Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutFire CommentsCALDWELL FIRE DEPARTMENT – CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL Introduction These conditions are intended to ensure fire and life safety for all new construction, remodels, and special operations within the City of Caldwell. They are based on the 2018 International Fire Code (IFC), adopted amendments, and relevant NFPA standards. The purpose of these requirements is to: • Provide developers, architects, and engineers with clear expectations up front. • Prevent costly redesigns or inspection delays. • Ensure adequate fire protection and emergency access for occupants and responders. Please review these conditions carefully and incorporate them into your design documents. Submittals and deferred submittals must be submitted to the Caldwell Fire Department Fire Marshal’s Office prior to installation. 1. OCCUPANCY & GENERAL REQUIREMENTS • Construction operations shall comply with IFC Chapter 33 – Fire Safety During Construction and Demolition • Final Approval Before Occupancy A building or facility may not be occupied until the Fire Code Official issues a permit and verifies through inspection that all applicable fire code provisions are met. • No Smoking on Site (IFC 310) Smoking is prohibited at construction sites and within unfinished buildings at all times due to fire hazard. • Combustible Waste (IFC 304.1) Combustible debris, rubbish, and waste materials must be removed from the building at the end of each work shift. • Approved Plans On-Site Approved/stamped plans must be available on site for inspection. Inspections cannot be completed without these documents. • Unapproved Conditions Not Accepted Any hazardous condition or fire code violation not noted during plan review does not imply approval. Such issues must be corrected prior to final occupancy. 2. FIRE SPRINKLER & ALARM SYSTEMS (IFC 901–907) • Plan Submittal Required - Deferred Underground, Sprinkler, and alarm system plans must be submitted and approved prior to installation. Special systems (hood suppression, dust collection, spray booths, etc.) must also be reviewed before installation. Fire protection systems shall be submitted by a Licensed Contractor through the State Fire Marshal’s Office. • On-Site Documentation Approved system drawings must be kept on site for inspection. • System Modifications Any change to existing sprinkler or alarm systems requires Fire Marshal review and approval. 3. Emergency Systems & Equipment • Knox Box (IFC 506.1) A Knox Box is required for rapid emergency access. Location shall be coordinated with the Fire Marshal’s Office prior to installation. The knox box must be upgraded if the building has the Supra box on it currently with this project. 4. Fire Watch (IFC 901.7) If fire protection or alarm systems are out of service during construction or renovation, the owner must provide an approved fire watch. Fire watch personnel must: • Be approved by the Fire Marshal. • Be qualified to be determined by the Fire Marshal • Have sole duty to patrol and monitor for fire. • Have immediate means of notifying the fire department. 5. Other General Requirements (Recommended Best Practices) • Elevator Firefighter Service (IFC 606): Elevators must include firefighter recall and operation features.. • Construction Phase Access (IFC 3310): Access roads and water supplies must be maintained throughout construction. • Temporary Heat During Construction (IFC 3303): Only listed/approved equipment permitted; maintain safe clearances. • System Acceptance: Fire protection and life safety systems must be tested and approved prior to occupancy. Closing Notes These conditions are intended to clarify requirements under the adopted 2018 International Fire Code and applicable NFPA standards. • Compliance with these conditions does not relieve the developer from other local, state, or federal requirements. • Approval of shop drawings or submittals does not waive or modify fire code provisions. • The Fire Marshal’s Office reserves the right to require corrections if hazardous conditions or noncompliant installations are discovered during inspection.