Each year the Iowa State Fire Marshal's Office inspects a portion of the
University building inventory. The main emphasis of the inspection is to ensure that the structural components of each building meet current fire/safety codes.
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Building Structural Design Assessment |
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Occupant Use Evaluation |
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Maintenance of Fire Protection Equipment and Systems |
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Corrective Action |
State and local fire officials, outside consultants, and a variety of University departments are involved in ensuring current fire and life safety codes are met.
The University has established a Fire Safety Initiatives Coordinating Team made up of one member each from Planning and Administrative Services, Health Protection Office, Facilities Services Group, and Design & Construction Services. This team assists in prioritizing major fire safety correction projects. It also works with departments to assist in correcting identified deficiencies caused by occupant use.
Fire Safety Activities
Each year the Iowa State Fire Marshal's Office inspects a portion of the
University building inventory. The main emphasis of the inspection is to ensure that the structural components of each building meet current fire/safety codes.
 | Building Structural Design Assessment To provide uniformity in the assessment process, the University, with agreement of the State Fire Marshal's Office, has implemented National Fire Protection Association Code 101M, Fire Safety Evaluation System (FSES). This system is used to evaluate University academic buildings that are classified either as Group A (assembly) or Group B (business) occupancies, as defined by the Uniform Building Code. The FSES will determine if a building meets a level of fire safety equivalent to the National Life Safety Code. The remainder of University buildings are evaluated by the State Fire Marshal's Office according to State Fire Codes. |
| Occupant Use Evaluation In addition to inspecting buildings for structural compliance, the State Fire Marshal's Office evaluates occupant usage of buildings for conformance to current fire codes. The University also contracts with the Iowa City Fire Department for two inspections of buildings and operations on campus each year. The main emphasis of the inspections is the identification of occupant violations of the fire code (user deficiencies). Examples of common violations include use of extension cords as permanent wiring, wedging open fire doors, storage in corridors, and improper storage of flammables. |
| Maintenance of Fire Protection Equipment and Systems Another major area evaluated during inspections is the status of fire protection equipment and systems. Identified deficiencies in this area are called "maintenance" violations. Examples include discharged fire extinguishers, burnt out exit signs, door closer not functioning properly, and alarm system failures. Facilities Services Group has an ongoing maintenance program for fire alarms, standpipes, and sprinkler systems. The Electronic Services Department purchases, inspects and maintains fire extinguishers on campus. |
| Corrective Action Structural deficiencies are corrected by the University as funds are made available. The Office of Planning and Administrative Services coordinates structural deficiency projects. User and maintenance deficiencies are referred to individual departments and Facilities Services Group by the Health Protection Office. Building occupants and ultimately department directors are responsible for maintaining building space in accordance with fire safety regulations and for correcting the user deficiencies cited in inspections. The Health Protection Office provides assistance and guidance on fire safety issues to individuals and departments. |
Fire Extinguishers
State fire code requires fire extinguishers be provided in university buildings and operations. Fire extinguishers must be properly selected, mounted, and routinely inspected. The Electronic Shop purchases, inspects and maintains fire extinguishers. Fire extinguisher training is also provided by this office. For evaluation as to need, proper type, and location of fire extinguishers, contact the Health Protection Office.
Electric Extension Cords
The State Fire Marshal prohibits the use of extension cords and multiple plug outlet adapters as a substitute for permanent wiring.
Exception
The State Fire Marshal's Office will allow electrical power strips for PERSONAL COMPUTERS AND THEIR COMPONENTS ONLY. These UL listed power strips come with a cord and an outlet box that has a 15 amp circuit breaker and are available from University General Stores.