Fire Code Reminders

Automatic Sprinkler Systems

Before installing automatic sprinklers, check for obstructions that will delay activation or obstruct the water distribution pattern. Plan installation accordingly. Storage and equipment in areas with sprinkler systems is limited to 18" below sprinkler heads.

Electrical Service Boxes

While electrical service or “breaker boxes” are generally found in maintenance or equipment areas, they are present in other campus locations. The Minnesota State Fire Code includes several regulations regarding service boxes that you should keep in mind.

Closed and locked. Boxes should be kept closed at all times and, if in a heavily occupied area, even locked.

No exposed wires. The breaker slots should either contain a breaker or fuse, or be covered with the proper cover for the space. An electrical service box should have no exposed wires.

Unobstructed access. Areas around these boxes need to be kept clear and unobstructed at all times. The Minnesota State Fire Code requires a clearance space of 78” high, 36” deep, and 30” wide around them. Where practical, mark an area on the floor in front of these panels to remind people not to place anything there.

Concerns about electrical services should be directed to the Physical Plant at (507) 537-7106. 

Extension Cords

While the use of extension cords is common and often seems like a necessity, the Minnesota State Fire Code has rules governing their use and “power strips.”

Temporary Solution. Extension cords are for temporary use and are not meant to be a long-term solution to electrical needs. Use extension cords only as a temporary solution, not as a substitute for permanent wiring.

Good Condition. Even when used as a temporary solution, the Minnesota fire code requires extension cords to be in good condition with no splices, deterioration, or damage. Use cords in a manner that prevents them from becoming crimped or from excessive wear. Extension cords should never be placed in areas where they will be exposed to foot traffic, creating a trip hazard or obstructing persons attempting to exit a building. Never place the cords under rugs or mats.

Right cord for the right job. Given the variety of cords and electrically energized items available, an extension cord should be designed for its intended use. Most cords have a label near both ends indicating the amperage and voltage the cord is designed for. And lastly, when using an extension cord, plug it into a proper receptacle.

Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers must be properly installed and kept accessible at all times. Ensure portable fire extinguishers are visible and unobstructed.

Hang them up. When not housed in cabinets, handheld portable fire extinguishers must be installed on hangers or brackets. Securely anchor hangers or brackets to the mounting surface in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

Install within reach. A portable extinguisher with a gross weight not exceeding 40 lbs. must be installed so that its top is no more than 5 feet above the floor. The clearance between the floor and the bottom of an installed handheld extinguisher must be at least 4 inches.

Outlets

Outlets need to be kept in good condition and intact. If the plastic or any other parts of an outlet become damaged, repair or replace them immediately. Outlets located on floors should have some type of cover.

Concerns about electrical outlets should be directed to the Physical Plant at 507-537-7106.

Power Strips

Power strips have become another frequently used tool. With our campuses having training areas that require many electrical outlets and the abundance of computers and related equipment across all campuses, power strips are used frequently. While these devices are permissible to use, the Minnesota State Fire Code applies to their use in the same manner as with extension cords.

Approved Receptacle. If a power strip is used, it must be plugged in directly to an approved receptacle. There are two formerly common practices that are both violations of the fire code. The first is the practice of “daisy chaining”, which is simply one power strip being plugged into another. The second is the practice of energizing a power strip with an extension cord. Because a power strip must be plugged directly into an approved receptacle, both practices violate the fire code.

Overload protection. If you do use power strips, make sure they have breakers or switches that trip if the circuit becomes overloaded.

No Gang Plugs. A “gang plug” allows three plugs to be connected into one receptacle. The Minnesota State Fire Code prohibits the use of gang plugs. Instead of a gang plug, use a power strip, provided it is used properly.

Wiring and Junction Boxes

The Minnesota State Fire Code prohibits the use of open junction boxes, switches, or any other device with exposed wiring. Make sure your junction boxes are covered with the proper plate or cover, and that all wiring is “unexposed” and properly installed.

Avoid “Punch Outs.” Inspect your campus for suspended receptacles constructed of metal plates that include “punch outs” in them. “Punch outs” are the metal dots, about the size of a quarter, which can easily be dislodged with finger pressure. If you are using suspended outlets in labs or shops, make sure they are the solid-body type and preferably constructed of plastic.

Concerns about electrical wiring or junction boxes should be directed to the Physical Plant at 507-537-7106.

Other Safety Requirements

1. Fire Alarms. Pull stations for the fire alarm system must be unblocked/unobstructed at all times.
2. Exit Signs. Ensure that exit signs are lighted, either internally or externally.
3. Ceiling Clearance. Maintain proper clearance around sprinkler heads and ceilings in non-sprinklered areas at all times, particularly in storage areas. Storage should be maintained at a height of two (2) feet or more below the ceiling in non-sprinklered areas, and at a minimum of eighteen (18) inches below sprinkler head deflectors in sprinklered areas.
4. Compressed gas container safety. Secure containers, cylinders, and tanks to a fixed object with one or more restraints.
5. Flammable and combustible liquids. Store flammable and combustible liquids in closed containers or portable tanks with a capacity not to exceed 60 gallons. Store them in approved liquid storage cabinets. 
6. Marking and Piping Systems. Mark piping systems in accordance with ASME A 13.1. Label with the ith content’s name and include the direction of the flow arrow.
7. Obsolete Equipment. If a piece of fire protection equipment is out of service, remove it or clearly sign the system as being “out of service” so it is not mistaken for an active system.
8. Dryers and Vents. The buildup of lint and other materials significantly increases the likelihood of a fire occurring in a dryer or venting system. Clean the dryer lint traps after each use, and periodically inspect and clean the entire vent system to reduce the risk of fire.

Minnesota State Fire Code requires occupancies to have a fire safety and evacuation plan when the total occupant load is 500 or more, or there is more than 100 people above or below the level of exit discharge. When the MFSC requires a business to have an evacuation plan, the State Fire Marshal’s Division does not require the plan (or map) to be posted in all classrooms. Some businesses will post a map to inform employees and building occupants of the plan, evacuation routes, fire extinguisher locations, and other relevant information. But as long as the occupancy has a plan, has practiced that plan, and employees are aware of their responsibilities, they are complying with the requirements of the fire code. Specifics can be found in section 404 of the Minnesota State Fire Code.

Please refer to the University Public Safety Fire Emergency web page for information on fire emergencies.

Door Wedges

The Minnesota State Fire Code requires corridors in class B occupancies to be sprinklered or have one (1) hour fire-rated doors. If the building has sprinklers, the wedging of doors is allowed, provided the wedge does not create a trip hazard.