LARGE LOSS FIRES: LESSONS LEARNED Office of State Fire Marshal – Department of Fire Services & Department of Public Safety March 2009

LARGE LOSS FIRES: LESSONS LEARNED

Office of State Fire Marshal – Department of Fire Services Office of State Fire Marshal – Department of Fire Services

& Department of Public Safety& Department of Public Safety

March 2009March 2009

GEORGETOWN 1/3/2007

RALEIGH, NC 2/22/2007

NORWICH, CT 2/26/2007

BEVERLY 5/3/2007

PEABODY 5/29/2008

GLOUCESTER 12/15/2007

MARBLEHEAD 11/12/2005

©Doug Boudrow©Doug Boudrow

DANVERS 4/7/2007

E. LONGMEADOW 9/28/2007

CONSHOHOCKEN, PA 8/13/2008

NEWTON 2/9/2000

DANVERS 11/26/2006

UXBRIDGE 7/21/2007

NYC 9/11/2001

WEST WARWICK, RI 2/20/2003

OBJECTIVE

Be able to recount recent large loss fire incidents Be able to recount recent large loss fire incidents from this decadefrom this decade

Identify preventative fire safety tools that reduce the Identify preventative fire safety tools that reduce the likelihood of similar future fire incidents.likelihood of similar future fire incidents.

Department of Fire Services

AGENDA

PART I – Overview of recent significant firesPART I – Overview of recent significant fires

PART II – Review resulting enforcement & code PART II – Review resulting enforcement & code issuesissues

PART III – Prevention toolsPART III – Prevention tools


PART I

Overview of recent significant firesOverview of recent significant fires


LARGE LOSS FIRES - DEFINED

According to the NFPA: large loss fires are defined According to the NFPA: large loss fires are defined as events that lead to property damage of at least as events that lead to property damage of at least

$5 million. $5 million.


GEORGETOWN MA

Longview at GeorgetownLongview at GeorgetownDepartment of Fire Services

The Building: Longview at Georgetown


Georgetown: Building Construction


Georgetown: Building Construction Constructed in 2004Constructed in 2004 Apartment complexApartment complex Wood Frame with truss roof constructionWood Frame with truss roof construction Sprinkler system: NFPA 13R (No sprinkler Sprinkler system: NFPA 13R (No sprinkler

system in the attic or concealed spaces) system in the attic or concealed spaces) Exterior:Vinyl sidingExterior:Vinyl siding Two 12 unit buildings which were attached and Two 12 unit buildings which were attached and

offsetoffset 3 ½ stories high (top floor apt.’s had loft’s)3 ½ stories high (top floor apt.’s had loft’s)


The Fire: Jan. 3, 20077 Patriot Lane - Georgetown7 Patriot Lane - Georgetown


Georgetown: Cause & Origin Determination

UndeterminedUndetermined

Fire started on 3Fire started on 3rdrd floor balcony floor balcony Spread to vinyl sidingSpread to vinyl siding Extended upward on exterior into atticExtended upward on exterior into attic


Georgetown: The Aftermath


PEABODY MA

Highlands at Dearborn ApartmentsHighlands at Dearborn Apartments


The Building: Highlands at Dearborn Apartment - Peabody


Building Construction: Highlands at Dearborn Apartment - Peabody

Constructed in 2006 Constructed in 2006 Wood frame with truss roof construction. Wood frame with truss roof construction. Sprinkler System: NFPA 13RSprinkler System: NFPA 13R+ + (sprinklers in bathrooms, (sprinklers in bathrooms,

closets, some overhangs; no sprinklers in attic or closets, some overhangs; no sprinklers in attic or concealed spaces)concealed spaces)

Exterior: Vinyl SidingExterior: Vinyl Siding The length of the structure was approx. 250 feetThe length of the structure was approx. 250 feet Varying width between approximately 12 feet to 85 feet Varying width between approximately 12 feet to 85 feet

depending on location within the structure. depending on location within the structure. The structure had one story below grade and three stories The structure had one story below grade and three stories

above grade.above grade.


The Building: Highlands at Dearborn Apartment - Peabody

Area of structure (square feet)Area of structure (square feet)

Basement 7880Basement 7880

First (Ground) 14544First (Ground) 14544

Second 14679Second 14679

Third 14679Third 14679

Aggregate (All floors) 51782Aggregate (All floors) 51782


The Fire: May 29, 2008

Highlands at Dearborn –Highlands at Dearborn –

8 Ashford Trial8 Ashford Trial

PeabodyPeabody


Peabody: Cause & Origin Determination

Careless disposal of smoking materialsCareless disposal of smoking materials

Mulch fire spread to vinyl sidingMulch fire spread to vinyl siding Mulch fire caused failure of gas meter bankMulch fire caused failure of gas meter bank Extended upward on exterior into atticExtended upward on exterior into attic Fire spread throughout atticFire spread throughout attic


