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Fire Inspection and �Code Enforcement

8th Edition�Inspector II

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Chapter 2 — Codes, Standards, �and Permits

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�Learning Objective 1

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Explain the role of an Inspector II in the local code development process.

2–1

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Know how model codes make local code development easier.

2–2

Expert Opinions

Model Code

Local Code

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Inspectors need to know how to avoid fire and life safety code conflicts.

2–3

Inspector

Other portions of life safety code

Other local codes

Regional codes

Other laws, ordinances, etc.

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Familiarize yourself with the code development process.

2–4

Identify problem

Identify stakeholders

Form a taskforce

Draft proposed code

Legal review

Formally adopt code

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Inspectors must identify problems and recognize the need for a change.

2–5

Observations made during inspections

New condition/situation in a community

Technological changes in fire protection

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Identify stakeholders and their concerns.

2–6

    • Building industry
    • Chambers of Commerce
    • Insurance companies
    • Local citizen groups
    • Others

Who will the code affect?

Explain the code accurately/realistically

Disclose costs

Be forthright

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Inspectors need to know the Task Force process.

2–7

Recruit community representatives

Schedule work sessions

Review model codes

Prepare recommendations for the proposed code

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Inspectors need to know how to draft proposed codes.

2–8

Start with general language

Proceed to more specific language

Insert local additions/amendments

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Familiarize yourself with the legal review process.

2–9

Submit to legal counsel

Explain the purpose

Describe the provisions

Review

Prepare for adoption

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Inspectors need to know the formal code adoption process.

2–10

Prep legislation

Legislative study

Formal presentation

Discussion

Legal action

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Know the elements needed to prepare a formal resolution.

2–11

Nature of legislation

Code location

Community authority

Community Need

Community enforcement authority

Terms

Implementation date

Cover letter

Executive summary

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Inspectors need to know the legislative study process.

2–12

Work session

Revision

Formal presentation

Public comment

Vote

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Know the tools available to introduce a new code to the community.

2–13

New code

Radio

Television

Letters

Electronic media outlets

Newspaper

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REVIEW QUESTION

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What steps are included in the process most jurisdictions use to develop or amend local codes?

2–14

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�Learning Objective 2

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Explain the ways an Inspector II will participate in code modification and appeals procedures.

2–15

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Inspectors need to know code modification terminology.

2–16

May be called:

    • Variance
    • Appeal
    • Modification

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Know why people seek code modifications.

2–17

Desire to use new building materials/design

Confusion or conflicts

Special occupancies

Reduce costs

Disagreements

Belief codes do not apply

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Inspectors need to know the modification process.

2–18

Applicant makes written request

AHJ reviews request

Submission to appropriate official

Send an official reply to applicant

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Inspectors need to be familiar with aspects of the appeals process.

2–19

Can you continue to enforce codes during the appeals process?

Will the ruling will affect enforcement of other properties?

Does the ruling affect other code sections?

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REVIEW QUESTION

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What situations might involve a request to modify a code?

2–20

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�Learning Objective 3

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Describe the role of the Inspector II in the permitting process.

2–21

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Know your role in the permit process.

2–22

Guide citizens through the process

Emphasize that guidance does not mean approval

Research and review applications

Issue permits

Permit enforcement

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Inspectors need to know the permit process.

2–23

    • Fee
    • Additional documentation

Permit Application

    • Completeness
    • Accuracy
    • Applicable standards

Research and Review

    • Allowed actions
    • Time limits

Issue Permit

    • Time limits
    • Allowable activities
    • Posting

Enforcement

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Know what to do when a permit is issued in error.

2–24

Addressed in code or by AHJ

Varies by jurisdiction

Work closely with AHJ

Still responsible for verifying compliance

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REVIEW QUESTION

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What is the role of an Inspector II in the permitting process?

2–25

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�Summary

  • An inspector should be familiar with the code adoption and modification process, the appeals process, and the original consensus process.
  • Developing and adopting fire and life safety codes at the local level is a process that requires the involvement of interested and affected citizens and business representatives.

2–26

(Cont.)

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�Summary

  • Inspectors must be aware of the necessity for including citizens, for permitting comments and discussion, and the value of working to achieve a common goal.
  • The inspector must understand the steps needed within a jurisdiction for filing complaints.

2–27

(Cont.)

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�Summary

  • The inspector must also be familiar with the permitting process.

2–28