(Amd) 28.3.4.3.4 In areas
subject to occupancy, other than guest rooms and guest suites,
visible notification appliances shall be provided.
(Amd) 29.3.4.3.6 Emergency
forces notification shall be accomplished in accordance with 9.6.4.
(Res) 29.3.4.3.7
(Amd) 29.3.4.4 Detection. A
fire detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.11 shall be provided.
(Add) 29.3.4.4.1 A
combination rate of rise and one hundred thirty-five degree (135°)
to one hundred forty degree (140°) F. fixed temperature heat
detector shall be installed in every sleeping room, other than
sleeping rooms equipped with an approved, supervised automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with 28.3.5.3.
(Add) 29.3.4.6 Carbon
Monoxide Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detection Systems.
(Add) 29.3.4.6.1 Carbon
monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide detectors in accordance with 9.8
and 29.3.4.6 shall be provided in hotels and dormitories where either
of the following conditions exists:
1. Guest
rooms or guest suites with communicating attached garages, unless
otherwise exempted by 29.3.4.6.3
2. Guest
rooms or guest suites containing a permanently installed fuel-burning
appliance
(Add) 29.3.4.6.2 Where
required by 29.3.4.6.1, carbon monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide
detectors shall be installed in the following locations:
1. Outside
of each separate guest room or guest suite sleeping area in the
immediate vicinity of the sleeping rooms
2. On
every occupiable level of a guest room and guest suite
(Add) 29.3.4.6.3 Carbon
monoxide alarms and carbon monoxide detectors as specified in
29.3.4.6.1(1) shall not be required in the following locations:
1. In
garages
2. Within
guest rooms or guest suites with communicating attached garages that
are open parking structures as defined by the building code
3. Within
guest rooms or guest suites with communicating attached garages that
are mechanically ventilated in accordance with the mechanical code
(Add) 29.3.4.6.4 Carbon
monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide detectors shall be provided in
areas other than guest rooms and guest suites in accordance with 9.8,
as modified by 29.3.4.6.5.
(Add)
29.3.4.6.5 Carbon monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide detectors shall
be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s published
instructions in the locations specified as follows:
1. On
the ceilings of rooms containing permanently installed fuel-burning
appliances
2. Centrally
located within occupiable spaces adjacent to a communicating attached
garage
(Add) 29.3.4.7 Any conflict
between the provisions of this section and the provisions of amended
9.6 of this shall be resolved in favor of compliance with the most
reasonable combined requirements as determined by the State Fire
Marshal’s Office.
(Amd) 29.3.5.2.
Every existing hotel and/or
dormitory occupancy built, or converted to this occupancy, on or
after June 29, 1990, and all existing hotels and/or dormitories of
construction types III, IV and V, as outlined in NFPA 220, which have
sleeping accommodations for guests or employees above the third
story, shall be protected throughout by an approved automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with 29.3.5.3.
(Add) 29.3.5.8 Portable
fire extinguishers shall be provided in all existing hotel
occupancies in accordance with 9.7.4.1 of this Code.
(Amd) 29.4.1.1 High-rise
buildings shall comply with 29.3.5.1, 11.8.4 and 11.8.6.
(Add) 29.5.2.3
Any furnace or boiler in
the building shall be equipped with an approved remote shutoff switch
approved by the AHJ.
8.1.30 CHAPTER
30 - NEW APARTMENT BUILDINGS
(Amd) 30.3.4.1.1 General.
Every apartment building, other than those meeting 30.3.4.1.2, shall
be provided with a fire alarm system in accordance with amended 9.6
of this Code, except as modified by 30.3.4.2 through 30.3.4.5
(Amd) 30.3.4.1.2 A fire
alarm system shall not be required in buildings where each dwelling
unit is completely separated from other contiguous dwelling units by
fire barriers (see 8.3) having a fire resistance rating of not less
than 1 hour, and where each dwelling unit has either its own
independent exit or its own independent stairway or ramp discharging
at grade. However, such exempted buildings shall fully comply with
the provisions for smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in accordance
with 30.3.4.5 and 30.3.4.6.
(Amd) 30.3.4.2.1 Initiation
of the required fire alarm system shall be by all of the following
means:
1. Manual means in accordance
with 9.6.2.1(1),
2. Where automatic sprinklers
are provided, initiation of the fire alarm system by sprinkler system
waterflow.
3. An approved fire detection
system in accordance with 9.6.2.11.
(Res) 30.3.4.2.2
(Res) 30.3.4.2.3
(Res) 30.3.4.3.3
(Res) 30.3.4.3.4
(Add) 30.3.4.3.5 Emergency
forces notification shall not be required for apartment occupancies
containing less than twelve (12) dwelling units between fire barriers
(see 8.3). The above fire barriers shall have a fire resistance
rating of not less than two (2) hours.
(Amd) 30.3.4.4 Detection. A
fire detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.11 shall be provided.
(Add) 30.3.4.7 Any conflict
between the provisions of this section and the provisions of amended
9.6 of this shall be resolved in favor of compliance with the most
reasonable combined requirements as determined by the State Fire
Marshal’s Office.
(Add) 30.3.5.13 Portable
fire extinguishers shall be provided in all new apartment occupancies
in accordance with 9.7.4.1 of this Code.