Peabody: The Aftermath


NORWICH CT

Stonington EstatesStonington EstatesDepartment of Fire Services

Building Construction: Stonington Estates - Norwich

Constructed in 2005Constructed in 2005 Condominium complex Condominium complex Wood Frame with truss roof constructionWood Frame with truss roof construction Sprinkler System: NFPA 13R (no sprinkler system Sprinkler System: NFPA 13R (no sprinkler system

in the attic or concealed spaces)in the attic or concealed spaces) Exterior: Vinyl sidingExterior: Vinyl siding Size: 222’ x 56’ = 12432 sq. ft/floorSize: 222’ x 56’ = 12432 sq. ft/floor 3 stories, No basement3 stories, No basement


The Fire: Feb. 26, 2007

102 Stonington Rd - Norwich102 Stonington Rd - NorwichDepartment of Fire Services

Norwich: Cause & Origin Determination

Undetermined originUndetermined origin

Fire started on exterior porchFire started on exterior porch Extended to vinyl sidingExtended to vinyl siding Extended upward on exterior into attic Extended upward on exterior into attic


RALEIGH NC

Pine Knoll TownesPine Knoll Townes


The Buildings: Pine Knoll Townes - Raleigh


Building Construction: Pine Knoll Townes - Raleigh Construction began in 2006 and was Construction began in 2006 and was

ongoing. Project was ¼ built outongoing. Project was ¼ built out Wood Frame with truss roof constructionWood Frame with truss roof construction Vinyl sidingVinyl siding Smoke detectors and sprinklers in the living Smoke detectors and sprinklers in the living

spacesspaces Townhouse complexTownhouse complex 2 story, 3 bedroom units, 4 units per bldg2 story, 3 bedroom units, 4 units per bldg


The Fire: RaleighFeb 22, 2007 22 units destroyed, 16 units Feb 22, 2007 22 units destroyed, 16 units

damaged, 13 cars lostdamaged, 13 cars lost


Fire extension: Raleigh


Raleigh: Cause & Origin Determination

Discarded smoking materialDiscarded smoking material

Ignited landscaping productsIgnited landscaping products Fire ignited the vinyl siding Fire ignited the vinyl siding Extended up ward into attic spaceExtended up ward into attic space Wind caused fire to jump from building Wind caused fire to jump from building

to buildingto building


AUBURN MA

Lodge at Eddy PondLodge at Eddy Pond

(Assisted living complex)(Assisted living complex)Department of Fire Services

The Fire: Lodge at Eddy Pond - Auburn

669 Washington Street669 Washington Street January 10, 2006, 2 AlarmsJanuary 10, 2006, 2 Alarms Sprinklers contained the fireSprinklers contained the fire


Building Construction: Lodge at Eddy Pond - Auburn

Recently builtRecently built Wood frame constructionWood frame construction Vinyl sidingVinyl siding 60’ x 400’ x 3 stories60’ x 400’ x 3 stories 85 residents85 residents NFPA 13R+ Sprinkler system (additional NFPA 13R+ Sprinkler system (additional

sprinklers in the attic)sprinklers in the attic)


Cause & Origin Determination: Auburn

UndeterminedUndetermined

Fire spread up exterior Fire spread up exterior Fire spread into attic spaceFire spread into attic space Fire controlled by fire sprinklers in atticFire controlled by fire sprinklers in attic


PART II

Review resulting enforcement & code issuesReview resulting enforcement & code issues


Code and Regulatory Analysis

3 sources for the Commonwealth of MA3 sources for the Commonwealth of MA MA Comprehensive Fire Safety Code: 527 CMR MA Comprehensive Fire Safety Code: 527 CMR

(“Fire Code”)(“Fire Code”) MA State Building Code: 780 CMR (“Building MA State Building Code: 780 CMR (“Building

Code”)Code”) MGL Chapter 148 (“Fire Prevention Laws”)MGL Chapter 148 (“Fire Prevention Laws”)


Building Code

This presentation is based on 7This presentation is based on 7 thth edition edition


Building Size

Construction TypeConstruction Type Use GroupUse Group AccessAccess Sprinkler ProtectionSprinkler Protection


Building Size

AreaArea HeightHeight

Table 503 “Allowable Height and Building Table 503 “Allowable Height and Building Areas” [Handout]Areas” [Handout]


Type VA constructionType VA construction R-2 UseR-2 Use NFPA 13 fire sprinkler systemNFPA 13 fire sprinkler system 100% open space (40 feet wide)100% open space (40 feet wide) 4-story4-story

Building Size Calc - Example


Table 503Table 503 12,000 square feet (4 stories w/ 12,000 square feet (4 stories w/

sprinklers – Section 504.2)sprinklers – Section 504.2)

Section 506.2 Frontage increaseSection 506.2 Frontage increase 75% of Table 50375% of Table 503 12,000 x 0.75 = 9,000 square feet12,000 x 0.75 = 9,000 square feet



Section 506.3 Sprinkler increaseSection 506.3 Sprinkler increase 200% of Table 503200% of Table 503 12,000 x 2 = 24,000 square feet12,000 x 2 = 24,000 square feet

Section 506.1 Allowable area per floorSection 506.1 Allowable area per floor 12,000 + 24,000 + 9,000 = 12,000 + 24,000 + 9,000 =

45,000 square feet per floor45,000 square feet per floor



Section 506.4(2) Aggregate Building AreaSection 506.4(2) Aggregate Building Area Allowable area per floor x 3Allowable area per floor x 3 45,000 sq. ft. x 3 = 135,000 square feet45,000 sq. ft. x 3 = 135,000 square feet

For consistent size floorsFor consistent size floors 135,000 sq. ft. / 4 floors = 135,000 sq. ft. / 4 floors =

33,750 square feet per floor33,750 square feet per floor



Type I (A, B) - Type I (A, B) - building elements are of noncombustible materials.

