Fire Department Command Post

Do you have a construction site with an active NFPA 241 Construction Fire Safety Plan? If so, one of the many requirements contained within this standard is to designate a suitable location on the construction site as a command post. But what information and materials must be provided at this location? This is a common question we receive from general contractors throughout the region. The following is recommended to be included at the Fire Command Post of each construction site:A metal, weathertight, lockable work box that is large enough to store the applicable materials

  • A metal, weathertight, lockable work box that is large enough to store the applicable materials
    • Some fire departments prefer this box to be mounted to a fence or substantial structure (such as an office trailer), others prefer a large work box on the ground and chained/secured to a substantial object.
    • Applicable prior to completion of the Building Fire Command Center where the Command Post may be inside the structure
  • A full printed copy of an up-to-date NFPA 241 Plan for the project.
  • Laminated sheet listing names and contact information for the FPPM, Alternate FPPM, and emergency points-of-contact for the site and project. Text of the names and contact information should be at least 16-point font to provide visibility in dark or inclement conditions.
  • Laminated, up-to-date Pre Incident Fire Plan
  • Laminated typical architectural floor plans for the building (final condition is acceptable)
  • A current, updated sectional view of the building that shows the following:
    • Floors and areas accessible to the local fire department
    • Floors and areas provided with protection (temporary standpipes, sprinklers)
    • Floors and areas with impairments
  • Instructions for use of any Fire Protection or Life Safety Systems in the building (dry pressurized standpipe, smoke control systems, hoists, etc.)
  • Floor plans that identify the locations of any fire department valves and/or connections, including:
    • Fire Department Connections
    • Water Service (domestic and fire protection)
    • Floor control valves
    • Zone valves
    • Any additional valves that may inhibit water flow
  • Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for any hazardous material being stored or used on the site
  • Keys to all trailers, shanties, offices, locked site areas, hoists, and floors/areas on the site.

Have any questions on how either the Construction Projects NFPA 241 Construction Fire Safety Plan or the Fire Department Command Post should be located and/or maintained? Feel free to reach out to info@crcfire.com for additional information.

 

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.