GROUP 5 – THE FIRE CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES

DUCHA, F., GUTIERREZ, PEJI, SISCON, SOL CRUZ, TAGSUAN BSCE 3-2

REPUBLICT ACT NO. 9514

AN ACT ESTABLISHING A COMPREHENSIVE FIRE CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES, REPEALING

PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1185 AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

SECTION 1

This Act shall be known as the "Fire Code of the Philippines of 2008".

SECTION 2

It is the policy of the State to ensure public safety and promote economic development
through the prevention and suppression of all kinds of destructive fires and promote the
professionalization of the fire service as a profession. Towards this end, the State shall enforce
all laws, rules and regulations to ensure adherence to standard fire prevention and safety
measures, and promote accountability for fire safety in the fire protection service and
prevention service.

SECTION 3. Definition of Terms

As used in this Fire Code, the following words and phrases shall mean and be
construed as indicated:
Abatement – Any act that would remove or neutralize a fire hazard.
Administrator – Any person who acts as agent of the owner and manages the use of
a building for him.
Blasting Agent – Any material or mixture consisting of a fuel and oxidizer used to set
off explosives.
Cellulose Nitrate Or Nitro Cellulose – A highly combustible and explosive compound
produced by the reaction of nitric acid with a cellulose material.
Cellulose Nitrate Plastic (Pyroxylin) – Any plastic substance, materials or compound
having cellulose nitrate (nitro cellulose) as base.
Combustible, Flammable or Inflammable – Descriptive of materials that are easily
set on fire.
Combustible Fiber – Any readily ignitable and free burning fiber such as cotton,
oakum, rags, waste cloth, waste paper, kapok, hay, straw, Spanish moss, excelsior
and other similar materials commonly used in commerce.
Combustible Liquid – Any liquid having a flash point at or above 37.8 degC (100
degF).
Corrosive Liquid – Any liquid which causes fire when in contact with organic matter
or with certain chemicals.
Curtain Board – A vertical panel of non-combustible or fire resistive materials attached
to and extending below the bottom chord of the roof trusses, to divide the underside of
the roof into separate compartments so that heat and smoke will be directed upwards
to a roof vent.
Cryogenic – Descriptive of any material which by its nature or as a result of its reaction
with other elements produces a rapid drop in temperature of the immediate
surroundings.
Damper – A normally open device installed inside an air duct system which
automatically closes to restrict the passage of smoke or fire.
Distillation – The process of first raising the temperature to separate the more volatile
from the less volatile parts and then cooling and condensing the resulting vapor so as
to produce a nearly purified substance.
Duct System – A continuous passageway for the transmission of air.
Dust – A finely powdered substance which, when mixed with air in the proper
proportion and ignited will cause an explosion.
Electrical Arc – An extremely hot luminous bridge formed by passage of an electric
current across a space between two conductors or terminals due to the incandescence
of the conducting vapor.
Ember – A hot piece or lump that remains after a material has partially burned, and is
still oxidizing without the manifestation of flames.
Finishes – Materials used as final coating of a surface for ornamental or protective
purposes.
Fire – The active principle of burning, characterized by the heat and light of
combustion.
Fire Trap – A building unsafe in case of fire because it will burn easily or because it
lacks adequate exits or fire escapes.
Fire Alarm – Any visual or audible signal produced by a device or system to warm the
occupants of the building or fire fighting elements of the presence or danger of fire to
enable them to undertake immediate action to save life and property and to suppress
the fire.
Fire Door – A fire resistive door prescribed for openings in fire separation walls or
partitions.
Fire Hazard – Any condition or act which increases or may cause an increase in the
probability of the occurrence of fire, or which may obstruct, delay, hinder or interfere
with firefighting operations and the safeguarding of life and property.
Fire Lane – The portion of a roadway or public way that should be kept open and
unobstructed at all times for the expedient operation of fire fighting units.
Fire Protective And Fire Safety Device – Any device intended for the protection of
buildings or persons to include but not limited to built-in protection system such as
sprinklers and other automatic extinguishing system, detectors for heat, smoke and
combustion products and other warning system components, personal protective
equipment such as fire blankets, helmets, fire suits, gloves and other garments that
may be put on or worn by persons to protect themselves during fire.
Fire Safety Constructions – Refers to design and installation of walls, barriers, doors,
windows, vents, means of egress, etc. integral to and incorporated into a building or
structure in order to minimize danger to life from fire, smoke, fumes or panic before the
building is evacuated. These features are also designed to achieve, among others,
safe and rapid evacuation of people through means of egress sealed from smoke or
fire, the confinement of fire or smoke in the room or floor of origin and delay their spread
to other parts of the building by means of smoke sealed and fire resistant doors, walls
and floors. It shall also mean to include the treatment of buildings components or
contents with flame retardant chemicals.
Flash Point – The minimum temperature at which any material gives off vapor in
sufficient concentration to form an ignitable mixture with air.
Forcing – A process where a piece of metal is heated prior to changing its shape or
dimensions.
Fulminate – A kind of stable explosive compound which explodes by percussion.
Hazardous Operation/Process – Any act of manufacturing, fabrication, conversion,
etc., that uses or produces materials which are likely to cause fires or explosions.
Horizontal Exit – Passageway from one building to another or through or around a
wall in approximately the same floor level.
Hose Box – A box or cabinet where fire hoses, valves and other equipment are stored
and arranged for fire fighting.
Hose Reel – A cylindrical device turning on an axis around which a fire hose is wound
and connected.
Hypergolic Fuel – A rocket or liquid propellant which consists of combinations of fuels
and oxidizers which ignite spontaneously on contact with each other.
Industrial Baking And Drying – The industrial process of subjecting materials to heat
for the purpose of removing solvents or moisture from the same, and/or to fuse certain
chemical salts to form a uniform glazing the surface of materials being treated.
Jumper – A piece of metal or an electrical conductor used to bypass a safety device
in an electrical system.
Occupancy – The purpose for which a building or portion thereof is used or intended
to be used.
Occupant – Any person actually occupying and using a building or portions thereof by
virtue of a lease contract with the owner or administrator or by permission or sufferance
of the latter.
Organic Peroxide – A strong oxidizing organic compound which releases oxygen
readily. It causes fire when in contact with combustible materials especially under
conditions of high temperature.
Overloading – The use of one or more electrical appliances or devices which draw or
consume electrical current beyond the designed capacity of the existing electrical
system.
Owner – The person who holds the legal right of possession or title to a building or
real property.
Oxidizing Material – A material that readily yields oxygen in quantities sufficient to
stimulate or support combustion.
Pressurized Or Forced Draft Burning Equipment – Type or burner where the fuel is
subjected to pressure prior to discharge into the combustion chamber and/or which
includes fans or other provisions for the introduction of air at above normal atmospheric
pressure into the same combustion chamber.
Public Assembly Building – Any building or structure where fifty (50) or more people
congregate, gather, or assemble for any purpose.
Public Way – Any street, alley or other strip of land unobstructed from the ground to
the sky, deeded, dedicated or otherwise permanently appropriated for public use.
Pyrophoric – Descriptive of any substance that ignites spontaneously when exposed
to air.
Refining – A process where impurities and/or deleterious materials are removed from
a mixture in order to produce a pure element of compound. It shall also refer to partial
distillation and electrolysis.
Self-Closing Doors – Automatic closing doors that are designed to confine smoke
and heat and delay the spread of fire.
Smelting – Melting or fusing of metallic ores or compounds so as to separate
impurities from pure metals.
Sprinkler System – An integrated network of hydraulically designed piping installed
in a building, structure or area with outlets arranged in a systematic pattern which
automatically discharges water when activated by heat or combustion products from a
fire.
Standpipe System – A system of vertical pipes in a building to which fire hoses can
be attached on each floor, including a system by which water is made available to the
outlets as needed.
Vestibule – A passage hall or antechamber between the outer doors and the interior
parts of a house or building.
Vertical Shaft – An enclosed vertical space of passage that extends from floor to floor,
as well as from the base to the top of the building.
 SECTION 4. Applicability of The Code

The provisions of the Fire Code shall apply to all persons and all private and public
buildings, facilities or structures erected or constructed before and after its effectivity.

SECTION 5. Responsibility for the Enforcement of this Code

This Code shall be administered and enforced by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP),
under the direct supervision and control of the Chief of the Bureau of Fire Protection, through
the hierarchy of organization as provided for in Chapter IV of Republic Act No. 6975. With the
approval of the Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the
Chief, BFP, is hereby authorized to do things the code will be enforced.

SECTION 6. Technical Staff

The Chief of the BFP will have a technical staff with expertise in fire prevention, safety,
and suppression. They may be from the BFP, government agencies, or other sources. The
staff will study and evaluate fire technology developments, prepare safety plans, develop
professionalization programs, coordinate with institutions, propose amendments to the Fire
Code, and advise the Chief on matters.

SECTION 7. Inspections, Safety Measures, Fire Safety, Constructions,

and Protective and/or Warning Systems.

The Rules and Regulations outline the requirements for building owners,
administrators, and occupants to comply with fire safety measures.

These include conducting a fire safety inspection before obtaining permits or licenses
from local governments and other agencies.

Fire safety measures are required for the use or occupancy of buildings, structures,
facilities, and storage, handling, and use of explosives, combustible, flammable, toxic, and
other hazardous materials. Hazardous materials include cellulose nitrate plastic, combustible
fibers, cellular materials, flammable liquids or gases, flammable paints, varnishes, stains,
organic coatings, high-piled combustible stock, metallic magnesium, corrosive liquids,
oxidizing materials, organic peroxide, nitromethane, ammonium nitrate, blasting agents,
explosives, fireworks materials, matches, hot ashes, live coals, embers, mineral, vegetable,
or animal oils, derivatives/byproducts, combustible waste materials, explosive dusts and
vapors, and agricultural, forest, marine, or mineral products that may undergo spontaneous
combustion.

Owners, occupants, or administrators must incorporate and provide fire safety

construction, protective, and warning systems in their premises.

These systems should include fire protection features, fire alarm systems, fire walls,
provisions for confining the fire at its source, termination of exits, sealed staircases, self-
closing fire resistive doors, fire dampers, roof vents, and properly marked exits with emergency
lights. The Chief of BFP must also have a technical staff of highly qualified persons
knowledgeable on fire prevention, fire safety, and suppression.
 They will study, review, and evaluate latest developments in fire technology, prepare
plans and programs on fire safety, propose amendments to the Fire Code, advise the Chief,
and perform other functions as directed by higher authorities.

SECTION 8. Prohibited Acts

The following are declared as prohibited act and omission:

• Obstructing or impeding access to exit pathways or routes that are clearly designated
for fire safety purposes, including but not limited to interior room aisles, stairway
sections, hallways, corridors, vestibules, balconies, or bridges leading to exits of any
type, or permitting and accepting such violations.
• Building gates, entrances, and walkways for building elements and yards, as well as
erecting temporary or permanent structures on public thoroughfares that hinder the
smooth and unimpeded movement of fire-fighting vehicles and equipment.
• Stopping, getting in the way of, or blocking any work that firefighters or authorized fire
teams are doing.
• Blocking or preventing the use of fire lanes or the ability to reach fire hydrants that are
meant for emergencies.
• Allowing too many people into places like movie theaters, theaters, stadiums, or other
places where lots of people gather, more than what's allowed, unless there are open
areas on the ground floor with enough exits to leave safely.
• Locking doors that are meant for escaping in case of a fire while there are people inside
the building.
• Stopping or blocking the doors that close on their own in case of a fire, or the barriers
that keep smoke from spreading, or the devices that control airflow.
• Using fire safety equipment or tools that are meant for firefighters in situations other
than fires, except in cases of other emergencies where using them is necessary and
makes sense.
• Giving false or malicious fire alarms.
• Smoking in areas where it's not allowed, as decided by the fire department, or throwing
lit cigarettes, cigars, or other burning things in places where they could start a fire.
• Leaving a building without taking proper safety precautions, whether you're the person
living there or the owner.
• Taking away, damaging, messing with, or covering up any official signs or marks that
the fire department has put up for safety in a building, structure, or equipment.
• Messing with wires, overloading the electrical system beyond what it's meant for, or
doing things that could make the electrical system less safe and increase the risk of
fires.

SECTION 9. Violation, Penalties and Abatement of Fire Hazard

Fire hazards must be fixed right away. The fire department chief or their authorized
person will send a notice to the building owner, manager, or whoever is responsible for the
building if they find any violations of the fire safety rules. The notice will say what needs to be
fixed and give a time limit of 10 to 15 days to make the necessary changes, depending on how
reasonable it is to do so.

If the owner, manager, or the person in charge of the building doesn't fix the problems
within the given time, the fire department chief or their authorized person will put up a sign in
front of the building saying it's a fire hazard. The sign will say "WARNING: THIS
BUILDING/STRUCTURE IS A FIRE HAZARD" and will stay there until the owner or
responsible person fixes the issues. They have up to 15 days from when they were first told
to make the changes to do so.

If the owner, manager, or the person in charge of the building doesn't fix the problems
within the given time, the fire department chief can order them to do so. If they still don't fix it
within the new time given, the fire department chief can order the building or premises to be
closed down, even if the local authorities had previously given them permission to operate.

Any building or structure that the fire department chief or their authorized person
considers really dangerous due to serious violations or an immediate fire threat to nearby
places will be called a public nuisance. They will inform the owner, manager, or person in
charge of the building about this in a notice. If the cost of fixing the problem is less than
P100,000, the owner, manager, or occupant must make it safe within 15 days. If it's more than
P100,000, they have 30 days. If they don't do it, the fire department chief or their authorized
person will fix it without delay. SIf they still don't do it within 5 days of getting the notice, the
fire department will put up a sign on the building saying it's a "FIRE TRAP." The sign will stay
there until the owner or responsible person fixes the problems within the given time.

Summary abatement means taking quick actions to make a place safe. This can
involve things like fixing, repairing, strengthening, rebuilding, removing, or even tearing down
a building, either partially or completely. The owner, manager, or person in charge of the
building has to pay for the costs of these actions, and these costs will be a priority debt on the
property.

SECTION 10. Enforcement of The Lien

• Owner, administrator, or occupant must reimburse the government within 90 days of

abatement completion.
• Property subject to lien cannot be sold at a price lower than abatement expenses.
• Property forfeited if highest bid is not equal to abatement expenses.

SECTION 11. Penalties

• Private individuals who violate the Fire Code or its regulations may face an
administrative fine of up to P50,000 or closure of their non-compliant buildings.
• The violator must correct the deficiency or abate the fire hazard even after paying the
fine or facing closure.
• Appeals of administrative fines can be made to the Secretary of the Interior and Local
Government, but the appeal does not suspend the Chief, BFP's order.
• Willful failure to correct deficiencies or abate fire hazards can result in imprisonment of
6 months to 6 years, a fine of up to P100,000, or both.
• Corporations, firms, partnerships, or associations will hold their responsible officials
accountable for violations.
• An unauthorized removal of a fire hazard sign may lead to imprisonment for 30 days
or a fine of up to P100,000, or both.
• Disobeying the lawful order of the fire ground commander during firefighting operations
may result in imprisonment of 1 to 30 days and a fine of P5,000.
• Public officers/employees in charge of enforcing the Fire Code can face administrative
penalties, including reprimand, suspension, or removal, for various offenses such as
failure to conduct inspections or to put up fire hazard signs.
• Willful violations by public officers/employees can lead to imprisonment of 6 months to
6 years or a fine of up to P100,000, or both.
 SECTION 12. Appropriation and Sources of Income

a. The sum that may be required to meet the Fire Code's goals must be appropriated and
included in the BFP's annual budget in order to fund the manpower, infrastructure, and
equipment demands of the fire service.
b. In part, the fire department is funded by the aforementioned taxes. The National
Government's General Fund shall be charged the following fees imposed:
1. Fees to be charged for the issuances of certificates, permits and licenses as
provided for in Section 7.
2. 0.10% of the confirmed estimated value from the owner of any buildings or
structures that are going up, but not to exceed P50,000.00, with half of that
amount being previous to the building permit's issuing, and the remaining
amount, before the use and release permit is issued, following the last
inspection license for occupancy.
3. 0.10% of the assessed value of buildings or structures, due annually with the
payment of real estate tax, excluding those utilized as single-family residences,
4. For the sale of fire, earthquake, and explosion hazard insurance, two percent
(2%) of all premiums, excluding reinsurance premiums, are collected by
businesses, people, or agents authorized to do so in the Philippines.
5. Two percent (2%) of the gross sales of organizations, individuals, or agents
that sell hazard detection and warning systems along with firefighting tools,
appliances, or gadgets.
6. Two percent (2%) of the service fees collected from insurance adjustment
companies conducting business in the Philippines directly through agents' post-
loss services and fire, earthquake, and explosion hazard reinsurance surveys.

SECTION 13. Collection of Taxes, Fees and Fines

• All taxes, fees, and fines shall be collected by BFP.

• 20% of collection retained for city/municipal government's fire station operation and
maintenance.
• 80% remitted to National Treasury for BFP modernization.

SECTION 13 – A. Assessment of Fire Code Taxes, Fees and Fines

• The local government units are responsible for collecting and assessing taxes, fees,
and fines according to the Local Government Code, excluding those that are specified
in this Code.

SECTION 13 – B. Collection and Assessment of Local Taxes, Fees and Fines

• The BFP is responsible for assessing fire code taxes, fees, and fines.
• DILG approves procedural regulations that are prescribed by BFP.
SECTION 13 – C. Use of Income Generated from the Enforcement of the Fire Code.
• The Chief of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) can use Fire Code income for fire
protection, investigation, rescue, paramedics, supplies, and technical services.
• The BFP must determine the optimal number of equipment needed by local
government units for fire protection services.
• The Bureau of Product Standards of the Department of Trade and Industry will evaluate
and certify the procurement of firefighting and investigation supplies and materials.
• The BFP must submit a detailed set of product standards to the Bureau of Product
Standards within six months of the act's effectivity.
SECTION 13 – D. Monitoring the Implementation of the Fire Code and the Amount of the
Fees Collected.

• A management tool or mechanism that would ensure effective monitoring of the

enforcement of the Fire Code, including the amount of Fire Code fees collected, must
be submitted for approval to the Secretary of the Interior and Local Government by the
Chief, BFP, within six (6) months from the effectivity of this Code.

SECTION 14

Within sixty (60) days from the effectivity of this Act, the Secretary of the Interior and Local
Government shall issue the rules and regulations for its effective implementation.

SECTION 15

Presidential Decree No. 1185 is repealed, and all inconsistent laws, decrees, orders, rules,
and regulations are either repealed or amended.

SECTION 16

In case any provision of this Act or any portion thereof is declared unconstitutional by a
competent court, other provisions shall not be affected thereby.

SECTION 17

This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the Official Gazette or in
two (2) national newspapers of general circulation.
 REVISED IMPLEMENTING RULES AND REGULATIONS (RIRR) OF
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9514, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE
FIRE CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES OF 2008

Pursuant to the provision of Section 14, in relation to Section 5 of Republic Act No. 9514,
entitled “AN ACT ESTABLISHING A COMPREHENSIVE FIRE CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES,
REPEALING PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1185, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES,” the
following Rules and Regulations are hereby adopted in order to carry out the provisions of this
Code.

RULE 1. INTERPRETATION

This RIRR shall be interpreted in light of the Declaration of Policy found in Section 2 of this
Code:
“It is the policy of the State to ensure public safety, promote economic development through
the prevention and suppression of all kinds of destructive fires, and promote the
professionalization of the Fire Service as a profession. Towards this end, the State shall
enforce all laws, rules and regulations to ensure adherence to standard fire prevention and
safety measures, and promote accountability in the fire protection and prevention service.”

RULE 2. COVERAGE

This RIRR shall cover the following:

A. All persons, either natural or juridical;
B. All buildings, facilities or structures and their premises, erected or constructed before
and after the effectivity hereof;
C. Design and installation of mechanical, electronics and electrical systems relative to fire
protection;
D. Manufacturing, storage, handling and/or use, and transportation of explosives and/ or
combustible/flammable liquids and gases, toxic and other hazardous materials and
operations, and their wastes;
E. Fire safety planning, design, construction, repair, maintenance, rehabilitation and
demolition;
F. Fire protective and warning equipment or systems;
G. All land transportation vehicles and equipment, ships or vessels docked at piers or
wharves or anchored in seaports; and
H. Petroleum industry installations.

RULE 3. DEFINITION OF TERMS

For the purposes of RIRR, the terms, words, and phrases were defined to further
understand the context of each rules.
 RULE 4. AUTHORITY OF THE CHIEF, BUREAU OF FIRE PROTECTION

SECTION 4.0.0.1 GENERAL AUTHORITY TO ADMINISTER AND ENFORCE RA 9514 AND

ITS RIRR
The Administration and Enforcement of the RA 9514 and its RIRR shall be under the
direct supervision and control of the Chief, BFP, through the hierarchy of organization as
provided for in Chapter VI of Republic Act No. 6975, the DILG Reorganization Act of 1990 as
amended by Republic Act No. 9263, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and Bureau of Jail
Management and Penology (BJMP) Professionalization Act of 2004.
SECTION 4.0.0.2 AUTHORITY OF THE CHIEF, BFP SUBJECT TO APPROVAL OF
SECRETARY OF INTERIOR AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT

The Chief, BFP, with the approval of the Secretary, DILG, is hereby authorized to make
rules/ provisions of the code be observed.

SECTION 4.0.0.3 SPECIFIC AUTHORITY OF CHIEF, BFP

A. Further, the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized representative, in accordance with
organizational hierarchy, is hereby specifically authorized to do things in accordance
with the provisions of the code.
B. However, the authority granted under this Section shall not in any way diminish the
power of the SILG to change, alter, modify, revise, or amend the actions of the Chief,
BFP.

RULE 5. FIRE CODE TECHNICAL STAFF

DIVISION 1. TECHNICAL STAFF

SECTION 5.0.1.1 CONSTITUTION AND QUALIFICATIONS

The Chief, BFP, shall constitute a technical staff of highly qualified persons who are
knowledgeable on fire prevention, fire safety, and fire suppression.

SECTION 5.0.1.2 SOURCES

The Technical Staff may be drawn from the following:
A. Organic members of the BFP;
B. Other government offices and agencies; and
C. Other sources. In the case of para “B” and/or “C” above, members may either be
appointed into the service or hired as consultants in accordance with existing laws, rules
and regulations.

SECTION 5.0.1.3 DUTIES AND FUNCTIONS

A. Study, review and evaluate latest developments and standards on fire safety, prevention
and suppression;
B. Prepare plans/programs on fire safety, prevention and suppression and evaluate
implementation thereof;
C. Develop programs on the professionalization of the Fire Service;
D. Coordinate with appropriate government and private institutions for the offering of college
courses on fire technology and fire protection engineering;
E. Propose amendments to the RA 9514 and its RIRR;
F. Advise the Chief, BFP on any matter brought to his/her attention; and
G. Perform such other functions as directed by the Chief, BFP.
SECTION 5.0.1.4 REMUNERATION

Remuneration for the members of the Technical Staff shall be prescribed by the Chief,
BFP in accordance with existing government accounting and auditing rules and regulations,
to be sourced from the Fire Code Fees Collection.

RULE 6. FIRE BRIGADES, FIRE VOLUNTEER ORGANIZATIONS AND FIRE

SAFETY PRACTITIONERS

DIVISION 1. SCOPE
This Rule will regulate the setup, operation, and proficiency testing of company
(government and/or private offices and buildings) and community fire brigades, as well as how
fire volunteers and fire volunteer organizations across the nation are required to participate in
mandatory fire prevention, fire suppression, rescue, emergency medical services, and other
related emergency response training programs and competency evaluations to be carried out
by the BFP. Additionally, this mandates that the BFP carry out fire safety practitioners'
recognition, competency evaluation, and ongoing professional development.

DIVISION 2. ORGANIZATION OF FIRE BRIGADES

SECTION 6.0.2.1 REQUIREMENTS

● All commercial buildings that can house at least fifty (50) people are required to establish
and maintain a fire brigade to respond to fires and other emergencies of a similar nature.
● Regardless of the number of tenants in a building with multiple uses, the Building
Administrator and/or Owner shall organize a fire brigade on the property.
● If a structure currently has a fire brigade in place, that brigade will be adequate to meet
the requirements of paragraph "A" of this Section.
● All barangays shall likewise endeavor to organize their own fire brigades.
● All fire volunteer organizations, barangay fire brigades, and company and industrial fire
brigades may be incorporated in the Bureau of Fire Protection Auxiliary (BFPA) subject
to the form and function established by the BFP.

SECTION 6.0.2.2 COMPOSITION

The organization of company fire brigades shall consist of the Fire Brigade Chief, which shall
be designated by the head of the company, and shall be assisted by selected personnel.
When there are more people available, they must be grouped into teams so they may work as
a fire brigade that has been formed specifically to meet the company's demands. The
organization must be set up so that a fire brigade is always on call or duty.

SECTION 6.0.2.3 COMPONENTS

The equipment that must be put into service during fires or other related crises will determine
the number of troops required for each operating unit or company into which the brigade is
structured. To operate a specific piece of equipment or a larger group to perform more
complex operations, the total number of personnel may consist of two (2) or more persons.
Each fire brigade needs a leader or chief. An Assistant Chief will be appointed in his or her
place.

SECTION 6.0.2.4 DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF A FIRE BRIGADE CHIEF

● In accordance with the company or establishment head's or the fire prevention officer's
approval, he/she is in charge of creating fire prevention programs and plans of action for
the firm or organization to address potential fire situations in the plant or community.
● He/She shall initiate the procurement of necessary firefighting equipment and supplies
for use of the brigades.
 ● He or she is in charge of periodically evaluating all firefighting equipment on hand and
putting the proper procedures in motion to replace any that are missing or to fix any that
are malfunctioning.
● He or She must convey any circumstance that might compromise the efficiency of
firefighting efforts to the company or establishment head's or that officer's fire
prevention's immediate attention.
● He or she is responsible for making sure the brigades are adequately filled, periodically
reviewing the fire brigade roster, and crafting suggestions on whether more personnel
should be chosen, appointed, and made available to the team.
● He/she will create training plans for the fire brigade's members and oversee their
implementation. When he/she is not present, the Deputy Fire Brigade Chief will take over
and carry out the Fire Brigade Chief's tasks and responsibilities.

SECTION 6.0.2.5 QUALIFICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP IN THE COMPANY FIRE

BRIGADE
Members of the fire brigade shall consist of persons who have met qualifications
appropriate for the fire brigade work. For establishments, members must be taken from the
roster of its own workforce. The head of the company shall identify the persons who are fit to
perform fire operation activities and further assign them to specific fire suppression positions.

SECTION 6.0.2.6 AVAILABILITY OF PERSONNEL

To qualify as a member of a fire brigade, individuals must be available to respond to fire alarms
and attend required training programs. A pre-arranged schedule for availability must be
established to prevent conflict of duties and to cover absences such as regular off-duty
periods, vacations and sickness.

DIVISION 3. TRAINING OF FIRE BRIGADES, FIRE SAFETY PRACTITIONERS AND FIRE

VOLUNTEER ORGANIZATIONS

SECTION 6.0.3.1 CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCY

Certificate of Competency shall be issued to fire volunteers, fire volunteer
organizations, and fire safety practitioners after completion of the mandatory training and
competency evaluation conducted by the BFP and upon submission of (1) certificate of
completion of training, (2) personal profile, (3) certificate of employment, in the case of fire
safety practitioners, and (4) other documents the BFP may require. The Certificate of
Competency for fire safety practitioners shall be issued by the Chief, BFP whereas, Regional
Directors pursuant to the guidelines issued by the Chief, BFP for fire volunteers and fire
volunteer organizations.

SECTION 6.0.3.2 TRAINING DESIGN

A training design shall be developed by the BFP for fire volunteers, fire volunteer
organizations, fire brigades and fire safety practitioners. Members shall be required to
complete the specified program of instruction.

SECTION 6.0.3.3 SCOPE OF TRAINING

Training in fire prevention, fire suppression, rescue, emergency medical services, and
related emergency response is required for all members of the fire brigade, fire volunteer, and
fire volunteer organizations. It must incorporate fire suppression methods, strategies, and
procedures as well as the usage of additional tools, gadgets, and equipment, including
portable fire extinguishers.
In the case of fire safety practitioners, they shall undergo mandatory continuous
professional education and competency evaluation of their expertise, knowledge and skills in
the areas of fire science, engineering and technology to be conducted by the BFP.
SECTION 6.0.3.4 ASSISTANCE IN TRAINING PROGRAMS
The BFP shall assist in setting up a training program for the fire brigade and fire
volunteer organization. Through seminars and specialized training sessions, members of fire
brigades and fire volunteer organizations should have the opportunity to advance their
knowledge of fire prevention and suppression.

SECTION 6.0.3.5 IDENTIFICATION

Members of the volunteer fire brigade organization shall wear proper identification
cards duly signed by the head of their organization and authenticated by the City/ Municipal
Fire Marshall (C/MFM) having jurisdiction.

DIVISION 4. COMMAND, EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE AND FIRE DRILLS

SECTION 6.0.4.1 PRACTICE DRILLS
Practice drills shall be held to check the ability of members to perform the operations
they are expected to carry out. Drills shall be occasionally held under adverse weather
conditions to work on special procedures needed under such circumstances.

SECTION 6.0.4.2 OPERATION OF EQUIPMENT

In practice drills, all available fire and life safety equipment, devices and tools for fire
suppression and medical and rescue operation must be operated.

SECTION 6.0.4.3 REACTIVATION OF EQUIPMENT

At the conclusion of a practice drill, equipment shall be made readily available to respond to a
fire call.

SECTION 6.0.4.4 INSPECTION AND SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE WORK

Inspection and maintenance of fire equipment, both fixed and portable, may be assigned to
individual members of the fire brigade. The Fire Brigade Chief must, however, create the
necessary work schedules, delegate these tasks to specific personnel, and oversee the
completion and reporting of these inspection and maintenance tasks.

SECTION 6.0.4.5 COMMAND AT FIRE SCENE

During firefighting operations, the fire brigades and fire volunteer organizations shall be under
the direct operational control of the fire ground commanders subject to existing guidelines of
the BFP.

RULE 7. ASSISTANCE AND SUPPORT TO THE BFP

DIVISION 1. PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE AND OTHER LAW ENFORCEMENT

AGENCIES

SECTION 7.0.1.1 FROM PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE

Upon request, the Philippine National Police (PNP) shall provide the Chief, BFP or
his/her lawfully authorized representative with the appropriate assistance with respect to the
following actions:
A. Actual firefighting operations and fire scene investigation;
B. Business closure and summary abatement proceedings;
C. Installation of signs that the building/structure is a fire hazard and/or fire trap;
D. Obstruction of designated fire lanes and fire hydrants;
E. Apprehension of violators/persons removing, destroying, tampering or obliterating warning
signs and similar abatement appurtenances;
F. Laboratory/physical examinations of the pieces of evidence gathered in the fire scene and
submit the result thereof to the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized representative, as the
case may be; and
G. Such other duties and functions of the BFP which would require police assistance.

SECTION 7.0.1.2 FROM OTHER LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES

Other Law Enforcement Agencies, such as but not limited to, National Bureau of
Investigation (NBI) shall, upon request, accommodate and render necessary assistance on
the following functions of the BFP:
A. Investigation and prosecution of arson cases;
B. Appearance as expert witness;
C. Such other duties and functions of the BFP which require their expertise.

DIVISION 2. LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS, OTHER GOVERNMENT AGENCIES AND

PRIVATE INSTITUTIONS

SECTION 7.0.2.1 FROM LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS

Local Government Units (LGU) shall render necessary assistance on the following
duties of the BFP:
A. The issuance of a Fire Safety Inspection Certificate (FSIC) is a requirement for the granting
and renewal of business, occupation, and other relevant permits/licenses. Strict adherence of
these requirements is required. To accomplish this, the LGU and/or other relevant government
organizations must refrain from granting such licenses and/or permits without the applicant
first receiving an FSIC from the BFP;
B. Organization and training of fire brigades in all barangays in partnership with BFP to serve
as first responders;
C. Summary abatement and closure of buildings/structures or portions thereof; and
D. Such other duties and functions of the BFP which would require their assistance.

SECTION 7.0.2.2 COORDINATION WITH OTHER AGENCIES

The BFP may engage into Memorandum of Agreement with the following
organizations, among others, in order to formalize its areas of cooperation and coordination
with other government departments, bureaus, agencies, offices, and enterprises as well as
with private institutions:
A. National and Local Waterworks, for supplying an adequate water source, especially
during fire or conflagration, and for installing fire hydrants in key locations;
B. Electric Companies and Cooperatives, regarding the immediate shutoff of the main
power lines/power lines in the event of dangerous electrical installations and during fires or
conflagrations;
C. Department of Transportation (DOTr), on fire safety measures in all ports and land
transportation vehicles;
D. Department of Education (DepEd), relating to the institutionalization of school-based fire
prevention efforts, the enforcement of the fire safety requirements for educational and other
applicable facilities;
E. Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the institutionalization of school-based fire
prevention activities, the promotion of fire safety engineering courses, postgraduate fire
science and technology studies, and other research and development initiatives; on the
enforcement of the fire safety regulations for educational and other applicable facilities;
F. Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), on establishing ongoing standards,
improvements, and ratings for fire protection equipment, devices, extinguishing accessories,
and related fire and life safety facilities, equipment, and systems;
G. Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA), on supplying and
improving the technical abilities of BFP employees and fire volunteer organizations, as well as
on their ensuing accreditation/certification;
H. Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), on sharing essential
information in the areas of managing hazardous waste and materials, as well as working
together on projects to prevent forest fires and save lives;
I. Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), on the enforcement of the designation of
a fire safety officer in every building facility;
J. Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), on the creation
and integration of an electronic permit processing system that complies with BFP standards
and contemporary advancements in information and communications technology; and
K. Any additional governmental entities, instrumentalities, subdivisions, and non-
governmental organizations that the BFP may determine necessary in order to enhance the
implementation of RA 9514 and its RIRR.

RULE 8. FIRE SAFETY ENFORCERS

CHAPTER 1. QUALIFICATIONS OF FIRE SAFETY ENFORCERS

DIVISION 1. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

BFP employees who have been officially recognized as Fire Safety Enforcers
must meet the requirements stated in this clause.