Type II (A, B) – Type II (A, B) – building elements are of noncombustible materials.

Type III (A, B) - Type III (A, B) - exterior walls are of noncombustible materials and the interior building elements are of any material permitted

Construction Type


Type IV (HT) – heavy timber, Type IV (HT) – heavy timber, exterior walls are of noncombustible materials and the interior building elements are of solid or laminated wood without concealed spaces

Type V (A,B) - Type V (A,B) - structural elements, exterior walls and interior walls are of any materials permitted

Construction Type


Findings Many large residential buildings are being Many large residential buildings are being

constructed with wood frame construction constructed with wood frame construction (Typically Type VA)(Typically Type VA)

Many building renovations done without building Many building renovations done without building permits are found to have changed construction permits are found to have changed construction type – resulting in mixed constructiontype – resulting in mixed construction

Sometimes overlooked during building Sometimes overlooked during building renovationsrenovations


Use Group Designation Assembly (A-1, A-2r, A-2nc, A-3, A-4 and A-5) Business (B) Educational (E) Factory/Industrial (F-1, F-2) High Hazard (H-1, H-2, H-3, H-4, H-5) Institutional (I-1, I-2, I-3, I-4) Mercantile (M) Residential (R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4) Storage (S-1, S-2) Utility and Miscellaneous (U) Special Use (See Chapter 4)


Use Group DesignationResidential

R-1: transient residential R-2: multiple-family & townhouses of

3-dwelling+ R-3: all others including ½-family

detached dwellings R-4: certain residential care facilities


Use Group DesignationHigh Hazard Use

Table 307.7(1) and 307.7(2)

[Handout]


Special Use Groups 402 Covered Mall Buildings 403 High-Rise Buildings 404 Atriums 405 Underground Buildings 406 Motor-vehicle-related Occupancies 407 Group I-2 408 Group I-3 409 Motion Picture Projection Rooms 410 Stages and Platforms


411 Special Amusement Buildings 412 Aircraft-related Occupancies 413 Combustible Storage 414 Hazardous Materials 415 Groups H-1, H-2, H-3, H-4 and H-5 416 Application of Flammable Finishes 417 Drying Rooms 418 Organic Coatings 419 Mobile Units

Special Use Groups


420 Swimming Pools 421 Group Residence 422 Day Care Centers 423 Summer Camps for Children 424 Bulk Merchandising Retail Buildings 425 Limited Group Residence 426 Detoxification Facilities 427 Group Dwelling Units

Special Use Groups


Garages (Handout – Section 406) 406.1 Private (Handout - ICC Interp) 406.2 Parking Garages 406.3 Open Garages 406.4 Enclosed Garages 406.5 Motor Fuel Dispensing (see 527 CMR) 406.6 Repair Garages

Special Use Groups


Single Use Single Use Separated Mixed UseSeparated Mixed Use Nonseparated Mixed UseNonseparated Mixed Use

Occupancies may have incidental or accesory Occupancies may have incidental or accesory use areas [handout for 780 CMR:302.2 use areas [handout for 780 CMR:302.2

defining accesory]defining accesory]

Building Use Designation


Findings Divergent interpretations of Use/Building Divergent interpretations of Use/Building

designations for typical multiple-family residential designations for typical multiple-family residential structures – especially related to parking garages, structures – especially related to parking garages, storage areas, and community amenities.storage areas, and community amenities.

Finding that some architects are not investigating Finding that some architects are not investigating the use of hazardous materials to determine if the use of hazardous materials to determine if within the maximum limits before H Use within the maximum limits before H Use designationdesignation

Uses being changed without obtaining building Uses being changed without obtaining building permitpermit


Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems

780 CMR typically requires sprinklers in the entire building if triggered in 903.2.

Example – “903.2.5 Group H. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings having a Group H occupancy.”

This is significant amendment from model code (handout 6th edition Ch. 9 commentary)


Not all fire sprinkler systems the same….Not all fire sprinkler systems the same…. Property Protection & Life SafetyProperty Protection & Life Safety

903.3.1.1 – NFPA 13-2007, all buildings including 903.3.1.1 – NFPA 13-2007, all buildings including mixed use and residential onlymixed use and residential only

Life Safety of OccupantsLife Safety of Occupants• 903.3.1.2 – NFPA 13R-2007, single use 903.3.1.2 – NFPA 13R-2007, single use

residential buildings limited to <= 4 stories & residential buildings limited to <= 4 stories & 12,000 sq. ft. (per 780 CMR amendment) 12,000 sq. ft. (per 780 CMR amendment)

• 903.3.1.3 – NFPA 13D-2007, single use residential 903.3.1.3 – NFPA 13D-2007, single use residential buildings limited to <=3 dwelling units (per 780 buildings limited to <=3 dwelling units (per 780 CMR amendment)CMR amendment)



