Fire SafetyCONTENTSForeword I. ADMINISTRATION, RESPONSIBILITIES, AND ENFORCEMENT I-a. Administration I-b. Responsibility II. ENFORCEMENT II-a. Notice of Violation II-b. Failure to Correct Violations II-c. Unsafe Conditions II-d. Campus Smoking Policy II-e. No Smoking Signs III. OCCUPATIONAL FIRE SAFETY III-a. Fire Prevention III-b. Classes of Fire III-c. Portable Fire Extinguishers III-d. Extinguishers on Campuses: III-d1. Water III-d2. Multipurpose Dry Chemical III-d3. Carbon Dioxide III-d4. Dry Chemical (Sodium Bicarbonate) III-d5. Halon 1211 III-d6. Dry Powder for Metal Fires III-e. Reporting of Hazards III-f. Welding: III-f1. "Hot Works" Permit III-f2. Ignition Sources III-f3. Fire Protection Flammable Liquids IV. FIRE EVACUATION PROCEDURES IV-a. In MCP/Hahnemann Facilities IV-b. If you discover a fire IV-c. EVACUATION ASSEMBLY LOCATIONS IV-d. If You Are Trapped In A Burning Building V. LABORATORY FIRE SAFETY V-a. Fire Prevention V-b. If There is a Fire in a Laboratory VI. RESIDENTIAL FIRE SAFETY VI-a. Evacuation Procedures VI-b. Fire Drills VI-c. Reporting of Fires VI-d. Fire Safety Equipment, Damage and Abuse VI-d1. Violations and Penalties VI-e. Arson VI-f. Fireworks VI-g. Residential Life Staff Responsibilities VI-h. Reporting of Hazards and Equipment Malfunctions VII. FRATERNITIY/SORORITY RESIDENCES VII-a. Construction Requirements VII-b. Restrictions on Activities VII-c. Equipment Requirements VII-d. Fire Extinguishers VII-e. Rubbish Removal VII-f. Evacuation Procedure VII-g. Fire Safety Training VII-h. Fire Drills VII-i. Inspections VIII. HIGH-RISE FIRE SAFETY VIII-a. Fire Drills VIII-b. Fire Towers VIII-c. Elevators VIII-d. Evacuation Procedures IX. FIRE PROTECTION AND EXTINGUISHMENT EQUIPMENT IX-a. Sprinklers IX-b. Other Equipment IX-c. Fire Equipment Maintenance and Repair Procedure X. PUBLIC SAFETY X-a. Dispatcher X-b. Report of Damaged or Missing Fire Protection Equipment XI. PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICERS XI-a. Responding To an Alarm Activation XI-b. Discovery of a Fire XI-c. Fire Drills XI-d. Fire Safety Training FOREWORD
The administration of Drexel University recognizes the importance of having a comprehensive fire safety program. This program represents a proactive effort directed at recognizing and evaluating fire safety risks and the initiation of appropriate steps to remove or reduce them. In order to provide a fire safe environment for the University community, the main thrust of the Campus Fire Safety Program will be Fire Code compliance, education of the entire campus community to good fire safety practices and the prevention of fire code violations. Beyond basic life safety code compliance, fire safety is a primary component in the design and construction of new or renovated campus buildings. Equally important are the inspection, testing and maintenance of alarm systems, sprinkler and standpipe systems, emergency signs and lighting, the cleaning and inspection of smoke detectors and the inspection and maintenance of fire suppression equipment. Fire risk analyses coupled with fire prevention programs are additional key components of the University's comprehensive fire safety program. Your cooperation and adherence to the rules and regulations contained in the University's fire safety program will help ensure a campus where we can work and study in an environment relatively free from the threat and ravages of fire and its related losses. Back to Top 1a AdministrationThe University Safety & Health Department will administer the fire safety policy. Back to Top 1b ResponsibilityThe Director of Fire and Life Safety has the responsibility of implementing the Fire Safety policy throughout the University. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Back to Top II. ENFORCEMENTThe University Safety and Health Department will monitor the University's compliance with all Philadelphia Fire Code regulations through annual inspections and monthly building surveys. The Philadelphia Department of License & Inspections enforces all fire code violations in the city of Philadelphia.Back to Top II-a. Notice of ViolationWhenever the code official observes an apparent or actual violation of a provision of the Fire Code, the code official shall prepare a written notice of violation describing the condition deemed unsafe and specifying time limitations for the required repairs or improvements to be made to render the structure or premises safe and secure. (Philadelphia Fire Code section F-112.1) In addition to this fire code provision, the Fire Safety Officer, or any university officer acting in an official capacity, may order compliance with any fire code violation upon observation or notification, prior to a Department of License and Inspections violation notice..Back to Top II-b. Failure to Correct ViolationsIf the notice of violation is not complied with within the time specified by the code official, the code official shall request the legal counsel of the City to institute the appropriate legal proceedings to restrain, correct, or abate such