The role of the fire inspector in new construction has changed over the past 10 years. Our role typically starts with site plan review were plans are evaluated for access to the site or building, proper fire flow, or other issues that are regulated by our adopted fire code.
The responsibility of construction permits (building, electrical, mechanical, etc) lies with the design professional who submits to the local building department. Some areas of the state may use the State building department or even a county building department. The authority is granted to the building department through the Stille-DeRossett-Hale single state construction code act 230 of 1972. There are also associated rules for mechanical and electrical.
It is our view that the fire inspector provides critical insight into the construction process and must work with registered code officials during the plan review and inspection phases. It is important to see this as the fire service assisting the local building department. In part the fire inspector can then understand the requirements of the building code and ensure the building is maintained in accordance with the local fire code and the State building code.
Common Questions
Where are the requirements for fire sprinkler systems?
The Forbes Mechanical Act, places the requirements for fire suppression systems under the registered mechanical inspector. This includes plan review and inspection.
My fire code regulates sprinklers, why can’t I do the plan review solely?
PA 230 specifies that no local ordinance can be more restrictive then the state construction code. Therefore local fire code ordinances do not regulate the construction of a building or the associated systems unless specifically regulated. Also bear in mind that PA 144 regulates fire suppression and alarm firms in buildings regulated under the Fire Prevention Code.
We work well with our building department and we do the inspections and plan review of systems.
This can be the case, just keep in mind that you need be registered under act 54 as a plan reviewer, mechanical inspector or electrical inspector to issue the permit. If you are not, your building department can issue the permit based on a technical recommendation from the fire department. The building code permits the building official to utilize technical resources but the permit and violations should come from the appropriate registered code official.