NFPA 13:8.15.1.1 Concealed Spaces Requiring NFPA 13:8.15.1.1 Concealed Spaces Requiring Sprinkler Protection – “ All concealed spaces Sprinkler Protection – “ All concealed spaces enclosed wholly or partly by exposed combustible enclosed wholly or partly by exposed combustible construction shall be protected by sprinklers…”construction shall be protected by sprinklers…”

NFPA 13:8.15.7.1 – “…sprinklers shall be NFPA 13:8.15.7.1 – “…sprinklers shall be installed under exterior roofs, canopies, or porte-installed under exterior roofs, canopies, or porte-cocheres exceeding four feet in width”cocheres exceeding four feet in width”



Findings Relatively new buildings are suffering complete fire losses – Relatively new buildings are suffering complete fire losses –

resulting in significant monetary loss and community disruption.resulting in significant monetary loss and community disruption. Building occupants generally believe the building to be protected Building occupants generally believe the building to be protected

if they see fire sprinklers.if they see fire sprinklers. The cost of bringing community resources to suppress and deal The cost of bringing community resources to suppress and deal

with large building fires is many times more than the increased with large building fires is many times more than the increased cost by the developer of installing an NFPA 13 system rather cost by the developer of installing an NFPA 13 system rather than NFPA 13R.than NFPA 13R.

The fire service considers large light-weight construction The fire service considers large light-weight construction buildings “ticking time bombs” for the fire service and buildings “ticking time bombs” for the fire service and occupants. Consider that there is no detection and no occupants. Consider that there is no detection and no suppression in the interstitial spaces when using NFPA 13R, and suppression in the interstitial spaces when using NFPA 13R, and that many residents ignore fire alarms.that many residents ignore fire alarms.


Advantages of a NFPA 13 compliant system Advantages of a NFPA 13 compliant system for similar structures were reinforced by a for similar structures were reinforced by a fire incident at the Lodge of Eddy Pond in fire incident at the Lodge of Eddy Pond in Auburn MA on Jan. 10, 2006Auburn MA on Jan. 10, 2006


Findings

Some architects/engineers are improperly specifying the Some architects/engineers are improperly specifying the use of NFPA 13R in mixed use buildings.use of NFPA 13R in mixed use buildings.


Findings

Code change made from recommendation of State Fire Marshal –

“903.2.8 Group R. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with 780 CMR 903.3 shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R occupancy. For Use Group R Buildings with an aggregate building area of 12,000 sf or more, the sprinkler system shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 13. For the purposes of 780 CMR 903.2, the aggregate building area shall be the combined area of all stories of the building and fire walls shall not be considered to create separate buildings.”


Findings

780 CMR:717.4.2 Exception #3 – “ In 780 CMR:717.4.2 Exception #3 – “ In occupancies in Group R-2 that do not occupancies in Group R-2 that do not exceed four stories in height, the attic space exceed four stories in height, the attic space shall be subdivided by draftstops into areas shall be subdivided by draftstops into areas not exceeding 3,000 sq. feet or above every not exceeding 3,000 sq. feet or above every two dwelling units, whichever is smaller.”two dwelling units, whichever is smaller.”


Attics and Concealed Spaces



Attics and Concealed Spaces 780 CMR:1209.2 – “780 CMR:1209.2 – “An opening not less than 20

inches by 30 inches shall be provided to any attic area having a clear height of over 30 inches. A 30-inch minimum clear headroom in the attic space shall be provided at or above the access opening.

IBC-2003 COMMENTARY – “Openings located IBC-2003 COMMENTARY – “Openings located within the draftstop are required to be self-closing within the draftstop are required to be self-closing and the opening protective must provide structural and the opening protective must provide structural fire integrity similar to the draftstop.”fire integrity similar to the draftstop.”


780 CMR:103.1 Maintenance – “all buildings and 780 CMR:103.1 Maintenance – “all buildings and structures and all parts thereof, both existing and structures and all parts thereof, both existing and new, and all systems and equipment therein which new, and all systems and equipment therein which are regulated by 780 CMR shall be maintained in are regulated by 780 CMR shall be maintained in a safe, operable and sanitary condition. All a safe, operable and sanitary condition. All service equipment, means of egress, devices and service equipment, means of egress, devices and safeguards…when erected, altered or repaired, safeguards…when erected, altered or repaired, shall be maintained in good working order.”shall be maintained in good working order.”



Inspections of existing buildings often reveal Inspections of existing buildings often reveal numerous open penetrations have been made in numerous open penetrations have been made in the draft stops.the draft stops.

Unprotected openings can range in size from small Unprotected openings can range in size from small holes for wires to 2’ x 3’ access holes with no holes for wires to 2’ x 3’ access holes with no doorsdoors

Unprotected openings in draft stops are often Unprotected openings in draft stops are often made by tradespeople or others, after the building made by tradespeople or others, after the building is complete, to make easy access to all attic areas.is complete, to make easy access to all attic areas.

Should be included as part of 106 inspections.Should be included as part of 106 inspections.


