You may choose the number of one of the articles or scroll down through all the articles:
1. Model fire code could be presented at hearings with other building-related code changes;
2. 'Tis a special time of year!;
3. IBC Adoption Update - December 2000;
4. An explanation of the submittal requirements for HVAC equipment replacement;
5. Employment Opportunities: (Section
Chief, Boilers and Elevators, Madison); (Private Sewage Plan
Reviewer, Madison, Waukesha, or La Crosse); (Section
Chief, Fire Safety and Elevators);
6. Clearing up transfer air between dwelling units;
7. Fire Protection Systems Plan Review Survey;
8. Code Interpretation, Code Section:
Comm 51.25 Incorporation of Standards by Reference; 9. Recommendation that smoke alarms be replaced after 10 years;
10. Commercial lighting plan submittals reviewed;
11. NFPA 30 seminar info and registration form (PDF file);
12. NFPA 72 seminar info and registration form (PDF file)
1. Model fire code could be presented at hearings with other building-related code changes
By John Lippitt, Safety and Buildings Division Fire Safety Program Manager, 608-266-1036, jlippitt@commerce.state.wi.us After two years of research, comparisons, and very careful consideration, managers of the Safety and Buildings Division managers and the Department of Safety and Professional Services are expected to propose adoption of the International Fire Code (IFC) for use as the base document for the Wisconsin Fire Prevention Code. (See accompanying article here about advisory council recommendations on possible building/fire code changes in Wisconsin.) Discussion of adopting a Wisconsin version of the IFC could be included in upcoming public hearings, along with adoption of Wisconsin versions of the International Building Code (IBC), the International Mechanical Code (IMC), the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), and the International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC). These five national model codes developed by the International Code Council (ICC) would provide for integrated compatible rules for the constructed environment. Variations from the national codes are planned to suit specific Wisconsin statutes, codes, or geophysical conditions, yet are expected to be kept at a minimum. Adoption of the IFC would greatly expand the scope and application of fire safety regulations in Wisconsin. There are many fire hazards addressed in the IFC that previously have not been covered in Comm 14, the current Fire Prevention Code. The IFC provides guidance for the building owner and the fire code official to ensure that fire hazards are identified. Appropriate fire prevention procedures and fire protection features are provided based upon specific hazards. The IFC is structured to safely manage the risks associated with fire and explosions within buildings, structures, and upon the premises. Application of the IFC in the rule change proposals would allow for safe operations and processes in both new and existing properties. The IFC provides tools needed by fire inspectors to maintain safe properties within their territories. Also, the IFC is designed to accompany the above-mentioned IBC and IMC. For every occupancy defined in the IBC, the IFC has regulations to ensure the occupancy is constructed safely. Where a process or operation in a building creates contamination of the air or a fire hazard, the IMC has requirements to safely ventilate the area. All three codes, the IBC, IFC and IMC are designed by purpose to be interrelated and dependent upon each other to provide for a safe environment. With the proposed repeal and recreation of a number of state building codes, the fire code has been assigned a new chapter number. The public hearing draft has the Fire Prevention Code numbered as Comm 66. The existing chapter Comm 66 (Multifamily Dwellings) would be repealed, with the rules for multifamily dwellings nested in the proposed building code chapters Comm 61 to 65. It is very important that there is an understanding of the application of the proposed Comm 66. For the design and construction of an existing building, the new fire code would not be applied retroactively. For operation and use of an existing building, the fire code would be applied retroactively. Fire safety requirements regarding the storage, handling, and use of flammable, combustible, and explosive materials identified by the IFC are applied to existing buildings. Additionally, the IFC contains requirements regarding hazardous materials, including gases, solids, and liquids, which will be applied to existing buildings. Public hearings are planned for January and February of 2001. I invite all interested parties to obtain copies of the IFC and the proposed Comm 66, so you can see for yourself how the two documents would work together to enhance fire safety in Wisconsin. Copies of the 2000 International Codes are available from: Building Officials and Code Administrators International, 800-214-4321, www.bocai.org/; International Conference of Building Officials, 888-699-0541, www.icbo.org/; Southern Building Code Conference International, 888-447-2224, www.sbcci.org/.
2. 'Tis a special time of year!
If you have questions on your continuing education status, please contact the Safety and Buildings Division Credentialing Unit, 608-261-8500, madisoncred@commerce.state.wi.us.