violation or to require removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy of the structure in violation of the provisions of the fire code or any order or direction made pursuant thereto. (Philadelphia Fire Code section F-112.2)Any person, who violates any provision of the Philadelphia Fire Code or fails to comply with an order issued pursuant to any section thereof, shall be subject to a fine of a minimum of $150.00 and not more than $300.00 for each offense. Each day that a violation continues after issuance of a notice or order shall be deemed a separate offense. (Philadelphia Fire Code, section F-112.3) Back to Top II-c. Unsafe ConditionsWhenever a University Safety Officer shall find in any structure or upon University property dangerous or hazardous conditions or materials as follows, the Safety Officer shall order such dangerous conditions or materials to be removed or remedied in accordance with the Philadelphia Fire Code:
Back to Top II-d.Campus Smoking PolicyThe Fire Code indicates that schools as well as other structures used for educational purposes shall be identified as assemblages. In addition to fire Code mandate, the University adopted a Smoke Free Policy that went into effect September 1, 1991.To further support the University’s concern for the health of its students, employees, and visitors, smokers are urged to refrain from smoking within the immediate areas of all campus buildings entrances and exits. Back to Top II-e.No Smoking SignsSmoking shall not be permitted nor shall any person smoke, throw or deposit any lighted or smoldering substance in any location where "No Smoking" signs are posted.Back to Top III. OCCUPATIONAL FIRE SAFETYIn order to understand how important it is to practice fire safety, one needs to realize that there are three elements needed for a fire: fuel, an ignition source, and air, commonly referred to as the "fire triangle". Regardless of where you work, these elements are present. Even today's typical office setting presents more fuel for a fire than what meets the eye. The fire load of today's offices: carpeting, wood paneling and furniture, draperies, foam padding on chairs, etc., makes the office a potentially high risk area. There have been many instances where a fire in an office was started by a coffee pot that was left on overnight. There also exist many other everyday operations such as welding, electrical work, improper use of space heaters and careless handling of flammable liquids that can provide an ignition source to start a fire. Because of these and other possibilities, fire prevention is very important.Back to Top III-a. Fire PreventionRegardless of the heat source or the fuel involved in the start of the fire, someone, by an act of commission or omission, allowed the two to come together to start the fire. For example a fire is caused by combustible material being placed too close to a portable space heater in an office, or sparks from a welders torch ignites nearby combustibles. Consider the combustion reaction alone (heat, plus fuel, plus oxygen), these unsafe acts would be considered to be the cause of the fire. However, someone had to place the combustible materials within range of the heat source (the portable heater), and someone was not following proper procedures when welding. These acts may be called careless or accidental but the result is usually the same...property loss and human injury or fatality. In the area of fire prevention, the efforts made to secure a well-constructed building, regular inspections to control fire hazards and the enforcement of fire regulations are a losing battle as long as people remain unaware of the causes and effects of fire, and continue to act in an unsafe manner. In fire prevention and control, several principles are applied. The quantity of flammable materials is kept to a minimum, fire resistive and fire retardant materials are used, good housekeeping is consistently maintained, and adequate fire fighting equipment is easily and quickly accessible. In addition, ignition sources must be eliminated, but this is not easily achieved since one third of all fires have electrical sources as their cause. The electrical ignition sources can be decreased by proper maintenance, appropriate use of electrical ignition equipment and by reporting electrical defects immediately.Back to Top III-b. Classes of FireClass A: Fires involving ordinary combustible materials such as wood, cloth, paper, rubber, or plastic. Class B: Fires involving combustible liquids such as gasoline or kerosene, flammable gasses, and grease. Class C: Fires involving energized electrical equipment. Class D: Fires involving certain combustible metals such as magnesium, titanium, zirconium, sodium and potassium.Back to Top III-c. Portable Fire ExtinguishersPortable fires extinguishers are classified as first aid appliances, designed to contain a small fire or open an escape route. Portable fire extinguishers are not designed to fight a large or spreading fire. Never attempt to fight a fire if one or more of the following conditions exist:
Back to Top III-d1 - WaterDescription: 2 1/2 gallons of plain water under stored pressure.Range - 30 to 40 feet Time of discharge - 1 minute Class of fire extinguished - A only. Back to Top III-d2 - Multipurpose Dry ChemicalDescription: 5 to 20 pounds of chemical under stored pressureRange - 5 to 20 feet Time of discharge - 10 to 25 seconds Classes of fire extinguished - A, B, C Back to Top III-d3 - Carbon DioxideDescription: 5 to 20 pounds of carbon dioxide gas compressed to 800 psi (self expelling)Range - 3 to 8 feet Time of discharge - 10 to 30 seconds Classes of fire extinguished - B and C Back to Top III-d4 - Dry Chemical (Sodium Bicarbonate)Description 5 to 20 pounds of agent under stored pressureRange - 5 to 20 feet Time of discharge - 10 to 25 seconds Classes of fire extinguished - B and C Back to Top III-d5 - Halon 1211Description: 5 1/2 to 22 pounds of agent under stored pressureRange - 9 to 16 feet Time of discharge - 8 to 18 seconds Classes of fire extinguished -less than 9 pounds of agent: B and C 9 pounds of agent or more: A, B, C Back to Top III-d6 -Dry Powder for Metal FiresA five-pointed star containing the letter "D" will identify extinguishers suitable for fires involving metals. Note: Chemical reactions between burning metals and many extinguishing agents, including water may range from inconsequential to explosive depending on the type, form, and quantity of metal involved. Extinguishers labeled for class D fires are not necessarily equally effective on all combustible metal fires. For further information contact the University Safety and Health Department at 215-895-5907.Back to Top III-e - Reporting of HazardsA major part of the University's fire safety policy involves the reporting of fire hazards. Everyone should be looking our for unsafe conditions: Blocked aisles, locked fire doors, inoperable or missing fire protection equipment, etc., in order to protect themselves as well as their fellow workers, students, and any visitors to the campus. Once a fire hazard has been discovered, prompt communication to the appropriate persons is essential. The proper individuals to inform may include any or all of the following, depending on the location, nature and seriousness of the hazard: any person(s) in the immediate area of the hazard who are endangered, your supervisor, Drexel Public Safety Dispatcher, 215-895-2222, or the University Safety and Health Department office, 215-895-5907Back to Top III-f - WeldingBack to Top III-f1 - "Hot Works" PermitIn order to further lessen the chance of fire, a "hot works" permit system has been designed for use throughout the University. The purpose of the "hot works" permit is to eliminate or limit the hazards associated with welding operations. Because cutting and welding equipment is portable, it brings fire hazards into areas not necessarily designed nor protected for the hazards associated with welding and cutting. Many times the area near the welding and cutting has not been inspected for combustibles. Usually, fires are started with the generation of high temperatures from the torch and flying hot metal. All this can be eliminated with a "hot works" permit system.Back to Top III-f2 - Ignition SourcesThe ignition source is the equipment used for welding and cutting. When doing electric arc welding, improper use of the grounding clamps can be the cause of an ignition source. Occasionally, explosive materials come in contact with the welding and an explosion starts a fire. Some of the places this could happen would be areas with flammable liquids, such as a lab or in a shop area. Welding near storage areas with flammable gases or fuel could be very hazardous. Dust, such as in carpenter or woodworking shops can explode if an ignition source is present.Housekeeping around welding and cutting areas is very important to reduce the probability of fire. The area around the welding and cutting needs to be free of debris and waste material. Back to Top III-f3 -Fire ProtectionThe "hot works" permit also allows for a safe work area and provides for the necessary procedures to be followed. The permit is a checklist of subjects that need to be considered before the welding starts. The checklist on the permit also includes consideration of the fire protection. The permit includes keeping the Automatic sprinkler system in operation, covering smoke detectors in the area while welding is taking place and providing fire extinguishers. Covering smoke detectors reduces false alarms yet keeps the fire alarm system operational. If smoke detectors are covered, they must be uncovered when the work is done. If the job will take several days, then the smoke detectors must be uncovered at the end of each shift. The fire alarm system needs to be fully operational each night. Multi-purpose extinguishers provide the best protections. At least one 10lb ABC extinguisher is to be at the site of welding. Combustibles need to be removed from the area of welding. The generally accepted distance is 35 feet. When the material can't be