SF2717

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to enhance fire safety in buildings by establishing a mandatory inspection and testing program for fire life safety dampers and smoke control systems. It intends to prevent the spread of fire and smoke within buildings, thus protecting occupants and properties.

Main Provisions

• Definitions and Standards: The bill defines relevant terms such as fire dampers, smoke dampers, and smoke control systems. It references standards set by the International Fire Code (IFC) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

• Inspection Requirements: Building owners are required to implement an inspection and testing program to ensure that fire life safety dampers and smoke control systems are operationally effective. Different intervals are prescribed for various types of systems, with regular inspection protocols established.

• Tester Qualifications: Inspections must be performed by qualified personnel, defined as authorized fire department personnel or certified technicians from accredited programs.

• Certification of Operation: Upon passing inspections, a Certificate of Operation will be issued, detailing the results and ensuring record maintenance by the building owner.

• Deficiency Reports: If inspections reveal issues, a deficiency report must be created. Building owners are mandated to rectify any problems within 30 days to remain compliant.

• Public Posting and Reporting: Test results and compliance certificates must be displayed visibly in the building and submitted to the state fire marshal for verification.

• Enforcement and Penalties: The state fire marshal is authorized to enforce compliance, with civil penalties assessed for violations, such as $100 fines for each day of non-compliance.

• Rulemaking Authority: The commissioner of public safety is empowered to adopt necessary rules to enforce the bill’s provisions.

Significant Changes

The bill introduces a new requirement for building owners to establish systematic inspection programs for fire life safety equipment, which was not previously mandated by law. It sets regular inspection schedules and ensures accountability through certification processes and penalties for non-compliance.

Relevant Terms

• Fire life safety dampers
• Smoke control systems
• International Fire Code (IFC)
• National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
• Certificate of Operation
• Deficiency Report
• State fire marshal
• Civil penalties