Findings

While it is unlikely that draft stops with no While it is unlikely that draft stops with no openings would completely stop fire openings would completely stop fire progress in the attic, it is reasonable to progress in the attic, it is reasonable to conclude that an uncompromised draft stop conclude that an uncompromised draft stop would slow fire progress.would slow fire progress.

Draft stops may not be required if the attic Draft stops may not be required if the attic has sprinkler protection. See has sprinkler protection. See 780 CMR 717.4.2 Exceptions #2 & #4.780 CMR 717.4.2 Exceptions #2 & #4.


Findings

Balconies

780 CMR: 1406.3 Exception #3 – “Balconies 780 CMR: 1406.3 Exception #3 – “Balconies and similar appendages on buildings of…and similar appendages on buildings of…Type V construction shall be permitted to Type V construction shall be permitted to be of Type V construction, and shall not be be of Type V construction, and shall not be required to have a fire resistance rating required to have a fire resistance rating where sprinkler protection is extended to where sprinkler protection is extended to these areas.” [Handout]these areas.” [Handout]


This provision for sprinklers on combustible This provision for sprinklers on combustible balconies has been overlooked on several projectsbalconies has been overlooked on several projects

The 7The 7thth edition of 780 CMR has likely indirectly edition of 780 CMR has likely indirectly addressed this by expressly requiring balcony addressed this by expressly requiring balcony sprinklers per 780 CMR:903.3.1.2.1 [NFPA 13R] sprinklers per 780 CMR:903.3.1.2.1 [NFPA 13R] and the requirements for NFPA 13 systems in and the requirements for NFPA 13 systems in many of these buildings per 780 CMR:903.2.8many of these buildings per 780 CMR:903.2.8


Findings

Combustible Exterior Siding

780 CMR 1406.2.1 Ignition Resistance – 780 CMR 1406.2.1 Ignition Resistance – ““Combustible exterior wall coverings shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 268.

Exceptions:

4. Exterior wall coverings on exterior walls of Type V

construction.”


780 CMR: 704.5 Fire Resistance Ratings – “Exterior 780 CMR: 704.5 Fire Resistance Ratings – “Exterior walls shall be fire-resistance rated in accordance with walls shall be fire-resistance rated in accordance with Tables 601 & 602. The fire-resistance rating of Tables 601 & 602. The fire-resistance rating of exterior walls with a fire separation distance of exterior walls with a fire separation distance of greater than five feet shall be rated for exposure to greater than five feet shall be rated for exposure to fire from the inside. The fire resistance rating of fire from the inside. The fire resistance rating of exterior walls with a fire separation distance of five exterior walls with a fire separation distance of five feet or less shall be rated for exposure to fire from feet or less shall be rated for exposure to fire from both sides.”both sides.”


Combustible Exterior Siding

The combustible siding was allowed on The combustible siding was allowed on many of the residential fires because Type many of the residential fires because Type V construction was used and/or the V construction was used and/or the buildings had fire separation distances of buildings had fire separation distances of more than five feet.more than five feet.

The combustible siding was a direct factor The combustible siding was a direct factor in the spread/development of fire in the in the spread/development of fire in the subject incidents.subject incidents.


Findings

The combustible vinyl siding allows the fire to The combustible vinyl siding allows the fire to quickly extend up the side of the structure to the quickly extend up the side of the structure to the attic soffits. attic soffits.

Buildings 50 feet to several hundred feet away Buildings 50 feet to several hundred feet away have sustained radiation damage and exposure fire have sustained radiation damage and exposure fire damage created by flying embers landing in bark damage created by flying embers landing in bark mulch for landscaping. mulch for landscaping.

The spread of fire from the landscaping materials The spread of fire from the landscaping materials to the vinyl siding was generally uninhibited due to the vinyl siding was generally uninhibited due to their close proximity.to their close proximity.


Findings

DFS/DPS staff will look at recommendations to DFS/DPS staff will look at recommendations to the BBRS for consideration of removing ignition the BBRS for consideration of removing ignition testing waivers for plastic siding used on Type V testing waivers for plastic siding used on Type V construction that appear in the national and state construction that appear in the national and state codes. (780 CMR:1406.2.1)codes. (780 CMR:1406.2.1)

BBRS will need to consider if it is beneficial or BBRS will need to consider if it is beneficial or feasible to specify minimum vertical distances feasible to specify minimum vertical distances between the bottom of combustible siding and between the bottom of combustible siding and combustible landscaping.combustible landscaping.


Findings

Exterior Attic Soffit Construction Findings: DFS/DPS staff will research national Findings: DFS/DPS staff will research national

code modifications of other States and make code modifications of other States and make recommendations to BBRS for consideration of recommendations to BBRS for consideration of specifying combustibility and/or fire-resistance specifying combustibility and/or fire-resistance rating limitations for attic soffit construction.rating limitations for attic soffit construction.

Findings: The rapid fire spread in several of the Findings: The rapid fire spread in several of the subject fires was a result of the fire burning subject fires was a result of the fire burning quickly through vinyl soffit sheating and rapidly quickly through vinyl soffit sheating and rapidly extending into the attic space.extending into the attic space.


Fire Walls705.3 Materials. Fire walls shall be of any

approved noncombustible materials.