SECTION 8.1.1.1 FIRE SAFETY INSPECTORS

• Uniformed Personnel: Licensed engineers or architects with at least one year
in BFP service, or any baccalaureate degree graduates with at least three
years in BFP service.
• Non-Uniformed Personnel: Engineers with at least one year in BFP service.
• Undergone and completed prescribed training Fire Safety Enforcement and
other relevant fire safety training.

SECTION 8.1.1.2 PLAN EVALUATORS

• Must be licensed Architect or Engineer.
• Must have completed fire safety enforcement training and other relevant
fire safety training.
• A graduate of any bachelor degree with relevant fire safety and building
plan evaluation training shall be appointed as plan evaluator if there is no
licensed engineer or architect in a particular jurisdiction.

SECTION 8.1.1.3 CHIEF, FIRE SAFETY ENFORCEMENT SECTION/UNIT

• The Chief of the Fire Safety Enforcement Section/Unit (FSES/U) to be
designated shall possess the following minimum qualifications:
− With the rank commensurate to the position prescribed by the
organizational structure and qualification standard of the BFP
− Must be a licensed engineer or architect with at least three years in BFP
service.
− Must have completed prescribed fire safety enforcement training.
• Lower-ranking personnel with a licensed engineer or architect's degree or
baccalaureate degree with at least five years of BFP service can be
designated as Chief.
• Non-Uniformed Personnel (NUP) can be designated as Chief, FSES/U, if
they hold an Engineer IV plantilla position and have undergone relevant fire
safety training.
CHAPTER 2. FUNCTIONS OF FIRE SAFETY ENFORCERS

DIVISION 1. RESPONSIBILITIES OF DESIGNATED FIRE SAFETY ENFORCERS

SECTION 8.2.1.1 FIRE SAFETY INSPECTORS
Duties and responsibilities of Fire Safety Inspectors:
• Inspect buildings, structures, facilities, and hazardous operations to
ensure compliance with RA 9514 and related laws.
• Assess compliance with fire safety requirements, identify and
recommend corrective actions, and inform owners/building
administrators/occupants.
• Testify in judicial and quasi-judicial bodies on matters related to RA
9514 and its RIRR.
• Conduct fire safety lectures, seminars/workshops, and drills.
• Prepare necessary documents and maintain files/records.

SECTION 8.2.1.2 PLAN EVALUATORS

Duties and responsibilities of Plan Evaluators:
• Review and evaluate building plans and specifications including fire
protection system to determine compliance with RA 9514, RIRR, NBCP,
and other Life and Safety Standards.
• Conduct site verification and inspection on under construction buildings.

SECTION 8.2.1.3 CHIEF, FIRE SAFETY ENFORCEMENT SECTION/UNIT

(FSES/U)
Duties and responsibilities of the Chief, FSES/U:
• Review and evaluate reports from Fire Safety Enforcers and
recommend approval to the concerned C/MFM having jurisdiction
• Assist in implementing fire safety measures and education programs.
• Supervise and monitor fire safety inspectors' activities.
• Recommend appropriate charges against violators of RA 9514 and its
RIRR.
• Testify in judicial and quasi-judicial bodies on matters related to RA
9514 and its RIRR.
• Perform other functions as per RA 9514 and its RIRR.

DIVISION 2. PROFESSIONALIZATION
In pursuit of competent fire safety enforcement and service excellence, the BFP must
endeavor to professionalize its fire safety enforcers and establish the level of competency in
accordance with the guidelines issued by the Chief, BFP.

RULE 9. ENFORCEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION OF FIRE SAFETY

MEASURE
DIVISION 1. GENERAL
• The C/MFM in jurisdiction must conduct fire safety inspections of buildings, structures,
facilities, hazardous operations, storage facilities, and transportation vehicles to ensure
compliance with RA 9514 and its RIRR.
• These inspections are required for permits and licenses granted by local governments or
other agencies. No Certificate of Occupancy, Business Permit, or Permit to Operate can
be issued without a Fire Safety Inspection Certificate (FSIC).
• The C/MFM must also review and evaluate plans, design calculations, and specifications
to issue a Building Permit.
DIVISION 2. FIRE SAFETY EVALUATION AND INSPECTION
Building plan review, inspection during and after construction, and business routine
inspection shall be in accordance with the Citizen’s Charter.

SECTION 9.0.2.1 BUILDING PLAN REVIEW

• The Plan Evaluator must review and evaluate building plans to ensure they meet
RA 9514 and its RIRR fire safety requirements. They use a Fire Safety Checklist
to check plans. The plans and checklist are then submitted to the Chief of Fire
Safety Services/U for review and recommendation.
• The C/MFM responsible for the review will issue a Fire Safety Compliance Report
(FSCR) or Notice of Disapproval (NOD) upon payment of Fire Code Construction
Tax and other fees.
• The process for securing FSEC follows the BFP Citizen's Charter.

SECTION 9.0.2.2 INSPECTION DURING CONSTRUCTION

The C/MFM responsible for construction, renovation, modification, or alteration
must inspect premises based on FSEC to ensure plans and specifications are being
followed and correct any defects or deficiencies.

SECTION 9.0.2.3 INSPECTION AFTER COMPLETION OF CONSTRUCTION

• The Building Official (C/MFM) has the authority to designate a Fire Safety
Inspector (FSI) to inspect a building, structure, or facility after construction,
renovation, modification, or alteration. The FSI recommends the issuance of a
Fire Safety Inspection Certificate (FSIC) if the required fire safety construction is
in place and fire protective and warning systems are properly installed.
• The C/MFM will issue the FSIC or NOD upon payment of Fire Code Fees. If the
establishment is already occupied or operating, a Notice to Comply (NTC) is
issued.
• The installer/contractor must test and commission the fire protective and warning
systems during the inspection, witnessed by the FSI. No FSIC for Occupancy is
issued without a Fire Safety Compliance and Commissioning Report (FSCCR).

SECTION 9.0.2.4 BUSINESS AND ROUTINE/ANNUAL INSPECTION

• The C/MFM inspects industrial, commercial, or business premises for
Business/Mayor's Permit and other Permits or Licenses Application. They issue
the necessary FSIC as a prerequisite for obtaining a Business/Mayor's Permit or
Certificate of Annual Inspection from PEZA. This is done after ensuring fire safety
measures for explosives, combustible materials, and hazardous operations are
complied with.
• The Chief of FSES/U reviews the Inspection Report (AIR) and recommends the
issuance of either FSIC or appropriate Notice, following Rule 13. The C/MFM has
jurisdiction and issues FSIC or NTC.
• No FSIC must be issued without a Fire Safety and Maintenance Report (FSMR)
and payment of Fire Code Fees, following the BFP Citizen's Charter.
• The C/MFM conducts routine or periodic fire safety inspections on buildings,
structures, facilities, and premises.
• Inspection Orders (IO) are issued by the C/MFM for compliance with RA 9514
and its RIRR.
• Building owners or administrators must provide FSI with copies of all plans,
design calculations, and specifications of the building.
• FSI prepares an AIR and recommends appropriate administrative courses of
action for violations of RA 9514 and its RIRR.
• Inspection procedure adheres to the BFP Citizen’s Charter.
DIVISION 3. FIRE SAFETY COMPLIANCE REPORT (FSCR), FIRE SAFETY COMPLIANCE
AND COMMISSIONING REPORT (FSCCR), AND FIRE SAFETY MAINTENANCE REPORT
(FSMR)
SECTION 9.0.3.1 APPLICABILITY
• All private and public buildings, facilities, and structures required to install a wet
standpipe system, automatic fire suppression system, or automatic fire detection
and alarm system must submit FSCR for FSEC for Building Permit and FSCCR
for FSIC for Occupancy.
• Existing buildings must also submit a Fire Safety Maintenance Report annually to
the C/MFM for securing FSIC for business permits, Certificate of Annual
Inspection for PEZA registered enterprises, and DOH License to Operate.

SECTION 9.0.3.2 FIRE SAFETY COMPLIANCE REPORT (FSCR)

• A set of FSCR must be submitted by the building owner, signed by an
Engineer/Architect-of-Record and an accredited Fire Safety Practitioner, detailing
a detailed design analysis of fire safety features, along with three sets of plans
and specifications.
• The Engineer/Architect-of-Record and Fire Safety Practitioner must ensure that
the design, criteria, and specifications of fire safety features are suitable for the
proposed project and in compliance with relevant laws.
• The FSCR outlines the project's brief description, the codes and standards used
in the design, and discussions on fire protection and life safety issues. It covers
building classification, construction materials, hazards, occupancy classification,
structural requirements, exit and egress, fire suppression, fire detection, alarm,
communication, and evacuation systems, smoke control management, exit light
and emergency lighting systems, emergency power supply, fire department
access, street hydrant and BFP station location, elevator recall, and use of
elevators for evacuation. It also includes calculations for fire suppression
strategies, fire detection, alarm, communication, and evacuation systems, smoke
control management, exit light and emergency lighting systems, emergency
power supply, fire department access, street hydrant, and BFP station location.

SECTION 9.0.3.3 FIRE SAFETY COMPLIANCE AND COMMISSIONING REPORT

(FSCCR)
• Before occupancy of newly constructed, altered, or modified buildings, a set of
FSCCR and a Certificate of Completion of Construction must be submitted to the
building owner's C/MFM. The FSCCR certifies the implementation of the plans
and specifications for the Building Permit. For modifications, a detailed
compilation of plans and design analysis must be included in the "as-built" plans.
• The contractor, construction manager, or fire safety practitioner must ensure all
fire protection and life safety features in the Building Permit, including
amendments, have been properly installed and implemented, and the building
complies with RA 9514 and its RIRR.
• The FSCCR outlines the project's brief description, changes made to design,
plans, and specifications, standards used for authorized changes, certification of
fire safety features, testing and commissioning certificates, and close-out
documents such as "As-built" plan, calculations, specifications, test report,
product data sheet, and material test certificate. It also includes approved
amendments and compliance with RA 9514 and its RIRR.

SECTION 9.0.3.4 FIRE SAFETY MAINTENANCE REPORT (FSMR)

• The building owner must submit a set of FSMR signed by the Building
Administrator and Fire Safety Practitioner during the annual fire safety inspection
to the C/MFM. This is a prerequisite for obtaining permits or licenses from other
 government agencies. The FSMR should include a detailed report on annual
maintenance of installed fire safety systems and fire safety lectures, drills, and
preparedness activities conducted within the year.
• The building owner, registered business owner, tenant, building administrator,
and fire safety practitioner must ensure all fire safety issues are addressed and
all required systems are installed and maintained according to RA 9514 and
applicable laws, while maintaining an updated record of regular inspections,
testing, and preventive maintenance.
• The FSMR should include a brief description of the building or facility, a statement
of testing and maintenance standards used, and discussions on fire protection
and life safety issues. It should include records of active exits, maintenance of
egress components, and annual tests on fire pumps, sprinkler systems, and
standpipes. The fire detection and alarm system require testing and maintenance
records, including the control panel. Smoke control management records should
include pressurization fans and fan controls. Emergency power supply
components should be maintained and tested. Other systems, such as elevator
recall systems, should also be documented.

SECTION 9.0.3.5 FIRE SAFETY PRACTITIONERS

Fire Safety Practitioners with a Certificate of Competency (COC) are
authorized to prepare, sign, and certify the FSCR, FSCCR, and FSMR, following
established guidelines.

DIVISION 4. FIRE SAFETY INSPECTION CERTIFICATE

SECTION 9.0.4.1 FSIC AS A PREREQUISITE FOR ISSUANCE OF
PERMIT/LICENSE
The Fire Safety Inspection Certificate (FSIC) must be issued by the C/MFM if
fire safety requirements are met, as a prerequisite for issuance of certificates of
occupancy, business permits, licenses, and permits from various government
agencies, including Local Government Units, Office of The Building Official, PhilHealth
Accreditation for Hospitals, Department of Health, Philippine Economic Zone Authority,
and others.

SECTION 9.0.4.2 DOCUMENTARY REQUIREMENTS

The documents required for the processing of FSEC, FSIC and other
clearances being issued by the BFP shall be in accordance with its Citizen’s Charter.

DIVISION 5. FIRE SAFETY CLEARANCE

Fire Safety Clearance (FSC) is required for storage, handling, and transportation of
hazardous materials and hazardous operations. Installation clearance is needed for fire safety
systems and building services equipment. All FSCs, except installation clearance, must be
renewed before issuance of FSIC for Business Permit.

DIVISION 6. FIRE INSURANCE DATA REQUIRED

Individuals with fire insurance on their properties or businesses must submit a certified
copy of their current and subsequent policies to the C/MFM within ten days of receiving the
document from the insurance company. Exempted from this requirement are owners of
detached single or two -family dwellings actually being used for residential occupancy.
 RULE 10. FIRE SAFETY MEASURES MEASURE

CHAPTER 1. COVERAGE

This Rule covers the fire safety measures for buildings, structures and facilities,
hazardous materials and wastes, hazardous operations and processes, and miscellaneous
hazardous premises and/or conditions that by its very nature or relation to life, property and
environment pose threat or danger.

CHAPTER 2. FIRE SAFETY IN BUILDINGS, STRUCTURES AND FACILITIES

DIVISION 1. SCOPE
This Chapter discusses life safety in buildings, structures, and facilities, covering
construction, protection, and occupancy features to minimize fire risks. It also discusses fire
drill procedures and guidelines, and specifies means of egress for prompt escape. The
Chapter does not prohibit better design, construction, or safer conditions than the
requirements, and does not prohibit the use of new methods or devices if technical data is
submitted.

DIVISION 2. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

● Exits must be sufficient to allow for quick and safe escape in case of fire or other
emergencies, with additional safeguards provided for life safety in case of failure.
Buildings should be designed, constructed, equipped, maintained, and operated to avoid
danger to lives and ensure safety from fire, smoke, vapor, and fumes during the escape
period.
● Exits should be arranged and maintained to provide free and unobstructed egress from
all parts of the structure at all times. No lock or fastening device that would prevent
escape from the inside of any building shall be installed except in mental, penal, or
correctional institutions where personnel are continually on duty and effective provisions
are made to evacuate occupants in case of fire or other emergencies.
● Every exit must be clearly visible, marked, and provided with adequate and reliable
illumination. Fire alarm systems or devices must be provided in every building or structure
to provide adequate warning to occupants. Buildings or structures with multiple
occupants must have at least two means of egress remote from each other to minimize
the possibility of blocking both by fire or other emergency conditions.
● Compliance with this Chapter does not eliminate or reduce the necessity of complying
with other provisions for safety of persons using a structure under normal occupancy
conditions. Buildings under construction must be occupied until all required means of
egress are completed, inspected, and approved for occupancy. Existing buildings may
be occupied during repairs or alterations provided that all existing fire protection
systems/devices are continuously maintained or equivalent safety measures are taken.

DIVISION 3. CLASSIFICATION OF OCCUPANCY

● A building or structure can be classified into various occupancy groups, such as
assembly, educational, day care, health care, residential board and care, detention and
correctional, residential, mercantile, business, industrial, storage, mixed occupancy, and
special structures.
● Assembly occupancies include buildings used for gathering fifty or more persons for
various purposes, such as deliberation, worship, entertainment, eating, drinking,
amusement, or transportation.
● Educational occupancies include schools, universities, colleges, academies, and
kindergartens.
● Day care occupancies include buildings where four or more clients receive care,
maintenance, and supervision for less than 24 hours per day.
 ● Health care facilities include hospitals, nursing homes, and birth centers.
● Residential board and care buildings are those used for lodging and boarding of four or
more residents for providing personal care services.
● Detention and correctional buildings are those used to house one or more persons under
varied degrees of restraint or security.
● Residential occupancies include hotels, motels, apartelles, pension houses, inns,
apartments, condominiums, dormitories, lodging or rooming houses, and single and two-
family dwellings.
● Mercantile occupancies include stores, markets, and other rooms for the display and/or
sale of merchandise.
● Business buildings are those used for the transaction of business, keeping of accounts
and records, and similar purposes.
● Industrial occupancies include factories that make products of all kinds and properties.
● Storage occupancy includes buildings or structures utilized primarily for the storage or
sheltering of goods, merchandise, products, vehicles, or animals.
● Mixed occupancy refers to two or more classes of occupancies
occurring/located/situated/existing in the same building and/or structures so intermingled
that separate safeguards are impracticable.
● Special structures cannot be properly classified in any of the preceding occupancy
groups and must conform to the fundamental guidelines provided for these
classifications.

DIVISION 4. HAZARD OF BUILDINGS

● For purposes of this Chapter, the degree of hazard shall be the relative danger of the
start and spread of fire, the generation of smoke or gases, and the danger of explosion
or other occurrences potentially endangering the lives and safety of the occupants of the
building or structure due to the nature of the contents or processes/operations therein.
● The hazard of contents of any building or structure shall be classified as low hazard,
moderate hazard, and high hazard.

DIVISION 5. MEANS OF EGRESS

SECTION 10.2.5.2 GENERAL PROVISIONS
● An exit must consist of approved components and b e an integral part of the
building or permanently affixed to it
● If an exit needs to be protected, it should have fire resistance ratings depending
on the number of storeys it connects
● Openings in separation walls should be protected by self-closing fire-resistive
doors
● Exit enclosures should only be used for means of egress
● The width of means of egress should not be less than 915mm
● The number of exits should be at least two, and more in buildings with higher
occupant loads
● Exit access should be easily accessible at all times
● Room dimensions and dead-end pockets should not exceed specified limits
● The maximum travel distance to the nearest exit should not exceed limits
specified for each occupancy
● Doors to exits should swing with exit travel and not be located in lockable rooms
● Exterior ways of exit access should have smooth floors, guards on unenclosed
sides, and clear paths without obstructions

SECTION 10.2.5.3 DOORS

● A door assembly can be used as a means of egress if it meets the general and
specific requirements outlined in Section 10.2.5.2 of the RIRR.
● Doors serving as exits need to be designed to provide obvious and direct exit
travel.
 ● Windows that could be mistaken for doors should be made inaccessible to
occupants by barriers or railings.
● The door assembly must comply with fire protection rating and be self-closing or
automatic-closing by means of smoke detection.
● Doors in a means of egress should swing in the direction of egress travel and
leave at least half of the required width of an aisle unobstructed.
● Doors used in exits should be designed to swing in the direction of exit travel
when a force is applied to them.
● Locks and latches on doors should be easily operated from inside and have an
obvious method of operation.
● Doors required to be kept closed should have a reliable self-closing mechanism
and should not be secured open.
● Doors in buildings with four or more storeys should have re-entry mechanisms
every four floors.
● Doorways in means of egress should have a minimum clear width of 710mm.
● Power-operated doors should have manual means of opening in case of power
failure.
● Revolving doors have specific requirements and limitations for their use as exits.
● Turnstiles should not obstruct means of egress and should have adjacent
swinging doors or open passages.
● Folding partitions used to divide rooms should have a swinging door or open
doorway for exit access.
● Horizontal sliding doors should meet certain criteria for ease of operation and fire
safety.

SECTION 10.2.5.4 STAIRS

● Stairs used in means of egress must meet general requirements and special
requirements
● Stairways must be continuous from the uppermost floor to the ground floor
● Industrial equipment access area stairs have different rules
● Curved stairs are permitted if tread depth and radius meet specified criteria
● Spiral stairs are permitted with specific criteria depending on the occupant load
● Winder stairs are permitted with specified tread depth criteria
● Stairs serving as means of egress must be enclosed and have guards
● Stair details such as load-bearing capacity and non-slip surfaces are specified
● Handrail and guard details and requirements are specified
● Various configurations and combinations are accepted if they provide equivalent
safety
● Natural ventilation smoke proof enclosures should comply with certain
requirements, including fire resistance ratings for doors and protection of
openings adjacent to exterior balconies.
● Vestibules in these enclosures should have a minimum net area in exterior walls
and minimum dimensions in the direction of travel.
● Smoke proof enclosures using mechanical ventilation need to meet specific
requirements, such as dimension measurements for vestibules, supply and
exhaust air changes, and location of ducts.
● Stairs in mechanical ventilation systems should have damper relief openings and
maintain positive pressure relative to the vestibule with doors closed.
● Stair pressurization systems should have approved engineering systems and
maintain specific design pressure differences. Equipment and ductwork should
be located according to certain specifications.
● Activation of mechanical ventilation and pressurized stair systems should be
initiated by smoke detectors and manual controls accessible to the fire
department.
 ● Automatic-closing devices on doors in smoke proof enclosures should activate
simultaneously.
● Emergency power supply systems should be provided for new mechanical
ventilation equipment.
● Monumental stairs can be accepted as required exits if they meet certain
requirements, including enclosures and minimum tread width.

SECTION 10.2.5.5 OUTSIDE STAIRS

● Any permanently installed exterior staircase can be considered a means of
egress under certain conditions.
● When enclosing interior stairways, outside stairs must be separated from the
building interior by walls with the same fire-resistance rating as those enclosing
the interior stairs.
● Openings in these walls must be protected by fire doors or fixed wired glass
windows.
● The walls required for enclosure must extend vertically from the ground to a point
3,050 mm above the topmost landing of the stairs or to the roofline, whichever is
lower.
● The walls must also extend horizontally for a minimum of 3,050 mm.

SECTION 10.2.5.6 HORIZONTAL EXITS

● A horizontal exit is a safe passage from one building to another on the same level,
providing protection from fire and smoke.
● Horizontal exits can be used instead of other exits, as long as the total exit
capacity is not reduced below half of what is required for the building.
● Each fire compartment connected to a horizontal exit must have a stairway or
doorway leading outside.
● Continuous paths of travel must be available from each side of the horizontal exit
to stairways or other means of egress.
● Doors used in connection with the horizontal exit must swing in opposite
directions and should not be locked.
● Sufficient floor area should be provided on either side of the horizontal exit to
accommodate occupants.
● Bridges and balconies used in conjunction with horizontal exits must comply with
structural requirements and have guards and handrails.
● Walls connected by a horizontal exit must be non-combustible and provide a two-
hour fire resistance rating.
● Openings in these walls must be protected against fire or smoke.
● Fire doors should swing with the exit travel, and sliding fire doors should only be
used with additional fire doors on each side of the wall.
● Fire partitions may be omitted under certain conditions in specific storeys of a
building.
● Vertical openings between open fire areas and other floors must be enclosed with
fire-resistant construction.

SECTION 10.2.5.7 RAMPS

● A ramp can be used in a means of egress if it meets the general requirements
and special requirements outlined in the RIRR.
● Ramps must meet specific dimensional criteria, such as minimum width and
maximum slope and cross slope.
● Ramps used as exits must be separated from other parts of the building and can
have fixed wired glass panels if the building has a sprinkler system. No enclosed
usable space is allowed under ramps in an exit enclosure.
● Ramps must be designed to withstand a certain load and have a nonslip surface.
The slope should not vary between landings, and ramps must be made of
 noncombustible material in certain situations. Guards and handrails are required
in most cases.
● Outside ramps must be arranged to be easily used and can have a minimum
height requirement. They should also be designed to minimize water
accumulation.

SECTION 10.2.5.8 EXIT PASSAGEWAYS

● Hallways, corridors, passages, or tunnels can be designated as exits if they meet
the requirements outlined in Section 10.2.5.2 of the RIRR and the modifications
stated in this section.
● An exit passageway must be separated from other areas of the building as
specified in Section 10.2.5.2 of the RIRR.
● In buildings with an Automatic Sprinkler System, fixed wired glass panels in steel
sash can be installed in the separation of an exit passageway.
● The width of an exit passageway must be sufficient to accommodate the capacity
of all exits that discharge through it.
● The floor of an exit passageway must be solid and without any perforations.

SECTION 10.2.5.9 ESCALATORS AND MOVING WALKS

● Escalators and moving walks shall not constitute as part of the required means of
egress, unless they are previously approved existing escalators and moving
walks.

SECTION 10.2.5.10 FIRE ESCAPE STAIRS, LADDERS, AND SLIDE ESCAPES

● Fire escape stairs may be used in existing buildings as part of the means of
egress, but cannot be relied upon as the sole means of egress in new buildings.
● Fire escape stairs must provide a clear and unobstructed path to the ground or a
refuge area. Stairs leading to the roof must have handrails.
● Two types of fire escape stairs are recognized: return platform types and straight
run types, which can be attached to or independent of buildings.
● Fire escape stairs must meet specific dimensional criteria, including minimum
widths, maximum rise, and minimum tread dimensions.
● Fire escape stairs must be arranged and protected to minimize exposure to
window and door openings. Openings must be protected by fire doors or wired
glass windows.
● Access to fire escape stairs must comply with certain requirements, including
specific dimensions and ease of opening windows providing access.
● Fire escape stairs must be constructed using noncombustible materials and
designed to withstand specified loads and forces.
● Guards and handrails are required on fire escapes, with specific height and
construction criteria.
● Swinging sections of fire escape stairs may be used in certain situations, but must
meet specific design and safety requirements.
● Fire escape ladders may be used in specific scenarios and must meet installation,
construction, and height requirements.
● Slide escapes may be used as part of the means of egress, with specific capacity
ratings and requirements determined by the building code.

SECTION 10.2.5.11 ILLUMINATION OF MEANS OF EGRESS

● Illumination of means of egress is required in all buildings and structures.
● Lighting should be continuous while the means of egress are being used.
● Floors, corridors, stair landings, and exit doors should be illuminated to a
minimum of 10.7 lux.
 ● Lighting should be arranged in a way that the failure of any lighting unit does not
result in darkness.
● Reliable sources of illumination, such as public utility electric service, should be
used.
● Battery-operated lights cannot be used as primary illumination but may be used
as emergency sources.
● Luminescent, fluorescent, or reflective materials cannot be used as substitutes
for required illumination.
● Emergency lighting facilities should be provided for means of egress.
● Emergency lighting should maintain specified illumination for at least 1.5 hours.
● Emergency lighting systems need to be approved, use reliable storage batteries,
and comply with national or international standards.
● Emergency lighting should automatically activate in the event of any interruption
of normal lighting.
● Emergency lighting systems should either be continuously operational or able to
operate automatically.
● Proper maintenance of emergency lighting systems is required and should be
documented in a maintenance program incorporated in the Fire Safety
Maintenance Report (FSMR).

SECTION 10.2.5.12 EXIT MARKING

● Exits must be marked by visible signs, and access to exits must also be marked
if not immediately visible
● Any doors, passages, or stairways that could be mistaken for an exit must be
labeled as "NOT AN EXIT" and indicate their actual purpose
● Exit signs must be easily visible and not obstructed by decorations or bright lights
● Signs indicating the direction to the nearest exit must be placed where the
direction is not immediately apparent
● Signs must have distinctive colors and contrast with the surroundings
● Signs must be illuminated with a reliable light source, giving a minimum of 0.005
lumens per square centimeter
● Internally illuminated signs are required where normal illumination is reduced
● Exit signs must have the word "EXIT" in legible letters, with a minimum height of
150mm and principal stroke width of 19mm
● Existing buildings may use externally illuminated exit signs with a minimum height
of 115mm, except in places of assembly
● Other required signs must be of the same dimensions, unless otherwise specified.

SECTION 10.2.5.13 EMERGENCY EVACUATION PLAN

● An emergency evacuation plan should be displayed in the building in strategic
and visible locations.
● The plan should include information such as room numbers, fire exits, primary
and secondary routes to exit, fire alarms, fire extinguishers, emergency lights, first
aid kit locations, emergency call stations, areas of safe refuge, and assembly
areas instructions.
● The plan should be designed with a photo-luminescent background to be
readable in case of power failure.
● The dimensions of the plan depend on the size of the rooms and spaces, ranging
from 215.9 mm x 330.2 mm to 609.6 mm x 914.4 mm.
● The symbols and icons used for the marking should follow the standards set by
NFPA 170.
● The wall-mounted maps should be oriented to match the actual floor layout.
DIVISION 6. FEATURES OF FIRE PROTECTION
SECTION 10.2.6.1 CONSTRUCTION AND COMPARTMENTATION
● RA 9514 and its RIRR require the application of construction and
compartmentation to all types of buildings, whether new or existing.
● The latest edition of the National Building Code of the Philippines should be
consulted to determine construction requirements.
● Fire walls and barriers must comply with specific standards in order to prevent
the spread of fire.
● High-rise buildings and healthcare facilities must undergo quality assurance
inspections for their fire-resistant systems.
● Fire-resistant construction elements must be maintained and promptly repaired
or replaced if damaged.
● Damaged fire-rated gypsum wallboard must be replaced or repaired using
approved methods.
● Fire-resistant assemblies in high-rise buildings must be inspected every three
years.
● Inspectors responsible for these inspections must have appropriate technical
knowledge and experience.
● Inspections must be documented in a written report and submitted to the Chief
BFP or their representative.
● Certification of fire-stopping must be obtained from a third party and submitted to
the relevant authority.

SECTION 10.2.6.2 FIRE DOORS

● Fire doors must comply with NFPA 80 standards and have a fire resistance rating
based on international standards.
● Fire doors must be suitable for their specific location.
● Swinging fire doors and doors in stair enclosure walls must have approved latches
to keep them closed during a fire.
● The owner or authorized representative is responsible for annual inspections and
testing of the doors, including examining hardware and replacing any defective
parts.
● Reports of inspections and testing must be included in the Fire and Safety
Maintenance Records (FSMR).

SECTION 10.2.6.3 SMOKE PARTITIONS

● Smoke partitions should be made of fire resistive materials and should provide
continuous coverage from wall to wall and floor to floor.
● Openings in smoke partitions should only be for entry, exit, and building services
equipment. Doorways should be protected by doors that meet specific
requirements.
● Transfer grills should not be used in smoke partitions.
● Doors in smoke partitions should be swinging doors with a protection rating of at
least 20 minutes.
● Glass panels in doors should be transparent wired glass mounted in steel frames.
● Doors in smoke partitions should be automatically self-closing and should not
have undercuts, louvers, or grills.
● Door assemblies that are required to be smoke leakage-rated or smoke proof
should be tested and installed according to specific standards.

SECTION 10.2.6.4 INTERIOR FINISH

● Interior finish refers to the exposed surfaces inside buildings such as walls,
partitions, columns, and ceilings.
 ● Interior finish materials are classified into different flame spread ratings: Class A
(0-25), Class B (26-75), Class C (76-200), Class D (201-500), and Class E (over
500).
● Fire retardant paints can be applied to existing interior surfaces to achieve the
required flame spread classification.
● Surfaces can also be finished with factory-applied fire-retardant-coated products
or fire retardant paints for columns and beams made of steel.
● Where supervised automatic sprinklers are installed, interior finish with a flame
spread rating up to Class C can be used in place of Class B, and Class B can be
used in place of Class A.
● The use of interior finish material should follow the requirements for specific
occupancy classes.
● Class E interior finish should not be used in rooms occupied by humans, except
with special permission and with restrictions on the percentage of surface area
covered.

SECTION 10.2.6.5 PROTECTION OF VERTICAL OPENING AND COMBUSTIBLE

CONCEALED SPACES
● Every opening between storeys in a building should be enclosed or protected to
prevent the spread of fire or smoke, except in buildings with approved automatic
fire suppression systems.
● Buildings with low or ordinary hazard occupancy and approved sprinkler systems
can have up to three communicating floor levels without enclosure protection, as
long as specific conditions are met.
● Floor openings should be enclosed by substantial walls with fire resistance, and
fire doors should be installed in windows within the openings.
● Escalator openings can be protected using different methods, such as the
sprinkler vent method, spray nozzle methods, or partial enclosure method,
depending on specific requirements and conditions.
● Concealed spaces in new constructions should be fire-stopped using approved
materials, unless the space is sprinklered.
● Penetrations for electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and communication systems
passing through fire barriers should be protected by a fire stop system or device.
● Atriums are permitted as long as they are separated from adjacent spaces by fire
barriers.

SECTION 10.2.6.6 FIRE DETECTION, ALARM, AND COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS

● Fire detection, alarm, and communication systems must adhere to the NFPA 72,
National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, or the latest edition of the Philippine
Electronics Code and Philippine Electrical Code.
● If a required fire alarm system is out of service for more than four hours within a
twenty-four hour period, the C/MFM in charge must be notified within twenty-four
hours and a fire watch must be assigned until the system is repaired.
● Fire alarm systems must have an approved maintenance and testing program in
accordance with internationally accepted standards, and records of maintenance
and testing must be kept and submitted when required.
● The complete fire alarm system can be activated through manual initiation,
automatic detection, or extinguishing system operation.
● Manual fire alarm boxes should be used solely for fire protective signaling
purposes and must be readily accessible along escape routes and near exits.
● Additional fire alarm boxes should be placed within a maximum of thirty meters of
any part of the building.
● At least one manual fire alarm box must be provided for fire alarm systems with
automatic fire detection or water flow detection devices.
 ● Sprinkler systems with automatic detection and alarm initiation must have an
alarm initiation device triggered by the flow of water from a single sprinkler.
● Smoke detection must be provided in all occupiable areas, common areas, and
workspaces when required by other sections of the code.
● Smoke alarms must comply with NFPA 72.
● Occupants must be notified of fires or emergencies through audible and visible
signals, and the general evacuation alarm signal must operate throughout the
entire building.
● Emergency forces notification must be provided to alert the nearest fire station
and fire brigade in case of fire or emergency.
● The fire alarm system must automatically transmit the alarm to the fire department
via various means, depending on the requirements and in accordance with NFPA
72.
● A fire alarm and control system must automatically activate functions such as
releasing hold-open devices, pressurizing stairwells or elevator shafts,
managing/smoke control systems, and unlocking doors.
● Operator controls, alarm indicators, and manual communications must be
installed in a control center at a location approved by the C/MFM.
● Alarm annunciation at the control center must be through audible and visible
indicators.
● System trouble and supervisory signals must also be annunciated at the control
center.
● Each building within a system must be considered separately.
● The text is focused on regulations and requirements for fire detection, alarm, and
communication systems, including manual fire alarm boxes, smoke alarms,
occupant notification, emergency forces notification, emergency controls, and
control center location and annunciation.