(Add) 30.3.5.13.1 As an
alternative to the location requirements for portable fire
extinguishers outlined in 9.7.4.1 of this Code, the owner or
management of a new apartment building may provide each apartment
unit with an approved fire extinguisher installed at the direction
and to the satisfaction of the AHJ.
(Add) 30.5.2.3 Any furnace
or boiler in the building shall be equipped with an approved remote
shutoff switch approved by the AHJ.
(Amd) 30.6 All apartment
buildings, used as housing for elderly or disabled people, shall be
inspected annually by the AHJ.
8.1.31 CHAPTER
31 - EXISTING APARTMENT BUILDINGS
(Amd) 31.1.1.1 The
requirements of this chapter shall apply to existing buildings or
portions thereof currently occupied as apartment occupancies. In
addition, the building shall meet the requirements of one of the
following options:
1. Option 1, buildings
previously inspected and deemed compliant with 31.1.1.5.
2. Option 2, buildings
provided with a complete approved automatic fire detection and
notification system in accordance with 31.3.4.4
3. Option 3, buildings
provided with approved automatic sprinkler protection in selected
areas, as described in 31.3.5.8
4. Option 4, buildings
protected throughout by an approved automatic sprinkler system
(Add) 31.1.1.5 Approved
apartment buildings.
Any existing apartment
building, that was originally converted to this occupancy from an
existing one, two, or three family dwelling, shall be deemed in full
compliance with the provisions of this Chapter 31, upon meeting the
following fifteen requirements:
1. The building maintains a
fire alarm system that complies with the provisions of 31.3.4 and
9.6; and
2. The building maintains an
approved system of either hardwired or lower power radio wireless
smoke and carbon monoxide detectors installed in accordance with the
referenced edition of NFPA 72 and NFPA 720; and
3. The building maintains
emergency lighting approved by the AHJ; and
4. The building maintains
approved exit signage, if so required by the AHJ; and
5. The building shall have at
least two means of egress of which one may be a properly maintained
existing fire escape or platform and ladder system, approved by the
AHJ.
6. The walls of the internal
means of egress are made of plaster and/or sheetrock, are in good
repair, and maintain an approximate fire rating of twenty (20)
minutes as determined by the AHJ; and
7. All combustible covering
materials, within the approved egress systems, such as existing
paneling or wainscoting, mounted on approved plaster or sheetrock
walls or ceilings, shall be rendered flame resistant by the
application of an approved Class A flame-spread rated material to the
satisfaction of the AHJ; and
8. The existing dimensions of
the egress system appear to adequately support the rapid evacuation
of the building in the opinion of the AHJ.
9. The internal means of
egress may contain winding stairs approved by the AHJ.
10. Approved solid core or
steel doors, maintaining an approximate fire rating of twenty (20)
minutes, have been installed in the existing egress system door
jambs, with approved spring loaded hinges, to the satisfaction of the
AHJ; and
11. Existing fire escapes,
platform and ladder systems, maintained in good repair, may be
utilized as a second means of egress, as approved by the AHJ. The
above existing fire escape systems may be accessed through windows
providing a clear opening of at least 5.7 square feet, as approved by
the AHJ. All locks and locking devices shall be permanently removed
from the doors to the rooms providing access to the fire escape
system; and
12. Any furnace or boiler in
the building shall be equipped with an approved remote shutoff switch
approved by the AHJ.
13. Any furnace, boiler or
comparable central heating plant above 160,000 BTU input and all
floor mounted units requiring a non-combustible floor by their
listing, shall be either segregated from the remainder of the
building by a one hour rated enclosure or protected by
domestically-supplied sprinkler head(s) to the satisfaction of the
AHJ.
14. Portable fire
extinguishers shall be provided in accordance with 9.7.4.1 of this
Code. As an alternative to the location requirements for portable
fire extinguishers outlined in 9.7.4.1 of this Code, the owner or
management of the apartment building may provide each apartment unit
with an approved fire extinguisher installed at the direction and to
the satisfaction of the AHJ.
15. Every existing apartment
building, containing more than six (6) living units between approved
fire barriers (see 8.3) having a fire resistance rating of two (2)
hours, built or converted to this occupancy, on or after June 29,
1990 shall be provided with sprinkler coverage, at the direction and
to the satisfaction of the AHJ, in accordance with the standards
outlined in the referenced editions of NFPA 13 or NFPA 13R where
applicable.
The AHJ shall provide the
building owner a reasonable time, pursuant to guidelines established
by the State Fire Marshal’s Office, to bring the building into full
compliance with the above Fifteen Point Plan, after the owner is
officially notified of any deficiencies in writing. Any emergency or
life threatening items shall be addressed through the abatement
procedures as outlined in the RIFC, Section 1.7.6 et seq .
(Amd) 31.3.4.2.1 Initiation
of the required fire alarm system shall be by all of the following
means:
1. Manual means in accordance
with 9.6.2.1(1),
2. Where automatic sprinklers
are provided, initiation of the fire alarm system by sprinkler system
waterflow.
3. An approved fire detection
system in accordance with 9.6.2.11.
(Res) 31.3.4.2.2
(Res) 31.3.4.2.3
(Res) 31.3.4.2.4
(Res) 31.3.4.2.5
(Res) 31.3.4.3.2
(Res) 31.3.4.3.3
(Res) 31.3.4.3.4
(Add) 31.3.4.3.5.1
Emergency forces notification shall be not required for apartment
occupancies containing less than twelve (12) dwelling units between
fire barriers (see Section 8.3). The above fire barriers shall have a
fire resistance rating of not less than two hours.