Exception: Buildings of Type V construction.


[handout]

705.6 Vertical Continuity. Fire walls shall extend from the foundation to a termination point at least 30 inches (762 mm) above both adjacent roofs.

Exceptions:

4. In buildings of Type III, IV and V

construction, walls shall be permitted to terminate

at the underside of combustible roof sheathing or


Fire Walls

705.6 (cont’d) decks provided:4.1. There are no openings in the roof within four feet (1220 mm) of the fire wall,4.2. The roof is covered with a minimum Class B roof covering, and 4.3. The roof sheathing or deck is constructed of fire-retardant-treated wood for a distance of four feet (1220 mm) on both sides of the wall or the roof is protected with e inch (15.9 mm) Type X gypsum board directly beneath the underside of the roof sheathing or deck, supported by a minimum of two-inch (51 mm) nominal ledgers attached to the sides of the roof framing members for a minimum distance of four feet (1220 mm) on both sides of the fire wall.


Fire Walls

The term “fire wall” and “fire separation The term “fire wall” and “fire separation wall” are often confused. The two types wall” are often confused. The two types of walls are not interchangeable.of walls are not interchangeable.


Findings

Fire resistance rating directories do not typically Fire resistance rating directories do not typically distinguish between “fire walls” and “fire separation distinguish between “fire walls” and “fire separation walls”. It is important that the architect/engineer walls”. It is important that the architect/engineer not only specify the required fire resistance rating of not only specify the required fire resistance rating of a wall assembly, but also establish if a true fire wall a wall assembly, but also establish if a true fire wall is required and specified per the provisions of 780 is required and specified per the provisions of 780 CMR. CMR.

Because of the 780 CMR fire wall continuity Because of the 780 CMR fire wall continuity requirements, the same fire-resistance rated design requirements, the same fire-resistance rated design approach would need to be continuous for the entire approach would need to be continuous for the entire height of the wall.height of the wall.


Findings

Many of the directories for fire resistance Many of the directories for fire resistance rated walls specify limitations that must be rated walls specify limitations that must be met (i.e. maximum height)met (i.e. maximum height)

National and State building code making National and State building code making committees should revisit the waiver of committees should revisit the waiver of parapets for fire walls – a feature required parapets for fire walls – a feature required in early building codes to combat in early building codes to combat conflagrations from occurring.conflagrations from occurring.


Findings

Fire Suppression Water Flows

780 CMR: 903.2.8 Group R780 CMR: 903.2.8 Group R

““An automatic sprinkler system installed in An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with 780 CMR 903.3 [NFPA 13, accordance with 780 CMR 903.3 [NFPA 13, NFPA 13R, NFPA 13D] shall be provided NFPA 13R, NFPA 13D] shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R throughout all buildings with a Group R occupancy.”occupancy.”


NFPA 13:11.1.4.2 – “The minimum water NFPA 13:11.1.4.2 – “The minimum water supply requirements for a sprinkler system supply requirements for a sprinkler system shall be determined by adding the hose shall be determined by adding the hose stream allowance to the water supply for the stream allowance to the water supply for the sprinklers.”sprinklers.”

NFPA 13:Table 11.2.3.1.2 (500gpm Extra NFPA 13:Table 11.2.3.1.2 (500gpm Extra Hazard; 250 gpm Ordinary Hazard; 100 gpm Hazard; 250 gpm Ordinary Hazard; 100 gpm Light Hazard)Light Hazard)



NFPA 13R:A.6.8.2 – “Other rules from NFPA 13 NFPA 13R:A.6.8.2 – “Other rules from NFPA 13 such as …hose stream demand…are not intended such as …hose stream demand…are not intended to be referenced by [NFPA 13R:] 6.8.2.”to be referenced by [NFPA 13R:] 6.8.2.”



As NFPA 13 addresses only the fire sprinkler system As NFPA 13 addresses only the fire sprinkler system design, the standard does not require provisions for design, the standard does not require provisions for fire flows.fire flows.

As such systems are meant for occupant life safety, As such systems are meant for occupant life safety, NFPA 13R does not require consideration of fire NFPA 13R does not require consideration of fire flows in the water supply calculations. flows in the water supply calculations.

Traditionally, the requirements for outside fire flow Traditionally, the requirements for outside fire flow are within the scope of the fire code. Where are within the scope of the fire code. Where developed in 527 CMR, BBRS could consider the developed in 527 CMR, BBRS could consider the addition of correlating notes in Chapter 9 of 780 addition of correlating notes in Chapter 9 of 780 CMR.CMR.


Findings

Fire Department Apparatus Access

Traditionally, the requirements for FD Traditionally, the requirements for FD apparatus access are within the scope of the apparatus access are within the scope of the fire code. BBRS could consider the addition fire code. BBRS could consider the addition of correlating notes in Chapter 5 of 780 of correlating notes in Chapter 5 of 780 CMR.CMR.


