Adoption of New Massachusetts Fire Code – 527 CMR

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August 13, 2014

On August 7, 2014 the Massachusetts Board of Fire Prevention Regulations voted to promulgate a revised fire safety code, referred to as the Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code.

Date of Adoption

The new fire safety code will take effect on January 1, 2015. Any permit filed on or after this date will be required to comply with the new code. Any permit filed prior to this date should be in compliance with the current edition of 527 CMR.

Code Basis

The new fire safety code will be largely based on the 2012 Edition of NFPA 1, the Uniform Fire Code, with Massachusetts Amendments. Link to Amendments

Code Organization

The MA Department of Fire Services has issued a guide, “Crosswalk,” that provides a cross reference between the sections of the previous fire code and the new Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code. Link to Crosswalk The Massachusetts Electrical Code will remain in 527 CMR Chapter 12.00.

What Does This New Code Mean For Me?

The new fire code adoption will be beneficial for designers and owners and will result in:

  1. A more comprehensive code which addresses a greater range of fire-safety related topics
  2. A code based on a nationally-recognized standard which incorporates the latest technologies, fire science, and design trends
  3. An easier code to update and maintain a working knowledge of moving forward

We believe the adoption of a new fire code based on a nationally-recognized standard is a big step in the right direction for Massachusetts. More information about this change can be found at the following site: http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/dfs/dfs2/osfm/fire-prev/comprehensive-model-fire-code.html Concerned about how the new code will affect your existing facility or next project? Get in touch with us to find out what you need to know.

Application of any information provided, for any use, is at the reader’s risk and without liability to Code Red Consultants. Code Red Consultants does not warrant the accuracy of any information contained in this blog as applicable codes and standards change over time. The application, enforcement and interpretation of codes and standards may vary between Authorities Having Jurisdiction and for this reason, registered design professionals should be consulted to determine the appropriate application of codes and standards to a specific scope of work.