3. IBC Adoption Update - December 2000
Proposals being prepared for upcoming hearings on major changes among the commercial building, multifamily, and other codes
by J.B. Smith, Commercial Buildings Program Manager, 608-266-0251, jsmith@commerce.state.wi.us Safety and Buildings staff have been working on the language of public hearing drafts for adoption of the Wisconsin versions of the International Building Code (IBC), the International Mechanical Code (IMC), the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), and the International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC). We have been spending many hours coordinating efforts of S&B code writers with those of the various advisory individuals and groups. The efforts are merited in view of the positive changes adoption of the codes would bring to our state. Also being considered is the possible adoption of the International Fire Code (IFC), with Wisconsin amendments, rather than continue with extensive recalibrating of the current Comm 14, Fire Prevention Code. The reworking of Comm 14 to integrate it with adoption of the above-noted codes had been progressing. In November, two major S&B oversight advisory councils, the Commercial Building Code Council and the Multifamily Code Council, recommended the division proceed with adoption hearings, including an IFC adoption proposal. Six other speciality advisory councils have also recommended "I" codes related to their technical areas, including the Fire Safety Code Council's recommendation of IFC adoption alomg with the four codes mentioned in the first paragraph. The other councils are the Means of Egress and Accessibility Council; the Elevator Code Council; the Structural Review Code Council; the Energy Conservation Code Council; and the Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning Code Council. A decision was to be made by S&B and Department of Safety and Professional Services management after this WBCR's printing deadline as to how to proceed with a fire code proposal. Also not available at this writing are the specifics of the public hearings. Both of these topics will be described in a special Building Code Development issue of the WBCR appearing in December. Remember the WBCR and Wisconsin Plumbing Codes Report are available via "Publications" on the S&B WebSite, where the first specifics of the hearings will be announced: http://www.commerce.state.wi.us/SB/. Copies of the 2000 International Codes are available from: Building Officials and Code Administrators International, 800-214-4321, www.bocai.org/; International Conference of Building Officials, 888-699-0541, www.icbo.org/; Southern Building Code Conference International, 888-447-2224, www.sbcci.org/. Back to IFC article.
4. An explanation of the submittal requirements for HVAC equipment replacement
by Randy Dahmen, S&B HVAC Consultant, 608-266-3162, rdahmen@commerce.state.wi.us As of September 1, 2000, HVAC equipment replacement submission requirements were changed, along with the building/HVAC fee submission requirements. The revised Comm 50, the administrative chapter of the Commercial Building Code, Comm 50-64, no longer requires submittal to the Safety and Buildings Divison for review prior to installation "one-for-one" HVAC equipment replacements which are substantially similar in size. Equipment "replacement" implies the removal of existing, and the installation of new heating, ventilating, or air conditioning equipment including, but not limited to, furnaces, air-handling units, central air conditioners, boilers, and water heaters. "Replacement" of equipment means no changes to existing ductwork or piping are permitted other than those necessary to fit the new equipment to the existing system. If changes to the ductwork and piping go beyond this, HVAC alteration plans must be submitted in accordance with Comm 50.12. "Replacement" does not include changing equipment sizes or capacities to accommodate building alterations or additions. When HVAC equipment sizes or output capacities are changed due to a building addition or alteration, HVAC alteration plans must be submitted in accordance with Comm 50.12. "One-for-one" boiler replacements or refrigeration equipment replacements (50 ton and above) do not need to be submitted for review for compliance with Comm 50-64. However, all owners/designers are required to contact and notify the S&B Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspection Unit of the change. Form SBD-6314 is required to be completed and submitted for boilers. Form SBD-34 is required for refrigeration units. The forms may be obtained free of charge by calling 608-266-1818. Although submission to the state is not required, local ordinances may require HVAC equipment information to be submitted prior issuing HVAC permits. Any fees associated with local HVAC permits would be defined by the municipality issuing the permit. A Summary of Fees and Submittal Requirements
