Wet-Chemical fire suppression systems are important systems that have prevented countless kitchen fires. The systems are typically installed at the requirements of the International Building Code or National Fire Protection Assocation (NFPA) 1, The Uniform Fire Code.
Systems are installed due to code requirements adopted in a community. Many contractors refer to the the term “grease ladden vapors” as the minimum requirement for the system to be installed. Over the years the basis for installation has been tweaked and modified. You can see in the most recent IBC the language from section 904.2.1 truly refers to the type of exhaust hood. Similar language can be found in NFPA 1 or NFPA 101.
The systems are typically pre-engineered by the manufacture. The system go under very specific testing and scrutiny. This means the system is has limitations on what and how it protects appliances, plenum spaces, and exhaust ducts. The qualified contractor (attended training by the manufacture) would provide working shop drawings that show the system complying with the manufacture requirements. [click to continue…]
Have you ever considered implementing a self inspection program?
What about providing common violations before an inspection?
Lately there has been a lot of discussion on self-inspection programs and their place in the code enforcement business. Typically these self-inspections are not conducted during construction or acceptance testing, rather they are utilized to educate and provide some ownership by the business owner for proper fire and life safety code requirements.
Understanding Basics of Haunted Houses (Special Amusement Buildings)
As the Halloween season goes into full swing in the United States its a great time to review some of the many code requirements for these special buildings. These buildings are typically known as special amusement buildings that are inherently confusing. This adds to the entertainment of the venue while adding challenges on meeting the fire and building codes. The occupants of the buildings are typically not familiar with the space so extra attention to the specific provisions of the code and training of staff is critical.
There have been multiple fatal fires (Six Flags, 1984; Washington Reid School PTA haunted house 1973) which have lead to the development of codes and standards for the use. Halloween has become a very active time of year which groups try to out do other haunted houses without an emphasis on fire and life safety.
This video shows the “cutting edge” winning the world record for longest haunted house. The video highlights some of the challenges with fire protection in similar structures, and why the training of staff with automatic systems is critical:
Codes and Standards
There are many resources available for the inspector on the special amusement buildings. The adopted code for the jurisdiction will provide the specific code requirements. Here is a sample of the some of the basic code provisions for special amusement buildings:
What Role does the Mechanical Code Play in Code Enforcement?
The mechanical code plays a critical role in ensuring the proper installation of equipment and piping for many types of systems. Just like other codes, its primary purpose is to provide safeguards to the public health and safety of all communities. The mechanical code covers the typical building systems such as heating, cooling, kitchen exhaust, or gas piping and provides information to the use on proper installation and design of these many types of systems.
The systems are also critical to the building performance. Ducts without proper fire dampers, or kitchen exhaust systems without appropriate seams can lead to the spread of fire during. Buildings without proper ventilation could also lead to mold or comfort issues for the occupant. The mechanical inspector may also be utilizing multiple code books in order to properly enforce the needed aspects of the code.
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