(Amd) 31.3.4.4.1 A fire
detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.11 shall be provided.
(Res) 31.3.4.4.2
(Amd) 31.3.4.5.1* Smoke
alarms shall be installed in accordance with 9.6.2.10 outside every
sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms and on all
levels of the dwelling unit, including basements.
(Res) 31.3.4.5.2
(Res) 31.3.4.5.3
(Res) 31.3.4.5.4
(Add) 31.3.4.6 Carbon Monoxide
Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detection Systems.
(Add) 31.3.4.6.1 Carbon
monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide detectors in accordance with 9.8
and 31.3.4.6 shall be provided apartment buildings where either of
the following conditions exists:
1. Dwelling
units with communicating attached garages, unless otherwise exempted
by 31.3.4.6.3
2. Dwelling
units containing a permanently installed fuel-burning appliance
(Add) 31.3.4.6.2 Where
required by 31.3.4.6.1, carbon monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide
detectors shall be installed in the following locations:
1. Outside
of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the
sleeping rooms
2. On
every occupiable level of a dwelling unit
(Add) 31.3.4.6.3 Carbon
monoxide alarms and carbon monoxide detectors as specified in
31.3.4.6.1(1) shall not be required in the following locations:
1. In
garages
2. Within
dwelling units with communicating attached garages that are open
parking structures as defined by the building code
3. Within
dwelling units with communicating attached garages that are
mechanically ventilated in accordance with the mechanical code
(Add) 31.3.4.6.4 Carbon
monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide detectors shall be provided in
areas other than dwelling units in accordance with 9.8, as modified
by 31.3.4.6.5
(Add) 31.3.4.6.5 Carbon
monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide detectors shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer’s published instructions in the
locations specified as follows:
1. On
the ceilings of rooms containing permanently installed fuel-burning
appliances
2. Centrally
located within occupiable spaces adjacent to a communicating attached
garage
(Add) 31.3.4.7 Any conflict
between the provisions of this section and the provisions of amended
9.6 of this shall be resolved in favor of compliance with the most
reasonable combined requirements as determined by the State Fire
Marshal’s Office.
(Amd) 31.3.5.1
Every existing apartment
building, containing more than six (6) living units between approved
fire barriers (see Section 8.3) having a fire resistance rating of
not less than two hours, built, or converted to this occupancy, on or
after June 29, 1990 shall be protected throughout by an approved
automatic sprinkler system in accordance with 31.3.5.2.
(Amd) 31.3.5.12 Portable
fire extinguishers shall be provided in all existing apartment
occupancies in accordance with 9.7.4.1 of this Code.
(Amd) 31.3.5.12.1 As an
alternative to the location requirements for portable fire
extinguishers outlined in 9.7.4.1 of this Code, the owner or
management of an existing apartment building may provide each
apartment unit with an approved fire extinguisher installed at the
direction and to the satisfaction of the AHJ.
(Amd) 31.4.1.1 High-rise
buildings shall comply with 31.2.11.1 and 31.3.5.11 and 11.8.4. and
11.8.6.
(Amd) 31.6
All existing apartment
buildings, used as housing for elderly or disabled people, shall be
inspected annually by the AHJ.
8.1.32 CHAPTER
32 - NEW RESIDENTIAL BOARD AND CARE OCCUPANCIES
(Amd) 32.2.3.4.1 General.
Every residential board and care occupancy shall be provided with a
fire alarm system in accordance with amended 9.6 of this Code.
(Amd) 32.2.3.4.1.1 Initiation
of the required fire alarm system shall be by all of the following
means:
1. Manual
means in accordance with 9.6.2.1(1),
2. Where
automatic sprinklers are provided, initiation of the fire alarm
system by sprinkler system waterflow.
3. An
approved fire detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.11.
(Add) 32.2.3.4.4 Detection.
A fire detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.11 shall be
provided.
(Add) 32.2.3.4.5 Carbon
Monoxide Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detection Systems.
(Add) 32.2.3.4.5.1 Carbon
monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide detectors in accordance with 9.8
and 32.2.3.4.5.2 shall be provided residential board and care
occupancies where either of the following conditions exists:
1. Living
areas with communicating attached garages, unless otherwise exempted
by 32.2.3.4.5.3
2. Living
areas containing a permanently installed fuel-burning appliance
(Add) 32.2.3.4.5.2 Where
required by 32.2.3.4.5.1, carbon monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide
detectors shall be installed in the following locations:
1. Outside
of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the
sleeping rooms
2. On
every occupiable level of a living area
(Add) 32.2.3.4.5.3 Carbon
monoxide alarms and carbon monoxide detectors as specified in
32.2.3.4.5.1(1) shall not be required in the following locations:
1. In
garages
2. Within
living areas with communicating attached garages that are open
parking structures as defined by the building code
3. Within living
areas with communicating attached garages that are mechanically
ventilated in accordance with the mechanical code
(Add) 32.2.3.4.5.4 Carbon
monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide detectors shall be provided in
areas other than living areas in accordance with 9.8, as modified by
32.2.3.4.5.5.