Replacement of equipment (identical or closely similar in size): No state fee or submittal required. Boiler/refrigeration replacements need to be registered with the S&B Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspection Unit. Replacement of equipment (substantially smaller in size): Submittal required. "Substantially" means that the output of the new equipment is more than 15 percent less than the original equipment. $200 per piece of equipment. Submittal shall include: 1) A completed SBD-118 plan application form; 2) Appropriate fees; 3) At least four copies of a letter identifying the building by address, occupancy, and owner; identifying the name and address of the HVAC contractor or designer responsible for making the replacement; giving the make, model, and BTU output of the equipment being replaced; giving the make, model, and BTU output of the replacement equipment; Specifying UL, AGA, PFS or other recognized laboratory approval shall be specified; 4) Since the BTU output of the replacement equipment is substantially less than that of the equipment being replaced, HVAC heat loss calculations must be submitted proving the adequacy and code compliance of the smaller unit(s); 5) Since the replacement equipment has a BTU output substantially less than that of the equipment being replaced ,and the building contains more than 50,000 cubic feet total volume, the letters and calculations must be signed, sealed, and dated by a Wisconsin registered architect, engineer, or HVAC designer. Boiler/refrigeration replacements need to be registered with the S&B Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspection Unit. Heating ONLY equipment is replaced with equipment capable of both heating and cooling: Submittal required. Fee based on area to be served by equipment, plus submittal fee. Boiler/refrigeration replacements are required to contact the S&B Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspection Unit. Installation of stand alone equipment (fireplaces, range hoods, waste oil burners, etc.): Submittal required. $200/piece of equipment, plus submittal fee. In all cases involving new equipment, if the new equipment will require fire-rated isolation from the balance of the building where the old equipment did not, evidence of a rated enclosure must be submitted. Typical examples of this type of replacement include changing from electric to gas-fired, or from direct-vent sealed combustion chamber gas-fired to traditional gas-fired. Evidence of rated enclosure consists of a letter from an architect, engineer, or certified commercial building inspector stating there is an existing rated room and giving the fire rating of that room in hours. If the room is not adequate, submission must include the building of a new rated room, per Comm 50.12.
5. Employment Opportunities
Bureau of Field Operations Section
Chief, Boilers and Elevators, Madison, Career Executive, Announcement 04880 Department of Safety and Professional Services; Division of Safety and Buildings; Bureau of Field Operations. Salary: Start between $44,791 and $54,288 per year, plus excellent benefits. A one-year career executive trial period will be required. Job Duties: Manage a section comprised of professional technical staff in the elevator and boiler safety and inspection programs; develop and manage work plans, budgets, staff services, operating policies, staff assignment and activities; perform strategic planning for the section; resolve policy-related conflicts; participate in division-wide fiscal, budget, personnel, contract, program evaluation, and facilities management issues; represent the section on the division's management team; supervise staff and provide technical oversight of staff activities; implement statutory mandates, administrative policies, codes, code interpretations, program policies and practices; provide leadership to the section; act as a technical program expert to all staff in the division. Well-Qualified Applicants: Well-qualified applicants will have experience in elevator safety/inspection and boiler and pressure vessel safety/inspection; certification in the areas of elevator and boiler inspection; appropriate educational background and credentials, and management and technical work experience. Knowledge and Skills Required: Technical applications in the boiler safety and elevator safety fields; relevant codes, including Comm 18, 40, 41, 43, 45 and/or national codes equivalents; basic management and supervisory principles and practices; principles of technical engineering inspection processes, including engineering calculations and measurements; program and policy planning and development techniques; strategic planning process; principles relevant to fiscal control, budget management, personnel, contracting, and other general management functions; administrative rule enforcement procedures; code development process; oral and written communication skills. Application Information: Apply with the Application for State Employment form (DER-MRS-38), current resume, and brief paper describing in detail your qualifications for this position in the following specific areas: 1) Education, training and relevant credentials; 2) Technical program consultation, particularly the program areas specific to the position; 3) Staff supervision; 4) Program management (cite all specific areas of responsibility); 5) Knowledge of and/or experience working with relevant codes and regulations. Include employer names and employment dates for all information presented. Send application materials to Dale Bartz: Email: dbartz@commerce.state.wi.us; Department of Safety and Professional Services Bureau of Human Resources; 201 West Washington Avenue, 6th Floor; PO Box 7970; Madison, WI 53707-7970. Fax 608-266-0182. Telephone 608-266-0366. Application materials will be accepted until the needs of the department are met. To be included in the first review of applications, completed materials must be received by December 31, 2000. Private Sewage Plan
