by Michael O'Brian on June 23, 2009
What Resources are Available?
Inspectors can be tasked with many different code concerns on fireworks. This may includes the manufacture, storage, use in retail occupancies, and display shows and the various codes which apply. Improper use of pyrotechnics can lead to disastrous results which was demonstrated in the Station Night Club fire.
Many inspectors are passionate about fireworks due to the many injuries, fires and potential of mishandled fireworks. I know that this time of year, I receive multiple phone calls on what a person can use, sell, or store in various settings.
Many communities have local ordinances that govern the various aspects of fireworks and there are multiple codes which may have been adopted in a community to assist the code officials. Some of the codes and standards include:
by Michael O'Brian on January 25, 2009
Checklist Requirements for Temporary Structures
Construction projects typically requires temporary work space. Larger projects may need an entire “trailer city” of work space or sales area to meet the needs of the Construction Management and sales team. Work trailers and site storage seem to be found on projects for single family homes up to billion dollar projects.
On larger projects, the area for these units seems to expand due to the need of the various contractors. The trailers typically come in and out based on the phase of construction. For instance the trailer utilized by the structural steal contractor may leave after the building is erected and the space may be reoccupied by the fire suppression contractor. [click to continue…]
by Michael O'Brian on January 10, 2009
Checklists and Resources for Fire Alarm Systems
Fire Alarm installation is typically based on the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 72 Fire Alarm Code. Each adopted fire or building code refers to an edition of the NFPA. The most recent version of NFPA 72 is the 2007 edition. A fire alarm system is a critical life safety system which can perform many duties such as occupant notification, closure of fire doors, supervision of automatic sprinkler systems and notify the fire department.
Fire alarm systems must be properly designed and installed. Systems which do not meet good fire protection practices typically result in false alarms which can create a “crying wolf” scenario for the occupants and responding fire apparatus. The following are some basic resources for [click to continue…]
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