(Add) 32.2.3.4.5.5 Carbon
monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide detectors shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer’s published instructions in the
locations specified as follows:
1. On
the ceilings of rooms containing permanently installed fuel-burning
appliances
2. Centrally
located within occupiable spaces served by the first supply air
register from a permanently installed, fuel burning HVAC system
3. Centrally
located within occupiable spaces adjacent to a communicating attached
garage
(Add) 32.2.3.4.6 Any
conflict between the provisions of this section and the provisions of
amended 9.6 of this shall be resolved in favor of compliance with the
most reasonable combined requirements as determined by the State Fire
Marshal’s Office.
(Amd) 32.2.3.5.1 All
facilities shall be protected throughout by an approved, automatic
sprinkler system installed in accordance with 32.2.3.5.3 using quick
response or residential sprinklers.
(Res) 32.2.3.5.2
(Add) 32.2.5.2.4 Any
furnace or boiler in the building shall be equipped with an approved
remote shutoff switch approved by the AHJ.
(Amd) 32.3.3.4.8 Detection.
(Amd) 32.3.3.4.8.1 A fire
detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.11 shall be provided.
(Add) 32.3.3.4.9 Carbon
Monoxide Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detection Systems.
(Add) 32.3.3.4.9.1 Carbon
monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide detectors in accordance with 9.8
and 32.3.3.4.9.2 shall be provided residential board and care
occupancies where either of the following conditions exists:
1. Living
areas with communicating attached garages, unless otherwise exempted
by 32.3.3.4.9.3
2. Living
areas containing a permanently installed fuel-burning appliance
(Add) 32.3.3.4.9.2 Where
required by 32.3.3.4.9.1, carbon monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide
detectors shall be installed in the following locations:
1. Outside
of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the
sleeping rooms
2. On
every occupiable level of a living area
(Add) 32.3.3.4.9.3 Carbon
monoxide alarms and carbon monoxide detectors as specified in
32.3.3.4.9.1(1) shall not be required in the following locations:
1. In
garages
2. Within
living areas with communicating attached garages that are open
parking structures as defined by the building code
3. Within living
areas with communicating attached garages that are mechanically
ventilated in accordance with the mechanical code
(Add) 32.3.3.4.9.4 Carbon
monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide detectors shall be provided in
areas other than living areas in accordance with 9.8, as modified by
32.3.3.4.9.5
(Add) 32.3.3.4.9.5 Carbon
monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide detectors shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer’s published instructions in the
locations specified as follows:
1. On
the ceilings of rooms containing permanently installed fuel-burning
appliances
2. Centrally
located within occupiable spaces served by the first supply air
register from a permanently installed, fuel burning HVAC system
3. Centrally
located within occupiable spaces adjacent to a communicating attached
garage
(Add) 32.3.3.4.10 Any
conflict between the provisions of this section and the provisions of
amended 9.6 of this shall be resolved in favor of compliance with the
most reasonable combined requirements as determined by the State Fire
Marshal’s Office.
8.1.33 CHAPTER
33 - EXISTING RESIDENTIAL BOARD AND CARE OCCUPANCIES
(Amd) 33.2.3.4.1 General.
Every residential board and care occupancy shall be provided with a
fire alarm system in accordance with amended 9.6 of this Code.
(Amd) 33.2.3.4.1.1 Initiation
of the required fire alarm system shall be by all of the following
means:
1. Manual
means in accordance with 9.6.2.1(1),
2. Where
automatic sprinklers are provided, initiation of the fire alarm
system by sprinkler system waterflow.
3. An
approved fire detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.11.
(Res) 33.2.3.4.1.2
(Res) 33.2.3.4.3.7
(Add) 33.2.3.4.4 Detection.
A fire detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.11 shall be
provided.
(Add) 33.2.3.4.5 Carbon
Monoxide Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detection Systems.
(Add) 33.2.3.4.5.1 Carbon
monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide detectors in accordance with 9.8
and 33.2.3.4.5.2 shall be provided residential board and care
occupancies where either of the following conditions exists:
1. Living
areas with communicating attached garages, unless otherwise exempted
by 33.2.3.4.5.3
2. Living
areas containing a permanently installed fuel-burning appliance
(Add) 33.2.3.4.5.2 Where
required by 33.2.3.4.5.1, carbon monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide
detectors shall be installed in the following locations:
1. Outside
of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the
sleeping rooms
2. On
every occupiable level of a living area
(Add) 33.2.3.4.5.3 Carbon
monoxide alarms and carbon monoxide detectors as specified in
32.2.3.4.5.1(1) shall not be required in the following locations:
1. In
garages
2. Within
living areas with communicating attached garages that are open
parking structures as defined by the building code
3. Within living
areas with communicating attached garages that are mechanically
ventilated in accordance with the mechanical code
(Add) 33.2.3.4.5.4 Carbon
monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide detectors shall be provided in
areas other than living areas in accordance with Section 9.8, as
modified by 33.2.3.4.5.5
(Add) 33.2.3.4.5.5 Carbon
monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide detectors shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer’s published instructions in the
locations specified as follows:
1. On
the ceilings of rooms containing permanently installed fuel-burning
appliances
2. Centrally
located within occupiable spaces adjacent to a communicating attached
garage
(Add) 33.2.3.4.6 Any
conflict between the provisions of this section and the provisions of
amended 9.6 of this shall be resolved in favor of compliance with the
most reasonable combined requirements as determined by the State Fire
Marshal’s Office.