moved, non-combustible tarpaulins need to cover combustible materials.Back to Top IIIg - Flammable LiquidsFlammable liquids can be found anywhere in a university setting but most typically are found in laboratories, chemical storage rooms, housekeeping supply rooms and physical plant storage rooms.The principal danger presented by flammable liquids is the vapors of the liquid, and not the liquid itself, that once in contact with an ignition source has the potential for an explosion and/or a rapidly spreading fire that burns with intense heat. In most cases these vapors are heavier than air and will seep along the floor and possibly come in contact with an ignition source. This potential danger is limited by the use of U.L. (Underwriters Laboratory) approved safety cans. The approved can will have a spring-loaded top designed to release pressure within the can. Whenever flammable liquids are used or stored they must be contained in approved safety cans. Back to Top IV - FIRE EVACUATION PROCEDURESBack to Top IV-A. In MCP/Hahnemann FacilitiesFlammable liquids can be found anywhere in a university setting but most typically are found in laboratories, chemical storage rooms, housekeeping supply rooms and physical plant storage rooms.The principal danger presented by flammable liquids is the vapors of the liquid, and not the liquid itself, that once in contact with an ignition source has the potential for an explosion and/or a rapidly spreading fire that burns with intense heat. In most cases these vapors are heavier than air and will seep along the floor and possibly come in contact with an ignition source. This potential danger is limited by the use of U.L. (Underwriters Laboratory) approved safety cans. The approved can will have a spring-loaded top designed to release pressure within the can. Whenever flammable liquids are used or stored they must be contained in approved safety cans. Back to Top IV-B. If you discover a fireR.A.C.E.
From a safe location call your emergency operator and give:
Hospital Areas Depending upon where you are you may or may not be required to evacuate the building. Hospital spaces are designed with smoke compartments and DO NOT evacuate directly outdoors unless ordered by emergency personnel.
University Areas Evacuate the building, CALMLY, by following EXIT signs to nearest fire exits, DO NOT USE ELEVATORS. Persons with disabilities or in wheelchairs should remain in fire towers (someone should remain with them until help arrives). Remain on the scene, but at a safe distance, to receive and direct fire fighters when they arrive, if you are a supervisor, try to account for your employees and report any missing persons to the emergency personnel at the scene. *DO NOT REENTER THE BUILDING UNTIL DIRECTED TO DO SO. Back to Top IV-C. EVACUATION ASSEMBLY LOCATIONSIn the event of any emergency where total evacuation is necessary, the following locations have been designated as assembly locations where employees, students and visitors are to report once they have left their building. Personnel are to remain at their designated locations until they are accounted for and released by Emergency or University management personnel. Please contact the Safety and Health Department at 215-895-5907 for any further information regarding these locations
Back to Top IV-D. If You Are Trapped In A Burning Building
Back to Top V. Fire Prevention
Back to Top If There is a Fire in a Laboratory
Back to Top <--------- VI --------> VI - RESIDENTIAL FIRE SAFETYBack to Top VI-a Evacuation ProceduresIt is extremely important that all residents be thoroughly informed of proper evacuation procedures. The Resident Advisors should review the procedures with all residents during the first residence hall floor meeting of each term, and with each student who moves into the residence hall after regular check-in days. In addition, evacuation procedures will be reviewed throughout the term during regular floor meetings as a reminder of the significance of these procedures, as described. 1. Evacuation plan is posted in conspicuous place on each floor. 2. When alarm sounds, every person is to evacuate the building immediately. Some general rules: a. Elevators are not to be used for evacuation b. Evacuation is required every time the alarm sounds, regardless of the cause. c. Students should turn on lights, close room doors but leave unlocked, and use nearest stairway not blocked by smoke or fire. d. Leave the building quickly, quietly and orderly to designated assembly area. 3. When an evacuation is required, a staff member residing on the floor will meet with the residents at a pre-designated location outside of the building and account for all residents, as best as possible. 4. The staff member is to report the status of his/her floor as soon as possible to the person in charge (i.e. Residence Director, Fire Official, or University Official). 5. Any student who remains in the building after an alarm sounds, for any reason, will be subject to referral to the Director of Residential Life for appropriate disciplinary action. 