Reviewer, Madison, Waukesha, or La Crosse, Announcement # 04338. Department of Safety and Professional Services; Division of Safety and Buildings, Integrated Services Bureau. Salary: Start at $36,650 per year plus excellent benefits. Job Duties: Examine Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (POWTS) designs, specifications, and calculations submitted by design professionals to determine compliance with state Uniform Plumbing Code. Determine compliance of proposed plans with administrative codes; apply engineering principles and practices to ensure adequate hydraulic and pneumatic balance within POWTS. Consult with design professionals to explain actions taken; respond to inquiries, suggest alternative design options; analyze petition for variance requests; prepare and present training related to POWTS design principles and practices. Well-Qualified Applicants: Well-qualified applicants will have certification as a POWTS Inspector AND Soil Tester and/or certification as a Designer of Plumbing Systems in Wisconsin or registration as a Professional Engineer. Knowledge and Skills Required: Knowledge of Wisconsin Uniform Plumbing Code; engineering principles related to hydraulics and pneumatics involved in the design of POWTS systems; materials and components involved in POWTS systems. Skills in oral and written communications. Application Information: Apply with the Application for State Employment form (DER-MRS-38), a current resume, and a brief description of your qualifications for this position in the following specific areas: 1) Licenses, registrations, credentials, educational degrees, etc.; 2) Experience reviewing/developing designs for POWTS; 3) Experience providing technical consultation regarding POWTS. Send application materials to: Dale Bartz; Department of Safety and Professional Services; Bureau of Human Resources; 201 West Washington Avenue, 6th Floor; PO Box 7970; Madison, WI 53707-7970. Fax 608-266-0182; Telephone 608-266-0366; Email dbartz@commerce.state.wi.us. Deadline: Application materials will be accepted until the needs of the department are met. Bureau of Field Operations Section
Chief, Fire Safety and Elevators, Madison, Career Executive, Announcement 04936 Department of Safety and Professional Services; Division of Safety and Buildings; Bureau of Field Operations. Salary: Start at between $44,791 and $64,059 per year, plus excellent benefits, depending upon qualifications. A two-year career executive trial period will be required. Job Duties: Direct a section that is responsible for complex engineering and technical inspection, consultation, and auditing functions for fire safety and electrical engineering consultation, inspection, and enforcement programs. Supervise engineering and technical staff; develop and manage section budget; develop policies and operating procedures; plan and direct section staff services; provide technical consultation to staff; participate as a member of the division management team; contribute to strategic planning process; participate in development of methods pertaining to fiscal control, budget, personnel, planning, policy development, process re-engineering, and other management objectives. Well-Qualified Applicants: Well-qualified applicants will have a four-year degree in an ABET accredited fire engineering program; or civil/mechanical or electrical engineering degree AND significant coursework in fire protection/engineering; PE, EIT, certification as a licensed designer of fire protection systems; and will have a thorough knowledge of National Fire Protection Assoc. standards. This position requires substantial statewide travel and requires a valid Wisconsin driver's license. The ability to maneuver around construction sites is required, including climbing, bending, and stooping. The individual hired must become certified as a Commercial Building Inspector and Fire Inspector within one year from the date of hire. Knowledge and Skills Required: Knowledge of: general management principles; budget management principles; general supervisory principles and practices; NFPA codes; engineering principles, including fire engineering and electrical engineering; principles of fire protection services. Application Information: Apply with the Application for State Employment form (DER-MRS-38), a current resume, and a letter of interest limited to two typed pages detailing your education, training, credentials, and years of experience related to: 1) Technical knowledge of fire protection engineering and associated NFPA standards and state codes; 2) Supervision of engineering/technical staff (e.g. hiring, disciplining, training). Include type of staff supervised; 3) Program management, which may include: strategic planning, policy-making, goal-setting, budget and fiscal development, personnel management issues, management studies, activities planning, training assessment/implementation; staff development, etc.; 4) Fire protection-related services, such as fire-fighting, fire inspection/investigation, systems inspection / review, etc. Send application materials to: Dale Bartz: Email dbartz@commerce.state.wi.us; Department of Safety and Professional Services; Bureau of Human Resources; 201 West Washington Avenue, 6th Floor; PO Box 7970; Madison, WI 53707-7970; Fax 608-266-0182; Telephone 608-266-0366. Deadline: Completed application materials must be received by December 31, 2000.