(Amd) 33.2.3.5.1 All
facilities shall be protected throughout by an approved, automatic
sprinkler system installed in accordance with 33.2.3.5.3 using quick
response or residential sprinklers.
(Add) 33.2.5.2.4 Any
furnace or boiler in the building shall be equipped with an approved
remote shutoff switch approved by the AHJ.
(Amd) 33.3.3.4.1 General.
Every residential board and care occupancy shall be provided with a
fire alarm system in accordance with amended 9.6 of this Code.
(Amd) 33.3.3.4.2 Initiation.
The required fire alarm system shall be initiated by each of the
following means:
1. Manual
means in accordance with 9.6.2.
2. Manual
fire alarm box located at a convenient central control point under
continuous supervision of responsible employees
3. Automatic
sprinkler system.
4. Required
detection system, other than sleeping room smoke alarms
(Amd) 33.3.3.4.6.1
Emergency forces notification shall be accomplished in accordance
with 9.6.4.
(Res) 33.3.3.4.6.2
(Amd) 33.3.3.4.8 Detection.
(Amd) 33.3.3.4.8.1 A fire
detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.11 shall be provided.
(Add)
33.3.3.4.8.1.1 A combination rate of rise and one hundred thirty-five
degree (135°) to one hundred forty degree (140°) F. fixed
temperature heat detector shall be installed in every sleeping room,
other than sleeping rooms equipped with an approved, supervised
automatic sprinkler system in accordance with 32.2.3.5.3.
(Res)
33.3.3.4.8.2
(Add) 33.3.3.4.9 Carbon
Monoxide Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detection Systems.
(Add) 33.3.3.4.9.1 Carbon
monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide detectors in accordance with 9.8
and 33.3.3.4.9.2 shall be provided residential board and care
occupancies where either of the following conditions exists:
1. Living
areas with communicating attached garages, unless otherwise exempted
by 33.3.3.4.9.3
2. Living
areas containing a permanently installed fuel-burning appliance
(Add) 33.3.3.4.9.2 Where
required by 33.3.3.4.9.1, carbon monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide
detectors shall be installed in the following locations:
1. Outside
of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the
sleeping rooms
2. On
every occupiable level of a living area
(Add) 33.3.3.4.9.3 Carbon
monoxide alarms and carbon monoxide detectors as specified in
33.3.3.4.9.1(1) shall not be required in the following locations:
1. In
garages
2. Within
living areas with communicating attached garages that are open
parking structures as defined by the building code
3. Within living
areas with communicating attached garages that are mechanically
ventilated in accordance with the mechanical code
(Add) 33.3.3.4.9.4 Carbon
monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide detectors shall be provided in
areas other than living areas in accordance with 9.8, as modified by
33.3.3.4.9.5
(Add) 33.3.3.4.9.5 Carbon
monoxide alarms or carbon monoxide detectors shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer’s published instructions in the
locations specified as follows:
1. On
the ceilings of rooms containing permanently installed fuel-burning
appliances
2. Centrally
located within occupiable spaces served by the first supply air
register from a permanently installed, fuel burning HVAC system
3. Centrally
located within occupiable spaces adjacent to a communicating attached
garage
(Add) 33.3.3.5.1 All
facilities shall be protected throughout by an approved, supervised
automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with 9.7, as
modified by 33.3.3.5.1.1, 33.3.3.5.1.2 and 33.3.3.5.1.3.
(Res)
33.3.3.5.1.3
(Res) 33.3.3.5.5
(Amd) 33.3.4 Special
Provisions
(Add) 33.3.4.1 High-rise
buildings shall comply with 11.8.4 and 11.8.6.
8.1.34 CHAPTER
34 - RESERVED
(No Modifications)
8.1.35 CHAPTER
35 - RESERVED
(No Modifications)
8.1.36 CHAPTER
36- NEW MERCANTILE OCCUPANCIES
(Amd) 36.3.4.1 General
All Class A mercantile
occupancies, all Class B mercantile occupancies occupying more than
3000 square feet per floor for sales purposes, and all mercantile
occupancies requiring sprinkler coverage, under this Code or the
State Building Code, shall be provided with a fire alarm system in
accordance with 9.6
(Amd) 36.3.4.2 Initiation
Initiation of the required
fire alarm system shall be by all of the following means:
1. Manual means in accordance
with 9.6.2.1(1),
2. Where automatic sprinklers
are provided, initiation of the fire alarm system by sprinkler system
waterflow.
3. An approved fire detection
system in accordance with 9.6.2.11.
(Amd) 36.3.4.3.1 Occupant
Notification
The required fire alarm
system, once initiated, shall perform one of the following functions:
1. It shall activate an alarm
in accordance with 9.6.3 throughout the mercantile occupancy.
2. Positive alarm sequence in
accordance with 9.6.3.4 shall be permitted.
(Amd) 36.3.4.3.2 Emergency
Forces Notification
Emergency forces
notification shall be provided for all Class A mercantile occupancies
and all Class B mercantile exceeding 12,000 gross square feet and
shall include notifying both of the following:
1. Fire department in
accordance with 9.6.4
2. Local emergency
organization, if provided
(Add) 36.3.4.4 Detection
(Add) 36.3.4.4.1 A fire
detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.11 shall be provided.