6. The building is not to be reentered by any student until the Residence Director or his/her representative gives the “ALL CLEAR”.Back to Top VI-b Fire DrillsFire drills are conducted to familiarize the building occupants with the sound of the fire alarm, the emergency exits that are available, and the procedure for safely evacuating the building. These exercises are conducted at least once each term in every residence hall and all academic buildings. Fire drills may seem a nuisance, but in many fires victims have panicked and reverted to foolish actions. People have hidden in closets when a safe exit was very nearby. Victims have been found under beds and crouched in shower stalls. Many have jumped to their deaths from rooms where no fire had penetrated, and only seconds before a fire department ladder had reached the window. Perhaps if these people had been more familiar with escape routes, or had not delayed escape, they would have survived the toxic smoke and fire. All occupants must vacate the building whenever a fire alarm sounds. Failure to do so may result in removal from the residence hall or referral to the Director of Residential Life for appropriate disciplinary action.Back to Top VI-c Reporting of FiresIf you discover a fire or see or smell smoke: Sound the nearest fire alarm Alert everyone in the immediate area of the fire. Begin evacuating the building as quickly as possible DO NOT ATTEMPT TO FIGHT THE FIRE!Back to Top VI-d Fire Safety Equipment, Damage and AbuseFire safety equipment in the residence halls includes fire alarm pull stations, smoke detectors, heat detectors, fire extinguishers, water standpipes in Hi-Rise buildings, sprinkler systems, and all stairway doors. In accordance with the Philadelphia Fire Code Section, F-112.3, It shall be unlawful for any person to willfully give a false alarm of fire or to activate any fire alarm pull station except in the case of fire. It is also unlawful for any person to willfully interfere with, damage, deface, molest, or injure any part of the fire alarm system, fire extinguishers or other fire fighting equipment. Such conduct is punishable by a fine of a minimum of $150 and no more than $300 (Philadelphia Fire Code F-112.3). Report any tampering, vandalism, or abuse of any fire safety equipment to a residence hall staff member. Any tampering or damage to fire safety equipment may result in injury or death of a resident, and in loss of personal and University property.Back to Top VI-d1 Violations and PenaltiesAny student who maliciously and/or deliberately activates a fire alarm; sets off a fire alarm by any illegal act such as fireworks or setting a fire; vandalizes fire protection equipment; or discharges a fire extinguisher will be subject to disciplinary action imposed by the Drexel University Student Judicial process in addition to fines and penalties levied by the City for a violation of the Fire Code.Back to Top VI-e ArsonArson is defined as the malicious and intentional burning of property. Arson is a crime! According to Drexel University policy anyone caught setting fires will be subject to disciplinary action imposed by Drexel University Student Judicial process.Back to Top VI-f FireworksA person shall not manufacture, possess, store, offer or expose for sale, or discharge any fireworks. Fireworks include any combustible or explosive composition, and any substance and combination of substances and articles prepared for the purpose of producing a visible or an audible effect by combustion, explosion, deflagration or detonation. Fireworks shall include: blank cartridges, toy pistols, toy cannons, toy canes and toy guns in which explosives are utilized, balloons requiring fire underneath to propel the balloon, firecrackers, torpedoes, skyrockets, Roman candles, sparklers and other devices of similar construction, any device containing any explosive or flammable compound, and any tablets and other devices containing any explosive substance.Back to Top VI-g Residential Life Staff Responsibilities1. Have a thorough knowledge and understanding of all information contained in the Residence Hall fire safety manual, Drexel University Fire Policy and all subsequent information from the University Safety and Health Department concerning fire and safety issues. 2. Maintain a safe environment in the residence hall. 3. The Residence Director should check the fire alarm control panel each morning to assure proper functioning. 4. The Resident Director, or other student staff member, should check the fire alarm control panel on weekends to assure proper functioning. 