6. Clearing up transfer air between dwelling units
by John A. Spalding, Bureau of Integrated Services Commercial Buildings Section Chief There seems to be some confusion about Comm 64.18(1)(c) and under what occupancies air may be transferred between dwelling units. The purpose of this article is to clarify the intent of the code, and to explain which occupancies allow air transfer between dwelling units. Comm 64.18(1)(c): "Air shall not be transferred from one dwelling unit to another, except in buildings where tobacco smoking is controlled and restricted to designated areas and not allowed in dwelling units, and air is not transferred from designated smoking areas to dwelling units" When this section was created, it was intended to be very restrictive in its application. The commentary to the code states: "The exception allowing the transfer of air from one dwelling unit to another is for community-based residential facilities (CBRF's), hospitals, and nursing homes where there is absolute control of tobacco smoke." Comments have been made to me about what "absolute control" means, ranging from placing "No-Smoking" signs, to having the owner or their representative on site at all times, to placing sensitive smoke detectors within the ducts. Unfortunately, all of these methods are dependent on cooperation of tenants and facility management. After much discussion, therefore, it has been reconfirmed that the only method by which the code can ensure smoking will be controlled is to limit the occupancies which are covered by this section to:
A. Facilities which have state of Wisconsin certified and/or registered personnel in the facility 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; and
B. Facilities which are licensed, and therefore regulated, by the state of Wisconsin. With these requirements in mind, only the following facilities may transfer air between dwelling units in accordance with Comm 64.18(1)(c):
A. State-licensed community-based residential facilities within the scope of Comm 61 and Comm 57; and
B. State-licensed hospitals and nursing homes within the scope of Comm 58. Examples of occupancies which may not transfer air between dwelling units:
A. Residential care assistance centers;
B. Dormitories;
C. Hotels and motels; or
D. Any other multifamily dwelling unit within the scope of Comm 66 and Comm 57. If you have questions as to the details of this code section, contact a commercial building plan reviewer.SB-CommercialBuildingsPlanRevsList10324.html
7. Fire Protection Systems Plan Review Survey
S&B is surveying municipalities and fire departments to identify agencies that are currently performing plan review services for fire protection systems, including fire suppression systems and fire alarm systems. The information will be used to identify potential partners who might want to become agents of S&B for purposes of fire protection system plan review. It is our plan to send a copy of the new S&B fire protection system plan review standards to municipalities and fire departments that complete and return the form below. If the municipality or fire department believes they are qualified to follow the standard and conduct a plan review as specified in the standard, then they will submit a no-cost application to become an agent of the department. Any municipality or fire department that would like to be identified and considered for agent status should complete a photocopy of the form below and return it to S&B. If you are not currently providing fire protection system plan review now, do not submit the form. Mail the form to Clyde Bryant, Bureau of Integrated Services, PO Box 2658, Madison, WI 53701. For additional information you may contact S&B Fire Protection System Plan Reviewers Keith Glaunert 608-267-7395, kglaunert@commerce.state.wi.us, or Bill Sullivan, 608-266-9643, wsullivan@commerce.state.wi.us. Please fill out and return the survey as soon as possible. Thank-you! Name of municipality or fire department _________________________________________ Address _________________________________________________________________ Currently reviewing plans for the following municipalities _____________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ County(ies) ____________________________ Contact name ______________________ Phone ___________________ Fax _________________ Email ____________________ Check which type of fire protection system plan review you are currently providing: Fire Sprinkler Systems ______ Fire Alarm Systems ______ Special Hazards Systems ______
8. Code Interpretation, Code Section: Comm 51.25 Incorporation of Standards by Reference
(3) ADOPTION OF STANDARDS. The standards referenced in Tables 51.25-1 to 51.25-21 are hereby incorporated by reference into this chapter. Question: Upon adoption, must the standards being adopted be used in their entirety? Answer: No. It is not the intent that by merely adopting a standard, the standard must be used in its entirety. The extent to which a standard is to be applied is addressed in the text of the code section that requires users of the code to utilize the standard. The intent explained within this interpretation is also stated in the note immediately following the subject administrative rule section. That note reads as follows: The tables in this section provide a comprehensive listing of all of the standards adopted by reference in this code. For requirements or limitations in how these standards are to be applied, refer to the code section that requires compliance with the standard. By: James B. Smith, Safety and Buildings Division Commercial Buildings Program Manager, 608-266-0251, jsmith@commerce.state.wi.us.