(Amd) 36.3.5.2 Automatic
sprinkler systems, where required by either this Code or the Rhode
Island Building Code, in either Class A or Class B mercantile
occupancies shall be supervised in accordance with 9.7.2.
(Amd) 36.4.4.4.2 Initiation
Initiation of the required
fire alarm system shall be by all of the following means:
1. Manual means in accordance
with 9.6.2.1(1),
2. Where automatic sprinklers
are provided, initiation of the fire alarm system by sprinkler system
waterflow.
3. An approved fire detection
system in accordance with 9.6.2.11.
(Amd) 36.4.4.4.3.1 Occupant
Notification
1. The required fire alarm
system, once initiated, shall perform one of the following functions:
2. It shall activate a general
alarm in accordance with 9.6.3 throughout the mall, and positive
alarm sequence in accordance with 9.6.3.4 shall be permitted.
3. Occupant notification shall
be made via a voice communication or public address system in
accordance with 9.6.3.9.2.
(Add) 36.4.4.4.5 Detection
(Add) 36.4.4.4.5.1 A fire
detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.11 shall be provided.
(Amd) 36.4.5.4.2 Initiation
Initiation of the required
fire alarm system shall be by all of the following means:
1. Manual means in accordance
with 9.6.2.1(1),
2. Where automatic sprinklers
are provided, initiation of the fire alarm system by sprinkler system
waterflow.
3. An approved fire detection
system in accordance with 9.6.2.11.
(Amd) 36.4.5.4.3 Occupant
Notification
The required fire alarm
system, once initiated, shall activate an alarm in accordance with
throughout the mercantile occupancy, an positive alarm sequence in
accordance with 9.6.3.4 shall be permitted.
(Add) 36.4.5.4.5 Detection
(Add) 36.4.5.4.5.1 A fire
detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.11 shall be provided.
8.1.37
CHAPTER 37 - EXISTING MERCANTILE OCCUPANCIES
(Amd) 37.3.4.1 General
All Class A mercantile
occupancies, all Class B mercantile occupancies occupying more than
3000 square feet per floor for sales purposes, and all mercantile
occupancies requiring sprinkler coverage, under this Code or the
State Building Code, shall be provided with a fire alarm system in
accordance with 9.6.
(Amd) 37.3.4.2 Initiation
Initiation of the required
fire alarm system shall be by all of the following means:
1. Manual means in accordance
with 9.6.2.1(1),
2. Where automatic sprinklers
are provided, initiation of the fire alarm system by sprinkler system
waterflow.
3. An approved fire detection
system in accordance with 9.6.2.11.
(Amd) 37.3.4.3.1 Occupant
Notification
The required fire alarm
system, once initiated, shall perform one of the following functions:
1. It shall activate an alarm
in accordance with 9.6.3 throughout the mercantile occupancy, and
both of the following also shall apply:
2. Positive alarm sequence in
accordance with 9.6.3.4 shall be permitted.
3. A presignal system in
accordance with 9.6.3.3 shall be permitted.
4. Occupant notification shall
be made via voice communication or public address system in
accordance with 9.6.3.9.2.
(Amd) 37.3.4.3.2 Emergency
Forces Notification
Emergency forces
notification shall be provided for all Class A mercantile occupancies
and all Class B mercantile exceeding 12,000 gross square feet and
shall include notifying both of the following:
1. Fire department in
accordance with 9.6.4
2. Local emergency
organization, if provided
(Add) 37.3.4.4 Detection
(Add) 37.3.4.4.1 A fire
detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.11 shall be provided.
(Amd) 37.3.5.1 Extinguishing
Requirements
Mercantile occupancies
shall be protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system in
accordance with 9.7.1.1(1) in any of the following locations:
1. Throughout all mercantile
occupancies three or more stories in height not protected by an
approved fire alarm system providing emergency forces notification.
2. Throughout all mercantile
occupancies built or converted on or after June 4, 1976 that are more
than two (2) stories in height above the basement and constructed of
Type III, IV or V construction in accordance with NFPA 220.
3. Throughout stories below
the level of exit discharge where such stories have an area exceeding
2,500 square feet (232 m 2 ) and are used for the sale,
storage, or handling of combustible goods and merchandise.
4. Throughout multiple
occupancies protected as mixed occupancies in accordance with 6.1.14
where the conditions of 37.3.5.1(1), (2), or (3) apply to the
mercantile occupancy.
(Amd) 37.3.5.2 The
provisions of 37.3.5.1(2) shall not apply to existing business
occupancies with a total gross area less than 12,000 square feet
(1115 m 2 ).
(Add) 37.3.5.4
Automatic sprinkler
systems, where required by either this Code or the Rhode Island
Building Code, in either Class A or Class B mercantile occupancies,
shall be supervised in accordance with 9.7.2.
(Amd) 37.4.2 High-Rise
Buildings. High-rise buildings shall comply with 11.8.4 and 11.8.6.
(Amd) 37.4.4.4.2 Initiation
Initiation of the required
fire alarm system shall be by all of the following means:
1. Manual means in accordance
with 9.6.2.1(1),
2. Where automatic sprinklers
are provided, initiation of the fire alarm system by sprinkler system
waterflow.
