Fire Code of the Philippines Section 3 Quiz

Contents

• Introduction
• Fire Code of the Philippines
• Section 3 - Registration, Inspection, Certification and Approval
  • Notification Requirement
  • Installation and Maintenance
    • Means of Escape
    • Firefighting Equipment
    • Detection Devices
  • Certification of Compliance Test of Installations
  • Sanctions for Non-Compliance

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Introduction

The Fire Code of the Philippines, also known as Republic Act No. 9514, establishes regulations related to fire prevention, protection, safety and emergency procedures in buildings and other structures throughout the country. This law aims to safeguard life and property from the hazards that may arise from ignition sources and materials capable of burning.

In this context, we will discuss Section 3 of the Fire Code of the Philippines, which focuses on registration, inspection, certification, and approval processes.

Fire Code of the Philippines

The Fire Code of the Philippines, under the authority of Batas Pambansa Blg. 881, was enacted in 1985 to provide general guidelines on building construction, installation, maintenance, and operation of equipment necessary for ensuring fire safety. It is implemented in accordance with the National Building Code and the OSHA Standard.

Section 3 of the Fire Code addresses various aspects of registration, inspection, certification, and approval required by relevant authorities during different stages of design, construction, and operation of structures.

Section 3 - Registration, Inspection, Certification and Approval

Notification Requirement

According to Section 3.02, the owner or authorized representative of any new structure or existing structure after alteration, modification, conversion, change of occupancy, demolition or relocation shall submit notice to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP):

• For newly constructed structures, prior to occupancy
• For existing structures after completion of alteration, modification, extension, conversion, change in occupancy, demolition, relocation, plant expansion, and other similar changes.

Installation and Maintenance

Section 3.06 outlines the following requirements for the installation, maintenance, repair, alteration, modification, or replacement of fire protection systems:

Means of Escape

• All public buildings must have a means of escape from each room opening directly into a hallway; and
• Emergency exits must lead direct to street or open spaces outside the building without passing through other rooms.

Firefighting Equipment

Owners of buildings and establishments are responsible for providing and maintaining firefighting equipment such as portable fire extinguishers, fixed fire suppression systems, hydrants, valves, and standpipes:

• Portable fire extinguishers: You can choose among six classes of fire extinguishers depending on your needs; however, you should select one that suits your environment best.
• Fixed fire suppression systems: These automatic systems detect fires early, isolate them, and put them out using agents such as water mist, foam, chemical products, or gaseous agents. They are suitable for high-risk areas like kitchens, laboratories, server rooms, etc.

Detection Devices

Properly monitor your premises with early warning detection devices such as smoke alarms, heat sensors, flame detectors, and CO2 detectors:

• Smoke alarms: These detectors operate optimally when placed near sleeping areas and all exits. Alarm systems like photoelectric and ionization smoke detectors effectively alert residents to potential dangers.
• Heat sensors: A combination of heat detectors and rate-of-rise sensors equipped with visual temperature indicators guarantees continuous monitoring and instant notification of rising temperatures.
• Flame detectors: Continuous recording of data concerning the number of false alarms and unconfirmed events is essential for reliable functionality.

Certification of Compliance Test of Installations

The BFP conducts testing and inspections to certify the compliance of installations:

• Once every year, for all types of structures except those covered by other applicable laws;
• Before issuing a certificate of occupancy;
• Upon submission of application for permit renewal, transfer, or assignment;
• Any time upon request by the BFP;
• As otherwise required by applicable laws.

These tests include regular fire drills, dry run evacuation exercises, and periodic inspection of fire protection systems. Regular training courses for personnel concerned with the operation and maintenance of these systems are mandatory.

Sanctions for Non-Compliance

For non-compliance with Section 3, sanctions are imposed according to the following provisions:

• If found during construction, renovation or modification of structures, the work shall immediately cease until compliance with the set standards is achieved.
• Failure to comply with these standardized measures leads to criminal charges.

By understanding and implementing these requirements, owners and managers of buildings and establishments can ensure their properties are protected against potential fires.