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Fire Safety During Construction

INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE CHAPTER 33:

The International Fire Code (IFC) chapter 33 prescribes the minimum safeguards required for the safety of life and property from fire during construction.  The following is a summary of that code.

HEATING EQUIPMENT:  IFC 3303.1-3303.6

Heating devices shall be listed, installed, supervised and maintained by competent personnel.

SMOKING:  IFC 3304.1

 Smoking shall be prohibited except in approved areas (IFC 310) and appropriate signs posted.

WASTE DISPOSAL:  IFC 3304.2

Combustible debris, rubbish and waste material shall be removed from the building at the end of each shift.

EXITING:

All exit doors and egress paths from the buildings and facility shall be kept clear at all times.

FIRE EXTINGUISHERS:  IFC 3315.1

Fire Extinguishers shall be supplied in accordance with IFC 906.  For ordinary hazards type 2A:10BC extinguishers shall be provided with a maximum travel distance of 75’ and be at each stairway and in every storage and construction shed.

HOT WORKS OPERATIONS:  IFC 3504

A fire watch shall be provided and continue for a minimum of 30 minutes after the conclusion of the work.  A minimum of one portable fire extinguisher 2A:20BC rating shall be readily accessible within 30’ of the location where hot work is performed.  Appropriate permits will be obtained prior to any hot work taking place.

FIRE PROTECTION/STANDPIPES:  IFC 3313 & 905.4

Item 6 In buildings required to have standpipes, they shall be provided for use during construction (IFC 905.3.1).  Standpipes shall be installed prior to construction exceeding 40’ in height above the lowest level of Fire Department access.  Standpipes shall be installed with fire department hose connections at accessible locations adjacent to usable stairways.  Standpipes shall be extended as construction progresses to within one floor of the highest point of construction having secured decking or flooring.  Approved temporary stairways must meet IBC tread height, depth and width requirements and be approved by the Fire Department.  Scaffolding stairways are not acceptable.  Stairways must be lighted.

FIRE DEPARTMENT ACCESS/FDC:  3310, 912.2.1 & 912.4

Approved vehicle access shall be provided to all sites and be capable of supporting 80,000 lbs. under all weather conditions.  Conditions that result in snow or mud where a fire apparatus could become stuck is not acceptable.  Vehicle access shall be provided to within 100’ of Fire Department Connections (temporary or permanent).  FDCs shall be within 100’ of a functioning hydrant on the certified address side of the building and be readily accessible and visible.