3. An approved fire detection
system in accordance with 9.6.2.11.
(Amd) 37.4.4.4.3.1 Occupant
Notification
The required fire alarm
system, once initiated, shall perform one of the following functions:
1. It shall activate a general
alarm in accordance with 9.6.3 throughout the mall, and positive
alarm sequence in accordance with 9.6.3.4 shall be permitted.
2. Occupant notification shall
be made via a voice communication or public address system in
accordance with 9.6.3.9.2.
(Add) 37.3.4.4.5 Detection
(Add) 37.3.4.4.5.1 A fire
detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.11 shall be provided.
(Amd) 37.4.5.4.2 Initiation.
Initiation of the required
fire alarm system shall be by all of the following means:
1. Manual means in accordance
with 9.6.2.1(1),
2. Where automatic sprinklers
are provided, initiation of the fire alarm system by sprinkler system
waterflow.
3. An approved fire detection
system in accordance with 9.6.2.11.
(Amd) 37.4.5.4.3 Occupant
Notification
The required fire alarm
system, once initiated, shall perform one of the following functions:
1. It shall activate a general
alarm in accordance with 9.6.3 throughout the mercantile occupancy,
and positive alarm sequence in accordance with 9.6.3.4 shall be
permitted.
2. Occupant notification shall
be made via a voice communication or public address system in
accordance with 9.6.3.9.2.
(Add) 37.4.5.4.5 Detection
(Add) 37.4.5.4.5.1 A fire
detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.11 shall be provided.
8.1.38 CHAPTER
38- NEW BUSINESS OCCUPANCIES
(Amd) 38.3.4.1 General
A fire alarm system in
accordance with 9.6 shall be provided in all business occupancies
where any one of the following conditions exists:
1. The building is three or
more stories in height.
2. The occupancy is subject to
50 or more occupants above or below the level of exit discharge
(5,000 Square feet).
3. The occupancy is subject to
300 or more total occupants (30,000 Square feet).
4. All business occupancies in
which sprinkler coverage is required by either this Code or the Rhode
Island Building Code.
(Amd) 38.3.4.2 Initiation.
Initiation of the required fire alarm system shall be by all of the
following means:
1. Manual means in accordance
with 9.6.2.1(1),
2. Where automatic sprinklers
are provided, initiation of the fire alarm system by sprinkler system
waterflow.
3. An approved fire detection
system in accordance with 9.6.2.11.
(Amd) 38.3.4.3 Occupant
Notification
The required fire alarm
system, once initiated, shall activate a general alarm in accordance
with 9.6.3 throughout the building, and positive alarm sequence in
accordance with 9.6.3.4 shall be permitted.
(Add) 38.3.4.5 Detection
(Add) 38.3.4.5.1 A fire
detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.11 shall be provided.
(Add) 38.3.5.1
All new business
occupancies shall be protected by an approved automatic sprinkler
system in accordance with 9.7.1.1(1) in any of the following
locations:
1. Throughout all new business
occupancies three or more stories in height.
2. Throughout all new business
occupancies exceeding 12,000 square feet (1115 m 2 ) in
area.
3. Throughout multiple
occupancies protected as mixed occupancies in accordance with 6.1.14
where the conditions of 38.3.5.1(1) or (2) apply to the new business
occupancy.
(Add) 38.3.5.2
Automatic sprinkler
systems, where required by either this Code or the Rhode Island
Building Code, in new business occupancies shall be supervised in
accordance with 9.7.2.
8.1.39 CHAPTER
39 - EXISTING BUSINESS OCCUPANCIES
(Amd) 39.3.4.1 General
A fire alarm system in
accordance with 9.6 shall be provided in all business occupancies
where any one of the following conditions exists:
1. The building is three or
more stories in height.
2. The occupancy is subject to
50 or more occupants above or below the level of exit discharge
(5,000 Square feet).
3. The occupancy is subject to
300 or more total occupants (30,000 Square feet).
4. All business occupancies in
which sprinkler coverage is required by either this Code of the Rhode
Island Building Code.
(Amd) 39.3.4.2 Initiation.
Initiation of the required fire alarm system shall be by all of the
following means:
1. Manual means in accordance
with 9.6.2.1(1),
2. Where automatic sprinklers
are provided, initiation of the fire alarm system by sprinkler system
waterflow.
3. An approved fire detection
system in accordance with 9.6.2.11.
(Amd) 39.3.4.3 Occupant
Notification
The required fire alarm
system, once initiated, shall activate a general alarm in accordance
with 9.6.3 throughout the building, and positive alarm sequence in
accordance with 9.6.3.4 shall be permitted.
(Amd) 39.3.4.4 Emergency
Forces Notification
Where a fire alarm is
required by this code, emergency forces notification shall be
provided and shall include notifying both of the following:
1. Fire department in
accordance with 9.6.4
2. Local emergency
organization, if provided
(Add) 39.3.4.5 Detection
(Add)
39.3.4.5.1 A fire detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.11 shall
be provided.
(Add) 39.3.5.1
All existing business
occupancies shall be protected by an approved automatic sprinkler
system in accordance with 9.7.1.1(1) in any of the following
locations:
1. Throughout all business
occupancies built or converted on or after June 4, 1976 that are more
than two (2) stories in height above the basement and constructed of
Type III, IV or V construction in accordance with NFPA 220.