SECTION 10.2.6.7 AUTOMATIC SPRINKLERS AND OTHER EXTINGUISHING

EQUIPMENT
● Automatic sprinkler systems must comply with NFPA 13 or NFPA 13R.
● Plans and specifications for sprinkler systems must be signed and sealed by a
Professional Mechanical Engineer (PME).
● Inspections, testing, and maintenance of sprinkler systems must follow NFPA 25,
and records must be submitted with FSMR.
● If a required sprinkler system is out of service for more than 4 hours, the owner
must notify the fire station and assign a fire watch until the system is back in
service.
● Sprinkler impairment procedures must comply with NFPA 25.
● Supervisory signals must be installed and monitored for integrity, including control
valves, fire pump power supplies, tank levels and temperatures, and dry-pipe
valves.
● Water flow alarms must be transmitted to an approved facility or fire station.
● In certain occupancies, automatic extinguishing systems other than sprinklers can
be used with the approval of the jurisdiction.
● Installed extinguishing systems must activate the building fire alarm system if
used in place of supervised sprinklers.
● Fire extinguishers and standpipe and hose systems must be installed, inspected,
and maintained according to the regulations.

SECTION 10.2.6.8 STANDPIPES

● Standpipe systems must be designed, installed, and maintained according to
NFPA 14.
● Assembly occupancies with an occupant load exceeding 1,000.
 ● Educational, healthcare, detention and correctional, business and mercantile,
industrial, hotels, and apartments occupancies, which are four or more storeys in
height.
● Hazardous storage and business and mercantile occupancies with a floor area
exceeding 1,860 m² per floor.

SECTION 10.2.6.9 PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

● The C/MFM with jurisdiction determines the type and number of fire extinguishers
needed in buildings.
● All buildings must have portable fire extinguishers, even if they have automatic
sprinklers or other fire protection equipment.
● Hazards are classified as low, moderate, or high based on the amount and type
of combustible materials present.
● Portable fire extinguishers are classified and rated for different types of fires (A,
B, C, D).
● Fire extinguishers must be maintained and easily accessible in the event of a fire.
● Obsolete types of fire extinguishers should be removed from service.
● Cabinets housing fire extinguishers should not be locked unless there is a risk of
malicious use.
● Fire extinguishers should be easily visible and not obstructed.
● Fire extinguisher installation and mounting must follow specific guidelines.
● Fire extinguishers should have instruction manuals.
● Selection of fire extinguishers depends on the type of hazard being protected.
● Fire extinguishers should be distributed throughout the building for both building
and occupancy protection.

SECTION 10.2.6.10 SEGREGATION AND PROTECTION OF HAZARDS

● Any process, operation, or storage with a higher level of hazard than normal
occupancy in a building must be enclosed with construction that has at least a
four-hour fire resistance rating or have automatic fire protection, or both.
● In cases where the hazard is high, both fire-rated construction and automatic fire
protection must be used.
● Construction enclosing hazardous operations or storage must have a minimum
of two-hour fire resistance, and openings between the rest of the building and
rooms for hazardous operations must be protected with self-closing or automatic
fire doors.
● For areas with explosion hazards, the building must have explosion venting to the
outside using thin glass or other approved vents.
● Automatic protection requires automatic sprinklers or other approved
extinguishing systems suitable for hazardous materials.

DIVISION 7. BUILDING SERVICES EQUIPMENT

SECTION 10.2.7.1 UTILITIES
● Gas equipment and gas piping should comply with NFPA 54 or NFPA 58.
● Electrical wiring and equipment should follow the latest edition of PEC.
● Cooking equipment should have an automatic kitchen hood fire suppression
system, as per NFPA 96 and NFPA 17A, except for certain establishments with
less than 50 occupants and specific types of cooking equipment.
● Restaurants without kitchen hoods and exhaust ducting systems that use small
cooking appliances are exempt from the requirement of a fire suppression
system.
● Electronics and telecommunications equipment and installation should adhere to
the Philippine Electronics Code or NFPA 76.
SECTION 10.2.7.2 HEATING, VENTILATING AND AIR-CONDITIONING
● Building services equipment such as air conditioning, ventilation, heating,
cooking, and incinerating systems must be designed and installed according to
the latest PMEC edition.
● When ducting is used to connect air conditioning and ventilation systems between
rooms or fire barriers, automatic fire dampers must be included.
● Compliance with PMEC guidelines ensures the proper functioning and safety of
building services equipment.

SECTION 10.2.7.3 SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEMS

● Smoke control systems are required in high rise buildings, atriums, underground
structures, windowless facilities, means of egress in assembly seating areas,
movie houses, and buildings with a single floor area of at least 1115 square
meters.
● The design, installation, operation, and testing of smoke control systems must
comply with the latest editions of PMEC and NFPA 92 and 204.
● Detailed design plans, reports, and specifications must be generated and
approved by a professional engineer.
● Operations and maintenance manuals must be provided before the issuance of a
certificate of occupancy/business permit.
● The manual should include system purpose, design objectives, approach,
assumptions, calculations, specifications, activation method, operation logic,
commissioning procedures, engineering analysis, control locations, and fire
command center details.
● Newly installed smoke-control systems must be inspected by the governing
authority and acceptance testing performed by a third party.
● Operations and maintenance manuals should outline testing and inspection
requirements, critical design assumptions, purpose of the system, operational
testing procedures, and maintenance schedules.
● Test records must be maintained and defects in the system must be repaired
promptly.
● The governing authority must be notified if a smoke-control system is out of
service for more than four hours, and an evacuation or fire watch must be
implemented until the system is restored.

SECTION 10.2.7.4 RUBBISH CHUTES, LAUNDRY CHUTES, AND FLUE-FED

INCINERATORS
● Every chute and incinerator flue must be enclosed, and the openings must be
protected.
● In new construction, inlet openings for chutes should only lead to a room
specifically meant for accessing the chute.
● Rubbish and laundry chutes can open into storage rooms up to 37 square meters,
as long as those rooms have automatic sprinklers.
● All incinerator flues, rubbish chutes, and laundry chutes must meet the standards
set by the latest edition of PMEC.
● For new constructions, any chute that is not an incinerator flue must have an
approved and supervised sprinkler system.
● These requirements do not apply to detached single or two-family dwellings.

SECTION 10.2.7.5 ELEVATORS AND ESCALATORS

● Elevator installations must adhere to the PMEC guidelines.
● New elevators should meet the safety requirements outlined in ASME A17.1,
unless the building is less than five storeys in height.
● Building management is responsible for conducting periodic inspections and tests
on elevators, with the authority of the BFP to also conduct inspections.
 ● Elevators equipped with firefighters' emergency operation must undergo monthly
testing and documentation of the findings.
● The records of these tests should be included in the submission of FSMR.

SECTION 10.2.7.6 FIRE SAFETY CLEARANCES

● Equipment and facilities mentioned in this division must obtain an installation
clearance from the C/MFM before being installed.
● This clearance is necessary for obtaining the permits required by law for these
installations.
● Installation clearance is a requirement for all fire protection and warning systems
in this RIRR.
● However, for installations covered by FSEC, installation clearance is no longer
necessary.

DIVISION 8. PLACES OF ASSEMBLY

● Occupant load in assembly buildings is determined by dividing the net floor area
by the square meter per occupant.
● Different types of assembly areas have different occupancy requirements,
ranging from 0.28 m2 per person for standing room to 1.4 m2 per person for less
concentrated use areas.
● The occupant load of areas with fixed seats is determined by the number of seats
installed, and aisles cannot be used to increase the occupant load.
● Rooms without fixed seats must display the occupant load near the main exit.
● Waiting spaces in theaters should have exits based on one person for every 0.25
m2 of waiting space area.
● The capacity of exits and the width of aisles serving theater-type seating should
be in accordance with specified factors.
● Each level of an assembly building must have access to the main exit and provide
additional exits for two-thirds of the total occupant load.
● Exit access corridors, exit travel distance, types of exits, seating requirements,
aisle widths, railings, lighting, and signs are regulated for safety.
● Stages and enclosed platforms require automatic fire suppression systems,
ventilators, fire-resistant curtains, and fire control stations.
● Use of pyroxylin coated fabrics in places of assembly has restrictions in terms of
the amount of nitrocellulose coating and the surface area of the fabric.
● Motion picture screens, stage curtains, and drapes must be flame-proofed and
pass a match-flame test.
● Vertical openings should be enclosed or protected according to specified
regulations.
● Interior finish requirements vary depending on the area within the place of
assembly.
● Rooms or spaces used for hazardous equipment or materials should be
separated from other parts of the building by fire barriers.
● All assembly occupancies should have a fire alarm system with manual initiation,
and larger occupancies should have an automatic detection system.
● Certain assembly occupancies must be protected by an automatic sprinkler
system.
● Public assembly buildings with over 14 seats must have a smoke management
system.
● Elevators should not be used as means of exit, and one elevator should be
designated for fire emergency use.
● All air conditioning, heating, and ventilation installations must comply with specific
provisions.
● Special provisions apply to food service establishments, exhibition halls, and
projection rooms for safety film.
 ● An emergency evacuation plan must be submitted, and overcrowding is
prohibited.
● Standby BFP personnel may be required in certain cases.
● Requirements for outdoor assembly, underground structures, and windowless
buildings are outlined.
● Existing places of assembly have capacity limitations and must conform to certain
interior finish provisions.

DIVISION 9. EDUCATIONAL OCCUPANCIES

SECTION 10.2.9.1 OCCUPANCY AND OCCUPANT LOAD

A. Classification of Educational Occupancies
● Educational occupancies encompass buildings where groups of six or
more people gather for instructional purposes, such as schools,
universities, colleges, and academies.
● Educational occupancy extends to part-day, nursery schools,
kindergartens, and similar institutions focused primarily on education,
even if serving pre-school-age children.
● Occupancies related to educational institutions must adhere to the
relevant sections of the applicable chapter.
● When instruction is secondary to another purpose or occupancy, the
section of the chapter governing that primary occupancy takes
precedence.
B. Occupant Load
● The occupant load for educational buildings, individual storeys, or
sections, used to determine the required number of exits, is based on
the area per person. Specifically:
- In classrooms, the occupant load is one person for every 1.9 square
meters.
- For areas like shops, laboratories, and vocational rooms, it's one
person for every 4.6 square meters.
- In dry nurseries with sleeping facilities, the occupant load is one
person for every 3.3 square meters.
● The occupant load for areas with fixed seats is based solely on the
number of installed fixed seats, and the aisle space cannot be included
to increase it.
● For lecture rooms, gymnasiums, and cafeterias used for assemblies of
more than fifty (50) persons, the occupant load is determined according
to Section 10.2.8.1 of this RIRR.
SECTION 10.2.9.2 EXIT DETAILS
A. Capacity of Exits
● Capacity of means of egress shall be in accordance with Section
10.2.5.2 para “C” of this RIRR.
B. Minimum Number of Exits
● For rooms with over fifty (50) persons or exceeding ninety-three square
meters (93 m2), there should be at least two (2) doorways located as
far apart as possible. These doorways should lead to separate exits,
but if the egress is through corridors, they should open onto a common
corridor leading to exits in opposite directions.
● Every storey and mezzanine must have a minimum of two (2) separate
exits that are accessible from all areas.
C. Travel Distance to Exits
 ● In buildings without an approved sprinkler system, the maximum travel
distance to an exit cannot exceed 46 meters (46 m). If a building has a
sprinkler system, the limit is 61 meters (61 m).
D. Access to Exits
● Every aisle, corridor, balcony, other means of access to exits, and
discharge from exit shall be in accordance with Section 10.2.5.2 of this
RIRR.
● Any corridor shall be not less than one and eighty-three hundredths
meters (1.83 m) wide in the clear.
● Doors in exit access corridors must be recessed or swing open 180
degrees to avoid blocking the corridor. These doors should not reduce
the corridor width by more than half.
● Drinking fountains or equipment must not obstruct a minimum corridor
width of 1.83 meters (1.83 m).
E. Exterior Corridors or Balconies
● Exterior corridors or balconies used as exits must open to the outside
air, with stair or level exits not more than 76.25 meters apart. Dead-end
balconies should not exceed 6 meters. Enclosed balconies are
considered interior corridors.
● Balcony and stair floors must be solid, meeting outside stair
requirements for balustrades, width, and pitch. They don't need fire
shielding if they are on the outer side of the balcony or corridor,
separated by the full width of the balcony or corridor.
F. Exit Arrangement
● There must be a minimum of two separate exits for each floor area.
These exits should be located as far apart as possible to prevent
pockets or dead ends. No dead-end corridor should extend more than
six meters beyond the nearest means of exit.
G. Types of Exits
● Exits, meeting specified numbers and width, can be of the following
types as per Division 5 of this Chapter:
1. Swinging doors leading outside or through a lobby to the outside.
Doors used by 50 or more people must have panic hardware.
2. Horizontal exits
3. Smoke-proof enclosures
4. Stairs
5. Ramps
H. Additional Exit Details
● This section applies to standard occupancy. Educational buildings for
individuals with disabilities must include extra features as needed by
the local authority to ensure safe emergency use.
I. Dead-End Corridors
● Dead end corridors shall not exceed six meters (6m).

SECTION 10.2.9.3 LIGHTING AND SIGNS

A. All educational buildings must meet the exit illumination requirements outlined in
Section 10.2.5.11 of this RIRR. Flexible, open-plan, night-occupancy, and windowless
areas must also have emergency lighting.
B. Educational buildings must display exit signs following the guidelines in Section
10.2.5.12 of this RIRR.

SECTION 10.2.9.4 WINDOWS FOR RESCUE AND VENTILATION

In educational buildings without a sprinkler system as per Section 10.2.6.7, any room
normally occupied by students that doesn't have a direct outside door must have a window
for emergency rescue and ventilation. The window must meet these conditions:
● It can be easily opened from the inside without tools.
● It provides an opening at least 560 mm wide and 800 mm high.
● The bottom of the window is no more than 820 mm above the floor.
● If storm windows, screens, or anti-burglar devices are used, they must have a quick-
opening mechanism for easy internal use and should not fall to the ground when
opened.

SECTION 10.2.9.5 PROTECTION

A. Vertical Opening
● Interior stairways and vertical openings in educational buildings must
be enclosed and protected per Section 10.2.6.5 of this RIRR. An
exception is when a stairway serves only one adjacent floor (excluding
the basement), is not linked to stairways serving other floors or
corridors, and is independent.
B. Interior Corridors
● Interior corridors must have at least a half-hour fire resistance rating
with protected openings. Corridor protection is not required when all
classrooms served have exterior doors.
● Corridors over 91 meters must be divided into sections under 91 meters
using smoke partitions as per Section 10.2.6.3 of this RIRR.
C. Interior Finish
● Corridors, stairways, and egress routes must have Class A interior
finish. In other areas, Class B or Class C finish is acceptable per Section
10.2.6.4 of this RIRR.
D. Fire Alarm System
● Educational buildings must have approved manual fire alarm facilities
per Section 10.2.6.6 of this RIRR.
● In buildings with automatic fire suppression systems, the system must
automatically trigger the electrical school fire alarm system.
E. Automatic Fire Suppression System
● Any part of an educational building below the floor of exit discharge
used as a classroom or laboratory must have a supervised sprinkler
system, both on the floor with the classroom or laboratory and at the
exit discharge level.
● High-rise buildings must be fully protected by a supervised sprinkler
system.
F. Hazardous Areas
● Areas for general storage, boiler or furnace rooms, fuel storage, janitor
closets, maintenance shops, laundries, kitchens, including
woodworking and painting areas, must be separated from the rest of
the building with one-hour fire-resistant construction. Openings should
have self-closing fire doors, or the area should have an automatic fire
suppression system. If the hazard is high, as determined by the local
authority, both the fire-resistant separation and automatic fire
suppression system are required.
G. Cooking equipment
● Cooking equipment shall be protected in accordance with Section
10.2.7.1 of this RIRR.

SECTION 10.2.9.6 BUILDING SERVICES EQUIPMENT

A. Elevators
● Elevators cannot serve as a r equired means of exit.
● In educational buildings taller than three (3) storeys with automatic
elevators, at least one elevator should be designed for firefighter's
 emergency use. This elevator should have a key operation to switch
from automatic to manual mode and bring it to the ground or first floor
for firefighter access. If there's only one elevator, it must have a
firefighter's switch for manual operation.
B. Air conditioning
● Every air-conditioning, heating, and ventilating installation shall comply
with Division 7 of this Chapter.
C. Electrical Wiring and Equipment
● Electrical wiring and equipment must comply with the latest PEC
edition, and building service equipment should follow Division 7 of this
Chapter.

SECTION 10.2.9.7 SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR FLEXIBLE PLAN AND OPEN-

PLAN BUILDINGS
A. Definitions as Used in this Section
● Educational buildings can be either flexible plan (with movable walls
and partitions) or open plan (defined by furnishings).
● Common atmosphere occurs between areas without approved smoke
partitions.
● Separate atmosphere occurs between areas with approved smoke
partitions.
● Smoke partitions include floors and their openings as per Section
10.2.6.3.
● A room is a space enclosed by an egress-obstructing barrier that
encloses over 80% of the perimeter (openings less than 2 meters high
don't count).
● An interior room has its sole exit through another non-exit room.
● Separate means of egress are isolated from each other to prevent
contamination by the same fire.
B. Area Limitations and Separations
● Flexible and open-plan buildings can't exceed 2,787 square meters in
undivided area. Walls or smoke partitions must be placed at intervals
not exceeding 91 meters with compliant openings.
● Vertical openings must follow Section 10.2.6.5.
● Stages in assembly areas must have non-combustible construction with
a 2-hour fire resistance rating, as per Section 10.2.8.3.
● Shops, labs, and storage rooms must be separated from school areas
by at least 1-hour fire-resistant construction and have independent
exits.
C. General Provisions
● These requirements don't prohibit the use of other effective systems to
prevent combustion by-products from breaching the separation.
● These provisions only apply to maintaining separate atmospheres,
while fire resistance follows other chapter rules.
a. Walls, partitions, and floors in the separation must meet
construction standards equal to smoke partitions, with openings
containing wired glass in metal frames for light.
b. Door openings must be protected by fire assemblies with a 20-
minute fire protection rating, including self-closing or automatic-closing,
tight-fitting smoke assemblies.
c. Ducts crossing separation walls or floors require approved
automatic-closing smoke dampers, or an approved method of smoke
control if openings connect different atmospheres.
d. Smoke detectors must activate automatic-closing fire assemblies in
the separation.
 e. Janitor closets and storage rooms should have one-hour fire-
resistant materials, and stages and enclosed platforms must follow
Section 10.2.8.3.
D. Means of Egress
● Rooms with over 300 people need one exit access door through a
separate means of egress. No more than two exits should lead to the
same means of egress.
● Interior room exits can pass through adjoining or intervening rooms if
travel distances are within limits. Smoke detectors must be installed
when the only exit is through an adjoining or intervening room.
E. Travel Distance to Exits
● Exit distances must not exceed 46 meters.
F. Interior Finish
● Interior finish standards for flexible and open-plan buildings:
- Class A for corridor walls.
- Class A and Class B for other than corridor walls, with some exceptions.
G. Variable Plans
● Flexible plan schools can rearrange walls and partitions with approved
plans. Open-plan schools should arrange furniture and fixtures for clear
and direct exit paths, meeting width requirements.
H. Sprinkler Systems
● Sprinkler systems are required in flexible and open plan buildings with
exit distances exceeding 46 meters, electrically interconnected with the
school fire alarm system. Automatic fire suppression systems must be
modified in line with partition changes with prior approval from the local
authority.

SECTION 10.2.9.8 SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR PRE-SCHOOLS

● Rooms used for preschoolers shall not be located above or below the
floor of exit discharge.

SECTION 10.2.9.9 UNDERGROUND AND WINDOWLESS EDUCATIONAL

BUILDINGS
● Section 10.2.19.10 applies to Underground and Windowless
Educational Buildings, which must have automatic fire suppression
systems.

SECTION 10.2.9.10 SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR COMBINED OCCUPANCIES

A. Assembly and Educational
● Auditoriums, cafeterias, gymnasiums, and assembly spaces must meet
Division 8 requirements. If their exits also serve other parts of the
building, exit capacity should allow simultaneous evacuation.
B. Dormitory and Classroom
● Buildings used for classrooms and dormitories must comply with
Division 14 and Division 9. If classroom and dormitory sections are not
occupied simultaneously, the same exit capacity can serve both.
C. Other Combined Occupancies
● For other combinations of occupancy, follow all relevant divisions in this
chapter with exits suitable for simultaneous evacuation.

SECTION 10.2.9.11 EXISTING EDUCATIONAL BUILDINGS

A. General
● Existing educational buildings established before RA 9514 and its RIRR
may continue use if they comply with these rules and provide
 reasonable life safety against fire, explosion, and panic as determined
by the local authority.
B. Additional Protection
● Additional protection, like more exits, automatic fire suppression
systems, area separations, and emergency lighting, can be used to
enhance life safety from fire and panic.
C. Exits
● Exit deficiencies can be corrected by adding exits that provide direct
outdoor access from classrooms or student-occupied areas. If this isn't
feasible, communicating doors between classrooms can offer life safety
access to at least one exit stair without going through interior corridors.
D. Interior Finish
● For existing educational buildings with non-compliant interior finish,
Section 10.2.6.4 can be used as an alternative requirement.
E. Fire Alarm System
● Fire alarm systems in existing educational buildings should meet the
requirements for new educational buildings, as outlined in Section
10.2.9.5.

DIVISION 10. DAY CARE OCCUPANCIES

SECTION 10.2.10.1 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

● This section applies to day care occupancies with over 12 clients cared for less
than 24 hours. Specific requirements apply to day care homes. The strictest
rules for any age group in the facility apply unless areas are separate fire areas.
Religious worship places running day care homes during services are exempt.
Day care centers can't be located below the exit discharge level.

SECTION 10.2.10.2 OCCUPANT LOAD

• The occupant load is calculated based on one person for every 3.3 square
meters or the maximum probable population, whichever is higher.

SECTION 10.2.10.3 EXIT DETAILS

• Means of egress for day care occupancies must comply with specific
regulations, including permissible components, capacity, number,
arrangement, travel distance, discharge, illumination, and signage.

SECTION 10.2.10.4 WINDOWS FOR RESCUE

• Every client-occupied room, except bathrooms, must have an outside window
for emergency rescue that can be opened from the inside, meeting specific size
and height requirements to allow for safe evacuation.

SECTION 10.2.10.5 MANDATORY RAMP REQUIREMENT

● For day care centers with non-ambulatory residents of at least twelve (12), a
ramp complying with Section 10.2.5.7 of this RIRR shall be provided
SECTION 10.2.10.6 PROTECTION
● Day care occupancies must adhere to specific safety regulations, including the
protection of vertical openings and the installation of fire detection and alarm
systems.
● Buildings with unprotected openings should be equipped with an automatic
sprinkler system.
● Hazardous areas such as boiler rooms, storage spaces, and maintenance
shops must be separated by fire barriers and may require automatic
extinguishing systems.
SECTION 10.2.10.7 CORRIDORS
● Interior corridors must have walls with a one-hour fire resistance rating, except
in specific situations.
● Corridor protection is not required when all client-occupied spaces have doors
leading directly outside or to an exterior exit access.
● In buildings with approved sprinkler systems, corridor walls need not be rated
but should form smoke partitions.
● Lavatories do not need corridor separation if they have one-hour fire-resistant
walls and are separated from other areas. Additionally, if a building has an
approved sprinkler system and the lavatory walls form smoke partitions,
corridor separation may not be needed.
SECTION 10.2.10.8 BUILDING SERVICES EQUIPMENT
A. Utilities
● Utilities must comply with Section 10.2.7.1.
● Special protective covers for electrical receptacles are required in
client-occupied areas.
B. Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning Equipment
● HVAC equipment must follow Section 10.2.7.2.
● Unvented fuel-fired heating equipment, except compliant gas space
heaters, is not allowed.
● Heating equipment in client-occupied spaces must have protection from
hot surfaces and open flames, ensuring proper air and ventilation if
using solid partitions.
C. Elevators, Escalators, and Conveyors:
● Elevators, escalators, and conveyors must follow Section 10.2.7.5.
D. Waste Chutes, Incinerators, and Laundry Chutes:
● Waste chutes, incinerators, and laundry chutes should adhere to
Section 10.2.7.4.
SECTION 10.2.10.9 DAY CARE HOME
A. General Requirements
● Rules apply to day care homes with 3-12 clients for less than 24 hours,
generally in a dwelling.
● Strictest requirements apply when multiple age groups are present.
● Temporary supervision with a parent nearby doesn't require these rules.
● Places of religious worship are exempt when services are held.
B. Classification of Occupancy
● Family Day Care Home: 3-6 clients with specific staff and client ratios.
● Group Day Care Home: 7-12 clients with different staff and client ratios.
C. Location
● No day care homes below exit level.
D. Occupant Load
● Staff-client ratios for both types.
● Limit on clients incapable of self-preservation.
E. Means of Escape Requirements
● Follow single and two-family dwelling escape rules.
● No client-occupied rooms only accessible by ladder or trap door.
● Specific means of escape for group homes with upper-level client
spaces and those below exit level.
F. Arrangement of Means of Escape
● Dead-end corridors shouldn't exceed 6 meters.
● Doors in escape routes must be unobstructed.
G. Travel Distance
● Travel distance measured per Section 10.2.5.2.
● Maximum distances for different areas is 46m from any point to the door
leading to the outside.
 ● Increased distances allowed with automatic sprinkler systems.
H. Illumination of Means of Egress
● Means of egress must be illuminated as per Section 10.2.5.11.
I. Protection for Group Day Care Homes
● The doorway between the exit level and a lower storey must have a 20-
minute fire door assembly.
● Group day care homes using upper floors for sleeping must have 20-
minute fire doors at stairways' top or bottom.

DIVISION 11. HEALTH CARE OCCUPANCIES

SECTION 10.2.11.1 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

A. Fundamental Requirements for Health Care Buildings
● Health care buildings must be designed, constructed, maintained, and
operated to minimize the need for evacuations in a fire emergency. This
involves proper design, construction, fire detection and alarm systems,
fire prevention, and training in fire safety procedures.
● In psychiatric buildings where doors may be locked or windows barred,
exit lock requirements may be waived, but reliable means for removing
occupants must be provided.
B. Special Facilities like Emergency Rooms
● Emergency rooms, operating rooms, etc., should ideally be on the exit
level. If not, they can be located above or below the exit level, but they
must be equipped with ramps in fire-resistant enclosures or horizontal
exits leading to separate buildings.
C. New Construction, Additions, Conversion
● Additions to existing buildings should have fire partitions, self-closing
fire doors, and meet specific separation requirements.
● Converted buildings must meet all new facility requirements for health
care buildings.
D. Occupancy and Occupant Load for Health Care Buildings
● Health care occupancies must be entirely separated from other
occupancies by fire-resistant construction. Means of egress in health
care areas passing through non-health care spaces must meet health
care standards. High hazard occupancies are not allowed in buildings
with health care occupancies.
● Sections of health care buildings may be classified as other
occupancies if they're not for housing, treatment, or egress for health
care occupants, and they have proper separation.
● Special areas like auditoriums, chapels, staff residential areas, etc.,
connected to health care occupancies must have appropriate exits.
● The required number of exits for any floor is determined by the
maximum number of occupants intended for that floor, with specific
occupancy-based calculations. Gross floor area is measured without
deductions.
SECTION 10.2.11.2 EXIT DETAILS
A. Number and Types of Exits:
● Permissible exit types: doors leading outside, stairs, ramps, horizontal
exits, and exit passageways.
● Each floor or fire section must have at least two remote exits.
● Elevators are supplementary facilities and not counted as exits.
B. Capacity of Exits
● Capacity follows Section 10.2.5.2 para "C" of this RIRR.
C. Access to Exits
● All access areas must meet Section 10.2.5.2, with exceptions specified.
 ● Travel distances have specified limits based on different conditions and
are affected by the presence of automatic fire suppression systems.
● Health care sleeping rooms must have an exit access door leading to a
corridor that leads to an exit. An intervening room may be present with
specific requirements.
● width requirements for aisles, corridors, and ramps differ based on
usage.
● Rooms over 93 square meters must have at least two remote exit
access doors.
● Corridors and paths should avoid pockets or dead-ends exceeding 6
meters and common paths of travel exceeding 10 meters.
● Large health care sleeping rooms may be subdivided with non-rated
barriers for direct and constant visual supervision, with size limitations.
D. Doors
● Doors should generally follow Section 10.2.5.3 with some modifications
for horizontal exits and smoke partitions.
● Locks are generally not allowed on patient sleeping room doors, but
exceptions exist for key-locking devices operated by staff or for specific
security needs.
● Specific requirements exist for exit access doors from various rooms
and areas.
● Electrical devices can hold open doors in specific areas under certain
conditions.
● Doors in stair enclosures and around hazardous areas should not have
hold-open devices.
E. Stairs and Smoke-proof Enclosures
● Stairs and smoke-proof enclosures must comply with Section 10.2.5.4.
F. Horizontal Exits
● Requirements for horizontal exits in hospitals and nursing homes.
● Conditions for single doors used as horizontal exits.
● Specifications for horizontal exits involving wide corridors.
● Requirement for vision panels in horizontal exit doors.
G. Ramps
● Ramps should adhere to Section 10.2.5.7.
H. Emergency Lighting, Exit Markings, Alarms, and Communication
Systems
● Hospitals should have emergency lighting, exit markings, and other
systems as per NFPA 99.
● Nursing homes require emergency lighting with a specified duration.
● Exit signs are needed in both hospitals and nursing homes.
I. Emergency Evacuation Plan
● Health care facilities must provide an emergency evacuation plan
following Section 10.2.5.13 of this RIRR.

SECTION 10.2.11.3 PROTECTION

A. Subdivision of Building Spaces
● Smoke partitions are required to compartmentalize sleeping or
treatment areas and areas with 50 or more occupants.
● Smoke partitions are also needed for usable but unoccupied floors.
● Smoke partitions must have a one-hour fire resistance rating.
● Specific area requirements for occupants on each side of the smoke
partition.
● Corridor openings within smoke partitions must have swinging doors.
● Doors within smoke partitions should be self-closing.
● Vision panels are required in doors within smoke partitions.
 ● Stops are needed on door frames, and center mullions are prohibited.
B. Minimum Construction Standards
● Health care buildings' construction type depends on the number of
stories and must meet specified requirements.
● Buildings with two or more stories must have fire-resistive construction.
● Enclosure walls around vertical openings need a two-hour fire
resistance rating.
● Interior walls in fire-resistive and non-combustible construction must be
non-combustible.
● Health care sleeping rooms must have accessible outside windows or
doors.
C. Construction of Corridor Walls
● Corridors should be separated from use areas by partitions with a one-
hour fire-resistance rating.
● Continuous construction from floor to ceiling required.
● Specific requirements for corridor door size, swinging doors, and self-
closing mechanisms.
● Vision panels are permitted in corridor doors.
● Waiting areas on sleeping floors may be open to the corridor with
specific conditions.
D. Protection of Vertical Openings and Fire-stopping:
● Enclosure of stairways, shafts, and openings between stories with fire-
resistant materials.
● Stairway doors should be self-closing and marked.
● Fire-stopping requirements must be met.
E. Interior Finish
● Specific requirements for interior finish materials.
F. Alarm, Detection, and Extinguishment Systems
● Every building must have an electrically supervised automatic fire alarm
system.
● Heat and smoke detection systems are required in corridors and must
meet specific spacing criteria.
● Approved sprinkler systems are needed, with specific requirements for
quick-response sprinklers.
● Details for sprinkler systems.
● Specific requirements for fire suppression systems.
● Requirements for fire suppression system connections.
● Portable fire extinguisher requirements.
G. Hazardous Areas
● Hazardous areas must be segregated and protected according to
specific guidelines.

SECTION 10.2.11.4 BUILDING SERVICES EQUIPMENT

A. Service Equipment Safety
● Air conditioning, ventilation, heating, cooking, and service equipment
must adhere to Division 7 guidelines.
● Heating devices must be safely designed to prevent ignition of
combustible materials. Fuel-fired heaters must have proper ventilation,
combustion separation, and safety mechanisms. Fireplaces are allowed
but with restrictions and safety features.
● Boiler, incinerator, or heater rooms must draw combustion and
ventilation air directly from outside.
● Rubbish and linen chutes, including incinerators, must meet safety
requirements and discharge into designated rubbish collecting rooms.
DIVISION 12. RESIDENTIAL BOARD AND CARE
SECTION 10.2.12.1 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
● Board and care occupancies must not rely on exits passing through
nonresidential or non-health care occupancies in the same building.
● B. Board and care occupancies cannot be situated above nonresidential or non-
health care occupancies unless there is a two-hour fire-resistant barrier
separating them.
SECTION 10.2.12.2 SMALL FACILITIES
● This section applies to small residential board and care occupancies with up to
sixteen residents.
● Adequate and unobstructed means of escape must be maintained.
● Sleeping rooms and living areas should have access to primary means of
escape.
● Interior stairs used for escape must meet specific requirements and fire
resistance ratings.
● Doors should meet width and accessibility standards.
● Protection measures should include separation of vertical openings, fire-
resistant partitions, and fire detection systems.
● Extinguishing requirements, including sprinkler systems and portable fire
extinguishers, should be met.
● Specific construction standards for corridor walls and sleeping room doors are
outlined.
● Building service equipment, including utilities and HVAC systems, should
comply with regulations.