Building Access for Fire Department780 CMR:506.2 Frontage increase – “780 CMR:506.2 Frontage increase – “Every

building shall adjoin or have access to a public way to receive an area increase for frontage. Where a building has more than 25% of perimeter on a public way or open space having a minimum width of 20 feet (6096 mm), the frontage increase shall be determined in accordance with the following:


3025.0100

W

P

FI f

Building Access for Fire Department

IIf f = Allowable area increase (%)= Allowable area increase (%)

F = Open frontage (feet)F = Open frontage (feet)

P = Perimeter length (feet)P = Perimeter length (feet)

W = Width of open frontage (feet) **>20 ft.W = Width of open frontage (feet) **>20 ft.

*Note Errata at www.mass.gov/dps*Note Errata at www.mass.gov/dps


3025.0100

W

P

FI f

780 CMR:Table 503 Limits the size that a 780 CMR:Table 503 Limits the size that a building can be built by limiting the area building can be built by limiting the area per floor, the number of stories, and the per floor, the number of stories, and the height. The limits specified by the table can height. The limits specified by the table can be increased in certain situations by be increased in certain situations by providing open spaces around the building providing open spaces around the building (“frontage increase”)(“frontage increase”)


Findings

Interpretation of the 780 CMR criteria for Interpretation of the 780 CMR criteria for what is considered “open space” is what is considered “open space” is divergent. divergent.

The building code commentary for the The building code commentary for the 2003 IBC explains that added open 2003 IBC explains that added open frontage is intended to give building frontage is intended to give building trade-offs for buildings that have trade-offs for buildings that have increased access for fire department use.increased access for fire department use.


Findings

The IBC 2003 commentary indicates that areas The IBC 2003 commentary indicates that areas occupied as public streets and parking lots are occupied as public streets and parking lots are qualified for the frontage increase. qualified for the frontage increase.

Interpretations are divergent on the impact of Interpretations are divergent on the impact of steep grades, landscaping, or other similar steep grades, landscaping, or other similar impediments, on a space’s qualification for impediments, on a space’s qualification for frontage increases.frontage increases.

Site layout is often decided way in advance of Site layout is often decided way in advance of building permit application.building permit application.


Findings

DFS/DPS staff will look at recommendations DFS/DPS staff will look at recommendations to the BBRS for consideration of adding to the BBRS for consideration of adding fire department input into the open space fire department input into the open space provisions that appear in the national and provisions that appear in the national and state codes. (780 CMR:506.2)state codes. (780 CMR:506.2)


Findings

MA Comprehensive Fire Safety Code (527 CMR)

Applies to all new & existing situationsApplies to all new & existing situations


Fire Department Access

527 CMR: 25.07 Buildings of Habitable 527 CMR: 25.07 Buildings of Habitable Occupancy – “Each building built for Occupancy – “Each building built for residential occupancy after the approval of residential occupancy after the approval of 527 CMR 25.00 (9/1/93) shall include a 527 CMR 25.00 (9/1/93) shall include a suitable paved access for fire apparatus on suitable paved access for fire apparatus on at lease one side of the structure. In at lease one side of the structure. In addition, a clear, unobstructed way shall be addition, a clear, unobstructed way shall be provided from such fire apparatus access provided from such fire apparatus access point to all exits of such building.”point to all exits of such building.”


Fire Department Access

527 CMR: 10.03(10)(a) – “527 CMR: 10.03(10)(a) – “The head of the fire department shall require and designate public or private fire lanes as deemed necessary for the efficient and effective use of fire apparatus. Fire lanes shall have a minimum width of 18 feet.”


Even with sites that comply with the minimum Even with sites that comply with the minimum requirements for fire apparatus access, direct requirements for fire apparatus access, direct access for additional apparatus may be lost once access for additional apparatus may be lost once initial responding fire department apparatus were initial responding fire department apparatus were positioned.positioned.

DFS staff will look at recommendations to the DFS staff will look at recommendations to the BFPR for consideration of adopting model BFPR for consideration of adopting model development planning standards.development planning standards.


Findings

Findings: Some FD’s were experiencing Findings: Some FD’s were experiencing insufficient water at subject fires to apply insufficient water at subject fires to apply master streams to the burning structure.master streams to the burning structure.

Findings: DFS staff will look at Findings: DFS staff will look at recommendations to the BFPR for recommendations to the BFPR for consideration of adopting model consideration of adopting model development planning standards.development planning standards.



Fire Prevention Laws MGL Chap. 148

Section 26I – “In a city…which accepts the Section 26I – “In a city…which accepts the provision of this section, any building hereafter provision of this section, any building hereafter constructed or hereafter substantially rehabilitated constructed or hereafter substantially rehabilitated so as to constitute the equivalent of new so as to constitute the equivalent of new construction and occupied in whole or in part for construction and occupied in whole or in part for residential purposes and containing not less than residential purposes and containing not less than four dwelling units including, but not limited to…four dwelling units including, but not limited to…apartments…shall be equipped with an approved apartments…shall be equipped with an approved system of automatic sprinklers…”system of automatic sprinklers…”


Findings: Where adopted, the fire sprinkler Findings: Where adopted, the fire sprinkler installation needs to be installed in installation needs to be installed in accordance with the standards referenced in accordance with the standards referenced in 780 CMR and the head of the fire 780 CMR and the head of the fire department enforcing this provision needs department enforcing this provision needs to determine an “adequate” system.to determine an “adequate” system.