2. Throughout
multiple occupancies protected as mixed occupancies in accordance
with 6.1.14 where the conditions of 39.3.5.1(1) or (2) apply to the
existing business occupancy.
(Add) 39.3.5.2
The provisions of 39.3.5.1
shall not apply to existing business occupancies with a total gross
area less than 12,000 square feet (1115 m 2 ).
(Add) 39.3.5.3
Automatic sprinkler
systems, where required by either this Code or the Rhode Island
Building Code, in existing business occupancies shall be supervised
in accordance with 9.7.2.
(Add) 39.4.2.4 All high-rise
buildings shall comply with 11.8.4 and 11.8.6.
8.1.40 CHAPTER
40 - INDUSTRIAL OCCUPANCIES
(Amd) 40.3.4.1 General
A fire alarm system in
accordance with 9.6 shall be provided in all industrial occupancies
where any one of the following conditions exists:
1. The total gross area
exceeds 10,000 square feet.
2. Any one floor above or
below the level of exit discharge exceeds 2,500 Square feet.
3. All industrial occupancies
in which sprinkler coverage is required by either this Code of the
Rhode Island Building Code.
(Amd) 40.3.4.2 Initiation.
Initiation of the required
fire alarm system shall be by all of the following means:
1. Manual means in accordance
with 9.6.2.1(1),
2. Where automatic sprinklers
are provided, initiation of the fire alarm system by sprinkler system
waterflow.
3. An approved fire detection
system in accordance with 9.6.2.11.
(Amd) 40.3.4.3.1 Occupant
Notification
The required fire alarm
system, once initiated, shall activate a general alarm in accordance
with 9.6.3 throughout the building,
(Add) 40.3.4.3.5 Emergency
Forces Notification
In buildings where a fire
alarm is required, emergency forces notification shall be provided in
buildings greater than 30,000 gross square feet in area and shall
include both of the following:
1. Fire department in
accordance with 9.6.4
2. Local emergency
organization, if provided
(Add) 40.3.4.4 Detection
(Add) 40.3.4.4.1 A fire
detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.11 shall be provided.
8.1.41 CHAPTER
41 - RESERVED
(No
Modifications)8.1.42 CHAPTER 42 - STORAGE OCCUPANCIES
(Amd) 42.3.4.1.1
Low hazard storage
occupancies, and the specific non-residential farm buildings listed
below, shall not be required to have a fire alarm system:
1. All non-residential, farm
buildings such as barns, riding rinks, horse stables and farm stands
that are not utilized as places of assembly and are not open to the
general public.
2. All non-residential farm
buildings such as barns, riding rinks and horse stables, that are
either solely owner occupied or accessed solely by the owners of
horses stabled within.
3. All non-residential farm
buildings such as barns, riding rinks, horse stables and farm stands,
without electricity and heat;
4. All greenhouses.
(Amd) 42.3.4.1.2
Storage occupancies with
ordinary or high hazard contents not exceeding an aggregate floor
area of 10,000 square feet (930 m 2 ) shall not be required
to have a fire alarm system.
(Res) 42.3.4.1.3
(Amd) 42.3.4.2 Initiation.
Initiation of the required fire alarm system shall be by all of the
following means:
1. Manual means in accordance
with 9.6.2.1(1),
2. Where automatic sprinklers
are provided, initiation of the fire alarm system by sprinkler system
waterflow.
3. An approved fire detection
system in accordance with 9.6.2.11.
(Amd) 42.3.4.3. Occupant
Notification
The required fire alarm
system shall meet one of the following criteria:
1. It shall provide occupant
notification in accordance with 9.6.3.
2. It shall sound an audible
and visible signal in a constantly attended location for the purposes
of initiating emergency action.
(Add) 42.3.4.4 Emergency
Forces Notification
Where a fire alarm is
required, emergency forces notification shall be provided in
buildings greater than 30,000 gross square feet in area and shall
include both of the following:
1. Fire department in
accordance with 9.6.4(2)
2. Local emergency
organization, if provided
(Add) 42.3.4.5 Detection
(Add) 42.3.4.5.1 A fire
detection system in accordance with 9.6.2.11 shall be provided.
8.1.43 CHAPTER
43 - Building Rehabilitation (Reserved)
The Fire Board hereby
temporarily reserves Chapter 43 for further review and the eventual
development of an updated Rehabilitation Code with participation from
both the Rhode Island Building Commission and the Joint Committee on
the Rehabilitation Building and Fire Code for Existing Buildings and
Structures. Until the new updated Rehabilitation Code is adopted, the
Rhode Island Rehabilitation Building and Fire Code, previously
adopted by the Fire Safety Code Board of Appeal and Review, and the
Rhode Island Building Commission, is hereby re-adopted, in full, as
FIRE SAFETY CODE SECTION 9.
8.1.44 CHAPTER
44 - HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS MIXED OCCUPANCIES
(Add) 44.1
In any building where a
fire alarm system is exempted due to the minimum occupant load
provisions or the minimum square footage provisions of Chapters 12
through 42, a fire alarm system as prescribed in Section 9.6 may be
required by the State Fire Marshal where it is proven that life
safety of the occupants is compromised due to the hazard of contents,
proximity of exposures, limitations to fire department vehicle access
or other such hazardous conditions.