SECTION 10.2.12.3 LARGE FACILITIES

● This section pertains to board and care occupancies with over sixteen residents.
Smaller facilities follow a different section.
● Determining the occupant load is based on space area or maximum probable
population.
● Means of egress and escape must comply with specific requirements.
● The types of exit components are restricted to doors, stairs, smoke-proof
enclosures, horizontal exits, ramps, and exit passageways.
● Capacity, number, arrangement, and travel distance of means of egress are
regulated.
● Exit discharge, illumination, emergency lighting, and marking requirements are
outlined.
● Protection of vertical openings is essential, with restrictions on unprotected
openings in lower floors used for non-residential purposes.
● Hazardous Areas Hazardous areas shall be protected in accordance with
Section 10.2.6.10 and in accordance with Table 10 below.
Detection, Alarm, and Communication Systems
● Automatic detection and alarm systems are mandatory for large residential custodial
care facilities.
● Annunciator panels linked to fire alarm systems must be easily accessible at the primary
emergency response entry point.
● High-rise buildings require emergency voice communication systems.
● Smoke alarms are needed inside sleeping rooms, outside sleeping areas near
bedrooms, and on all levels within resident units.
● Corridors and associated spaces must have smoke detectors that trigger an audible
alarm in all sleeping areas.
Extinguishing Requirements
● All buildings must be equipped with approved automatic sprinkler systems (quick-
response or residential sprinklers).
● Exceptions exist for single-story buildings with up to five beds.
● Portable fire extinguishers are to be installed in accordance with specified regulations.
Corridors and Separation of Sleeping Rooms

● Access from resident areas to at least one egress separate from sleeping rooms must
be provided.
● Proper fire-resistant walls and smoke partitions are required for separation.
● Door-closing devices are not mandated except in certain areas.
● Walls and doors should resist the passage of smoke, and air passages should be
controlled to prevent smoke penetration.
Subdivisions of Building Spaces
● Storeys should be divided into smoke compartments of a specified area.
● Exceptions exist for areas without board and care occupancies or located far below
such occupancies.
● Special rules apply to open parking structures protected by sprinkler systems.
● Travel distance to reach a door in a smoke barrier is limited to a certain distance.
Building Services Equipment
● Installation of utilities must adhere to Section 10.2.7.1.
● Heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning equipment must meet the requirements of
Section 10.2.7.2.
● Elevators, escalators, and conveyors are subject to compliance with Section 10.2.7.5.

DIVISION 13. DETENTION AND CORRECTIONAL OCCUPANCIES

SECTION 10.2.13.1 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
Detention and Correctional Occupancies:
A. Occupancy Categories:
 ● Detention and correctional occupancies are classified into the following groups
based on egress conditions:
a. Use Condition I – Free Egress: Unrestricted movement with compliant
means of egress.
b. Use Condition II – Zoned Egress: Movement between smoke
compartments is allowed.
c. Use Condition III – Zoned Impeded Egress: Movement within smoke
compartments with remote-controlled egress release.
d. Use Condition IV – Impeded Egress: Restricted movement with remote-
controlled egress release.
e. Use Condition V – Contained: Movement is restricted, and staff-controlled
manual release is provided.
● For Use Conditions III and IV, the egress release mechanisms must be
arranged for accessibility and security to ensure prompt release by the
minimum available staff.
● Areas corresponding to Use Condition I must meet residential occupancy
requirements, with exceptions for facilities equipped with 24-hour staff.
B. Occupant Load
● The minimum required means of egress on any floor is based on the maximum
number of occupants intended for that floor, with a minimum of one person for
every 11.1 square meters of gross floor area.

SECTION 10.2.13.2 EXIT DETAILS

Egress Requirements:
A. Permissible Exit Types
● Exits are limited to doors, stairs, smoke-proof enclosures, horizontal exits, and
exit passageways.
B. Capacity of Exits
● Exit capacity is calculated according to Section 10.2.5.2 of the RIRR.
C. Number of Exits
● Each floor or fire section must have at least two exits of different types located
remotely from each other.
● Exit access travel may have a common path of up to 30 meters.
D. Access to Exit
● All access points to exits, including aisles, passageways, corridors, exit
discharges, and exit locations, must comply with Section 10.2.5.2 of the RIRR.

E. Arrangement of Means of Egress

● Every sleeping room must have a door leading directly to an exit access
corridor, with exceptions.
● No exit or exit access should contain a pocket or dead-end longer than 6
meters.
● A sally port is allowed in means of egress when continuous and unobstructed
travel is provided during an emergency.
F. Travel Distance to Exits
● The distance between a room door intended as exit access and an exit should
not exceed 30 meters.
● The distance between any point in a room and an exit should not exceed 46
meters.
● Travel distance within a sleeping room to the room's exit door should not
exceed 10 meters.
G. Exit Discharge
● Exits can discharge into a courtyard, with specific size requirements and
distance from the building.
 ● All exits can discharge at the level of exit discharge, except with specific
conditions.
H. Emergency Lighting and Exit Markings
● Means of egress must be illuminated as per Section 10.2.5.11 of the RIRR.
● Emergency lighting is required in accordance with Section 10.2.5.11.
● Exit signs must be provided in areas accessible to the public.

SECTION 10.2.13.3 PROTECTION

A. Protection of Vertical Opening
● Vertical openings should typically be enclosed or protected. There are two
exceptions:
Exception No. 1: Unprotected vertical openings in accordance with Section
10.2.6.5 are permitted.
Exception No. 2: In sleeping quarters smoke compartments, unprotected
vertical openings are allowed if they meet specific conditions, including height
restrictions and subdivision. These sleeping quarters can be considered part
of the communicating space, and no fire resistance rating is required for
separation.
B. Interior Finish
● Interior finish should be Class A or Class B.
C. Detection, Alarm, and Communication Systems
● Detention and correctional occupancies require a fire alarm system, with some
modifications.
● The initiation of the fire alarm system can be manual, and it can be initiated
through manual fire alarm boxes, with specific conditions and exceptions.
● Occupant notification should be automatic with a positive alarm sequence,
except that smoke detectors required by this chapter can be arranged to alarm
at a constantly attended location only.
● Fire department notification should follow specific procedures, with exceptions.
● An automatic smoke detection system is required in various areas, including
resident sleeping areas and adjacent spaces.
● Smoke detectors are not required in sleeping rooms with four or fewer
occupants.
● Alternative arrangements and positioning of smoke detectors are permitted for
tamper prevention or other purposes.
● Smoke detectors are not required in Use Condition II open dormitories where
staff is present when the dormitory is occupied.
D. Extinguishment Requirements
● Buildings classified under various use conditions need to be protected by a
supervised automatic sprinkler system.
● The sprinkler system must be fully supervised and electrically connected to the
fire alarm system.
● Portable fire extinguishers must be provided, with exceptions:
Exception No. 1: Portable fire extinguishers can be locked if personnel are on
duty 24/7, and keys are readily available.
Exception No. 2: Portable fire extinguishers can be located at staff locations
only.
● Standpipe and hose systems must be provided.

E. Subdivision of Building Spaces

● Every storey used for sleeping by residents or with an occupant load of 50 or
more must be subdivided into compartments using smoke barriers.
● Subdivision requirements can be met through specific means, including smoke
compartments, two-hour fire resistance rating separation, or a secured open
area.
F. Hazardous Areas
● Any hazardous area shall be protected in accordance with Section 10.2.6.10
of this RIRR. The areas described in Table 11 below shall be protected as
indicated.

● Smoke barriers must restrict the occupant load to 200 residents or less per
smoke compartment and limit travel distances:
- Room door exit access distance must not exceed 45 meters.
- Travel distance from any point within a room must not exceed 60 meters.
● Smoke barriers must be constructed in accordance with specific requirements,
including substantial construction and structural fire resistance.
● Openings in smoke barriers must be protected. Sliding doors in smoke
barriers, designed to remain closed and remotely operated, are not required to
be self-closing.
● Space on each side of the smoke barrier, equivalent to 0.56 square meters per
occupant in adjoining compartments, must be provided for use during fire
emergencies.
● Doors in smoke barriers must resist the passage of smoke and meet specific
latching and opening resistance requirements.
● Doors in smoke barriers must comply with egress door requirements and have
locking and release arrangements based on the use condition.
● Vision panels must be installed in smoke barriers where they intersect an exit
access corridor.
● Smoke dampers must be installed.
G. Building Services Equipment
● Building service equipment, including air-conditioning, ventilation, heating, and
cooking systems, must comply with Division 7 of this Chapter and be installed
according to the manufacturer's specifications.
● Specific modifications and requirements pertain to combustion and ventilation
air for boilers or incinerators, which must be taken directly from and discharged
directly to the outside air.
● Rubbish chutes, linen chutes, pneumatic systems, and incinerators have
detailed safeguards and protection requirements outlined in Sections 10.2.6.5,
 10.2.7.4, and 10.2.6.10 of this RIRR. Trash chutes should discharge into
dedicated, protected trash collecting rooms used exclusively for this purpose.

DIVISION 14. RESIDENTIAL OCCUPANCIES

SECTION 10.2.14.1 CLASSIFICATION
Residential occupancies are categorized into the following groups:
● Hotels: Buildings with over 15 sleeping accommodations for transients who may
or may not have meals provided, including establishments like hotels, inns,
motels, apartelles, condotels, and pension houses.
● Dormitories: Buildings offering group sleeping arrangements for non-family
members under a single management, seen in places like college dorms,
convents, fraternity houses, and military barracks.
● Apartment Buildings: Structures housing three or more living units, each with
independent cooking and bathroom facilities, regardless of their designations
such as condominiums, row houses, apartment houses, or garden apartments.
● Lodging or Rooming Houses: Buildings renting separate sleeping rooms for 15 or
fewer people, on either a transient or permanent basis, with or without meals, but
without individual cooking facilities for occupants.
● Single and Two-Family Dwellings: Detached residences with each living unit
occupied by a single family.
SECTION 10.2.14.2 REQUIREMENTS
A. Occupant Load
● The number of people requiring exits in residential occupancies
(excluding single and two-family dwellings) is determined based on
either one person per 18.6 square meters of gross floor area or the
maximum expected population in the area under consideration,
whichever is greater.
● The occupant load of an open mezzanine or balcony is added to the
occupant load of the floor below for exit capacity calculations.
B. Capacity of Exits
● Exit capacity should comply with the guidelines outlined in Section
10.2.5.2 of the relevant regulations.
C. Maintenance of Exits
● Doors in exit routes must not be locked to prevent egress when the
building is occupied.
● Residential occupancies should not have their exit routes pass through
nonresidential occupancies within the same building unless the building
is equipped with an approved, supervised sprinkler system. If the
means of egress pass through a high hazard content area, additional
separation with at least one-hour fire-resistant construction is required.
● Guest rooms or guest suites should not be located above nonresidential
occupancies unless they are separated from the nonresidential area by
construction with a fire resistance rating of at least one hour or if the
nonresidential area is protected throughout by an approved, supervised
sprinkler system.

SECTION 10.2.14.3 HOTELS AND DORMITORIES

A. Requirements
● Buildings used for public assembly, including ballrooms, exhibition
halls, and restaurants with a capacity of 50 or more persons, must
adhere to Division 8 of this Chapter.
● Dormitories with suites of rooms are classified as apartment buildings.
B. Exit Details
● Different types of exits, including doors, stairs, ramps, and horizontal
exits, are permitted.
 ● Corridors must be wide enough to accommodate the occupant load and
should be at least 1.12 meters wide.
● Every floor, including those below the exit discharge floor used for
public purposes, must have at least two accessible exits.
● Maximum travel distances to exits are specified based on the presence
or absence of sprinkler systems.
● Exit access must be unobstructed, visible, and easily accessible.
Means of egress should allow access in at least two different directions.
● Corridor doors between guest rooms must be self-closing. Dead-end
corridors should not exceed 6 meters.
● Exits must lead directly to the street, yard, court, or passageway with
protected openings. Alternately, exits can discharge to specific areas of
the floor with fire safety measures.
● Adequate lighting and illuminated signs are required to ensure safe
egress.
● Emergency evacuation plans must be provided.
C. Protection
● Ensures that stairways, elevators, and vertical openings are enclosed
or protected. Exit stairs passing through open areas must be enclosed
down to the lobby level, and unprotected openings are not allowed in
floors below the exit discharge used for specific purposes.
● Specifies that guest room corridors must be separated from guest
rooms with partitions having a one-hour fire resistance rating. Guest
rooms must have doors with at least a 20-minute fire protection rating,
prohibiting openings in corridor partitions other than doors, and
requiring self-closing and self-latching doors for exit access corridors.
● Provides detailed requirements for interior finishes in different building
areas, distinguishing between new construction and existing areas.
● Mandates automatic fire detection and alarm systems in hotels or
dormitories with 15 or more guests. Audible and visible notification
appliances, manual fire alarm boxes, and alarm-sending stations are
essential components of this system.
● Requires buildings with four or more stories to be equipped with an
approved, supervised sprinkler system. Additionally, portable fire
extinguishers must be installed.
● Defines separation requirements for guest rooms based on whether or
not an automatic sprinkler system is present, ensuring different safety
measures for different scenarios.
● Provides guidelines for the location and protection of areas containing
potentially hazardous equipment. High-hazard areas may require both
fire-resistant construction and automatic fire suppression systems.
Examples of hazardous areas include boiler rooms, laundries, and
spaces with combustible supplies and equipment.
D. BUILDING SERVICES EQUIPMENT
● Air conditioning installations must adhere to Section 10.2.7.2 of this
RIRR.
● In new buildings, no transom/windowpane is allowed in the partition of
sleeping rooms. In existing buildings, transoms must be fixed in the
closed position and protected to match the wall's fire-resistance rating.
● All remaining building services equipment in hotels and dormitories
must meet the requirements outlined in Division 7 of this Chapter.
SECTION 10.2.14.4 APARTMENT BUILDINGS
A. General Requirements
● Conversion to Hotel: Apartment buildings meeting hotel requirements
will be considered hotels, exempt from specific apartment building
regulations.
● Minimum Unit Compliance: Individual apartment units must meet
minimum provisions.
B. Exit Details
● Exit Types and Capacities: Similar exit arrangements and types as
required for hotels are needed.
● Exit Numbers: Each living unit must have access to at least two exits.
● Exceptions: Single exit allowed if:
- It directly exits to the street or yard at ground level.
- It serves only two units or is enclosed with a one-hour or more fire-
resistant rating, not communicating with lower floors.
- Apartment buildings of not more than three stories in height with a
maximum of six living units per floor.
● Minimum Corridor Width: Corridors' width depends on their capacity.
● Access to Exits: Exits must be remote from each other with no dead-
end areas.
● Exit Discharge: Exit discharge follows hotel regulations.
● Lighting and Signs: Lighting and signs requirements as per regulations.
C. Protection
● Dwelling Unit Segregation: Dwelling units in row apartments must have
four-hour fire-resistant partition walls.
● Protection of Vertical Openings: Follows hotel requirements, no
unprotected vertical openings in buildings with only one exit.
● Interior Finish: Different classes required for exits, lobbies, corridors,
public spaces, and living units, depending on new or existing
construction.
● Alarm Systems: Requirements for fire detection and alarm systems
based on building height and number of units.
● Extinguishing Requirements: Mandatory sprinkler systems in
apartments, with specifications based on the number of stories.
● Hazardous Areas: Separation and protection required for hazardous
areas, which include boiler rooms, laundry rooms, and combustible
supply storage.
D. Building Services Equipment
● Air Conditioning and Ventilation: Must comply with specific regulations.
● Other Equipment: Building services equipment must meet Division 7
requirements.

SECTION 10.2.14.5 LODGING OR ROOMING HOUSES

A. General
● Applies to lodging or rooming houses with fewer than 15 occupants.
● Must meet minimum requirements for detached single and two-family
dwellings in addition to specific provisions.
B. Means of Escape Requirement
● Each sleeping room and living area must have access to two means of
escape, following single or two-family dwelling standards.
● Sleeping rooms above or below the street floor need two separate exits,
with one being an enclosed stairway, exterior stairway, fire escape, or
horizontal exit.
● Exits must offer a safe path outside without passing through
unprotected vertical openings.
 ● Sleeping rooms below the street floor must have direct access to the
outside.
C. Alarm System
● Manual fire alarm system as per Section 10.2.6.6 of this RIRR is
required.
● Each sleeping room needs a single station smoke or heat detector.

SECTION 10.2.14.6 SINGLE AND TWO -FAMILY DWELLINGS

A. General
● Covers detached single and two-family dwellings as specified in Section
10.2.14.1 of this RIRR.
● Only requirements applicable to such limited occupancy are in this
section.
B. Means of Escape Requirements
● Every room for sleeping, living, or dining in dwellings with more than
two rooms must have at least two means of escape.
● At least one of these must be an unobstructed path to the outside at
street or ground level.
● Rooms accessible only by ladders, folding stairs, or trap doors cannot
be used for living or sleeping.
● Every sleeping room should have at least one operable window of
specific dimensions, easily opened from the inside.
● No required exit path can pass through another room not under the
control of the occupant, a bathroom, or a lockable space.
● Exit access from sleeping rooms to the outside should be at least 900
mm wide.
● Exit doors must have a clear width of at least 700 mm.
● Closet doors should be openable by children from inside.
● Bathroom door locks must allow emergency opening from the outside.
● Stairs must meet the minimum requirements for width, risers, and
treads described in Section 10.2.5.4 of this RIRR.
C. Interior Finish
● New buildings: interior finish for occupied spaces should be Class A, B,
or C.
● Existing buildings: interior finish can be Class A, B, C, or D.
D. Building Services Equipment
● Heating equipment like stoves or combustion heaters should not block
escape routes in case of a fire due to malfunction.
E. Fire Alarm and Detection System
● Every living unit or sleeping room should have single-station smoke or
heat detectors.
F. Extinguishing Requirement
● Single and two-family dwellings must be equipped with portable fire
extinguishers according to Section 10.2.6.9 of this RIRR.

DIVISION 15. MERCANTILE OCCUPANCIES

SECTION 10.2.15.1 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
A. Classification of Mercantile
Mercantile occupancies encompass buildings or parts of structures with
specific occupancy types as outlined in Division 3 of this Chapter.
● Mercantile occupancies are categorized as Class A, Class B, or Class
C, based on factors like gross area and the number of floors used for
sales purposes.
Class A: Large stores with a gross area of 2,788 square meters or more
or utilizing more than three floor levels for sales purposes.
 Class B: Stores with an aggregate area less than 2,787 square meters
but more than 279 square meters, or stores utilizing balconies,
mezzanines, or floors above or below the street floor for sales purposes
(if more than three floors are used, it's classified as Class A).
Class C: Small stores with a gross area of 278 square meters or less,
primarily used for sales on the street floor.
● Aggregate gross area is the total space used for mercantile activities,
including sections divided by fire walls.
● Small balconies or mezzanines may not be counted as separate floors,
but if multiple mezzanines are present, one is counted.
● Storeys not used for sales do not factor into the height classification.
● Mezzanines up to one-third of the floor below (new) or one-half
(existing) are permitted.
● When multiple stores with no fire separation are in the same or adjacent
buildings, their aggregate gross area determines the classification.
SECTION 10.2.15.2 EXIT DETAILS
● Exit facilities for mercantile occupancies must comply with specified types of exits
and capacity requirements.
● Stairways, escalators, outside stairs, or ramps can serve multiple upper floors,
but open stairways cannot serve more than one floor.
● Multiple floors below the street level may share a stairway, but required exits for
such areas must be independent of open stairways.
● Outside exits from upper floors are allowed, provided they are not also entrances
from a principal street.
● Permissible exit types are doors, stairs, smoke-proof enclosures, horizontal exits,
and ramps.
● Existing stairways or fire escapes not meeting certain standards may continue
with jurisdictional approval.
● Means of egress capacity must adhere to regulations, and street floor exits must
accommodate the floor's occupants along with the capacity of stairs and ramps.
● Minimum two separate exits must be accessible from all parts of every storey,
except for specific exceptions.
● Exits should be arranged to minimize blockage in an emergency, with exceptions
for high-hazard contents.
● Aisles leading to exits must match the required exit width and should not be
narrower than 800 mm.
● Class A stores require a 1.5 m wide aisle directly to an exit, and most of the
required exit width for exterior entrances.
● One and a half exits must be accessible without passing checkout stands or
barriers, ensuring exits are unobstructed.
● Travel distance to exits is measured as specified, with a possible increase to 46
m if the building is protected by an approved sprinkler system.
● Exits from upper floors may discharge through the main street floor area under
certain conditions.
● Street floor and horizontal exit doors should meet relevant regulations and swing
with the exit travel.
● Mercantile occupancies require proper exit signs, illumination, and emergency
lighting facilities in compliance with specified sections of the code.

SECTION 10.2.15.3 PROTECTION

A. Protection of Vertical Openings
● Stairways, elevators, and similar openings must be enclosed or protected as
per Section 10.2.6.5 of this RIRR.
● Exceptions exist for Class A and Class B stores, such as allowing open stairs
between floors if specific conditions are met.
 ● Class C stores have exceptions for openings between the street floor and
balcony or mezzanine.
B. Interior Finish
● Exits in all stores should have Class A or B interior finish.
● In Class A or B stores, ceiling and wall finish should meet specific criteria
unless protected by an automatic fire suppression system.
● Certain exposed structural members may be permitted.
● Class C stores have specific interior finish requirements.
C. Alarm Systems
● Class A and Class B stores must have an automatic fire alarm system.
D. Automatic Sprinkler Protection
● Automatic sprinkler systems are required in specific cases, including buildings
with three or more storeys and certain areas with specific floor areas.
E. Hazardous Areas
● Areas like storage, boiler/furnace rooms, and kitchens should be separated by
fire-resistive construction with self-closing fire doors.
● High-hazard areas need both fire-resistant construction and automatic fire
suppression.
● Cooking equipment must be protected according to Section 10.2.7.1 of this
RIRR.

SECTION 10.2.15.4 BUILDING SERVICES EQUIPMENT

● Service equipment must follow the guidelines in Division 7 of this Chapter.
● Elevators cannot serve as the primary exit. When mercantile buildings are more
than three storeys high or more than three storeys above the street floor and have
automatic elevators, at least one elevator must be designed and equipped for fire
emergency use by firefighters, with key operation that shifts it to manual and
brings it to the street floor for Fire Service use. This elevator should be readily
accessible to firefighters.

SECTION 10.2.15.5 SPECIAL PROVISIONS

A. Self- Service Stores
● Check-out stands and related barriers should not block exits, aisles, or
approaches.
● Wheeled carts or buggies must be managed to prevent them from obstructing
exits.
B. Open-Air Mercantile Operations
● Outdoor mercantile operations should be organized to maintain unobstructed
travel paths for swift escape during emergencies.
● No dead ends should be created due to obstructions like display stands,
vehicles, or buildings.
C. Combined Mercantile and Residential Occupancies
● Dwelling units should not solely rely on mercantile occupancy exits for egress.
● Exceptions are allowed when specific fire safety measures are in place.
D. Covered Malls and Walkways
● Covered malls and connected buildings are considered a single mercantile
building, following mercantile occupancy requirements.
● Specific exit requirements and unobstructed exit access are detailed for
covered malls.
E. Exit Details for Covered Malls
● Covered malls must have at least two remote exits.
● Class A and Class B stores connected to the mall should have exits that lead
directly outside without passing through the mall.
● Exit access in the mall must be unobstructed and parallel to connected
buildings.
 ● Exit access through a covered mall should meet certain width requirements for
safety.

DIVISION 16. BUSINESS OCCUPANCIES

SECTION 10.2.16.1 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
A. Occupancy Classification
● Business Occupancies cover structures in Division 3.
B. Content Hazard
● Business contents are "ordinary hazard," and offices are "light hazard" for fire
suppression.
C. Occupant Load
● Standard: 1 person per 9.3 m² for exits.
● Concentrated Use: 1 person per 4.6 m² with RA 9514 compliance.
● Mezzanines add to street floor load for exit calculation.
SECTION 10.2.16.2 EXIT DETAILS
A. General Exit Requirements
● All exits must comply with specified rules.
● Stairs or ramps for multiple lower floors can serve more than one.
● Open stairs can serve as required egress for only one floor below the street.
● Separate egress for non-business areas below the street.
B. Permissible Exit Types
● Includes doors, stairs, ramps, horizontal exits, and exit passageways.
C. Capacity of Means of Egress
● Occupant load determines exit width.
● Corridor width of 1.12 m for 50+ occupants.
● Street floor exits must account for stairs and ramps.
D. Number of Exits
● Two separate exits for each floor.
● Single exit for rooms with <100 occupants if criteria met.
● Single exit for ≤3-story, ≤30 people/floor buildings, with conditions.
● Single exit for mezzanines if common path ≤23 m (or ≤30 m with sprinklers).
● Single exit for max two-story, single-tenant building if <30 m travel distance
and sprinklers.
E. Arrangement of Means of Egress
● Dead-end corridors' length limits, variations based on sprinklers and other
factors.
● Common path of travel limits for different situations.
F. Travel Distance to Exits
● 61 m for sprinkler-protected buildings.
● 46 m for others.
G. Discharge from Exits
● All required exits must lead directly outside, or to a designated exterior area,
with certain conditions.
H. Exit Signs and Lighting
● Proper exit illumination and emergency lighting required under various
conditions.
I. Emergency Evacuation Plan
● Must adhere to the specified emergency evacuation plan guidelines.

SECTION 10.2.16.3 PROTECTION

A. Protection of Vertical Openings
● Vertical openings should typically be enclosed or protected, with some
exceptions.
● Unenclosed openings allowed with specific conditions.
 B. Interior Finish
● Requirements for interior wall, ceiling, and floor finishes based on location.
● Different classes of finish materials specified.
C. Extinguishing Equipment
● Buildings over 15 meters in height must have supervised sprinkler systems.
D. Detection, Alarm, and Communications Systems
● Fire alarm systems are mandatory under various occupancy and size
conditions.
● Multiple means of initiating the fire alarm system are provided.
● Occupant notification methods and sequences are specified.
E. Protection from Hazard
● Hazardous areas, including storage and high hazard contents areas, require
specific protection measures.
● Separation by fire barriers, self-closing fire doors, and automatic extinguishing
systems are key requirements for high hazard contents areas.

SECTION 10.2.16.4 BUILDING SERVICES EQUIPMENT

● Utilities shall comply with the provisions of Division 7 of this Chapter

SECTION 10.2.16.5 COMBINED BUSINESS AND MERCANTILE OCCUPANCY

● In a building used for both business and mercantile purposes, the entire building
must meet exit requirements outlined in Division 16 of this Chapter. However,
there's an exception: If the mercantile sections are sufficiently separated from the
business sections, exit facilities can be considered separately.

DIVISION 17. INDUSTRIAL OCCUPANCIES

SECTION 10.2.17.1 REQUIREMENTS
A. Sub-classifications of Occupancy
● General Industrial Occupancy: Suitable for various types of industrial
processes, including multi-storey buildings or those with a high density
of employee population.
● Special Purpose Industrial Occupancy: Designed for specific types of
operations with a low employee density and occupied by machinery or
equipment.
● High Hazard Industrial Occupancy: Involves high hazard materials,
processes, or contents.
● Open Industrial Structures: Include open-air industrial operations, often
found in oil refineries and chemical processing plants.
B. Occupant Load
● The occupant load for industrial occupancies requiring exits is typically
one person per 9.3 square meters of gross floor area.
● Special Purpose Industrial Occupancy and Open Industrial Structures
use the maximum number of persons under probable conditions as the
occupant load.
● The Chief/Municipal Fire Marshal (C/MFM) may waive exit
requirements for existing industrial occupancies if the existing exits are
sufficient for the actual number of employees.
● Specific occupancies like auditoriums, restaurants, offices, garages,
and medical facilities within industrial occupancies must have exits as
per the relevant sections of the regulation.
SECTION 10.2.17.2 EXIT DETAILS
The summarized key points regarding exits and means of egress are as follows:
A. General
● Every required exit must comply with Division 4 and have proper access
and travel ways as per Section 10.2.5.2.
 B. Types of Exits
● Permissible exit types are doors, stairs or smokeproof enclosures,
horizontal exits, ramps, and slide escapes.
C. Minimum Corridor Width
● Corridors serving as exits must have a minimum width of 1.12 meters.
D. Capacity of Exits
● Capacity of means of egress should be determined as per Section
10.2.5.2.
E. Number of Exits
● At least two exits are required for each floor or section, with an
exception for smaller rooms with direct ground-level exits within a
specific travel distance.
F. Travel Distance to Exits
● Exits should be arranged to minimize the travel distance to the nearest
exit, with requirements for buildings protected by fire suppression
systems.
G. Discharge from Exits
● A maximum of 50% of exits may discharge through specific areas,
subject to conditions including visibility and fire suppression protection.
H. Signs, Lighting, and Exit Signage
● Exit signs and lighting, as well as emergency lighting, should be
provided in accordance with relevant sections of the regulation.

SECTION 10.2.17.3 PROTECTION

A. Protection of Vertical Openings
● Vertical openings (stairways, elevator shafts, etc.) should typically be
enclosed or protected.
● Exceptions:
1. Unprotected vertical openings for industrial use limited to three
stories with an approved sprinkler system.
2. In existing buildings with sprinkler systems, certain vertical openings
may remain unprotected if other required exits meet specific criteria.
B. Interior Finish
● Interior finishes should meet Class A, Class B, or Class C standards.
C. Detection, Alarm, and Communications Systems
● All industrial occupancies require an approved automatic fire detection
and alarm system, except for buildings with fewer than 25 occupants.
● Fire alarm boxes should be installed in buildings with automatic fire
detection and alarm systems.
● Flow of water from approved sprinkler systems should trigger the fire
alarm system.
D. Extinguishing Requirement
● High-hazard occupancies must have automatic fire suppression
systems suitable for the specific hazard, following established
international standards.
● Portable fire extinguishers and standpipe systems must be installed.
E. Explosion Prevention
● Explosion prevention measures for industrial occupancies should align
with the standards outlined in NFPA 654 and NFPA 69, focusing on
preventing fires from dust explosions and other combustible solids.
DIVISION 18. STORAGE OCCUPANCIES
SECTION 10.2.18.1 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
A.Occupancy Load
● Determine the maximum number of people that the space can hold to
plan for exits and safety measures.
B. Exit Details
● Use specific types of exits like doors, stairs, horizontal exits, ramps, and
slide escapes in storage areas.
● Calculate how many people the exits can safely accommodate.
● Have at least two separate exits for safety, but small spaces with few
people need only one.
● Ensure exits can be easily opened and aren't locked when people are
inside.
● High hazard storage areas should have an exit within 23 meters of any
location where people might be, or up to 30 meters with automatic fire
suppression.
● Install signs and proper lighting in exits and pathways for safety,
especially emergency lighting for occupied areas and exit routes.
SECTION 10.2.18.2 PROTECTION
A. Protection of Vertical Openings
● Vertical openings must be protected, except for existing open stairs and
ramps connecting only two floors.
● Existing unprotected vertical openings can be allowed in buildings with
approved sprinkler systems if required exits consist of smoke-proof
enclosures, outside stairways, or horizontal exits.
B. Detection, Alarm, and Communications Systems
● Storage occupancies require an approved automatic fire detection and
alarm system, except for smaller buildings with manual fire alarm
systems.
● Buildings with automatic fire detection systems need at least one fire
alarm box.
● If buildings have approved, supervised automatic sprinkler systems, the
flow of water should trigger the fire alarm system.
C. Extinguishing Requirement
● High hazard occupancies need automatic fire suppression systems,
including various types of fire protection systems suitable for specific
hazards and explosion prevention systems.
● Portable fire extinguishers should be installed following specific
regulations.
● Standpipe systems must be installed in accordance with provided
guidelines.

SECTION 10.2.18.3 SPECIAL PROVISION FOR PARKING STRUCTURES

A. General Requirements
● These provisions apply to parking structures, with exceptions for
mechanical or exclusively attendant parking facilities.
● If repair operations are conducted, the exits must comply with industrial
occupancy regulations, but separated sections can be treated
separately.
B. Exit Details
● Every floor of a parking structure should have access to at least two
exits.
● Exits can include doors, interior stairs, outside stairs, or horizontal exits.
● Exceptions: Ramps in open-type parking structures can serve as exits
in certain conditions.
 ● Exits should be within 45 meters of any point (exceptions apply for open
floors and sprinkler-protected structures).
● Exit paths should lead in different directions, with a common path
allowed for the first 15 meters.
● Special exit considerations when fuel pumps are present.
C. Illumination of Means of Egress
● All means of egress must be adequately illuminated and have
emergency lighting facilities.
D. Exit Marking
● Required signs indicating exits and exit access.
E. Detection, Alarm, and Communication Systems
● Fire alarm systems are required for parking structures with certain floor
areas and when combined with other occupancies.
● Open parking structures not combined with other occupancy or not
exceeding 15 meters in height may not require a fire alarm system.
Otherwise, it's needed.
● Parking structures with approved automatic sprinkler systems may not
require a fire alarm system.
F. Open Parking Structures
● Open parking structures don't require automatic sprinkler systems, but
they must have fully enclosed and protected means of egress.
● Specific requirements for defining parking structures as "open."

SECTION 10.2.18.4 SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR AIRCRAFT HANGARS

A. Design and Fire Protection
● Aircraft hangar design and fire protection must comply with NFPA 409
standards.

B. Exit Details
● Exits must be provided at intervals not exceeding 40 meters on exterior
walls.
● Each aircraft storage or servicing area should have a minimum of two
exits.
● Horizontal exits through interior fire walls must be provided at intervals
not exceeding 30 meters.
● Special aircraft doors ("dwarf" or "smash" doors) can serve as exits.
● Exit-designated doors must remain unlocked in the direction of exit
travel when the area is occupied.
● Exits from mezzanine floors should ensure that the maximum travel
distance to the nearest exit from any point on the mezzanine does not
exceed 23 meters.
● These exits should lead directly to properly enclosed stairwells
discharging to the exterior, a cut-off area, or outside stairs.
C. Signs
● Exit signs above doors and exit ways must follow Section 10.2.5.12 of
this RIRR.

SECTION 10.2.18.5 SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR GRAIN HANDLING,

PROCESSING, MILLING, OR OTHER BULK STORAGE FACILITIES
A. Egress Requirements
● Two means of egress are required from working levels of the head
house.
B. First Egress Option
● One of the egress means must be a stair to the exit level.
 ● If it's inside the structure, it should have a dust-resistant one-hour fire-
rated enclosure.
● Exterior stair egress must be protected by a one-hour fire-rated wall
extending 3.05 meters beyond the stair.
C. Second Egress Option
● The second egress can be either an exterior stair or basket ladder-type
fire escape.
● It should provide passage to the ground level.
● If applicable, it can also provide access to adjoining structures and
connect to other means of egress.
D. Stair Enclosures
● Existing structures can have non-fire-rated dust-resistant stair
enclosures.
E. Exterior Stairs for Adjoining Structures
● Exterior stairs or basket ladders must lead to the ground from the top of
an adjoining structure.
F. Underground Spaces
● Underground spaces should have at least two means of egress, with
one being an escape route (with exceptions).
G. Exception for Short Travel Distance
● In normally unoccupied underground spaces, a single means of egress
is allowed if the horizontal travel distance is less than 15 meters.
H. Travel Distance to Exits
● Travel distance to exits in underground spaces should comply with
Section 10.2.5.2.
I. Remote Exits
● Exits should be arranged to ensure that occupants do not need to travel
more than 61 meters for spaces without automatic sprinklers or 122
meters for spaces with approved, supervised automatic sprinkler
protection.