Findings

PART III

Prevention toolsPrevention tools


Construction Control & Design Responsibilities

780 CMR:116 Construction Control requires 780 CMR:116 Construction Control requires involvement of registered professionals [Handout]involvement of registered professionals [Handout]

Professional taking design responsibility – not the Professional taking design responsibility – not the role of the code officialrole of the code official

Make sure the people are properly registeredMake sure the people are properly registered Submitted documents should have “wet stamp” with Submitted documents should have “wet stamp” with

date and signature per statutedate and signature per statute PE must stamp every page per PE BoardPE must stamp every page per PE Board MA licenses individual architects/engineers not MA licenses individual architects/engineers not

companiescompanies


Project participants change responsible Project participants change responsible architect/engineer in middle of projectarchitect/engineer in middle of project

Design architect/engineer is never establishedDesign architect/engineer is never established Installing contractors submit documents that Installing contractors submit documents that

have been reviewed by an architect/engineer have been reviewed by an architect/engineer that is not the responsible architect/engineerthat is not the responsible architect/engineer

Architects/engineers not properly registered or Architects/engineers not properly registered or following license regulationsfollowing license regulations


FindingsMultiple-board discussions and rulings are necessary to Multiple-board discussions and rulings are necessary to address Construction Control (BBRS, BFPR, PE, address Construction Control (BBRS, BFPR, PE, Architect)Architect)

Code Summary (recommended)

Explains the designer’s methodology and basis of the Explains the designer’s methodology and basis of the building arrangement and overall fire protection building arrangement and overall fire protection

requirements to the code officialrequirements to the code official


Many of the summaries are “cookie cutter” and Many of the summaries are “cookie cutter” and reference irrelevant codes/standardsreference irrelevant codes/standards

Often done up front but not updated as changes are Often done up front but not updated as changes are made in the projectmade in the project


Findings

Chapter 34 Analysis Applies to renovations, alterations, and additions to existing Applies to renovations, alterations, and additions to existing

buildings that are subject to Construction Controlbuildings that are subject to Construction Control Determination of applicability based on the size of the Determination of applicability based on the size of the

overall building, not just the change.overall building, not just the change. Answers questions as to what fire safety features are Answers questions as to what fire safety features are

required as a result of the changes.required as a result of the changes. The Fire Department, in addition to the Building Official, is The Fire Department, in addition to the Building Official, is

charged with reviewing the Chapter 34 analysis as it relates charged with reviewing the Chapter 34 analysis as it relates to fire safety concerns (Chapter 9 and Chapter 4).to fire safety concerns (Chapter 9 and Chapter 4).


Some code officials are inadvertently not requiring Some code officials are inadvertently not requiring submittal of this helpful and code required analysissubmittal of this helpful and code required analysis


Findings

Community Development Proceedings

Many communities have been successful in Many communities have been successful in addressing local fire department access and fire addressing local fire department access and fire

flow concerns through code official flow concerns through code official recommendations at local special permit/appeal recommendations at local special permit/appeal

hearings.hearings.


Code Development These are your codes. These are your codes.

Both 780 CMR and 527 CMR are changed frequently based Both 780 CMR and 527 CMR are changed frequently based on public comments. on public comments.

Anyone can submit public comments to the Boards and Anyone can submit public comments to the Boards and attend Board meetings.attend Board meetings.

There is a Fire Prevention Fire Protection (FPFP) There is a Fire Prevention Fire Protection (FPFP) subcommittee of the Board of Building Regulations and subcommittee of the Board of Building Regulations and

Standards (BBRS).Standards (BBRS). Submit code change proposals to ICC, NFPA, etc.Submit code change proposals to ICC, NFPA, etc.


Interpretation Disputes

Questions can be sent to BBRS and BFPR, as Questions can be sent to BBRS and BFPR, as applicable, to see if the board could issue an applicable, to see if the board could issue an

interpretationinterpretation The Building Code Appeals Board is an avenue for The Building Code Appeals Board is an avenue for

parties aggrieved by a decision of the building parties aggrieved by a decision of the building official or, in some cases, the fire official. official or, in some cases, the fire official.


CONTACTSOffice of the State Fire MarshalOffice of the State Fire Marshal

Massachusetts Department of Fire ServicesMassachusetts Department of Fire ServicesPO Box 1025PO Box 10251 State Road1 State Road

Stow MA 01775Stow MA 01775www.mass.gov/dfswww.mass.gov/dfs

(978)567-3199 (fax) (978)567-3199 (fax)

Fire Department AssistanceFire Department AssistanceNorth of Mass Pike: North of Mass Pike: [email protected]@State.MA.US (978)567-3376 (978)567-3376

South/Along Mass Pike: South/Along Mass Pike: [email protected]@State.MA.US (978)567-3377(978)567-3377

Fire Code Concerns: (978)567-3375Fire Code Concerns: (978)567-3375

Building Code Assistance: www.mass.gov/dpsBuilding Code Assistance: www.mass.gov/dps


http://www.state.ma.us/dfs

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

Documents

LARGE LOSS FIRES: LESSONS LEARNED Office of State Fire Marshal – Department of Fire Services & Department of Public Safety March 2009