The fire prevention bureau is involved in the plan check process for a new building and enforces the provisions of Chapter 14 of the International Fire Code, where applicable or NFPA 1 where applicable. These practices involve inspection of built-in fire mitigation elements such as sprinklers and fire alarms.

Buildings under construction present unique fire exposures that require special attention. Fires can result in major losses and long delays in the completion of the project. Compliance with Model Codes and NFPA standards reduces the possibility of a fire. Moreover, compliance with this checklist may reduce loss even if a fire occurs.

Hierarchy of Safeguards

MOST Effective Safeguarding Controls
Total Elimination or Control of Hazards Eliminate all Heat Sources, Zero Tolerance for Smoking
Built in Fire Protection Maximum Use of Proactive Fire Protection
Awareness and Accountability Company Policy and Personal Commitment
Training and Procedures Standard Work Procedures. Prefire planning, on the job training, effective security measures are all proactive
Special Code Provisions Chapter 14. There are 17 sections in Chapter 14 that deal with precautions against fire. The following code provisions have various levels of effectiveness in preventing an controlling fires:
Hot Work Control Measures
Smoking – Zero Tolerance
Waste Disposal – Fuel Reduction
Security and Fire Watch – Observation of Conditions
Control of Materials – Flammable and Combustible
Fire Extinguishers
LEAST Effective Access to the building
Means of egress
Water supply for fire protection