DIVISION 19. SPECIAL STRUCTURES

SECTION 10.2.19.1 AERODROME FACILITIES

A. General Fire Safety Requirements

For fire safety requirements, BFP shall conduct regular and periodic fire safety
inspections on all aerodrome facilities. All things that may start a fire or combustible
shall be inspected and approved by C/MFM having jurisdiction and shall be in
accordance with the provisions of this RIRR.

B. Refueller Units
● Design and Construction of Aircraft Refuellers shall conform to the
following:

a. Tanks and vehicles shall be designed and constructed in accordance

with NFPA 385, Tank Vehicles for Flammable Liquids, and NFPA 407,
Aircraft Fuel Servicing Tank Vehicles.

b. Annual testing and certification of every system by a registered or

licensed professional or government accredited testing company shall
be required.
 ● Operations, Maintenance and Use of Aircraft Refueller Units shall
conform to the provisions of RA 9514 and its RIRR.
● Electrical System Design Plan in compliance with the PEC, NFPA 70,
NEC on grounding protection systems shall be signed and sealed by a
Professional Electrical Engineer.
● Aircraft refueller unit shall be attended and operated only by qualified
personnel.
● System Design Plan in compliance in latest edition of Philippine
Mechanical Engineering Code (PMEC) shall be signed and sealed by
a Professional Mechanical Engineer.
● Standard Operating Procedures in accordance with NFPA Standards
shall be provided.
● No smoking or open flames shall be allowed within fifteen meters (15
m) from the point where fuel is being transferred nor shall any electrical
or motor driven devices be connected from any aircraft at any time
while refueling operations are in progress on such aircraft.

C. Helistops

● Approval must first be obtained from the Civil Aviation Authority of the
Philippines (CAAP) and C/MFM having jurisdiction before any helistops
can be operated.

SECTION 10.2.19.2 FIXED GUIDEWAY TRANSIT AND PASSENGER RAIL

SYSTEMS

A. General
● Life safety from fire and fire protection requirements for fixed guideway
transit and passenger rail systems shall be in accordance with NFPA
130, Standard for Fixed Guideway Transit and Passenger Rail
Systems.

B. Means of Egress
● The provisions for means of egress for a station shall comply with
Division 5 of this Chapter.
● The occupant load for a station shall be based on the train load of trains
simultaneously entering the station on all tracks in normal traffic
direction plus the simultaneous entraining load awaiting trains.
● At multilevel, multiline, or multiplatform stations, occupant loads shall
be determined in accordance with the occupancy as appropriate for the
use.
● The platform occupant load for each platform in a station shall be the
maximum peak period occupant load calculated
C. Capacity and Location of Means of Egress
● There shall be sufficient egress capacity to evacuate the platform
occupant load from the station platform in four minutes (4 min) or less.
● The station shall be designed to permit evacuation from the most
remote point on the platform to a point of safety in six minutes (6 min)
or less.
● Maximum travel distance shall not exceed 100m.
● A common path of travel from the ends of the platform shall not exceed
twenty-five meters (25 m) or one (1) car length, whichever is greater.
 ● At least two (2) means of egress remote from each other shall be
provided
D. Platforms, Corridors, and Ramps
● Minimum clear widths > 1.12m
● The maximum means of egress capacity of platforms, corridors, and
ramps shall be computed at 0.0819 person/mm-min.
● The maximum means of egress travel speed along platforms, corridors,
and ramps shall be computed at 37.7 m/min.
● Stairs and escalators shall be permitted to be counted as contributing
to the means of egress capacity in stations.
● Stairs in the means of egress shall be a minimum of 1.12 m wide.
● Elevators meeting the requirements of NFPA 130 shall be permitted to
account for part of the means of egress capacity in stations.
E. Doors, Gates, and Exit Hatches, Fare Barriers, Turnstile-type Fire
Barriers shall be permitted as means of egress and computed in
accordance with the requirements of NFPA 130.
F. Means of Egress Lighting
● Illumination of the means of egress in stations, including escalators that
are considered a means of egress, shall be in accordance with Section
10.2.5.11 of this RIRR.

G. Fire Protection
● Stations shall be provided with a fire command center in accordance
with Rule 10 of this RIRR and NFPA.

H. Emergency ventilation shall be provided in enclosed stations in accordance

with NFPA 130. A mechanical emergency ventilation system shall be provided
in an enclosed system station or in a system underground or enclosed trainway
that is greater in length than 305 m.

I. Emergency power shall be provided in accordance with the latest edition of

PEC, NFPA 70 and NFPA 110, for enclosed stations. Systems connected to
the emergency power system shall include the following:
1. Emergency lighting
2. Protective signaling systems
3. Emergency communication system
4. Fire command center
5. Elevators providing required egress capacity

J. Trainways’ Emergency Egress

● The maximum distance between exits shall not exceed 762m within
enclosed trainways.
● Cross-passageways shall not be farther than 244 m apart.
● Cross-passageways shall not be farther than 244 m from the station or
portal of the enclosed trainway.
● A tenable environment shall be maintained in the portion of the train
way that is not involved in an emergency
● The means of egress within the trainway shall be provided with an
unobstructed clear width graduating from 610 mm at the walking
 surface to 760 mm at 1,575 mm above the walking surface to 430 mm
at 2,025 mm above the walking surface.
● Cross-passageways shall be a minimum of 1,120 mm in clear width and
2,100 mm in height.
● The width of exit stairs shall not be required to exceed 1,120 mm for
enclosed trainways.
● Doors in egress routes serving trainways shall have a minimum clear
width of 810 mm.
● Walkways that are more than 760 mm above the floor or grade below
shall be provided with a continuous guard to prevent falls over the open
side and continuous handrail along the side opposite the trainway.
● Raised walkways that are greater than 1,120 mm wide and located
between two (2) trainways shall not be required to have a handrail.

K. Signage, Illumination, and Emergency Lighting in the trainway shall be in

accordance with Division 5 of this Chapter.

L. Emergency Access shall be in accordance with NFPA 70.

M. The length of the underground or enclosed trainway is less than or equal to

305 m and greater than 61 m.

SECTION 10.2.19.3 HISTORICAL BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES ,AND

HISTORIC CENTERS/HERITAGE ZONES

A. Conservation and maintenance of historical buildings and structures, and

historic centers/ heritage zones shall be made in accordance with existing
regulations and shall be afforded with applicable fire safety protection systems
in accordance with this Division.

B. No person, firm or entity, including any agency or instrumentality of

government shall erect or change in an old structure or any building or cause
the same to be done without first obtaining a clearance from the Local
Government Unit (LGU), FSEC from BFP and Building Permit from the Local
Building Official.

C. Alteration and Restoration

D. Applicability of Fire Safety Measures

1. Design and installation of fire protection systems for historical

buildings, structures and historic sites/heritage zones under
conservation shall be in accordance with NFPA 914, Code for Fire
Protection of Historic Structures, subject to its applicability to the
approved conservation plan of the National Historical Commission of
the Philippines (NHCP).

2. Buildings/structural components and finishings to be installed,

restored, or replaced shall be so designed and/or treated with fire
resistive materials.
SECTION 10.2.19.4 WIND TURBINE ENERGY GENERATING FACILITIES

A. General
● The design, installation and maintenance of wind turbine energy
generating facilities shall be in accordance with this Section, NFPA 850
● The recommendations of Chapters 4, 5, 6, 7, 15 and 16 of NFPA 850,
shall apply to wind generating facilities.
● The Fire Protection Design for wind turbine generating facilities shall be
based on the specific hazards

B. General Design and Equipment Arrangement

● Separation shall be provided between adjacent wind turbines, structures,

and properties.
● Consideration shall be given to equipment layout that is adjacent to wind
turbines and in line with the planes of the rotating blades and hub in typical
wind conditions that have a higher potential for damage from flying debris
C. Unattended Facilities
● Unattended facilities shall be provided with special fire protection.
D. Wind Generating Facilities
● Installation, operation and maintenance shall be in accordance with the
provisions of this RIRR and other applicable standards.
E. Electrical Equipment Enclosures and Buildings
● Control enclosures, which contain control panels, switchgear, batteries,
relays, rectifiers, and electronic switching circuits, shall be provided
depending on the size and complexity of the wind generating facility site.
● Auxiliary electrical equipment enclosures, which may contain excitation
equipment, switchgear, current transformers, potential transformers,
grounding transformers, and other electrical equipment, shall be provided.
● A smoke detection system shall be installed to provide early warning and
alarm functions in the event of an electrical fire within the enclosure.
● An automatic suppression system shall be provided for the enclosures.

SECTION 10.2.19.5 IMMOBILIZED VEHICLE AND VESSELS

● Immobilized vehicle and vessels shall subject to the requirements of this Rule
which are applicable to buildings of similar occupancy

SECTION 10.2.19.6 MOTION PICTURE AND TELEVISION PRODUCTION, STUDIO

SOUNDSTAGES AND APPROVED PRODUCTION FACILITIES

A. General
● Practices, processes, materials, and facilities that are addressed by other
Section of RA 9514 and its RIRR shall be governed by those standards
unless modified herein.
● An FSC shall be secured from C/MFM having jurisdiction.
● Standby BFP personnel shall be provided.
● Fire department access shall be maintained.
● Smoking shall be prohibited.
● Housekeeping shall be maintained.
● The use of pyrotechnic special effects and open flames shall be subject to
the approval of the C/MFM having jurisdiction and shall be in accordance with
NFPA 1126, Standard for the Use of Pyrotechnics Before a Proximate
 Audience and NFPA 160, Standard for the Use of Flame Effects Before an
Audience.
B. Soundstages and Approved Production Facilities
● An FSC shall be obtained for any of these activities:
A. Use of pyrotechnic special effects
B. Use of open flames
C. Welding
D. Use of flammable or combustible liquids or gases
E. Use of aircrafts
F. Presence of motor vehicles within a building
● Decorative Materials shall be tested in accordance with applicable standards
and shall meet the requirements of NFPA.
● Electrical equipment, wiring method to electrical distribution equipment shall
be in accordance with the latest edition of PEC.
● Means of egress and exit detail capacities shall be in accordance with
Section 10.2.8.2 of this RIRR.
● Emergency lighting shall be provided for the means of egress in accordance
with Section 10.2.5.11 of this RIRR.
● The maximum travel distance to an exit within the soundstage shall be 45 m.
● Fire protection shall be in accordance with the provisions of this RIRR.
● Portable fire extinguishers shall be installed and maintained in accordance
with Section 10.2.6.9 of this RIRR.
● Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning ductwork and related equipment
shall be in good working order and shall be in accordance with Section
10.2.7.2 of this RIRR.
● Fire alarm system notification appliances within soundstages and approved
production facilities shall be allowed to be deactivated with the approval of
the C/MFM having jurisdiction during videotaping, filming, or broadcasting of
programs.
C. Production Locations
● An FSC shall be obtained for any of these activities:
A. Use of the site as a production location
B. Use of pyrotechnic special effects
C. Use of open flames
D. Welding
E. Use of flammable or combustible liquids or gases
F. Use of aircraft
G. Presence of motor vehicles within a building
● Decorative Materials shall be tested in accordance with applicable standards
and shall meet the requirements of NFPA.
● Electrical equipment, wiring method to electrical distribution equipment shall
be in accordance with the latest edition of PEC.
● . The production location shall be provided with means of egress appropriate
for the intended use.
● Fire protection shall be in accordance with the provisions of this RIRR.

SECTION 10.2.19.7 OFF-SHORE ENERGY FACILITIES

● All off-shore energy facilities shall be provided with appropriate fire safety
measures under this Section or equivalent protection in accordance with
internationally accepted standards and good design and engineering practices.
 A. The wellhead area shall be regarded as a single fire area to be covered by
a deluge system, unless physical separation is provided to sub-divide it into
separate areas.
B. Dedicated Equipment Protection shall be required for wellheads that are
likely to convey hydrocarbons.
C. The deluge system shall cover all wellheads.
D. The deluge valve and water supply shall be sized for the maximum number
of wellheads anticipated to convey hydrocarbons.
E. The system nozzle connections shall initially be plugged for new projects
where the number and location of hydrocarbon wellheads are not known.
F. As wellheads are identified to likely convey hydrocarbons, the plugs shall
be replaced with nozzles intended for use as identified in the design.
G. The types and location of nozzles shall be selected to avoid any
interference with the drilling sequence, work-overs, maintenance, etc.
H. A minimum of two (2) nozzles per wellhead shall be installed and positioned
to spray upwards from low level to protect the lower region of the wellhead,
thereby increasing protection to the upper portions of the wellhead and
surrounding equipment.
I. Flow-lines and manifolds not protected shall be provided with area
protection.
J. Fixed and/or fixed automatic oscillating monitors may be used to apply
water to specific targets, protect firefighters and escape routes, and cool
areas at the boundary of the fire affected area.
● Passive Fire Protection shall be the primary protection technique.
● A process area shall, wherever practicable, be regarded as a single fire area
unless physical separation is provided to sub-divide it into different deluge
zones.
● Equipment Protection shall be provided to low-pressure vessels if there is the
likelihood of a Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapour Explosion (BLEVE) type failure
of the vessel.
● Structural protection shall be in accordance with applicable standards.
● If the Fire Explosion Strategy identifies that a fire protection system is required
for a helideck, then the fire protection and firefighting system shall be designed
as per the requirement of Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) or
other Internationally Accepted Standards.
● Positions shall be allocated on or near the helideck to be called the
“HELICOPTER LANDING OFFICER’S (HLO) POSITIONS”.
● Pipework and fittings, pump and gearbox, foam storage tanks, and skid shall
be done in accordance with other applicable standards.
● The Fire and Explosion Strategy shall identify the Active Fire Protection
requirement for accommodation areas.
● Fire fighting equipment shall comply with the provisions of this RIRR.
● Any building or structure surrounded by water such as a lighthouse shall have
sufficient outside area of ground as on an island, or fire-resistant platform, to
provide an adequate area of refuge from any fire in the structure. Means shall
be available for transportation of occupants away from such structures to the
shore or other places of safety such as by boat or helicopter, in case of fire or
other emergency, within a reasonable period of time.
SECTION 10.2.19.9 SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC (PV) SYSTEM

● All Solar PV electrical energy systems, including the array circuit(s), inverter(s),
and controller(s) for such systems shall comply with the installation
requirements of the latest edition of PEC and NFPA 70.
● All Electrical Energy Storage for Solar PV Systems such as batteries must be
installed in accordance with the latest edition of PEC and NFPA 70.
● The plans, design, and specification of the Solar PV System shall be signed
and sealed by a Professional Electrical Engineer (PEE) for the issuance of
Electrical Installation Clearance.
● Installation of equipment and all associated wiring and interconnections shall
be performed only by qualified Electrical Practitioners or Registered Electrical
Engineer (REE).
● Solar PV systems used directly to charge electric vehicles shall comply with
latest edition of PEC and NFPA 70.
● Solar PV systems with a maximum system voltage over one thousand volts
(1,000 V) DC shall comply with NFPA 70 and other requirements applicable to
installations rated over one thousand volts (1,000 V).
● All Solar PV roof insulation shall comply with the latest civil and structural
requirements of the latest edition of the National Building Code of the
Philippines (NBCP).
● All Solar PV systems shall be inspected and properly maintained in accordance
with the manufacturer’s instruction or with the latest edition of PEC.

SECTION 10.2.19.10 TOWERS

● Any tower utilized for such purposes as observation, signaling, either as an
independent structure or on top of a building, shall be permitted to have a single
stairway or ramp exit.
● In each tower where there is no occupancy below the top floor level and the
conditions required by para “A” above are met, stairs may be open with no
enclosure required or, where the structure is entirely open, fire-escape type
stairs may be used.
● Stairs shall be Class B for new construction. For existing towers, outside stairs
or fire-escape type stairs may be allowed.
● A tower such as a forest observation tower and a railroad signal tower,
designed for occupancy only of not more than three (3) persons therein, may
be of any type of construction, and may be served by ladders instead of stairs.
However, if used for living or sleeping purposes, it shall at least comply with
exit requirements in accordance with Section 10.2.14.6 of this RIRR for family
dwellings.
● Utility/transmitter building shall be provided with appropriate type of automatic
fire extinguishing system and, if subject to occupancy by technician/authorized
personnel, automatic fire alarm system and portable fire extinguishers shall
also be provided.
● Advertisement structures shall be made of fire-resistant materials including its
signage components.
SECTION 10.2.19.11 UNDERGROUND STRUCTURES AND WINDOWLESS
BUILDINGS

● Underground structures and windowless buildings shall be equipped with

approved, supervised automatic fire suppression system protection in
accordance with Section 10.2.6.7 of this RIRR.
● Any underground structure or windowless building, for which no natural lighting
is provided, shall be provided with emergency lighting in accordance with
Section 10.2.5.11 of this RIRR.

A. Underground Structures
● Where required from underground structure involving upward
travel such as ascending stairs or ramps, such upward exits shall
be cut off from main floor areas and shall be provided with outside
smoke venting facilities or other means to prevent the exits serving
as flues for smoke from any fire in the area served by the exits,
thereby making the exits impassable.
B. Windowless Buildings
● Every windowless building shall be provided with outside access
panels on each floor level.
1. The opening shall have dimensions of not less than 560 mm
in width and 800 mmin height and shall be unobstructed to
allow for ventilation and rescue operations from the exterior;
2. The bottom of the opening shall be not more than 800 mm
above the floor;
3. The opening shall be readily identifiable from both the exterior
and interior; and
4. The opening shall be readily openable from both the exterior
and interior.
C. Road Tunnel
● Fire protection and fire life safety requirements for road tunnels
shall be provided in accordance with NFPA 502, Standard for Road
Tunnels, Bridges, and Other Limited Access Highways or other
internationally accepted standards.
● Road tunnel shall be categorized as follows:
A. Category X – Where tunnel length is less than 90 m.
B. Category A – Where tunnel length is 90 m but not greater than
239 m
C. Category B – Where tunnel length is 240 m but not greater
than 299 m, and where the maximum distance from any point
within the tunnel to a point of safety exceeds 120 m.
D. Category C – Where the tunnel length is 300 m but not greater
than 999 m.
E. Category D – Where the tunnel length equals or exceeds
1,000 m.
● Tunnels described in categories B, C, and D shall have at least
one (1) manual fire alarm and detection means of identifying and
locating a fire.
● Tunnels described in categories B, C, and D without twenty-four
hour (24-hr) supervision shall have an automatic fire detection
system.
 ● Closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems with traffic flow indication
devices or surveillance cameras shall be permitted for use to
identify and locate fires in tunnels with twenty-four hour (24-hr)
supervision.
● Manual fire alarm boxes mounted in National Electrical
Manufacturers Association (NEMA) Enclosure Type 4 (IP 65) shall
be installed at intervals of not more than 90 m and at all cross
passages and means of egress from the tunnel.
● Automatic fire detection systems shall be installed in accordance
with Section 10.2.6.6 of this RIRR and approved by the C/MFM
having jurisdiction.
● Portable fire extinguishers, with a rating of 2-A:20-B:C, shall be
located along the roadway in approved wall cabinets at intervals of
not more than 90 m.
● The means of egress requirements for all road tunnels shall be in
accordance with Division 5 of this Chapter, except as modified
herein.
● The walking surfaces of the emergency exits, cross passageways,
and walkways shall be slip resistant.
● Emergency exit doors shall provide protection against fire and
ensure pressurization of escape routes.
● Emergency exit doors shall be one and a half-hour (1.5-hr) rated
doors and shall be installed in accordance with the requirements
of NFPA 80.
● Emergency exits shall be provided throughout the tunnel.
● The walkway egress path shall have a minimum clear width of 1.12
m.
● Emergency exits shall be pressurized in accordance with NFPA
80.
● Fire department connections shall be of the threaded two-way or
three-way type or shall consist with a minimum of 100 mm quick-
connect coupling that is accessible.
● Hose connections shall be spaced so that no location on the
protected roadway is more than 45 m from the hose connection.
Hose connection spacing shall not exceed 85 m. Hose connections
shall have 65 mm external threads in accordance with NFPA 1963,
Standard for Fire Hose Connections.

DIVISION 20. HIGH RISE BUILDINGS

SECTION 10.2.20.1 SCOPE

● This Section deals with life safety from fires and similar emergencies in high
rise buildings. It covers fire safety features in construction and protection of
exits and passageways, and provisions for fire protection.
SECTION 10.2.20.2 FIRE COMMAND CENTER

● The Fire Command Center shall be accessible directly from the exterior of the
building at the floor of exit discharge with a sign on the door stating “Fire
Command Center”.
● Fire command center shall be >10m2 with dimension of >1.5m in width and
>2.4m in height.
● The Fire Command Center shall contain the following:
A. Emergency voice/alarm communication system unit
B. Fire department communication unit.
C. Fire detection and alarm system annunciator unit
D. Elevator floor location and operation annunciator.
E. Sprinkler valve and water flow display panels.
F. Controls for unlocking stairway doors simultaneously.
G. Telephone for fire department use with controlled access to the
public telephone system. A telephone station or jack shall also
be provided in each fire pump room.
H. Fire pump status indicators.
I. Status indicators and controls for air handling systems.
J. The firefighters control panel for smoke control systems.
K. Emergency power and standby power status indicators.
L. Schematic building plans
M. Public address system, where specifically required by other
rules of RA 9514 and its RIRR.
● Shut off valves and water flow devices at the riser connection must be provided
on each floor. Combined sprinkler/standpipe systems must have an individual
control valve and check valve at each sprinkler connection.

SECTION 10.2.20.3 SMOKE CONTROL

● High rise buildings shall be designed in such a manner that the levels of smoke
concentration in protected spaces can be maintained within values tolerable by
occupants.
● Smoke control systems in accordance with Section 10.2.7.3 of this RIRR shall
be provided.

SECTION 10.2.20.4 SPRINKLER SYSTEMS PROTECTION

● High rise buildings shall be protected with approved, supervised sprinkler

systems designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 13.

SECTION 10.2.20.5 STAIRWELLS

● All stairwells shall be enclosed and protected in accordance with Division 5 of

this Chapter.

SECTION 10.2.20.6 FIRST-AID FIRE PROTECTION

● In addition to the other requirements of this RIRR, each floor shall be provided
with a 38-mm lightweight flexible hose equipped with a spray nozzle and
connected to the wet standpipe system capable of providing water supply for
at least a period of 30 minutes.
 ● Portable fire extinguisher shall be provided in accordance with Section 10.2.6.9
of this RIRR.

SECTION 10.2.20.7 APPLICABILITY OF ALL OTHER PROVISIONS OF THIS CODE

● This Section shall supplement all other applicable provisions of RA 9514 and
its RIRR.

DIVISION 21. OPERATING FEATURES

SECTION 10.2.21.1 GENERAL

A. Fire Exit Drills

● Fire exit drills shall be conducted in coordination with the Office of the
C/MFM having jurisdiction.
● Fire alarm facilities, where available, shall be used in the conduct of fire
exit drills.
B. Furnishing and Decorations
● No furnishing, decorations, or other objects shall be so placed as to
obstruct exits, access thereto, egress therefrom, or visibility thereof.
● Furnishing or decorations shall be treated with flame retardant where
required by the applicable provisions of RA 9514 and its RIRR.
● No furnishing or decorations of an explosive or highly flammable
character shall be used in any place of assembly or other occupancy.
C. Automatic Fire Suppression System
● All automatic fire suppression systems required by this Chapter shall be
continuously maintained in reliable operational condition at all times and
such periodic inspections and tests shall be made to assure proper
maintenance.
D. Alarm and Fire Detection Systems
● Systems shall be under the supervision of qualified and competent
persons.
● Systems shall be tested at intervals as recommended by the C/MFM
having jurisdiction.
● Fire alarm signaling equipment shall be restored to service as promptly
as possible after each test or alarm and shall be kept in normal
conditions ready for operation.
E. Fire Retardant Paints
● Fire retardant paints or solutions shall be reapplied at such intervals as
necessary to maintain the necessary flame retardant properties.
F. Recognition of Means of Egress
● Hangings or draperies shall not be placed over exit doors or otherwise
located as to conceal or obscure any exit. Mirrors shall not be placed
on exit doors nor in or adjacent to any exit in such a manner as to
confuse the direction of exit.
 G. Preventive Maintenance Record
● Preventive maintenance records shall be prepared by the Fire Safety
Practitioner in charge and submitted to the C/MFM having jurisdiction
every after inspection and test.

SECTION 10.2.21.2 PLACES OF ASSEMBLY

● The employees or attendants of places or public assembly shall be trained and drilled
in the duties they are to perform in case of fire and other emergencies.
● No open flame lighting devices shall be used in any place of assembly unless for
exceptions.
● Portable cooking equipment shall be permitted only when needed/allowed.
● Smoking in places of assembly shall be regulated by the C/MFM having jurisdiction.
● No person shall smoke in prohibited areas. “No Smoking” sign shall be posted.
● Where smoking is permitted, suitable ash trays or receptacles should be provided in
convenient locations.
● Combustible materials shall be treated with an effective flame retardant material.
● Only noncombustible materials or fire retardant pressure treated wood may be used
for stage scenery or props.
● Seats not secured to the floor may be permitted in restaurants, night clubs, and other
occupancies where the fastening of seats to the floor may be impractical.
● Seats in assembly occupancies accommodating more than 200 persons shall be
securely fastened to the floor except together in groups of not less than 3 or more than
7 and as permitted by the next paragraph. All seats in balconies and galleries shall be
securely fastened to the floor, except in places of worship.

SECTION 10.2.21.3 EDUCATIONAL OCCUPANCIES

● Fire exit drills shall be conducted regularly in accordance with the applicable provisions
of the following paragraphs.
● All fire exit drill alarms shall be sounded on the fire alarm system and not on the signal
system used to dismiss classes.
● In order to ensure that pupils will not return to a burning building, the recall signal shall
be one that is separate and distinct from and cannot be mistaken for any other signals.

SECTION 10.2.21.4 DAY CARE OCCUPANCIES

● Emergency egress and relocation drills shall be conducted at least once every quarter.
● All occupants of the building shall participate in the drill.
● Fire prevention inspection shall be conducted monthly by a trained senior member of
the staff, after which a copy of the latest inspection report shall be posted in a
conspicuous place in the day care facility.
● Clothing and personal effects shall not be stored in corridors, unless the building is
protected by an automatic sprinkler system.
● Artwork and teaching materials shall be permitted to be attached directly to the walls
but with limitations.
● Adequate adult staff shall be on duty in the facility and alert at all times where clients
are present.
SECTION 10.2.21.5 HEALTH CARE OCCUPANCIES

● Evacuation plan and fire exit drills shall be observed and properly executed.

SECTION 10.2.21.6 RESIDENTIAL BOARD AND CARE OCCUPANCIES

● Emergency egress and relocation drills shall be conducted on a quarterly basis, with
not less than two (2) drills conducted during the night when residents are sleeping.
● The emergency drills shall be permitted to be announced to the residents in advance.
● Exits and means of escape not used in any drill shall not be credited in meeting the
requirements of RA 9514 and its RIRR for board and care facilities.
● Residents who cannot meaningfully assist in their own evacuation or who have special
health problems shall not be required to actively participate in the drill.
● Smoking shall be prohibited in any room, compartment, or area where flammable or
combustible liquids, combustible gases, or oxygen is used or stored and in any other
hazardous location.
● Staff shall be on duty and in the facility at all times when residents requiring evacuation
assistance are present.
● Door assemblies for which the door leaf is required to swing in the direction of egress
travel shall be inspected and tested.

SECTION 10.2.21.7 RESIDENTIAL OCCUPANCIES

● All employees of hotels shall be instructed and drilled in the duties they are to perform
in case of fire, panic, or other related emergencies.
● For dormitories, lodging, and rooming houses, fire exit drills shall be regularly
conducted at least twice a year.

SECTION 10.2.21.8 MERCANTILE, BUSINESS, AND INDUSTRIAL OCCUPANCIES

● In every mercantile, business or industrial occupancy subject to occupancy by fifty (50)

or more persons, fire exit drills shall be held at least twice a year.

SECTION 10.2.21.9 SPECIAL STRUCTURES

● Waste or refuse shall not be allowed to accumulate in any area or in any manner that
creates a fire hazard.
● The use, mixing, dispensing, and storage of flammable or combustible liquids shall be
in accordance with Chapters 3 and 4 of this Rule and the following codes: NFPA 30,
Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code and NFPA 58, Liquefied Petroleum Gas
Code.
● Approved flammable or combustible liquids and liquefied petroleum gases used for
special effects shall be allowed.
● Welding shall be in accordance with NFPA 51, Standard for the Design and Installation
of Oxygen-Fuel Gas Systems for Welding, Cutting, and Allied Processes, and NFPA
51B, Standard for Fire Prevention during Welding, Cutting, and Other Hot Work.
● When an audience is present during productions, provisions for life safety and means
of egress shall be subject to the approval of the C/MFM having jurisdiction.
● Emergency Services Notification. The production company shall provide a
procedure acceptable to the C/MFM having jurisdiction for notifying the public
emergency services of emergency incidents.
CHAPTER 3. FIRE SAFETY FOR HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

DIVISION 1. SCOPE

SECTION 10.3.1.1 APPLICABILITY

● This chapter shall apply to highly flammable materials and chemicals.

DIVISION 2. FIRE SAFETY CLEARANCE

● A Fire Safety Clearance (FSC) for the installation and conveyance of all hazardous
materials shall be issued by the BFP as a prerequisite for the issuance of appropriate
permits and licenses from the local and other government agencies concerned.

DIVISION 3. CLASSIFICATION OF MATERIALS, WASTES, AND HAZARD OF CONTENTS

SECTION 10.3.3.1 HAZARDOUS MATERIAL CLASSIFICATION

● Materials shall be classified into one (1) or more of the following categories of
hazardous materials:
○ Corrosive solids, liquids, or gases;
○ Flammable solids, liquids and aerosols;
○ Flammable, inert and oxidizing cryogenic fluids;
○ Flammable and inert gases;
○ Organic peroxide formulations;
○ Oxidizer solids and liquids;
○ Oxidizing gases;
○ Pyrophoric solids, liquids, or gases;
○ Toxic or highly toxic solids, liquids, or gases;
○ Unstable (reactive) solids, liquids, or gases;
○ Water-reactive solids or liquids;
○ Radioactive materials; and
○ Explosives.

SECTION 10.3.3.2 CLASSIFICATION OF HIGH-HAZARD CONTENTS

A. High-Hazard Level 1 Contents - Materials that present a detonation hazard

B. High-Hazard Level 2 Contents - Materials that present a deflagration hazard or a
hazard from accelerated burning
C. High-Hazard Level 3 Contents - Materials that readily support combustion or present
a physical hazard
D. High-Hazard Level 4 Contents - Materials that are acute health hazards

SECTION 10.3.3.3 MIXTURES

● Mixtures shall be classified in accordance with the hazards of the mixture as a whole
by an approved, qualified organization, individual, or testing laboratory.

SECTION 10.3.3.4 MULTIPLE HAZARDS

 ● Hazardous materials that have multiple hazards shall conform to the code
requirements for each applicable hazard category.

SECTION 10.3.3.5 CLASSIFICATION OF WASTE

● Waste composed of or containing hazardous materials shall be classified in

accordance with Section 10.3.1.1 of this RIRR as applicable.

DIVISION 4. PERMISSIBLE STORAGE AND USE LOCATIONS

SECTION 10.3.4.1 CONTROL AREA

Hazardous materials shall be stored and used in one (1) or more control areas

SECTION 10.3.4.2 QUANTITY OF HAZARDOUS MATERIAL

● The quantity of hazardous materials in an individual control area shall not

exceed the Maximum Allowable Quantity (MAQ) for the applicable occupancy.
● Special Controls Required for Increased Quantities Materials shall be stored in
accordance with the following limitations where quantities of hazardous
materials are increased:
1. Storage and display of solids shall not exceed 976.4 kg/m2 of floor area
actually occupied by solid merchandise.
2. Storage and display of liquids shall not exceed 76 L/m2 of floor area actually
occupied by liquid merchandise.
3. Storage and display height shall not be more than 1.8 m above the finished
floor.
4. Individual containers less than 19 L or less than 11 kg shall be stored or
displayed on pallets, racks, or shelves.
5. Racks and shelves used for storage or display shall be in accordance with
NFPA 400, Hazardous Materials Code.
6. Containers shall be listed or approved for the intended use.
7. Individual containers shall not exceed 45.4 kg capacity for solids or a 38 L
capacity for liquids.
8. Incompatible materials shall be separated in accordance with NFPA 400.
9. Except for surfacing, floors shall be of non-combustible construction.
10. Aisles 1.2 m in width shall be maintained on 3 sides of the storage or display
area.
11. Hazard identification signs shall be provided in accordance with para “H” of
Division 5 of this Chapter and with NFPA 400.