5. Report malfunctioning of the alarm system immediately to Physical Plant during regular working hours or to Public Safety Dispatcher after normal working hours (2822).Back to Top VI-h Reporting of Hazards and Equipment MalfunctionsAny fire hazards or fire protection equipment malfunctions are to be reported to the University Safety and Health department office as soon as encountered during regular work hours. (215-895-5907) after 5:00 pm and on weekends notify security.Back to Top VII - FRATERNITIY/SORORITY RESIDENCESBack to Top VII-a Construction RequirementsStorage rooms and lockers will be separated from all other portions of the buildings by walls and ceiling of at least one hour's fire resistance rating. Lighting in storage rooms and storage lockers will be by electricity, and all lights are to be guarded by approved screens or guards to prevent accidental breakage. One 10 lb ABC extinguisher is to be located near the storage room, preferably outside the doorway. Storage rooms are to be kept reasonably neat and clean at all times, and are not to be used for storage of junk, rubbish, or waste.All windows and doors must be kept in good working condition. All sleeping rooms must have at least one operable window for emergency escape. This window is not to be blocked or covered with bars, gratings or heavy wire mesh screens, unless equipped with approved release mechanisms that are operable from the inside without a key, special knowledge, or excessive force. All floors, walls, ceilings, and stairways are to be maintained in good repair and loose material such as plaster or wallpaper on walls and ceilings shall be either securely fastened or removed. Back to Top VII-b Restrictions on ActivitiesPermissible Quantities of class 1 flammable liquids (no more than 1 gallon) is to be stored either in original package or in approved safety can, and is to be handled or dispensed only from an approved safety can.Paints, Flammable, and combustible liquids, shall be stored in a completely enclosed room or compartment with walls, ceiling and self-closing door having at least a one hour fire resistance rating. Paints, flammables and combustibles liquids are not to be stored in the same room with furniture, house furnishing, trunks and other personal effects. All hallways, stairways, corridors, exits, fire escape doors and other means of egress must be kept clear at all times. There is to be no storage under stairways. Storage of furniture, house furnishings, trunks, or other personal effects is prohibited in the above mentioned areas, and elsewhere in the building except in rooms specifically approved for that purpose. Halls and stairways are to be adequately lighted at all times. Portable heating or cooking equipment employing flame is prohibited. All heating and cooking equipment is to be permanently installed. The use of gasoline or kerosene as fuel for heating or cooking is prohibited. Fire protection equipment must be kept in good operating condition at all times. No person is to diminish, reduce, remove, or cause to be removed, any fire protection equipment for any purpose other than that for which it is intended. System malfunctions must be reported to the alarm company immediately. Back to Top VII-c Equipment RequirementsAll Fraternity/Sorority houses shall be equipped with the following:
Back to Top VII-d Fire ExtinguishersThere is to be at least on 10 lb extinguisher on each floor of the house. Kitchen range hood extinguishers, where required, must be certified semi-annually. The Fraternity/Sorority or agent has the responsibility for keeping all extinguishers in proper working order.Back to Top VII-e Rubbish RemovalRubbish is to be removed from each fraternity houses on a regular basis and not allowed to build up inside the building. There is to be no accumulation of rubbish and or weeds within close proximity to fraternity houses.Back to Top VII-f Evacuation Procedure
Back to Top VII-g Fire Safety TrainingFire safety training is strongly suggested for all residents of each fraternity/sorority house on campus. Arrangements can be made for this training through the University Safety & Health Department 215-895-5907. The program is available for residents after working hours in order to accommodate the schedules of residents. The fire safety program consists of evacuation procedures, extinguisher usage and general fire safety information. The Director of Greek Life is kept informed of all training programs for fraternities as well as attendance at all training sessions.Back to Top VII-h Fire DrillsFire drills for fraternity houses will be held during the fall and spring terms, and are mandatory. It is recommended that as many residents of the fraternity house participate as possible. A critique will follow the fire drill. The Fire Safety Officer will schedule fire drills with the Fraternity/Sorority President or House Manager.Back to Top VII-i InspectionsAll Fraternity and Sorority houses on campus will be inspected during the Fall and Spring terms. During these inspections the fire safety officer will be accompanied by the Director of Greek Life, or his/her representative. All violations will be documented by the fire safety officer. Copies of the Inspection results are sent to the presidents of the undergraduate chapters and Alumni board by the Director of Greek Life. Serious violations will require immediate attention. Social privileges will be suspended until these types of violations are corrected. Thirty (30) days will be given to correct less