9. Recommendation that smoke alarms be replaced after 10 years
By John Lippitt, S&B Fire Safety Program Manager Questions and concerns recently have been raised and discussed nationally regarding the reliability of smoke alarms in existing buildings. Testing older smoke alarms indicated a high percentage of those appliances failed to meet performance requirements. [Remember the definition of a "smoke detector" was revised to mean a device that detects visible or invisible particles of combustion. The customary appliance that both detected smoke and sounded the alarm is now defined as a "smoke alarm." The definitions were changed nationally to reflect the terminology used internationally. An example of the global market in action!] In an attempt to increase the reliability of smoke alarms, a requirement became part of the 1999 edition of NFPA 72, the National Fire Alarm Code. That 1999 version became effective in Wisconsin on April 1, 2000. NFPA 72:8-3.5 requires that, unless otherwise recommended by the manufacturer, smoke alarms installed in apartments and one- and two-family dwellings must be replaced when they fail to respond to maintenance tests, but shall not remain in service longer than 10 years from the date of installation. The maintenance of fire alarm systems in commercial buildings, including multifamily dwellings, is regulated by Comm 51.245 (3), which specifies that all smoke alarms and system components shall be inspected, tested, and maintained in accordance with NFPA 72. The NFPA 72 code has not been adopted in our state Uniform Dwelling Code, so the new requirement does not apply to one- and two-family dwellings in Wisconsin. So, at this time, multifamily buildings in Wisconsin are affected by the rule. I anticipate other occupancies with accommodations for sleeping will be added in future editions of NFPA 72. Application of this requirement will be very difficult for code enforcement officials, as we are rarely invited to enter the interior of dwelling units in existing multifamily buildings. I anticipate we will be sharing information with the public indefinitely about smoke alarm replacement. Many apartment buildings throughout Wisconsin will be affected by this rule, because smoke alarms have been required in all apartments for much longer than 10 years. Many fire departments have worked diligently within their territory to ensure that every dwelling unit has a working smoke detector. Now the focus must be expanded to include replacing existing smoke detectors with new smoke alarms. Even though the rules do not apply to one- and two-family dwellings, we know having working smoke alarms in homes is very important for the occupants' safety. Every effort should be made to get the news out at the local level that older smoke detectors should be replaced with new smoke alarms where they have been in service for longer than 10 years. Additional information may be obtained by contacting one of the S&B fire protection system plan reviewers, Keith Glaunert 608-267-7395, kglaunert@commerce.state.wi.us, or Bill Sullivan, 608-266-9643, bsullivan@commerce.state.wi.us.
10. Commercial lighting plan submittals reviewed
by Randy Dahmen, S&B Lighting Consultant, 608-266-3162, rdahmen@commerce.state.wi.us What are the changes associated with commercial lighting plan submittals? As of September 1, 2000, lighting plans associated with commercial buildings, previously sent to the Safety and Buildings Division for plan review, are no longer required to be submitted for review and approval prior to installation. The lighting plans are required to be properly prepared and available on request of state and local inspectors. What lighting worksheets need to be prepared? What needs to be prepared are lighting plans demonstrating compliance. This implies that the information previously sent to S&B for review and approval now still needs to be prepared, although it will not be reviewed. A reflective ceiling plan indicating the lighting layout, with no calculations, would NOT be adequate to demonstrate code compliance. The applicable information on the lighting worksheets L-1 through L-5 is required to be part of the lighting plan set. The designer may choose to develop a spreadsheet printout similar to the lighting worksheets. These designer-developed spreadsheets would also be acceptable as means to demonstrate compliance. Will certified municipalities follow the S&B change for submittal? Certified municipalities, as well as any other municipality, have the option to require properly prepared lighting plans be made available to the local inspector at the job site. Municipalities may also choose to require review and approval of lighting plans at the local level prior to installation in the field, in accordance with local permitting ordinances. Owners, designers, and contractors should verify the local requirements prior to performing work. Also, many municipalities manage their own community electrical utility. Because of this, some municipalities are choosing to maintain the requirement for lighting plan submittal and approval prior to installation in order to better anticipate energy use and utility needs. Do the Chapter 63 lighting code requirements still have to be followed on commercial buildings? Yes. All commercial code requirements must still be applied to all applicable commercial buildings, regardless of building size. Are lighting plans required to be signed and sealed by a professional? Yes. The requirements of Comm 50.07(2) still apply. If the building volume, (not just the volume of alteration or addition), is over 50,000 cubic feet, the lighting plans must bear the original wet stamp and signature of the professional who prepared them - professional engineers, registered architects, or registered electrical designers. "I had commercial building plans approved by S&B prior to September 1, 2000, and have a conditional approval letter. The letter states that lighting plans are to be sent in for review and conditional approval prior to installation. Do I still have to send in the lighting plans for review?" No. Lighting plans are no longer required to be submitted for S&B plan review. The lighting plans are required to be properly prepared and available to inspectors as indicated above.
11. NFPA 30 seminar info and registration form (PDF file)
12. NFPA 72 seminar info and registration form (PDF file)