SECTION 10.3.4.3 CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR CONTROL AREAS

● The maximum number of control areas within a building shall be in accordance

with Annex A, Table 23.
● No special construction provisions shall be required, provided that only one (1)
control area is present in a building
● Control areas shall be separated from each other by fire barriers in accordance
with Annex A, Table 23, provided that more than one (1) control area is present
in a building.
SECTION 10.3.4.4 PROTECTION LEVELS

The occupancy shall comply with the requirements for Protection Level 1, Protection
Level 2, Protection Level 3, or Protection Level 4, as required for the material in storage or
use as defined in accordance with Chapter 6 through 21 of NFPA 400 and the latest edition
of National Building Code of the Philippines (NBCP)

A. Protection Level 1 - Buildings containing quantities of hazardous materials exceeding

the MAQ of High-Hazard Level 1 contents permitted in control areas shall comply with
applicable regulations for Protection Level 1.
B. Protection Level 2 - Buildings, and portions thereof, containing quantities of
hazardous materials exceeding the MAQ of High-Hazard Level 2 contents permitted
in control areas shall comply with applicable regulations for Protection Level 2.
C. Protection Level 3 - Buildings, and portions thereof, containing quantities of
hazardous materials exceeding the MAQ of High-Hazard Level 3 contents permitted
in control areas shall comply with applicable regulations for Protection Level 3.
D. Protection Level 4 - . Buildings, and portions thereof, containing quantities of
hazardous materials exceeding the MAQ of High-Hazard Level 4 contents permitted
in control areas shall comply with applicable regulations for Protection Level 4.
E. Protection Level 5 - shall apply to semiconductor fabrication facilities where required
by the latest edition of NBCP.

SECTION 10.3.4.5 OUTDOOR CONTROL AREAS.

● Number of Outdoor Control Areas.

○ A single outdoor control area shall be permitted on any property.
○ A group of two (2) outdoor control areas shall be permitted where approved and
where each control area is separated by a minimum distance of 15 m, provided
that a property exceeds 929 m2.
○ Additional groups of outdoor control areas shall be permitted where approved,
provided that each group is separated by a minimum distance of 91 m, provided
that a property exceeds 3,252 m2.

● Outdoor Storage and Use Areas. Where the quantity of hazardous materials in outdoor
storage or use exceeds the MAQ for outdoor control areas as set forth in Annex A, Table
25, the outdoor area shall comply with the applicable outdoor requirements of NFPA 400.
DIVISION 5. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

● The manufacture, storage, handling and use of hazardous materials and chemicals
shall be safeguarded with protective facilities or devices as public safety may require.
● Globally Harmonized System Safety Data Sheet (GHS SDS), a document that
describes composition of a material, hazardous properties and hazard mitigation, and
disposal information, shall be made available at all times during fire safety inspection.
● Combustible chemicals shall be separated.
 ● Storage, handling, and use of hazardous chemicals shall be in accordance with
applicable Philippine National Standards (PNS) or internationally recognized
standards.
● All buildings and facilities shall have plans in case of emergency.
● All hazardous materials enumerated in this Chapter shall be protected by automatic
fire suppression system and other fire protection systems appropriate to the type of
hazard.

DIVISION 6. SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

A. Fire safety requirements for the storage, use, and handling of the following hazardous
materials and Chemicals shall comply with applicable Philippine National Standards
(PNS) or internationally-recognized standards.
B. Moreover, NFPA 400, Hazardous Materials Code and the following NFPA Codes or
Standards shall also be used as the basis for fire and life safety requirements:
● NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code
● NFPA 45, Standard on Fire Protection for Laboratories Using Chemicals
● NFPA 51A, Standard for Acetylene Cylinder Charging Plants
● NFPA 55, Compressed Gases and Cryogenic Fluids Code
● NFPA 58, Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code
● NFPA 59A, Standard for the Production, Storage, and Handling of Liquefied
Natural Gas (LNG)
● NFPA 99, Standard for Health Care Facilities
● NFPA 395, Standard for the Storage of Flammable and Combustible Liquids at
Farms and Isolated Sites
● NFPA 430, Code for the Storage of Liquid and Solid Oxidizers
● NFPA 432, Code for the Storage of Organic Peroxide Formulations
● NFPA 490, Code for the Storage of Ammonium Nitrate
● NFPA 495, Explosive Materials Code
● NFPA 801, Standard for Fire Protection for Facilities Handling Radioactive
Materials
C. In case of conflict between the above-mentioned standards and the specific
requirements mentioned in Division 7 of this Chapter, the specific requirements shall
prevail.

DIVISION 7. MATERIAL-SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

SECTION 10.3.7.1 CELLULOSE NITRATE PLASTIC (PYROXYLIN)

A. On Storage and Handling

● Cellulose Nitrate in excess of ten kilograms (10 kg) shall be stored in a
vented and sprinklered cabinet or vault.
● The maximum weight of raw materials to be stored in a cabinet shall be
two hundred twenty-five kilograms (225 kg) with two (2) compartments
equally divided.
● Cellulose Nitrate Plastic shall not be stored in any room or compartment
or within one meter (1 m) from any heat producing appliances.
● All waste cellulose nitrate plastic materials such as shavings, chips,
turnings, sawdust, edging and trimmings shall be stored under water in
metal receptacles until removed from the premises.
● Smoking shall be strictly prohibited.
 ● The storage area of cellulose nitrate plastic shall be marked with a sign
indicating “NITROCELLULOSE — FLAMMABLE SOLID — KEEP
HEAT, SPARKS, AND FLAME AWAY”.
B. On Fire Protection
● All new and existing buildings or any portion thereof, including factories
used for the manufacture or storage of articles of cellulose nitrate plastic
(pyroxylin) in quantities exceeding forty-five kilograms (45 kg), shall be
equipped with an approved, supervised sprinkler system and the
storage area shall be constructed of fire resistive materials with two-
hour (2-hr) fire resistance rating. The structural elements shall be of
steel, iron, concrete or masonry construction.
● Portable fire extinguishers shall be installed in buildings where storing,
handling and displaying of cellulose nitrate plastic (pyroxylin) is
conducted in accordance with Section 10.2.6.9 RIRR.
C. On Display
● In stores or establishments, displays of cellulose nitrate plastic
(pyroxylin) articles shall be in show cases or show windows.

Exceptions:

● Lights shall not be located directly above any cellulose nitrate

material or storage, unless the light fixture is provided with a
suitable guard to prevent heated particles from falling.
● If displayed on counters, such counters shall be arranged in the
following manner:
○ Each table shall measure one meter (1 m) wide and 3 m
long;
○ The space beneath each table or counter shall be free
of storage or obstruction of any kind; and
○ The display tables shall be arranged and located so as
not to obstruct the passage to exits in the event of
emergency.

SECTION 10.3.7.2 COMBUSTIBLE FIBERS

A. On Storage and Handling

● Combustible fibers shall not be stored in rooms or buildings with hazardous
gases, flammable liquids, dangerous chemicals or other similar materials.
● Trucks or automobiles shall not enter any fiber storage room or building.
● Smoking, open flame, and hot works, shall not be permitted.
● Storage shall be limited to stocks of one hundred (100) metric tons.
● A one meter (1m) clearance shall be maintained between sprinkler pipes in
protected storage vaults and top of the piles.
● Loose combustible fibers shall be stored as shown in Annex A, Table 27,
Storage of Combustible Fibers.
● A single block or pile shall contain a maximum of seven hundred cubic
meters (700 m3 ) of baled fiber.
● Each block or pile shall be separated from the adjacent storage by an aisle
measuring not less than 1,500 mm wide or by barriers consisting of
continuous sheets of non-combustible material extending from the floor to
a height of at least 300 mm beyond the topside of the piles.
 ● Fibers in bales bound with combustible tie ropes, as well as jute and other
fibers liable to swell when wet shall be stored to allow for expansion in any
direction and shall have one meter (1 m) clearance from walls to piles.
● If the storage compartment is less than 9 m in width, there shall be a 450
mm clearance from walls to piles and a center aisle of not less than 1,500
mm width is maintained.
B. On Fire Protection
● An approved, supervised sprinkler system shall be required in each building
or portion thereof used for storage of combustible commodities when the
area exceeds two thirds (2/3) of the sum of the floor area.
● The design and installation of an approved, supervised sprinkler system
shall conform to Section 10.2.6.7 of this RIRR.
● A minimum clearance of one meter (1 m) shall be provided between
sprinkler deflectors and top of storage.
● Draft curtains shall be provided to limit the area of sprinkler operation and
to aid the operation of roof vents.
● Portable fire extinguishers shall be installed in combustible commodities
storage.

SECTION 10.3.7.3 MATCHES

A. On Storage and Handling

● Matches shall be stored in a building, trailer, semi-trailer, or metal shipping
container with a two-hour (2-hr) fire resistance rating.
● Matches shall not be stored within three meters (3 m) of any elevator shaft
opening, open stairway, or other vertical opening.
● Where matches are sold in retail, original sealed packages shall be stored
in shelves. When such packages are broken, individual boxes shall be
stored in metal or metal-lined bins.
B. On Fire Protection
● Smoking is prohibited in areas where matches are stored. A “NO
SMOKING” sign shall be conspicuously posted in designated areas.
● The owner shall be responsible for the prompt removal of any hazardous
condition, accumulations of combustible materials.
● Approved, supervised sprinkler system and portable fire extinguishers
shall be provided throughout the storage and manufacturing areas.

SECTION 10.3.7.4 MAGNESIUM

A. On Storage
● Any combustible material shall not be stored within a distance of seven
and six tenths meters (7.6 m) from any pile of magnesium pigs, ingots,
and billets.
● Storage of pigs, ingots and billets in buildings shall be on floors of non-
combustible construction.
● Outdoor storage of magnesium pigs, ingots and billets shall be in piles
not exceeding forty-five thousand four hundred kilograms (45,400 kg)
each, separated by aisles with width not less than one half (1/2) the
height of the pile.
● All magnesium castings shall be clean and free of chips or fine particles
of magnesium.
 ● Aisle spaces in front of racks shall be equal to the height of the racks. All
aisle spaces shall be kept clear.
● Piles of stored light magnesium castings, either in cartons or crates or
without packing, shall be limited in size to twenty-eight cubic meters (28
m3 ).
● Combustible rubbish, spare crates, and separators shall not be permitted
to accumulate within the aisles between racks.
● Magnesium powder shall be stored in steel drums or other closed
conductive containers. The containers shall be tightly sealed and stored
in a dry location.
● Magnesium storage in quantities greater than 1.4 m3 shall be separated
from storage of other materials.

B. On Handling and Processing

● Magnesium powder production plants shall be located on a site large
enough, and shall be located at least ninety-one and a half meters (91.5
m) away from public roads and from any occupied structure.
● Different production operations shall be located in separate but not
adjoining buildings that are located at least fifteen meters (15 m) from
each other.
● All buildings used for the manufacture, packing, or loading for shipment
of magnesium powders shall be single storey, without basements,
constructed of non-combustible materials throughout.
● Connecting ducts shall be completely without bends.
● Storage bins for powders should be sealed and purged with inert gas
prior to filling.
● Each machine shall be equipped with its individual dust separating unit.
● Dry dust collectors shall be located outside, in a safe location, and shall
be provided with barriers or other means.
● All equipment shall be securely grounded by permanent ground wires.
● Melt rooms shall provide access to facilitate fire control.
C. On Fire Protection
● Only approved Class D extinguishing agents or those tested and shown
to be effective for extinguishing magnesium fires shall be permitted.
● All extinguishing materials shall be approved for use on magnesium fires.
● Approved fire-extinguishing materials shall be provided for every
operator performing machining, grinding or other processing operation
on magnesium.

SECTION 10.3.7.5 FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS

A. On Storage and Handling

● Flammable and combustible liquid shall be stored on approved containers
or tanks properly labeled with the physical properties of its content,
flammability or combustibility and precautionary measures.
● Specific Requirements for Portable Storage which is in accordance with the
provisions of this RIRR.
● Storage cabinets shall be located at least eight meters (8 m) away from any
source of ignition.
● Doors shall be equipped with a latching device.
 ● Flammable or combustible liquids specified above shall not be stored near
exits stairways or areas normally used as means of egress and ingress.
● Cabinets shall be conspicuously labeled in red letters “FLAMMABLE
LIQUIDS”.
● Any tank not used for a period of ninety (90) days, shall be properly
safeguarded or removed in a manner approved by the C/MFM having
jurisdiction.
● All electrical equipment shall be designed, operated and maintained in
accordance with the latest edition of the PEC.
● Smoking shall be prohibited.
● Service stations shall be constructed with facilities for storage, handling and
dispensing of flammable and combustible liquids.
● Service stations or portions thereof where flammable gases such as but not
limited to liquefied petroleum gases (LPG), liquefied natural gases (LNG),
or compressed natural gases (CNG) shall be governed in a separate rule.
● Buildings used for office, grocery store, rest room, utility room and the like
shall conform to the Philippine National Standards and other internationally
accepted standards.
● For drainage and waste disposal, provisions of this RIRR shall be applied.
● Piping systems shall be in accordance with applicable provisions of this
RIRR.
● For transporting, smoking shall be prohibited and warning signs shall be
visible and clear.
● Fire extinguishers shall be kept and maintained in good operating
conditions at all times.
B. Fire Safety Clearance
1. A FSC shall be obtained from the C/MFM having jurisdiction for the
following:
● Storage, handling or use of Class I flammable liquids in excess
of 3.8 L in any dwelling or other place of human habitation; or in
excess of 19 L in any other building or other occupancy; or in
excess of 38 L outside of any building, except:
○ storage or use of flammable liquids in the fuel tank of a
motor vehicle, aircraft, motorboat, mobile power plant or
mobile heating plant.
○ liquids used for building maintenance, painting, or other
similar infrequent maintenance purposes shall be
permitted to be stored temporarily in closed containers
safely secured outside of storage cabinets or inside
storage areas, limited to an amount that does not exceed
six (6) days of supply at anticipated rates of use.
● Storage, handling, or use of Class II or III liquids in excess of 95
L in a building; or in excess of 227 L outside a building except
for fuel oil used in connection with oil burning equipment.
● Work, installation, and use of equipment and premises for the
storage, handling and sale of combustible and flammable
liquids.
● A proper disposal and/or abandonment procedure shall be
submitted.
2. An MSDS shall be a prerequisite in the application of such fire
clearance.
 3. Where more than one hundred (100) drums of flammable and/or
combustible liquids are to be stored outside of the buildings, plans of
storage area and building structures shall be submitted.

SECTION 10.3.7.6 CRYOGENIC FLUIDS

A. Storage and Handling
● Containers either metallic, concrete or pressurized used for storage and
handling shall be in accordance with the applicable provisions and
standards of concerned government agencies such as the Department
of Energy (DOE) and/or Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
● Containers shall be equipped with drainage, dikes and walls.
● A cryogenic fluid container/s with an aggregate capacity in excess of
seven hundred fifteen thousand liters (715,000 L) shall be located at a
minimum of fifteen meters (15 m) from a building utilized for the
production of such fluids.
● When the capacity is seven hundred fifteen thousand liters (715,000 L)
or less, the location shall be based on the capacity of the container or
containers and the physical features of the installation with three meters
(3 m) being the minimum distance allowed.
B. Equipment and Devices
● All cryogenic containers, equipment and devices used for the storage,
handling and transportation of cryogenic fluids shall be of approved
type.
● Electrical installations and equipment shall conform to the provisions of
the latest edition of Philippine Electrical Code.
● Proper lighting shall be provided for fire protection appliances and
operating facilities.
● Shutoff valves shall be provided on all container connections.
C. Warning Labels
● Warning labels and signs shall be posted visibly from any direction of
approach on cryogenic containers and equipment.
● The name of the specific cryogenic fluid shall be conspicuously affixed
at the entrances to locations where they are stored, handled, used, or
dispensed.
● Vehicles transporting cryogenic fluids shall bear the signs,
“FLAMMABLE GAS” or “OXIDIZER”.
D. Safety Measures
● A positive alarm or other approved device shall be provided to warn
against overfilling.
● Insulation shall be non-combustible and shall be non-reactive with
oxygen-enriched air.

SECTION 10.3.7.7 MEDICAL AND RELATED COMPRESSED GASES

A. On Storage and Handling
● Indoor and outdoor storage of compressed gases shall comply with the
material specific requirements provided in the material safety data
sheet or manufacturer’s technical specifications/ data or other
applicable provisions of this RIRR.
● Compressed gas containers, equipment and devices used for the
storage, handling and transportation of compressed gases shall be of
approved type.
● Compressed gases shall be stored in areas dedicated to the storage of
such gases without other storage or uses.
 ● Cylinders of Medical Gas Storage containing compressed gases and
containers for volatile liquids shall be kept away from radiators, steam
piping, and other sources of heat.
● Venting of gases shall be directed to an approved location.
B. On Fire Protection and Markings
● A written emergency action plan to be implemented in the event of spill
or leak shall be prepared, maintained on the premises and made
available at all times.
● Automatic fire suppression and fire detection systems, where required,
shall be connected to the facility fire alarm system and shall be arranged
to immediately sound an alarm.
● Vehicles shall bear the words “COMPRESSED GAS” or similar
wording.
● Outdoor storage shall display precautionary signs, readable from a
distance of one and a half meters (1.5 m), the following words:
“CAUTION OXIDIZING GASES STORED WITHIN NO SMOKING NO
OPEN FLAME”.

SECTION 10.3.7.8 LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GASES (LPG)

A. Tank Farms
● All aboveground items of LPG equipment shall be easily accessible for
control, maintenance and firefighting purposes.
● Safety warnings shall be sufficiently and conspicuously located for
general public awareness (No Smoking, No Open Flame, Highly
Flammable – LPG).
● Tank farm storage containers for LPG must be designed, fabricated,
tested and marked in accordance with the applicable codes and
standards.
● The tank farm shall be equipped with portable nine kilograms (9 kg) B
and C rated fire extinguishers.
B. Pipe Line
● LPG liquid and vapor lines shall be properly labeled or color coded in
accordance with the latest edition of PMEC.
● No non-metallic pipe, tubing or hose for permanently interconnecting
containers/tanks shall be used
● Piping systems shall be tested and proven free of leaks at not less than
the normal operating pressure at least once (1) a year.
C. Building LPG System
● LPG pipes shall be located so as not to obstruct ingress and egress of
occupant or people entering the building.
● LPG pipes must be located so as to avoid being heated, i.e. beside
boilers or heaters.
● The GAS Leak Detection System (GLDS) shall be interconnected to the
Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP).
● Piping system shall be tested annually and documented.

SECTION 10.3.7.9 COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS AS VEHICLE FUEL

A. Scope
● This Section shall govern the storage, installation, operation, repair and
maintenance, fire protection and other safety measures of compressed
natural gas (CNG) engine fuel systems on vehicles of all types.
B. General CNG and Equipment Qualification
● Containers shall be for CNG service. It shall be fabricated either of steel,
aluminum, or composite materials, designed and permanently marked
“CNG” by the manufacturer.
 ● Pipes, tubing, fittings, gaskets, and packing material for fuel lines shall
be compatible with the fuel under the service conditions.
● Hose, metallic hose, flexible metal hose, tubing, and their connections
shall be resistant to corrosion and exposure to natural gas and can
resist the most severe pressures and temperatures expected under
normal operating conditions.
C. Engine Fuel Systems
● The storage, installation, inspection, testing, repair and maintenance,
and safety measures of CNG fuel supply systems for vehicular internal
combustion engines shall comply with NFPA 52, Vehicular Fuel
Systems Code, manufacturer’s instructions and other internationally
accepted standards.
● The complete assembly shall be leak-tested using natural gas or non-
flammable gas.
● All containers, container appurtenances, piping systems, venting
systems, and other components shall be maintained in a safe condition.
D. CNG Compression, Storage, and Dispensing Systems
● Compression equipment shall be designed for use with CNG and for
the pressures and temperatures to which it can be subjected under
normal operating conditions.
● In a facility in which CNG compression, storage, and dispensing
equipment are sheltered, access doors shall have warning signs with
the words “WARNING—NO SMOKING— FLAMMABLE GAS”.
● A portable fire extinguisher having a rating of not less than 20-B and C
shall be provided.

SECTION 10.3.7.10 LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS

Liquefied natural gas (LNG) must be produced, stored, used, and handled in
conformity with all applicable Philippine National Standards, NFPA 59-A, Standard for
the Production, Storage, and Handling of Liquefied Natural Gas, and other generally
acknowledged standards.

DIVISION 8. OTHER HAZARDOUS MATERIALS AND CHEMICALS

SECTION 10.3.8.1 SCOPE

This Division shall apply to the storage, handling, transport and protection of
hazardous materials and chemicals not covered on Division 7 of this Chapter.

SECTION 10.3.8.2 OXIDIZING MATERIALS

Packaged oxidizing materials shall be stored in dry locations and separated
from stored organic materials, flammable solids, combustible materials, hazardous
chemicals, corrosive liquids and such other non-combustible materials.

SECTION 10.3.8.3 RADIOACTIVE MATERIALS

● Clearly visible signs of warning of radiation dangers shall be placed at all
entrances to areas or rooms where radioactive materials are used or stored.
● Each container in which radioactive materials are used, stored, or transported
shall bear a durable, clearly visible, appropriate warning sign.
● Storage, use and handling of Radioactive Materials shall be in accordance with
applicable Codes of PNRI, NFPA 801, Standard for Fire Protection for Facilities
Handling Radioactive Materials and other internationally accepted standards.
SECTION 10.3.8.4 POTENTIALLY EXPLOSIVE CHEMICALS
● Potentially explosive chemicals shall be stored away from all heat-producing
appliances and electrical devices and shall be protected from extreme heat, fire
and explosion.
● Open lights or flames and smoking shall be prohibited in or near storage areas.
● Good housekeeping shall be maintained.

SECTION 10.3.8.5 ORGANIC PEROXIDES

● The storage building shall be located at minimum distances from flammable or
combustible liquid, building or highway as follows:

WEIGHT OF ORGANIC PEROXIDES DISTANCES

22 kg to 45 kg 23 m

45 kg to 227 kg 30 m

227 kg to 445 kg 38 m

445 kg to 1,364 kg 60 m

1,364 kg to 2,270 kg 92 m

● Readily legible warning signs and placards shall be prominently placed in the
storage and processing areas.
● Care shall be taken to avoid rough handling or contamination of these
chemicals.

SECTION 10.3.8.6 NITROMETHANE

● A suitable isolated outdoor storage area shall be provided for nitromethane.
● Hazardous processing shall not be permitted in the vicinity of this storage area.
● Care shall be taken to avoid rough handling or contamination of this chemical.
● Readily legible warning signs and placards shall be prominently placed in the
transport, storage and processing area.

SECTION 10.3.8.7 AMMONIUM NITRATE

● All flooring in storage and handling areas shall be of non-combustible material
and shall be without drains, traps, pits or pockets into which any molten
ammonium nitrate could flow and be confined in case of fire.
● Ammonium nitrate storage shall be separated by a space of nine meters (9 m)
or by tight non-combustible partition from storage of organic chemicals,
corrosive liquids, compressed gases, flammable and combustible materials, or
other contaminating substances.

SECTION 10.3.8.8 HIGHLY TOXIC MATERIALS

● Highly toxic materials shall be segregated from other chemicals and
combustible and flammable substances in a room.
● Readily legible warning signs and placards shall be prominently placed in the
transport, storage and processing area.
 SECTION 10.3.8.9 POISONOUS GASES
● Storage of poisonous gases shall be in rooms of at least one (1) hour fire-resistive
construction.
● Storage of poisonous gases shall have natural or mechanical ventilation
adequate to remove leaking gas.
● Readily legible warning signs and placards shall be prominently placed in the
transport, storage and processing area.

SECTION 10.3.8.10 CORROSIVE LIQUIDS

● A satisfactory plan must be in place for safely cleaning out any leaks of corrosive
liquid that may happen during handling or storage.
● Readily legible warning signs and placards shall be prominently placed in the
transport, storage and processing area.

SECTION 10.3.8.11 STORAGE CABINETS FOR HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

● Cabinets for the storage of hazardous materials shall be approved.
● Doors shall be self-closing and self-latching.
● Cabinets shall be painted with luminescent type paint and shall be conspicuously
labeled in red letters: “HAZARDOUS - KEEP FIRE AWAY.”

SECTION 10.3.8.12 DESIGNATION OF CARGO

● Readily legible warning signs and placards shall be prominently placed in the
transport, storage and processing areas.

SECTION 10.3.8.13 HAZARDOUS INSULATOR/CUSHIONING MATERIALS

Storage areas for materials used as insulators or padding for crates, boxes,
walls, air conditioning ducts, beds, chairs, and the like that are plastic-based, fire-
supporting, fire-conductive, smoke-generating, or toxic gas producing must have
automatic fire extinguishing systems of a type that has been approved.

CHAPTER 4. FIRE SAFETY FOR HAZARDOUS OPERATIONS

DIVISION 1. SCOPE
This Chapter shall govern the Fire Safety Measures for certain Hazardous Operations.

DIVISION 2. AUTOMOBILE WRECKING YARDS

SECTION 10.4.2.1 APPLICATION

This division shall cover automobile wrecking yards, including hot works and
the handling and storage of fuels and fluids, tires, plastics, combustibles, and
hazardous materials.

SECTION 10.4.2.2 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

● No automotive wrecking yard shall be so located as to seriously expose adjacent
properties to fire.
● The entire premises devoted to such a yard or plant shall be enclosed with a
chain-linked fence not less than two and a half meters (2.5 m) in height, with two
(2) gates of four and a half meters (4.5 m) width for fire department access.
● No motor vehicles, or any part thereof, junk, or other waste materials, shall be
stored, displayed or kept in such a manner as to unnecessarily hinder or
endanger firefighting operations.
 SECTION 10.4.2.3 FIRE SAFETY CLEARANCE REQUIRED
● In addition to Business Permit/Permit to Operate an automobile wrecking yard,
an FSC issued by the C/MFM having jurisdiction for the following:
A. storage of flammable and combustible liquids
B. storage of hazardous materials
C. hot works operations and burning

SECTION 10.4.2.4 TIRE STORAGE

● Sources of ignition such as cutting and welding, heating devices, and open fires
shall be prohibited within the tire storage area.
● Piles of tires or altered tire material shall not be located beneath power lines or
structures.
● Smoking shall be prohibited within the tire storage area.
● Safeguards shall be provided to minimize the hazard of sparks from equipment
such as refuse burners, boiler stacks, and vehicle exhaust when such hazards
are located near the tire storage area.

SECTION 10.4.2.5 BURNING OPERATIONS

Burning Operation is allowed provided that an FSC shall first be obtained from
the C/MFM having jurisdiction in accordance with Division 4 of Chapter 5 of this Rule.

SECTION 10.4.2.6 MOTOR VEHICLE FLUIDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

● The storage, use, and handling of motor vehicle fluids and hazardous materials
shall be in accordance with Chapter 3 of this Rule.
● Motor vehicle fluids shall be drained from salvage vehicles when such fluids are
leaking.
● Lead-acid batteries shall be removed from salvage vehicles when such batteries
are leaking and shall be stored in a manner approved by the Department of the
Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

SECTION 10.4.2.7 HOUSEKEEPING

● All materials not necessary for the operation of the facility should be removed as
soon as practicable.
● Weeds and other vegetation should be kept clear to prevent a fire from spreading
within the automobile wrecking yard or to another adjacent area.

DIVISION 3. BOWLING ALLEYS RESURFACING AND REFINISHING

SECTION 10.4.3.1 GENERAL

Bowling alleys shall conform to applicable requirements of this RIRR, as well
as the provisions of this Division.

SECTION 10.4.3.2 FIRE SAFETY CLEARANCE REQUIRED

Before executing any refinishing or alley resurfacing procedures requiring the
use of flammable liquids or materials on the property, the operator/owner of a bowling
alley shall get a fire safety certificate from the C/MFM having authority.

SECTION 10.4.3.3 CONSTRUCTION

Pin finishes involving the application of flammable or combustible finishes,
sanding or buffing operations, if done within a building, shall be done only in a room
having a fire resistance rating of two (2) hours.

SECTION 10.4.3.4 OPERATION

● During sanding and resurfacing operations, no portion of the premises
shall be open to the public. Pin servicing work is prohibited both during
 the sanding process and for twenty-four (24) hours following the end of
the sanding/re-varnishing process.
● When flammable solvents/chemicals are being used, an independent
means of ventilation shall be provided to disperse flammable vapors to
the open air.
● Portable fire extinguishers must be provided for immediate use during
work.

SECTION 10.4.3.5 PROTECTION AND MAINTENANCE

● For the purpose of collecting dust while sanding and refinishing
activities are being performed, sanding and buffing machines must
have an approved continuous suction system.
● All electric power tools shall be maintained.

DIVISION 4. DUST PRODUCING MACHINES

SECTION 10.4.4.1 FIRE SAFETY CLEARANCE REQUIRED

No person shall operate any dust producing machines without FSC issued by
the C/MFM having jurisdiction.

SECTION 10.4.4.2 CONSTRUCTION

● Building construction, renovation, demolition, or relocation shall comply with the
latest edition of NBCP.
● Suitable dust collecting equipment shall be installed.
● Electrical wiring, power equipment, and lightning protection system installed, shall
conform to the requirements of the latest edition of PEC.

SECTION 10.4.4.3 OPERATION

● All structures that manufacture, process, or emit flammable or explosive dusts
must have properly constructed and placed vents with explosion-proof exhaust
fans.
● Operating controls shall be designed, constructed, and installed, so that the
required conditions of safety for personnel during operation are maintained.

SECTION 10.4.4.4 PROTECTION AND MAINTENANCE

● In places where there are operators who create or stir up dust, it is forbidden to
smoke, carry matches, use heating or other devices that use open flames, or use
any spark-producing equipment.
● Fire protection systems, where installed, shall be especially designed to address
building protection, process equipment, and the chemical and physical properties
of the material being processed.
● Fire detection system shall be provided when the operation is intermittent with the
sound of an alarm.
● All fire detection equipment and fire extinguishing systems shall be tested and
maintained in accordance with Section 10.2.6.6 of this RIRR.

DIVISION 5. EXPLOSIVES, AMMUNITION AND BLASTING AGENTS

SECTION 10.4.5.1 GENERAL
● This Section shall apply to the manufacture, transportation, storage, sale, and use
of explosive materials.
● This Section is intended to provide reasonable safety in the manufacture, storage,
transportation, and use of explosive materials.
 SECTION 10.4.5.2 SECURITY AND SAFETY OF EXPLOSIVE MATERIALS
● All explosive materials not in the process of manufacture, transportation, or use
shall be kept in storage magazines.
● Magazines are constructed, classified and used to comply with the requirements
of National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 495.
● Magazines shall be kept locked except when being inspected or when explosives
are being placed therein or removed therefrom
● Magazines shall be ventilated to minimize dampness and heating of stored
explosives.
● Explosive dust shall not be exhausted into the atmosphere.
● All access roads to explosive storage magazines shall be posted warning signs
such as “DANGER”, “NEVER FIGHT EXPLOSIVE FIRES”, “EXPLOSIVES ARE
STORED ON THIS SITE”.
● Smoking shall be prohibited in the plant site, except where permit notices are
posted.
● Matches, torches, or other flame-producing devices shall be prohibited from
explosives manufacturing areas without a written permit signed by an authorized
person.

SECTION 10.4.5.3 MANUFACTURING, USE AND HANDLING

● Emergency procedures shall be developed for each manufacturing facility.
● Persons handling explosive materials or working in operating buildings shall be
properly trained.
● Use, handling and blasting operation of explosives shall be in accordance with
the Rules and Regulations of PD 1866.

SECTION 10.4.5.4 TRANSPORTATION

● Only a licensed driver who is physically fit, cautious, capable, reliable, literate in
English, and not addicted to the use of, or under the influence of, intoxicants,
narcotics, or other dangerous drugs may operate and be in charge of a vehicle
transporting explosive materials.
● The driver of a vehicle transporting explosive materials on public highways shall
be not less than twenty-one (21) years old.
● Vehicles used for transporting explosive materials shall be strong enough to carry
the load and in good mechanical condition.
● Every vehicle used for transporting explosives shall be equipped with not less
than two (2) fire extinguishers.
● Every vehicle transporting explosives shall be marked or labeled on both sides
and rear with the word “EXPLOSIVES” .
● Explosive materials shall not be transported through any prohibited vehicular
tunnel or over any prohibited bridge, roadway, or elevated highway as well as
congested areas and heavy traffic.
● Unauthorized persons shall not ride vehicles transporting explosives.

DIVISION 6. FIREWORKS AND PYROTECHNICS

SECTION 10.4.6.1 APPLICATION

This Section covers the production, delivery, and storage of fireworks,
pyrotechnic objects, and any of their parts that include explosive or pyrotechnic
materials, as well as the distribution and retail sale of consumer fireworks and the use
of pyrotechnics in front of a close-proximity audience.
SECTION 10.4.6.2 FIRE SAFETY INSPECTION CERTIFICATE (FSIC) REQUIRED
No person shall manufacture, store, handle and/or use any fireworks and
pyrotechnic materials of any kind or form without securing a FSIC from the C/MFM
having jurisdiction.

SECTION 10.4.6.3 MANUFACTURING FACILITIES

● Manufacturing is limited to the creation of unique fireworks, pyrotechnic objects,
and any component(s) using explosive or pyrotechnic components that are not
intended for widespread sale.
● Process buildings shall be single-storey buildings and shall not have basements.
● Horizontal ledges and surfaces upon which dust can settle and accumulate shall
be minimized.
● Stoves, exposed flames, and portable electric heaters shall be prohibited in any
building where fireworks, its components, or flammable liquids are or can be
present.
● All persons engaged in the business of importing, manufacturing, or dealing in
fireworks and pyrotechnics shall possess a valid license or permit from the
permitting agency.
● Copies of all required licenses and permits shall be posted at each
manufacturing facility.

SECTION 10.4.6.4 REQUIREMENTS FOR MANUFACTURE OF FIREWORKS AND

PYROTECHNICS
● Name of the pyrotechnic device and a description of its effect.
● Name, address, and phone number of the manufacturer.
● Material safety data sheet (MSDS) for the pyrotechnic materials.
● Instructions for the proper method(s) of placing, loading, and using the
pyrotechnic device, including any cautions or special considerations.

SECTION 10.4.6.5 STORAGE OF CONSUMER FIREWORKS AT

MANUFACTURING AND DISTRIBUTION FACILITIES
● Storage of consumer fireworks at manufacturing and distribution facilities shall
comply with permanent buildings and structures including consumer fireworks
storage buildings or areas and consumer fireworks work buildings, rooms, or
areas.
● Buildings used to store or handle consumer fireworks shall be located 30.5 m
away from public ways, buildings, facilities, magazines, motor vehicle fuel–
dispensing stations, retail propane dispensing stations, flammable and
combustible liquid aboveground tank storage, and flammable gas and
flammable liquefied gas bulk aboveground storage and dispensing areas.
● Automatic sprinkler systems shall be installed; portable fire extinguishers for
consumer fireworks storage or work buildings shall be located.