serious violations. Failure to correct the violations within 30 days may result in a loss of social privileges until violation are corrected.Back to Top VIII - HIGH-RISE FIRE SAFETYBack to Top VIII-a Fire DrillsIt is important and mandatory that all members of High-Rise buildings on all campuses participate in scheduled fire drills. Occupants normally enter the elevator from the lobby, ride to a particular floor, and walk along known paths to their destination. They usually make no effort to discover other means of egress which could be used in a fire or other emergency situation. The fire drill creates the opportunity to plan ahead for such emergencies and decreases the chances of confusion and panic that can cause injuries or fatalities. All fire drills are announced in advance and your reaction to the fire alarm should be as though it was an actual fire.Back to Top VIII-b Fire TowersFire towers are enclosed stairways that have fire rated doors and walls that provide a refuge from smoke and/or heat in a fire emergency. The doors leading into the fire tower are inspected periodically to be sure they open and close properly. These doors should never be tied or propped open. Fire towers are not to be used for storage or as a smoking area. They are to be clean, well lit, and free of obstructions at all times.Back to Top VIII-c ElevatorsElevators are not be used in the event of fire. Elevator shafts are like chimneys; smoke could enter the elevator shaft thereby asphyxiating the occupants trying to evacuate the building. There have been several instances where individuals were killed or seriously injured while attempting to leave a burning building in elevators. The use of heat-sensitive door opening devices has made the problem more acute, in view of the possibility of doors opening at the fire floor level. Elevators can be deadly in a fire situation. Fire towers are to be used in emergency situations.Back to Top VIII-d Evacuation ProceduresIn high-rise buildings, evacuation procedures are posted at each elevator lobby. The following evacuation procedure has been approved by the Philadelphia Fire Department and adopted as official Drexel University Policy. In addition, a copy of this procedure has been distributed to each occupant.
Back to Top IX - FIRE PROTECTION AND EXTINGUISHMENT EQUIPMENTBack to Top IX-a SprinklersIn all buildings or parts of buildings where the regulations of the Philadelphia Fire Department require automatic sprinklers, there shall be installed an approved wet-pipe system of automatic sprinklers, supplied from City water mains, and shall be maintained at a temperature not less than 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Where sufficient heat is not provided, such areas shall be equipped with an approved dry pipe system.Back to Top IX-b Other EquipmentOther protective and extinguishing equipment may include but are not limited to: automatic alarm systems, portable fire extinguishers, fire doors, total flooding systems and automatic range hood extinguishers. Equipment to Be Operative 1. Sprinkler systems, standpipe systems, alarm systems, fire exit doors, or any other protective or extinguishing equipment or system, must be in operative condition at all times, and no owner or occupant shall reduce the effectiveness of the protection furnished. The provisions of the Philadelphia Fire Code do not prohibit the owner from temporarily reducing or discontinuing the protection where necessary to make test, repairs, alterations, or additions.Back to Top IX-c Fire Equipment Maintenance and Repair ProcedurePhysical Plant is to immediately notify the Public Safety Dispatcher prior to any tests, repairs, alterations or additions being started. This notification shall set forth;
Back to Top X - PUBLIC SAFETYBack to Top X-a DispatcherThe Philadelphia Fire Department is to be notified immediately by the dispatcher upon notification of a fire or receipt of any fire alarm activation.
Back to Top X-b Report of Damaged or Missing Fire Protection EquipmentCampus Public Safety Officers are to immediately report any missing, malfunctioning, or vandalized fire protection equipment to Dispatch. Upon notification of missing, damaged or vandalized fire protection equipment, the dispatcher is to:
XI - PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICERSBack to Top XI-a Responding To an Alarm Activation
During a fire situation, Public Safety Officers play a vital role in the evacuation procedures developed for campus buildings. Upon arriving on the scene the Public Safety Officer should immediately assist in evacuation of all occupants. The first Public Safety Officer on the scene should ascertain the conditions and/or cause of the alarm and verify, via radio, to the Public Safety Dispatcher. Upon verification of findings, the Public Safety Officer will go to the floor of the alarm and render assistance where needed in the evacuation of occupants. At no time are Public Safety Officers to use elevators in a fire emergency.
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