SECTION 10.4.6.6 RETAIL AND SELLING OF CONSUMER FIREWORKS

● Retail sales of consumer fireworks and pyrotechnics in both new and existing
buildings, structures, and facilities shall comply with the requirements of this
Section.
● Permits shall be obtained by either permanent or temporary structures.
● Consumer fireworks shall only be permitted to be sold at retail in permanent
buildings, tents, canopies, temporary structures, vehicles such as buses,
trailers, recreational vehicles, motor homes, travel trailers, trucks, and
automobiles, complying with the applicable requirements of CFRS.
● An automatic sprinkler system shall be designed and installed in retailing store
areas.
● Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided.
 ● At least one (1) sign indicating “FIREWORKS — NO SMOKING” shall be
posted in a store.

SECTION 10.4.6.7 STORAGE AND TRANSPORTATION OF FIREWORKS

● Storage and transportation of fireworks and other pyrotechnics shall be in
accordance with RA 7183, as amended.
● Preparation area(s) for display fireworks shall be secured from public access by
at least thirty meters (30 m).
● Fireworks and pyrotechnics shall be inspected by the operator or assistants
following their delivery to the display site at any time prior to the shells being
loaded into their mortars or into ready boxes.
● Any fireworks and pyrotechnics having tears, leaks, broken fuses, or signs of
having been wet shall be set aside for review by the operator.

SECTION 10.4.6.8 DISPLAY CENTER AND SITE SELECTION

● Firewalls with a fire resistance rating of at least two (2) hours must separate
display locations for selling fireworks and pyrotechnics from one another.
● Site Plan shall be submitted to the C/MFM having jurisdiction within a time
period required prior to the display.
● The site plan shall include the dimensions of the display site and location of
discharge site(s), spectator viewing area(s), parking area(s), fallout area(s), and
the associated separation distances.

SECTION 10.4.6.9 FLOATING VESSELS AND FLOATING PLATFORMS

● Floating vessels and floating platforms shall be held in control at all times,
whether self propelled, controlled by another vessel, or secured by mooring or
anchoring.
● Floating vessels and floating platforms shall be of sufficient strength and stability
to safely allow the firing of the display
● Smoking materials, matches, lighters, or open flame devices shall not be
permitted within fifteen meters (15 m) of any area where fireworks or other
pyrotechnic materials are present.
● Devices such as fuses, port fires, and torches shall be permitted to be used to
ignite fireworks.

SECTION 10.4.6.10 USE OF PYROTECHNICS BEFORE A PROXIMATE AUDIENCE

● Shall be in accordance with NFPA 1126, Standard for the Use of
Pyrotechnics Before a Proximate Audience.

SECTION 10.4.6.11 TYPES OF FIRECRACKERS AND PYROTECHNIC DEVICES

ALLOWED
The following common types of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices may be
manufactured, sold, distributed and used:
A. Firecrackers
1. Baby rocket. A firecracker with a stick so constructed that lighting of the
wick will propel the whole thing to lift a few meters before exploding.
2. Bawang. A firecracker larger than a triangulo with one and four tenths grams
(1.4 g) of powder packed in cardboard tied around with abaca strings and
wrapped in the shape of garlic.
3. Small Triangulo. A firecracker shaped like a triangle with powder content
less than the bawang and usually wrapped in brown paper measuring nineteen
millimeters (19 mm) length in its longest side.
4. Pulling of Strings. A firecracker consisting of a small tube about twenty-five
millimeters (25 mm) in length and less than six and four tenths millimeters (6.4
 mm) in diameter with strings on each end. Pulling both strings will cause the
firecracker to explode;
5. Paper caps. Minute amount of Black Powder spread in either small strips of
paper on a small sheet used for children’s toy guns.
6. El diablo. Firecrackers are tubular in shape about thirty-two millimeters (32
mm) in length and less than six and four tenths millimeters (6.4 mm) in diameter
with a wick; also known as labintador.
7. Judah’s Belt. A string of firecrackers consisting of either diablos or small
triangulos that can number up to a hundred or thereabout and culminating in a
large firecracker usually a bawang.
8. Sky Rocket (Kwitis). A large version of a baby rocket designed to be
propelled to a height of twelve and two tenths meters (12.2 m) to fifteen and
two tenths meters (15.2 m) before exploding;
9. Other types equivalent to the foregoing in explosive content.
B. Pyrotechnic Devices
1. Sparklers. Pyrotechnic devices usually made of Black Powder on a piece of
wire or inside a paper tube designed to light up and glow after igniting.
2. Luces. Any of several kinds of sparklers.
3. Fountain. A kind of sparkler conical in shape which is lighted on the ground
and designed to provide various rising colors and intermittent lights upon being
ignited.
4. Jumbo Regular and Special. A kind of sparkler similar to a “fountain” but
bigger in size.
5. Mabuhay. Sparklers bunched into a bundle of a dozen pieces.
6. Roman candle. A sparkler similar to a “fountain” but shaped like a big
candle.
7. Trompillo. A pyrotechnic device usually fastened at the center and designed
to spin first clockwise and then counter-clockwise and provides various colored
lights upon being ignited.
8. Airwolf. A kind of sky rocket shaped like an airplane with a propeller to rise
about twelve and two tenths meters (12.2 m) to fifteen and two tenths meters
(15.2 m) and provide various kinds of light while aloft;
9. Whistle device. Any of the various kinds of firecrackers or pyrotechnic
designed to either simply emit a whistle-like sound or explode afterwards upon
being ignited;
10. Butterfly. Butterfly-shaped pyrotechnic device designed to lift aboveground
while providing light;
11. All kinds of pyrotechnic devices (pailaw).
12. Other types equivalent to the foregoing devices.

SECTION 10.4.6.12 PROHIBITED TYPES OF FIRECRACKERS AND

PYROTECHNIC DEVICES
Below is a list of the firecrackers prohibited for sale and manufacture in the
country by the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Trade and Industry
(DTI).
1. Watusi. Also known as the “dancing firecracker”. It is usually ignited by friction to
produce a dancing movement and a crackling sound. It was initially allowed for sale
and manufacture under RA 7183, but was eventually banned because it causes
poisoning when ingested, especially among children.
2. Piccolo. The Department of Health banned it in 2007 because it can explode in the
hands, and may cause death when ingested.
3. Mother Rockets. Firecrackers with a stick designed as a propellant upon lighting
the wick.
4. Pillbox. A firecracker that causes a series of sparks when lit.
 5. Boga. Traditional cannon made from PVC pipe using denatured alcohol as an
explosive ingredient.
6. Big Judah’s belt. A string of firecrackers consisting of smaller firecrackers that
number up to a hundred, and culminating in a larger and more powerful firecracker.
7. Big Bawang. A firecracker packed in cardboard tied around with abaca strings,
giving it the shape of a large garlic.
8. Kwiton. Aerial firecracker which explodes several times when lit.
9. Goodbye Philippines. Giant triangle-shaped firecracker which packs a powerful
explosion.
10. Other banned firecrackers include the Atomic Bomb, Five Star, Pla-pla, Og, Giant
Whistle Bomb, Super Lolo and Atomic Big Triangulo, Lolo Thunder, Kabasi and
unlabeled firecrackers.

SECTION 10.4.6.13 CLEARANCE FOR FIREWORKS EXHIBITION

No person shall be allowed to conduct firework exhibition without first securing
a clearance from the C/MFM having jurisdiction.

SECTION 10.4.6.14 REQUIREMENTS FOR FIREWORKS EXHIBITION

● A permit to possess and display fireworks shall first be secured from the PNP.
● Fireworks shall be fired at a distance of three and forty-eight hundredths meters
(3.48 m) away from people.
● All fireworks shall project upward.
● A responsible person of at least twenty-one (21) years and with adequate
knowledge of handling fireworks shall be assigned to supervise fireworks
display.
● Sufficient approved type of first aid fire protection equipment shall be on hand
at the site during fireworks exhibitions.
● The nearest fire station shall be notified of such exhibitions.

SECTION 10.4.6.15 DISPOSAL OF UNFIRED FIREWORKS

● Any fireworks that remain unfired after the display is concluded shall be
immediately disposed properly.
● Fireworks and pyrotechnics shall be fired in accordance with RA 9514 and its
RIRR.
● Package of unfired fireworks and pyrotechnics shall be returned to the supplier
in compliance with all applicable regulations.

DIVISION 7. SPRAYING, DIPPING, COATING USING FLAMMABLE OR COMBUSTIBLE

MATERIALS AND LIQUIDS

SECTION 10.4.7.1 FIRE SAFETY CLEARANCE

For spraying and dipping operations using flammable liquids and powders
covered by this RIRR, an FSC from the C/MFM with authority must be issued.

SECTION 10.4.7.2 DIPPING, COATING, AND PRINTING USING FLAMMABLE OR

COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
This Section shall apply to dipping, roll coating, flow coating, curtain coating,
printing, cleaning, and similar processes, hereinafter referred to as “coating processes”
or “processes,” in which articles or materials are passed through tanks, vats, or
containers, or passed over rollers, drums, or other process equipment that contain
flammable or combustible liquids.
SECTION 10.4.7.3 LOCATION OF DIPPING, COATING AND PRINTING
PROCESSES
● Areas in which dipping, coating, or printing operations are conducted shall be
protected with approved automatic sprinkler systems that are designed and
installed in accordance with Section 10.2.6.7 of this RIRR.
● It shall not be located in any building that is classified as an assembly,
educational, day care, health care, ambulatory health care, detention/
correctional, residential, mercantile, business or storage occupancy.

SECTION 10.4.7.4 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF DIPPING, COATING, AND

PRINTING EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS
● Dipping and coating equipment shall be constructed of steel, reinforced concrete,
masonry, or other noncombustible material.
● The top of any tank that holds flammable or combustible liquids shall be at least
one hundred fifty millimeters (150 mm) above the floor.
● The liquid in any dipping or coating tank shall be maintained at a level that is at
least one hundred fifty millimeters (150 mm) below the top of the tank to allow
effective application of extinguishing agents in the event of fire.
● Conveyor systems shall be arranged to stop automatically in the event of fire. It
shall be arranged to stop automatically if the required rate of ventilation is not
maintained.
● Heating systems shall be automatically shut down if the level of liquid in the
dipping or coating tank exceeds or falls below the manufacturers’ recommended
operating level.

SECTION 10.4.7.5 VENTILATION

● Dipping and coating process areas shall be provided with mechanical ventilation.
● Controls shall be provided to automatically shut down the dipping or coating
process and sound an alarm if the ventilating system fails.
● Clean make-up air shall be provided to compensate for the air exhausted from
dipping or coating processes.
● Air exhausted from processes shall be conducted by ducts directly to the outside
of the building.
● Exhaust plenums, and exhaust ducts and fasteners shall be constructed of steel.
● Exhaust ducts shall be permitted to be round, rectangular, or any other suitable
shape.

SECTION 10.4.7.6 STORAGE, HANDLING, AND DISTRIBUTION OF FLAMMABLE

AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
● Storage, handling, distribution, and mixing of flammable and combustible liquids
shall meet all applicable requirements of NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible
Liquids Code.
● Open or glass containers shall not be used for transportation or storage of liquids.
● Liquids shall be transported from their storage area to the process area only in
closed shipping containers, approved portable tanks and intermediate bulk
containers, approved safety cans, or a piping system.
● Piping systems that convey flammable or combustible liquids between storage
tanks, mixing rooms, and dipping and coating areas shall be of steel or other
material having comparable properties of resistance to heat and physical
damage.
● Process tanks shall be provided with a limit device to prevent overfilling tanks.
SECTION 10.4.7.11 SPRAYING USING FLAMMABLE OR COMBUSTIBLE
MATERIALS
A. General Application
• This Section shall apply to the spray application of flammable or
combustible materials, as herein defined, either continuously or
intermittently by any of the following methods:
− Compressed air atomization
− Airless or hydraulic atomization
− Electrostatic application methods
− Fluidized bed application methods
− Electrostatic fluidized bed application method
− Other means of acceptable application means
• It also applies to the spray application of flammable or combustible
materials, including water-borne, water-based, and water-reducible
materials.
• It applies to both indoor and outdoor spray operations within temporary
membrane enclosures.
• The section does not apply to spray operations using less than one liter of
flammable or combustible liquid in an eight-hour period, outdoor spray
operations, portable spraying equipment not used repeatedly, aerosol
products in containers up to and including one liter capacity not used
repeatedly, non-combustible materials, toxicity hazards, or industrial health
and hygiene concerns.
• Operations involving spray application of flammable and combustible
materials must adhere to NFPA 33, Standard for Spray Application Using
Flammable or Combustible Materials.
B. Operations and Maintenance
1. Combustible Deposits
This emphasizes the importance of maintaining safe spray areas and
preventing the accumulation of combustible residues. It allows the use of
combustible coverings, such as thin paper and plastic, for cleaning purposes,
but requires a static dissipative plastic covering or a maximum breakdown
voltage of four kV. If residue accumulates in spray areas, spraying operations
must be discontinued until conditions are corrected.
2. High-pressure Hose Lines
High-pressure hose lines, which convey flammable or combustible
coating material, must be inspected daily and repaired or replaced as needed.
3. Maintenance Procedures
Maintenance procedures include inspecting overspray collectors daily,
replacing clogged filters, and disposing of contaminated debris.
4. Waste Containers
Waste containers must be provided for rags or waste imprinted with
sprayed material and bonded and grounded. These measures ensure the
safety of the environment and prevent potential hazards.

C. Handheld Electrostatic Spray Equipment

This provision applies to equipment using electrostatically charged elements
for atomizing, charging, and precipitating flammable and combustible materials
for coatings on articles, where the device is handheld and manipulated.

1. Handheld Apparatus
Handheld electrostatic spray apparatus and devices must be listed, with
high-voltage circuits designed to prevent sparks and ignition hazards. The
electrostatically charged elements of the hand gun must be energized by an
 actuator controlling the coating material supply. Electric shock precautions
must be taken when liquid coating material is electrically energized.
2. Electrical Components
All electrical equipment, except the hand gun and its power supply
connections, must be located outside the spray area.
3. Grounding
• The spray gun handle must be electrically connected to ground using
conductive material.
• The operator should be in electrical contact with the grounded handle
for at least one megohm to prevent static charge buildup.
• All electrically conductive objects in the spray area must be connected
to ground with a resistance of at least one megohm.
• Conductive objects or material being coated must be electrically
connected to ground with a resistance of at least one megohm.
• Highly resistive objects with a surface voltage below 2,500 V and
subjected to coronal current are considered adequately grounded.
• Objects transported by a conveyor must be in electrical contact with
the conveyor or other grounding contacts.
D. Drying, Curing, and Fusion Processes
1. Spray Booths and Spray Rooms Used for Ambient Air Drying
• If used for air-drying, curing, or fusing operations, maintain ventilation
system concentration below 25% of LFL.
• If temperature is elevated for drying or curing, clean interior surfaces
regularly to minimize combustible residue accumulation.
2. Spray Booths and Spray Rooms Used for Drying at Elevated Temperatures
• High temperature limit switch for fully enclosed spray booths and
spray rooms to shut off drying apparatus if air temperature exceeds
93°C.
• High-limit switch for industrial air heaters used for drying or curing in
closed
• top, open-front, or open-face spray booths to shut off drying apparatus
if air temperature exceeds the maximum discharge air temperature
allowed by the standard or 93°C.
• Spraying apparatus, drying apparatus, and ventilating system must be
equipped with interlocks to prevent operation during drying or
energized operation.
• Industrial air heaters used for drying, curing, or fusing operations must
be deterred to prevent entry.
• Radiant drying apparatus permanently attached to walls, ceiling, or
partitions must be listed for exposure to flammable or combustible
vapors, mists, dusts, residues, or deposits.
• Containers of flammable or combustible liquids must be removed from
the booth before drying apparatus is energized.
• Fuel tanks containing fuel other than gasoline or diesel must be
removed from any vehicle brought into the spray area.
• Explosion relief is not required for spray booths or spray rooms
alternately used for drying, curing, or fusing if the spray booth or room
is used for batch-type spray application operations only, the air heater
is not within the re-circulated air path, and the ventilation system
complies with NFPA 86 requirements.
3. Flash-Off Areas
• Heat-up areas must meet NFPA 86 requirements.
• Open areas must be protected according to occupancy.
 • Enclosed areas must have an approved automatic fire protection
system.
4. Spray Booths or Spray Rooms Adjacent or Connected to Rooms or
Equipment Used for Drying, Curing, or Fusing
E. Miscellaneous Spray Operations
1. Vehicle Undercoating and Body Lining
F. Powder Coating
1. Enclosures
2. Electrical and Other Sources of Ignition
3. Ductwork
4. Drying, Curing, and Fusing Equipment
5. Operation and Maintenance
6. Electrostatic Fluid Beds
7. Powder Coating Delivery and Circulation
8. Powder Unloading, Bag Dumping Stations, and Pneumatic Conveying
Systems.
9. Screening or Sieving Operations
10. Storage and Handling
11. Housekeeping
12. Spill Clean-up

G. Organic Peroxides and Plural Component Coatings

1. General
2. Prevention of Contamination
3. Storage of Organic Peroxides
4. Handling of Organic Peroxides
5. Mixing of Organic Peroxides with Promoters
6. Smoking
7. Trained Personnel
8. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)

H. Styrene Cross-Linked Composites Manufacturing (Glass Fiber-Reinforced

Plastics)
1. Scope
2. Resin Storage
3. Electrical and Other Hazards
4. Ventilation
5. Use and Handling

I. Spray Application Operations in Membrane Enclosures

1. Scope
2. General
3. Location
4. Membrane Material
5. Membrane Enclosure Occupancy
6. Operations and Maintenance within Temporary Enclosures
7. Ventilation
8. Drying
9. Record Keeping
10. Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids
11. Protection
DIVISON 8. RIPENING PROCESS
SECTION 10.4.8.1 FIRE SAFETY INSPECTION CERTIFICATE (FSIC) REQUIRED
An FSIC shall be issued by the C/MFM having jurisdiction as required for any
fruit and crop
ripening processes using combustible or flammable gas, such as ethylene, acetylene
and the like.

SECTION 10.4.8.2 CONSTRUCTION

• Buildings for combustible or flammable gas use must be approved by the
C/MFM or Provincial Fire Marshal.
• Containers for gas storage must follow internationally recognized practices.
• Electrical wiring and equipment must adhere to PEC standards.
• Rooms must be airtight to prevent ethylene leakage.
• Lighting should be approved electric lamps or fixtures.
• Ethylene generators must be listed and labeled, ensuring ethylene
concentration does not exceed 25% of the lower explosive limit (LEL).

SECTION 10.4.8.3 OPERATION

• Gas piping must be of iron pipe with approved connectors and hose. Tubing
shall be of brass or copper with not less one and twenty-five hundredths
millimeters (1.25 mm) wall thickness.
• Ethylene gas should only be discharged into approved rooms or enclosures.
• Ripening rooms should be open for at least 20 minutes every 12 hours of
operation.
• Heating of ripening rooms should be indirect using low pressure steam, hot
water, or warm air.
• Steam, hot water pipes, and radiators should have a clearance of at least 25
mm to combustible material.
• Gas heaters and vents should be installed according to internationally
recognized standards and practice.
• Burners for gas or kerosene heaters should be installed to take air for
combustion outside the room and discharge combustion products to the
outside.
• Electric heaters should have no exposed surface at a temperature higher than
426 degrees Celsius and be approved for use in hazardous locations.
• Protective guards should be provided around heaters.
• Ripening rooms must have adequate refrigeration and air circulation systems.

SECTION 10.4.8.4 PROTECTION AND MAINTENANCE

• Installation of portable fire extinguishers in ripening rooms.
• Clearance of ripening rooms of all combustible materials.
• Introduction of combustible or flammable gas under positive control.
• Storage of containers outside or in special buildings, with two approved
containers allowed inside.
• Prohibition of open flame heaters and lights in ripening rooms.
• Posting of "NO SMOKING" signs at entrances and in ripening rooms.
• Posting of approved warning signs and necessary precautions in conspicuous
places.
DIVISION 9. FUMIGATION AND THERMAL INSECTICIDAL FOGGING

SECTION 10.4.9.1 FIRE SAFETY CLEARANCE (FSC)

• Fumigation or thermal insecticidal fogging requires an FSC from the C/MFM.
An operational license for fumigators from the FPA is required.
• The C/MFM must be notified at least three days before closing structures or
ships for fumigation or opening spaces.
• Notification should include the applicant's business name, location, fumigants,
and thermal devices, person(s) responsible for the operation, and date and
time for the operation.
• Notice of fumigation or thermal fogging must be served to occupants within a
day for evacuation or preparation.

SECTION 10.4.9.2 SOURCES OF IGNITION

• Fires and open flames prohibited in fumigation or thermal fogging spaces.
Heating via steam or hot water if necessary.
• Electricity shut off during operations, except for circulating fans. Equipment
must adhere to latest PEC edition.

SECTION 10.4.9.3 WATCH PERSONNEL

• Premises sealed to maintain fumigant suspension. Owner/building
administrator responsible for operation supervision.
• Indoor fogging operations supervised within 3-5 hours. Outdoor operations
supervised by requesting party.

SECTION 10.4.9.4 SEALING OF BUILDING

Building construction requires sealing doors, windows, and crevices with tape
and plastic before fumigation materials are applied. Rubber tents are used for houses
to confine poisonous gases. Excessive use of nonfire retardant materials, except
approved tarpaulins, is prohibited.

SECTION 10.4.9.5 WARNING SIGNS

Warning signs with the "skull and crossbones" emblem, stating "DANGER,
POISON GAS! KEEP OUT!", must be posted on all entrances, gangplanks, and
ladders when fumigants are used or stored. The signs must include the fumigator's
name, address, telephone number, and operation date. Notices shall be printed in red
ink on white background. Letters in the headlines must be at least fifty-one millimeters
(51 mm) in height. The premises must be vacated two to three hours before operation
begins.

SECTION 10.4.9.6 VENTING AND CLEANUP

After the exposure period, fumigators must safely ventilate the premises and
dispose of all fumigant containers, residues, debris, and other materials used in
fumigation.

SECTION 10.4.9.7 THERMAL INSECTICIDAL FOGGING LIQUIDS

Thermal insecticidal fogging liquid with a flash point below 38°C is prohibited,
and fog should not be blasted directly against combustible objects or materials.

SECTION 10.4.9.8 RESTRICTED FUMIGANTS

Carbon Disulfide (CS2) and Hydrocyanic Acid (HCN) shall be used only in
agricultural
fumigations.
DIVISION 10. REPAIR GARAGES

SECTION 10.4.10.1 CONSTRUCTION

• Comply with the latest edition of NBCP.
• Garages should not be attached to buildings or structures used for other
purposes. Garages should be separated by walls and floor assemblies with a
fire resistance rating of at least two hours.
• Sales rooms, showrooms, offices, and similar spaces should be separated from
vehicle repair or parking areas with a fire resistance rating of at least two hours.
• Ceiling assemblies should restrict smoke, vehicle exhaust gases, and odors
from repair or parking areas.
• Parts storage areas should be separated from other building portions by walls
or partitions with fire resistance rating of at least two hours.
• Floor assemblies in repair garages should be noncombustible or surfaced with
approved noncombustible material. Floors should be liquid tight to prevent
leakage and sloped for liquid movement to floor drains.
• Floor drains should be provided in areas where motor fuels are dispensed or
vehicles are serviced.
• Oil separators and traps should be collected frequently to prevent oil from
entering sewers. Disposal of oil separators and traps should follow Division 2
of this Chapter and Section 10.3.7.5 of this RIRR.
• Garages must be limited in height and area, and have fire protective systems.
• Below-grade areas should be continuously ventilated using a mechanical
ventilating system.
• Ventilation should exhaust indoor air at a rate of at least one m3/min per square
meter of floor area.
• Approved ventilation methods should introduce equal amounts of outdoor air.

SECTION 10.4.10.2 OPERATION

A. Welding, Cutting and Hotworks Operations
• Welding, cutting, and hotworks operations must follow Division 17 of this
Chapter.
• Electrically operated equipment, tools, and devices must adhere to the
latest edition of PEC.
B. Spray Painting and Undercoating
• Spray application operations should be limited to designated areas, with no
open flame devices or spark-producing electrical equipment within a 6.1 m
radial distance.
• Undercoating materials must be dry before starting the vehicle's engine.
• Occasional painting of a small portion of the vehicle permitted to be done
in an open area located not less than 6.1 meters radial distance horizontally
from all open flame devices or spark-producing electrical equipment or
appliances.

SECTION 10.4.10.3 PROTECTION AND MAINTENANCE

A. Fire Protective System
• Approved supervised automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in repair
garages in accordance with Section 10.2.6.7 of this RIRR and under the
following conditions:
− Applicable in repair garages over one storey or under another
occupancy wherein such repair garage exceeds an area of seven
hundred forty-three square meters (743 𝑚2 ).
− One-storey garages exceeding 1,115 𝑚2 .
 − All below-grade floors with ceilings less than 0.61 m above grade.
• Approved portable fire extinguishers should be provided in all repair
garages
• Garages exceeding 15.2 meters, below grade parking, unsprinklred, and
more than one storey must have one or more standpipes.

B. Housekeeping
• An authorized employee or owner must conduct daily garage inspections
and promptly remove hazardous conditions, maintain safety equipment,
and clear aisle space for firefighting equipment access.
• Oil separators and traps must be collected frequently to prevent sewer
leakage.
• Floors must be clean, using approved cleaning solutions.
• Metal lockers are provided for employees' clothes.
• Metal receptacles with self-closing covers are required for oil-soaked waste
or clothes storage and disposal.
• Combustible rubbish should be placed in covered containers and daily
removed.
• "NO SMOKING" signage should be posted on hazardous areas

DIVISION 11. LUMBER YARDS, WOOD PROCESSING AND WOODWORKING

FACILITIES
SECTION 10.4.11.1 CONSTRUCTION
A. Open Yard Storage
• Driveways around lumber piles must be at least 4.5 meters wide and free
from debris accumulation. Driveways should be spaced to produce a
maximum grid system unit of 15 meters by 45 meters.
• Permanent lumber storage, operating under a permit, must be surrounded
by a suitable fence at least 1.8 meters in height.

B. Wood Processing and Woodworking Facilities

• Building constructions must adhere to NBCP and international standards.
• Processing and woodworking facilities must be properly compartmentalized
and protected through fire walls and barriers to prevent fire and explosion
spread.
• Fire protection features include open space, firewalls, fire partitions, draft
curtain boards, and floor openings.
• Different hazards include raw material storage, finished product storage,
manufacturing areas, nonmanufacturing areas, and high hazard
occupancies.
• Walls, floor, doors and openings shall comply with the following:
− Firewalls should have a minimum of four-hour fire resistance rating,
while interior walls should have a one-hour fire resistance rating.
− All penetrations must have fire stopping equal to the floor or wall's
rating.
− Piping and ductwork should not be embedded in firewalls. Interior
walls to isolate dust explosion hazards must have sufficient explosion
resistance to prevent damage before venting to the outside.
− Fire doors or fire dampers should be installed in accordance with
Section 10.2.5.3 of the RIRR.
− Explosion-resistant walls should have doors with the same level of
protection, closed when not in use, and marked "NOT AN EXIT."
• Surfaces and ledges in dusty areas shall comply with the following:
 − Dusty areas require interior surfaces and ledges to be designed to
minimize dust accumulation
− Surfaces not easily accessible for cleaning should be inclined at least
45 degrees from the horizontal.

SECTION 10.4.11.2 OPERATION

A. Open Yard Storage
• Lumber should be piled securely, no higher than three meters, and not less
than three meters near property lines.
• Burning shavings, sawdust, and refuse materials is allowed only under safe
conditions, such as boilers, furnaces, incinerators, or refuse burners. Non-
combustible storage bins with raised sills should be provided at boilers or
other fuel sources where sawdust is used.

B. Wood Processing and Woodworking Facilities

The design of dust collecting, thermal oil heating, wood pulverizing operations,
and composite board plants must comply with the latest edition of PMEC and NFPA
664.

SECTION 10.4.11.3 PROTECTION AND MAINTENANCE

A. Open Yard Storage
The RIRR mandates the installation of an approved yard hydrant system or
water barrels (with 3 pails each) in open storage yards, ensuring they meet
internationally accepted standards and are located at driveways with a travel
distance of at least ten meters but not more than twenty-three meters (23 m).

B. Wood Processing and Woodworking Facilities

1. Deflagration venting
• Dust explosion hazards in equipment, rooms, buildings must have
deflagration venting.Fire suppression systems must be installed
according to Section 10.2.6.7 of RIRR.
• Rooms or buildings with dust accumulations exceeding 3mm or visible
dust clouds must have damage-limiting construction.
2. Housekeeping
• The plant must be thoroughly cleaned to prevent accumulations of finely
divided wood dust that could cause an explosion.
• Compressed air or other methods can be used to remove dust from
areas not easily accessible, but only if done frequently to prevent
hazardous concentrations. Open flame or spark-producing equipment
should not be used during blowdown.
• Metal scrap should be collected and disposed of separately to avoid
entering equipment, dust-collecting systems, or scrap wood hogs.

3. Electrical Installation and Maintenance

• Electrical installation and maintenance must adhere to the latest edition
of PEC.
• Static electricity accumulation on machines or equipment can be
prevented using permanent grounding and bonding wires, grounded
metal combs, or other effective methods.
• If necessary, lightning protection should be installed according to PEC.
4. Fire Protective System
The RIRR mandates the provision of portable fire extinguishers,
standpipes, and hose systems, as well as 38 mm diameter hose stations in all
 woodworking facilities, and the use of automatic sprinklers and deluge heads
for hard-to-reach areas.

DIVISION 12. MECHANICAL REFRIGERATION

SECTION 10.4.12.1 GENERAL

A. Scope
1. Industrial, refining, and chemical processes
a. Controlling vapor pressure of volatiles during distillation, separation, or
processing.
b. Shifting solubility relationships to permit segregation and removal of
undesired contents, such as asphalt or wax, in lubricating oils.
2. Manufacturing, freezing, preservation, and distribution of food products
3. Air conditioning
4. Manufacturing, preservation, and distribution of medicine and drugs
5. Environment testing chambers
6. Cold treatment of metals
7. Industrial testing
8. Miscellaneous
a. Cold storage of flowers and furs
b. Ice making and skating rinks

B. Applicability
• Refrigerant circuits containing more than 100 kg of Group A1 or 13.6 kg of
other group refrigerant must comply with PMEC provisions.
• Temporary and portable installations exempt from requirements when
approved.

C. Fire Safety Clearance

An FSC shall be secured from C/MFM having jurisdiction.

D. Plans and Specifications

Plans and specifications for devices and systems required by hereunder
provisions shall be submitted to the C/MFM having jurisdiction for review and
approval prior to installation.

E. Reference Codes and Standards

• Mechanical refrigeration systems must be designed and installed in
accordance with various codes, including PMEC, NBCP, ASHRAE, Safety
Code for Mechanical Refrigeration, and IMC.
• Ammonia-based systems must also comply with ANSI/IIAR 2, Standard for
Equipment, Design, and Installation of Closed-Circuit Ammonia Mechanical
Refrigerating Systems.

SECTION 10.4.12.2 SAFETY FEATURES

A. Emergency Pressure Control System
• Each high and intermediate pressure zone in a refrigeration system must have
a single automatic valve for a crossover connection to a lower pressure zone.
• Automatic crossover valves should relieve excess system pressure to a lower
zone if the pressure in a high or intermediate pressure zone rises to 90% of the
set point for emergency pressure relief devices.
• These valves should be manual operational, designed to safely contain the
maximum pressure achieved by interconnection of the two zones.
• Operation of an automatic crossover valve should cause all compressors on
the affected system to stop immediately.
• Dedicated pressure-sensing devices adjacent to crossover valves are
permitted for determining valve operation.
• High pressure cutout sensors associated with compressors should not be used
to determine crossover valve operation.
B. Treatment, Flaring, and Diffusion Systems for Refrigerant Discharge
Required Systems
• Systems designed to discharge refrigerant vapor to the atmosphere must have
an approved treatment, flaring, or diffusion system.
• Systems containing toxic or highly toxic refrigerants must use an approved
treatment system or flaring system.
• Systems containing flammable refrigerants must discharge vapor through an
approved treatment system or flaring system.
• For refrigerants with a density less than the density of air, discharge is
permitted, provided the point of discharge is outside the structure at not less
than 4.6 m above the adjoining grade level and not less than 6.1 m from any
window, ventilation opening, or exit
• Systems containing ammonia refrigerant must discharge vapor through a
treatment system, flaring system, or approved ammonia diffusion.
• Discharge through a treatment, flaring, or diffusion system is not required for
ammonia–water absorption unit systems installed outdoors or for systems
containing less than ten kilograms of ammonia and with the ammonia circuit
located entirely outdoors.
Flaring Systems Design
• Flaring systems for incineration of flammable, toxic, or highly toxic refrigerants
or ammonia must incinerate the entire discharge.
• Products of refrigerant incineration should not pose health or environmental
hazards.
• Incineration should be automatic upon discharge initiation, prevent blowback,
and not expose structures or materials to fire threat.
• Standby fuel and power should operate for half the required time for complete
incineration.

Design of Ammonia Diffusion Systems

• Include a tank containing four liters of water for each kg of ammonia released
in one hour.
• Water used should not freeze without the use of salt or chemicals.
• Discharge pipe should distribute ammonia in the tank, no lower than ten meters
below the maximum liquid level.
• Tank should contain water and ammonia without overflowing.
• Tank should be constructed of 2.51 mm (10 gauge) steel, with horizontal
dimensions equal to or less than half of the height.
• The tank shall have a hinged cover or, if the enclosed type, shall have a vent
hole at the top.
• Pipe connections shall be through the top of the tank.

C. Refrigeration Machinery Rooms

Refrigeration Vapor Detection, Monitoring, Alarm, and Electrical Systems
• Refrigeration machinery rooms must have an approved system for refrigerant
vapor detection, monitoring, and alarm.
• The system should activate alarm signaling devices at refrigerant thresholds:
25% of LFL, or 1,000 parts per million for ammonia.
• Alarm devices should be located inside and outside the room, providing audible
and visual alarms.
• If a Group A2, B2, A3, or B3 refrigerant would exceed 25% of LFL, electrical
equipment must comply with NFPA 70, National Electrical Code for Class I,
Division 2.
• The system should automatically de-energize all electrical power at vapor
concentrations at or above 25% of LFL.
• The systems should be powered and supervised as required for fire alarm
systems in accordance with NFPA 72.
• The systems should transmit a signal to an approved location.

Prohibited Sources of Ignition

• Open flames or devices exceeding 427°C are prohibited in refrigeration
machinery rooms.
• Momentary temperature excursions in Group A1 and B1 systems are allowed.
• Exposed flames or devices exceeding 427°C are allowed in rooms exclusively
for direct-fired absorption equipment.
• Existing nonconforming installations with interlocked combustion system and
refrigerant detection system are allowed.
• Direct-vented combustion equipment is permitted according to PMEC's latest
edition.

Ventilation Systems
• Emergency purge ventilation for refrigerant escape must have a clearly
identified switch.
• Purge control should be manual reset only.
• Purge fans respond automatically to the refrigerant concentration detection
system.
• Mechanical ventilation systems must have switches to control fan power.
• Switches should be key-operated or in a locked enclosure.
• Keys for ventilation system operation should be in a single approved location.
• Switches for continuous ventilation should be two-position, on/off type.
• Switches for intermittent or emergency ventilation should be three-position,
automatic on/off type.
• Switches shall be labeled identifying both the function and the specific fan being
controlled.
• Two colored, labeled indicator lamps for each switch shall be provided.
• One lamp indicates flow, the other indicates no flow.
• Exhaust from mechanical ventilation systems in refrigeration rooms discharged
6.1 meters or more from property lines or buildings.
• Discharges exceeding 25% of LFL or 50% of IDLH value must have approved
treatment systems.
• Treatment systems not required for ammonia refrigeration systems unless
approved engineering analysis shows limiting value won't be exceeded.

Electrical
• Refrigeration machinery rooms should not be classified as hazardous locations
for electrical equipment unless specified in PMEC, PEC, or NFPA 70.
• Rooms used solely for direct-fired absorption equipment can be exempt from
hazardous classification.
• Electrical equipment and installations in refrigeration machinery rooms must
comply with PEC and NFPA 1.
 • Treatment, detection, or alarm systems should be connected to a secondary
power source in case of power loss.
• Off-only control of refrigerant compressors, pumps, and valves should be
provided by a break-glass switch or tamper-resistant cover.
• Equipment should be shut off when refrigerant vapor concentration exceeds
the detector’s upper detection limit or 25% of LFL.

D. Signs and Labels

• Ensure hazard identification signs comply with NFPA 704, GHS, PMEC, and
manufacturer/installer details.
• Provide emergency operational signs, charts, and labels.
• Include manufacturer/installer's name, refrigerant type, total pounds, and field
test pressure.
• For systems containing 50 kg or more, provide signs with letters no less than
12.7 mm millimeters high.
• Designate main shutoff valves, mainstream/electrical controls, remote control
switch, and pressure-limiting device.

SECTION 10.4.12.3 OPERATIONS, MAINTENANCE, AND TESTING

A. Operations and Maintenance
• Refrigeration systems must be safe and operable, free from accumulations of
oil, dirt, waste, corrosion, etc., in accordance with ASHRAE 15 and PMEC.
• Access to system refrigeration systems must be accessible to the BFP.
• Flammable and combustible materials should not be stored in refrigeration
machinery rooms, except for incidental materials.
• Refrigerant types should not be changed without prior notification and approval
from the C/MFM.
• The person in charge of the premises must keep a record of refrigerant
quantities.
• Permissible refrigerant discharges include systems operating at pressures
below atmospheric, minor releases from automatic pressure relief valves,
service operations after system pumpdown, or emergencies.
• The BFP must be notified of fugitive releases of refrigerant.

B. Testing of Equipment
• Acceptance Testing: Demonstrates safety and effectiveness of treatment and
flaring systems, ammonia diffusion systems, fans for emergency purge
ventilation systems, and refrigerant vapor detection and alarm systems.
• Periodic Testing: Tests devices at intervals not exceeding a year, following
manufacturers' specifications.
• Records of Required Testing: Maintains written records on premises.
• Testing Personnel Qualifications: Tests conducted by trained personnel.

DIVISION 13. MOTION PICTURE PROJECTION

SECTION 10.4.13.1 CONSTRUCTION
• Motion picture projection equipment must be securely fastened to a stable
surface.
• Electrical wiring installation must conform to the latest edition of PEC.
• Booths must be fire-resistant (not less than 1 hour), with walls and ceilings
finished with incombustible materials. The ceiling shall be not less than 2.4 m
from the finished floor and floor areas should be at least seven square meters
and three and a half square meters for each additional machine.
 • All equipment must be enclosed in a motion picture projection room.
• Handling, storing, using, testing, repairing, duplicate, transporting, or
destructing nitrate-based film requires clearance, health and safety training,
and proper monitoring from the C/MFM.
SECTION 10.4.13.2 OPERATION
• Splicing, cleaning, repairing, cataloging, and marking shall be done in
projection rooms only.
• No smoking or ignition within projection rooms.

SECTION 10.4.13.3 PROTECTION AND MAINTENANCE

• Projectionists must undergo a fire safety orientation/seminar by the BFP before
obtaining FSIC.
• They must install at least two approved first aid fire protection appliances of
Class ABC type in every projection room and maintain good housekeeping at
all times.

DIVISION 14. OIL-BURNING EQUIPMENT

SECTION 10.4.14.1 APPLICATION
• This Division covers the installation of stationary liquid fuel-burning appliances,
accessories, control systems, storage and supply systems, and multi-fueled
appliances with liquid fuel as one of the standard or optional fuels.
• It also applies to accessories and control systems, electrical wiring, and storage
systems.
• The NFPA 31 Standard for the Installation of Oil-Burning Equipment is used for
fire and life safety requirements.
• This Division does not apply to internal combustion engines, oil lamps, or
portable devices.

SECTION 10.4.14.2 BASIC INSTALLATION AND OPERATION

Installation of Oil-Burning Appliances and Equipment
• Plans or sketches for installation or remodeling must be submitted to the
C/MFM.
• Installation should follow manufacturers’ instructions, applicable PNS, and
international rules and regulations.
• Instructions should include directions for safe installation, maintenance, and
use.
• Changes to manufacturer’s instructions require written approval.
• Installation should be done by qualified, competent technicians.
• Accessible for cleaning, removing burners, replacing parts, and adjusting parts.
• Appliances should not be installed in areas with combustible dusts or
flammable liquids.
• Minimum separation from electrical panel board and unenclosed fuel oil tank is
required.
• Appliances should be tested for proper operation and combustion performance.
• Contractors should provide diagrams of main oil lines and control valves.
• After installation, the installer should instruct the owner or operator on the
equipment's operation and provide contact information for technical assistance.
Electrical Services
Oil-Burning Applicances and Safety Measures
• Electrical wiring and equipment for oil-burning appliances must adhere to PEC
and NFPA 70.
• Safety control circuits must be two-wire, grounded, and not exceed 150 V
nominal voltage.
• Safety controls must interrupt the unground conductor and shut off all fuel flow
to the appliance.
• The control circuit must be connected to a power supply branch circuit fused at
the appropriate value for any control or device.

Affordable Liquid Fuels

• Liquid fuels must meet specific specifications and not contain gasoline or
flammable liquids.
• Crankcase oil or used oil cannot be used as fuel unless the installation is in a
commercial or industrial occupancy, the appliance is designed to burn such
fuels, and the installation meets NFPA 31 requirements.
• Heavy oils must be designed to burn such fuels, maintained at its proper
atomizing temperature, and an oil-fired appliance listed in accordance with
ANSI/UL 296A is used.

Use of Crankcase Oil and Used Oil

• Care must be taken not to mix gasoline with crankcase oil or used oil during
storage, handling, or burning.
• Electrical installations in areas with flammable vapors or gases must be
considered.
• Provisions must be made to prevent fuel stratification in the tank.
• Adequate ventilation is provided in areas where oil leakage can occur, and
means must be provided to safely dispose of spills.

Temporary Heating
• All requirements of this Division must be met when salamanders, space
heaters, or other heating appliances are used for temporary heating.

SECTION 10.4.14.3 AIR FOR COMBUSTION AND VENTILATION

Applicability
This Section shall apply to those requirements necessary to ensure that
adequate air for safe combustion is provided for oil-burning appliances and equipment

Basic Requirements
Oil-Burning Appliance Installation Guidelines
• Appliances should be installed in areas with adequate ventilation for safe
combustion and gas venting.
• Appliances should not interfere with air supply within the space.
• In tight buildings, outside air should be introduced.
• Outdoor air ducts should have the same cross-sectional area as the openings
they connect.
• Smaller dimensions of rectangular air ducts should not be less than 75mm.
Appliances Located in Unconfined Spaces
• Normal infiltration allowed in unconfined spaces.
• If infiltration is insufficient due to construction, air must be obtained from
outdoors or spaces with outdoor communication.
 • Openings must have a total free area of 645.16 mm2 per 5,000 Btu/hr (4.4
cm2/kW).

Appliances Located in Confined Spaces

This outlines the requirements for air for combustion and ventilation in confined
spaces. It states that the space should have two permanent openings, one near the
top and one near the bottom, with a free area of at least 645.16 mm2 per 1,000 Btu/hr
(22 cm2/kW). These openings should communicate with interior areas of the building
with adequate infiltration from the outside. The space should also have two permanent
openings for outdoor air, either directly or through ducts, with the outdoors or spaces
like attics or crawl spaces that communicate with the outdoors. The openings should
have a free area of at least 645.16 mm2 per 4,000 Btu/hr (5.5 cm2/kW) based on the
total input rating of all appliances in the space. The space should also have two
openings for ventilation, one communicating directly with the outdoors or to spaces like
attics or crawl spaces that communicate with the outdoors.

Combustion Air for Commercial and Industrial Installations

This section outlines the requirements for commercial and industrial oil-burning
equipment to have a permanent air supply inlet with a total free area of at least 645.16
mm2 per 4,000 Btu/hr, based on the total input rating of the burner or burners. For
rooms not adjacent to outside walls, the supply of combustion air must follow the latest
edition PMEC a.

Louvers and Grilles

The free area required in a system must consider the blocking effect of louvers,
grilles, or screens protecting openings. Screens should be 6.3 mm mesh and
accessible for cleaning. If the free area of a louver or grille is known, it should be used
to calculate the opening size. If not known, wood louvers have 20% to 25% free area,
and metal louvers and grilles have 60% to 75% free area.

Special Conditions
Special provisions must be made for appliances installed in areas where
exhaust fans, kitchen ventilation systems, clothes dryers, or fireplaces can cause
unsatisfactory combustion or venting conditions.

Specially Engineered Installations

The size of combustion air openings required by para “C” through “E” shall not
govern
when special engineering methods approved by the C/MFM having jurisdiction ensure
an
adequate supply of air for combustion and ventilation.

SECTION 10.4.14.4 VENTING OF COMBUSTION (FLUE) GASES

• Basic Requirements
• Draft
• Draft Regulators
• Chimney Connectors
• Chimneys
• Special Venting Systems
 SECTION 10.4.14.5 INSTALLATION OF OIL BURNERS AND OIL-BURNING
APPLIANCES

Basic Requirements
• Posting of Instructions
• Operating Controls
• Specific Requirements for Installation of Boilers, Furnaces, Floor-Mounted Unit
Heaters, and
• Water Heaters
• Specific Requirements for Attic Furnaces
• Specific Requirements for Duct Furnaces
• Specific Requirements for Floor Furnaces
• Specific Requirements for Furnaces Used with Refrigeration Systems
• Specific Requirements for Industrial Furnaces and Boilers-Stationary Type
• Specific Requirements for Miscellaneous Heaters (Air Heaters, Salamanders,
and so forth).
• Specific Requirements for Recessed Wall Furnaces
• Specific Requirements for Floor-Mounted Restaurant-Type Cooking
Appliances
• Specific Requirements for Suspended-Type Unit Heaters
• Specific Requirements for Appliances on Roofs
• Installation of Outdoor Appliances

DIVISION 15. MANUFACTURE OF ORGANIC COATINGS

SECTION 10.4.15.1 APPLICABILITY
This Division applies to facilities using flammable and combustible liquids for
manufacturing organic coatings for various applications. However, it does not cover
operations involving coating materials or storage of coatings outside the facility. NFPA
35, Standard for the Manufacture of Organic Coatings, serves as the basis for fire and
life safety requirements.

SECTION 10.4.15.2 LOCATION OF PLANTS AND BUILDINGS

Location
Organic coating manufacturing operations should not be in the same building
with other occupancies, and should be accessible from at least two sides for firefighting
and emergency operations. If topographical conditions allow accidental release of
flammable or combustible liquids, drainage must be provided in accordance with para
"B" of Section 10.4.15.3 of this RIRR.
General Layout and Design
• Laboratories, offices, and storage areas in the same building must be
separated from manufacturing operations by a wall with a minimum two-hour
fire resistance rating.
• Fire doors with a minimum 1.5-hour fire protection rating must protect openings
between these areas and the manufacturing area.
• Areas handling or processing unstable liquids must be separated from adjacent
areas by walls with a minimum two-hour fire resistance rating.
• Process vessels must be located in accordance with Annex A, Table 47, and
Table 48, Reference for Table 47, Location of Process Vessels.
• Distances required can be waived if the vessels are housed within a building,
the exterior wall facing adjoining property is a blank wall with a minimum two-
hour fire resistance rating, and the building meets all applicable requirements
of para “E” of Section 10.4.15.3 of this RIRR.
SECTION 10.4.15.3 BUILDING CONSTRUCTION
• General Construction
o Buildings must be fire-resistive or non-combustible, without basements.
o First floor should be above grade for water drainage and vapor diffusion.
o Flammable raw materials and finished stock should be stored in a
detached building or separated from manufacturing areas by a wall with
a minimum two-hour fire resistance rating.
o Internal partitions should not interfere with ventilation or means of
egress.
o In multi-storey buildings, stairways and elevators should be enclosed
by walls with a minimum two-hour fire resistance rating.
o Egress means should follow Division 5 of Chapter 2 of this Rule.
o Load-bearing supports should be protected by drainage, fire-resistive
construction, fire-resistant protective coatings, water spray systems, or
alternative means acceptable to the C/MFM.
• Drainage
o Emergency Drainage System shall meet NFPA 30 requirements for
leaks of flammable or combustible liquids.
o If connected to public sewer system or discharges into public
waterways, equipped with traps or separators.
• Building Heating
o Building heating in Class I liquid handling areas must be provided
indirectly through water, steam, or warm air, or approved heating
equipment within the electrically classified area.
• Ventilation
o Enclosed process areas handling Class I, Class II, or Class III liquids
must be continuously ventilated during equipment operation to maintain
a concentration of vapors below 25% of the lower flammable limit (LFL).
o Ventilation rates can be determined using anticipated fugitive emissions
or actual vapor concentration sampling.
o The required ventilation rate should be at least 0.30 m3/min/m2 of solid
floor area.
o Mechanical ventilation should take suction at floor level, and make-up
air should be introduced for proper system operation.
o Ventilation should include all floor areas or pits where flammable vapors
can collect.
o Exhaust ventilation discharge should be to a safe location outside the
building, and recirculation of exhaust air should be monitored using a
fail-safe system.
o Local or spot ventilation can be used for up to 75% of required
ventilation.
o If vapor emission due to Class I liquid evaporation occurs, ventilation
should be provided during shutdown periods at a rate sufficient to
maintain a safe atmosphere.
• Deflagration (Explosion) Venting
o Deflagration venting shall be provided for buildings and structures in
which a deflagration hazard exists
• Electrical Equipment
o Electrical wiring and equipment must be installed and maintained in
accordance with the latest edition of PEC and NFPA 70.
o If Class I or Class II or Class III liquids are exposed to the air, the
equipment and ventilation must be designed to confine flammable
vapor-air mixtures to the inside of the equipment and a zone extending
1.5 meters from it.
 o The extent of hazardous locations for electrical equipment and wiring
installation must not extend beyond solid partitions with no
communicating openings.
o Ordinary electrical equipment, including switch gear, can be used if it is
installed in a room or enclosure maintained under positive pressure,
ventilation makeup air is not contaminated, and pressurized rooms and
enclosures are designed to prevent liquid flow into the areas.

SECTION 10.4.15.4 PROCESS EQUIPMENT AND OPERATIONS

• Transfer of Flammable and Combustible Liquids
• Piping, Valves, and Fittings
• Kettles, Reactors, and Vessels
• Dispersion Equipment
• Ball Mills and Pebble Mills
• Mixers and Mixing Tanks

SECTION 10.4.15.5 MATERIAL STORAGE AND HANDLING

• Tank Car and Tank Vehicle Unloading and Loading
• Flammable and Combustible Liquid Storage
• Storage of Finished Products
• Outdoor Storage
• In-Plant Transportation and Storage of Portable Shipping Tanks.
• Power-Operated Industrial Trucks

SECTION 10.4.15.6 SPECIAL HAZARDS

• Nitrocellulose
o Handling
Nitrocellulose containers should be handled to prevent frictional heat
generation. Proper precautions include using wheeled hand trucks with
grabs to hold containers, holding them securely on transportation
pallets or drum-holding devices, and not dropping them. Handling
equipment and constant control are essential for lowering containers
from one elevation to another.
o Storage
Inside Areas:
• Room or building must have a minimum two-hour fire resistance
rating.
• Openings must be protected by fire doors or other opening protectives
with a minimum 1.5-hour fire resistance rating.
• Automatic sprinkler systems must be installed to provide a density of
14.3 L/min/m2.
• Electrical area classification depends on the adjacent process area.
• Detached buildings are not classified for electrical installation
purposes.

Outside Storage:
• Storage must be on a detached pad or non-combustible structure.
• If protected by a sprinkler system, distances in Annex A, Table 50,
Separation Distances for Nitrocellulose Storage can be reduced by
50%.
• Detached storage areas are not classified for electrical installations.
• Storage of other commodities in the same area is limited to inert
materials and non-combustible materials that are chemically compatible
with nitrocellulose.
 • Nitrocellulose should be stored in its original shipping container or an
approved container.
• Containers should not be opened in the main storage area but at the
point of use or a designated location.
• Nitrocellulose should be stored in an upright position with the lid up
and not stacked more than two-high.
• Building heat should be provided by indirect means, such as
lowpressure steam, hot water, or warm air.
• The storage area should be marked with a sign stating
"NITROCELLULOSE — FLAMABLE SOLID — KEEP HEAT, SPARKS,
AND FLAME AWAY".
o Use in Process Area
• Nitrocellulose intake should not exceed the required amount for a
single shift.
• Containers should remain closed until ready for use.
• If only part of a container is used, the lid and closure must be replaced
immediately.
• Spark-resistant scoops should be used for fork or scooping
nitrocellulose.
• Spilled nitrocellulose must be cleaned up immediately.
• Dry or suspected dried material should be wet with water or solvent
and placed in a covered metal container.
• After emptied containers, covers should be replaced and closure
securely fastened.
• Used nitrocellulose should be placed in a covered waste container and
disposed of daily.
• Containers, rim rings, and vessels should be bonded and grounded
during transfer operations.
o Waste Disposal
Small quantities of nitrocellulose should be wetted down with water or
solvent and placed in a covered metal container, and disposed of in
accordance with regulations.
• Monomers
o Bulk Storage of Liquid Monomers
o Storage of Solid Monomers
o Waste Disposal
• Organic Peroxide Formulations

SECTION 10.4.15.7 CONTROL OF IGNITION SOURCES

• Ignition Sources
To prevent flammable materials from igniting in organic coatings
manufacturing facilities, precautions must be taken against open flames,
lightning, hot surfaces, radiant heat, smoking, hot works, spontaneous ignition,
frictional heat, static electricity, electrical sparks, and stray currents.
• Smoking shall be limited to designated areas that are identified and provided
with disposal
containers.

• Hot Works
The hot works operations must be performed only after securing an
FSC from the C/MFM with jurisdiction.
• Repair of Electrical Equipment
 The integrity of the area's electrical classification must be maintained
when repairing or replacing electrical equipment, as per Section 10.4.15.3 of
this RIRR.
• Static Electricity Hazards
This document outlines the requirements for bonding and connecting
flammable equipment to a ground, including tanks, machinery, and piping. The
bond must be physically applied or inherently present, and the resistance to
ground should not exceed 25 ohms for a metallic grounding path and one
megohm for non-conductive or semi-conductive paths. When transferring
flammable liquids to or from portable containers, all metallic elements must be
bonded together and one element grounded. The bond or ground connection
must be electrically conductive, have sufficient mechanical strength, corrosion
resistance, and flexibility, and use No. 10 AWG wire. Bonding clamps must be
of the opposed-point type for secure metal-to-metal contact.
• Lightning Protection
The C/MFM must provide lightning protection systems that meet the
latest PEC and NFPA 780 standards, as required.

SECTION 10.4.15.8 MANAGEMENT OF FIRE HAZARDS

• Scope
• Basic Requirements
• Evaluation of Hazards
• Emergency Action Plans
• Management of Change
• Fire Investigation

SECTION 10.4.15.9 FIRE PROTECTION

• Scope
• Automatic Sprinkler Protection
• Fire Hydrants
• Emergency Notification
• Portable Fire Extinguishers
• Standpipe and Hose Systems
• Hose Connections
• Fixed Local Application Extinguishing Systems

SECTION 10.4.15.10 TRAINING AND EMERGENCY PLANNING

• Basic Training Requirements
o Regular refresher training for equipment use.
o Manual actuation of fixed extinguishing systems.
o Notification of fire departments and emergency organizations.
o Awareness of special hazards and potential dangers of hazardous
materials.
o Training in safe process operation and emergency shutdown
procedures.
• Emergency Planning
o Coordinate fire control measures with local emergency response
agencies.
o Establish procedures for safe operation shutdown under emergency
conditions.
o Provide training, inspection, and testing for alarms, interlocks, and
controls.
o Allow other emergency procedures in case of increased hazard.
o Keep emergency procedures readily available and updated.
 SECTION 10.4.15.11 INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
• General
o Test and maintain equipment in accordance with PNS and international
standards.
o Follow manufacturer's recommendations for equipment inspection and
testing.
o NFPA 25 applies to water-based fire protection systems.
o Establish procedures to control leakage and prevent liquid spillage.
o Minimize and dispose of combustible waste in operating areas.
o Keep outside storage areas free of weeds and trash.
o Maintain clear aisles for personnel movement for orderly evacuation
and firefighting access.
• Confined Space Entry
Where it is necessary for an employee to enter a tank, a pit, a manhole,
or any other
confined space, such entry shall be authorized by the individual-in-charge.
• Cleaning Tanks and Vessels
Cleaning of storage tanks and process vessels shall be done in a
manner and with
controls to prevent fires.
• Floor Cleaning
Floor cleaning shall be done in a manner that minimizes fire hazards

DIVISION 16. INDUSTRIAL OVENS AND FURNACES

SECTION 10.4.16.1 GENERAL

● The hereunder provisions shall apply to ovens, dryers, and furnaces; thermal
oxidizers; and any other heated enclosure used for processing of materials and
related equipment. The terms “ovens”, “dryers”, and “furnaces” are used
interchangeably.
● An FSC shall be secured from the C/MFM having jurisdiction.
● Plans and specifications for devices and systems required by hereunder
provisions shall be submitted to the C/MFM having jurisdiction for review and
approval prior to installation.

SECTION 10.4.16.2 LOCATION AND CONSTRUCTION

A. LOCATION
● Furnaces and related equipment shall be located so as to protect
personnel and buildings from fire or explosion hazards.
● Furnaces shall be located and erected, so that the building structural
members are not affected adversely by the maximum anticipated
temperatures or by the additional loading caused by the furnace.
● Unrelated stock and combustible materials shall be located at a
distance from a furnace, a furnace heater, or ductwork, so that the
combustible materials will not be ignited, with a minimum separation
distance of eight tenths meter (0.8 m).
● Space shall be provided above and on all sides for the following:
1) Inspection, maintenance, and operation purposes.
2) Operation of explosion venting
3) Operation and unobstructed discharge of sprinklers
B. FURNACE DESIGN
● Furnaces and related equipment must be designed to minimize fire
hazards in equipment operating at elevated temperatures.
● They should be noncombustible and have structural strength to support
the furnace and work during maximum conditions.
● Heating devices and elements must resist mechanical damage from
falling work or material handling.
● Access facilities should be provided for inspection and maintenance,
and radiation shields, refractory material, and insulation should be
retained or supported. External parts of furnaces should be guarded to
prevent accidental contact with personnel.
● Observation ports should be provided for individual burner operation
and protected from radiant heat and physical damage.
● Closed cooling systems should have pressure relief and flow switches,
while open systems should not require flow switches.
● Furnaces should minimize fire hazards due to combustible products or
residue, and hydraulic systems should use fire-resistant fluids or
flammable fluids.
● Metal frames should be electrically grounded, and water-cooled
components should have minimum wall thicknesses.

C. EXPLOSION RELIEF
● Fuel-fired furnaces and those containing flammable liquids, gases, or
combustible dusts must have unobstructed explosion relief to relieve
internal explosion pressures.
● However, explosion relief is not required on furnaces with shell
construction with 4.8 mm or heavier steel plate shells, low-oxygen
atmosphere ovens designed and protected in accordance with NFPA
86, thermal oxidizers, Class D furnaces, work chambers of indirect-fired
ovens, or combustion chambers with a single combustion airflow path.
● The amount of explosion relief is based on NFPA 68, Standard on
Explosion Protection by Deflagration Venting. Hinged panels,
openings, or access doors equipped with approved explosion-relief
hardware can be included in the ratio specified.
● Vents must be arranged so that they provide an effective relief area
when open, and must be located close to known ignition sources to
minimize damage.
D. VENTILATION AND EXHAUST SYSTEM
● Oven rooms and buildings must have makeup air for safety ventilation
and combustion air.
● Electric motors driving exhaust or recirculating fans should not be
located inside the oven or ductwork, except in vacuum furnaces.
● Oven recirculation and exhaust fans should be designed for maximum
oven temperature and material and vapor release during heating.
Ventilating and exhaust systems must be installed in accordance with
NFPA 91, and ductwork must be constructed of non-combustible
material. Access doors must be provided for inspection and cleaning of
ducts handling flammable vapors or solids.
● Ducts should be made tight throughout, braced, and designed to
minimize condensation and solid accumulation.
● Exposed hot fan casings and ducts should be guarded to prevent injury.
E. MOUNTINGS AND AUXILIARY EQUIPMENT
● The text emphasizes the importance of proper installation of pipes,
valves, and manifolds to prevent damage from heat, vibration, and
mechanical hazards.
 ● Furnace systems should have safety mechanisms like motion stops
and lockout devices to prevent personnel injury during maintenance.
Instrumentation and control equipment should be located for easy
observation and maintenance, and non-combustible auxiliary
equipment should be designed for cleaning.
● External heat exchangers should be enclosed in a vacuum-tight
chamber, free from water and air leaks, and designed to resist
permanent deformation.
● Fans and motors should not be exposed to temperatures exceeding
their design rating, and voltage on motors should be limited to 260 V.

SECTION 10.4.16.1 GENERAL

● The safety system of a furnace must be commissioned for new installations or
any changes that affect it.
● All apparatus must be installed and connected in accordance with the system
design, and any changes made during commissioning must be documented.
Safety interlock settings must be documented, and all furnace piping conveying
flammable liquids or gases must be inspected for leaks.
● Performers who operate, maintain, or supervise the furnace must be thoroughly
instructed and trained in their respective job functions under the direction of a
qualified person(s).
● Regular refresher training is required to demonstrate understanding of the
equipment, its operation, and safe operating procedures in their respective job
functions.
● The furnace should be operated in accordance with the design parameters,
provided by the manufacturer with schematic piping and wiring diagrams, startup
procedures, shutdown procedures, emergency procedures, and maintenance
procedures.
● When the original equipment manufacturer no longer exists, the user must
develop inspection, testing, and maintenance procedures.
● Operating procedures should be consistent with safety requirements and
manufacturer's recommendations, and personnel should have access to
operating instructions at all times.
● Safety devices must be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions, and the user must establish, schedule, and enforce the frequency
and extent of the inspection, testing, and maintenance program. Safety interlocks
must be tested for function at least annually, and manual shutoff valves must be
maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
● Records of inspection, testing, and maintenance activities should be retained for
one year or until the next inspection, testing, or maintenance activity.

SECTION 10.4.16.4 FIRE PROTECTION

● A study is being conducted to determine the need for fire protection systems for
ovens, furnaces, or related equipment.
● The study will review fire hazards associated with the equipment and determine
if fixed or portable systems are necessary.
● Types of fire protection systems include automatic sprinklers, water spray
systems, carbon dioxide protection systems, foam extinguishing systems, dry
chemical protection systems, and water mist systems.
● Special considerations include shielding for water from a fixed protection
system, not using galvanized pipe in sprinkler or water spray systems, and only
using deluge sprinkler systems in conditions where temperatures can exceed
329°C or flash fire conditions can occur.
 ● Installation drawings and calculations will be submitted to the C/MFM for review
and approval. If manual fire protection is necessary, doors or other means of
access will be provided in ovens and ductwork.
● All fire protection equipment must be inspected, tested, and maintained
according to NFPA 10 standards.

DIVISION 17. WELDING, CUTTING, AND OTHER HOT WORK OPERATIONS

SECTION 10.4.17.1 GENERAL
● This section outlines the requirements for welding, cutting, and other hot work
processes, including heat treating, grinding, thawing pipe, powder-driven
fasteners, hot riveting, and torch-applied roofing systems.
● It does not apply to candles, pyrotechnics, cooking operations, electric soldering
irons, gas cutting and welding equipment, confined spaces, and lockout/tagout
procedures.
● Acetylene cylinder charging plants must comply with NFPA 51A. Fire safety
clearances must be secured from the C/MFM prior to any operation, with annual
or per project duration for businesses requiring daily repairs or maintenance.

SECTION 10.4.17.2 RESPONSIBILITY FOR WELDING, CUTTING AND OTHER

HOT WORKS
a) Management
● Management establishes permissible areas for welding, cutting, and
other hot work, designates a Permit Authorizing Individual (PAI), and
ensures all equipment is in safe operating condition. If equipment is
incapable of reliable operation, it must be repaired or withdrawn from
service.
● Only approved apparatus is used. All individuals involved in these
operations must be familiar with the provisions of this Division,
understand inherent risks, and be advised about potential fire hazards
.
b) Permit Authorizing Individual (PAI)

● The PAI is responsible for ensuring the safety of hot work operators
and fire watch personnel, identifying site-specific flammable
materials, hazardous processes, and potential fire hazards.
● They must protect combustibles from ignition by considering
alternative methods, moving work to a safe location, shielding
combustibles, and scheduling hot work to prevent ignition-exposure.
● Fire protection and extinguishing equipment must be properly located
at the site.
● If a fire watch is required, the PAI must conduct a final check 30
minutes after completion of hot work operations.
c) Hot Work Operator
● The operator shall have the PAI’s approval before starting welding,
cutting and other hot work operations.
● All equipment shall be examined to ensure it is in a safe operating
condition, and, if found to be incapable of reliable safe operation, the
equipment shall be repaired by qualified personnel prior to its next
use or be withdrawn from service.
● The operator shall cease welding, cutting and other hot work
operations if unsafe conditions develop and shall notify management,
the area supervisor, or the PAI for reassessment of the situation.
 d) Fire Watch
● The fire watch is responsible for understanding hazards at work sites
and maintaining safe conditions during welding, cutting, and hot work
operations.
● They have the authority to stop operations if unsafe conditions
develop. They must have fire-extinguishing equipment and be familiar
with alarm sounding procedures.
● They must watch for fires in exposed areas and extinguish them only
when they are within the equipment's capacity.
● Additional tasks may be allowed, but not distracting from their
responsibilities.
e) Contractors
● Before starting any welding, cutting and other hot work, contractors
and their clients shall discuss the planned project completely,
including the type of hot work to be conducted and the hazards in the
area.
f) Mutual Responsibility
● Management, contractors, the PAI, the fire watch, and the operators
shall recognize their mutual responsibility for safety in welding, cutting
and other hot work operations

SECTION 10.4.17.3 FIRE PREVENTION PRECAUTIONS

● Personal protective clothing shall be selected to minimize the potential for ignition,
burning, trapping hot sparks, and electric shock.
● Welding, cutting, and other hot work operations are only allowed in areas that
have been made fire-safe.
● These areas must meet certain requirements, such as being verified as fire-
resistant, meeting the requirements of para D.2, having fire extinguishers in
working condition, proper ventilation, and equipment in working order. Permanent
areas designated for these activities must be reviewed annually by the PAI.
● Welding, cutting, and other hot work operations are not allowed in areas not
authorized by Management, sprinklered buildings with impaired sprinklers,
explosive atmospheres, uncleaned or improperly prepared equipment, drums,
tanks, or containers with previously contained materials that could develop
explosive atmospheres, or areas with an accumulation of combustible dusts that
could develop explosive atmospheres.
● The Management, upon the recommendation of the PAI, issues a certification
allowing such operations, which is a prerequisite for the issuance of FSC. The
certification must indicate the period of welding, cutting, and other hot work
activities.
● Before issuing a certification, the PAI verifies the following conditions: the
welding, cutting, and other hot work equipment must be in satisfactory operating
condition and in good repair; combustible materials must be kept wet, covered
with damp sand, protected by a listed welding blanket, welding pad, or equivalent;
all combustibles must be relocated at least eleven meters from the work site;
openings or cracks in walls, floors, or ducts must be covered or sealed with listed
fire-rated or noncombustible material to prevent spark passage; ducts and
conveyor systems must be shielded or shut down; and welding, cutting, and other
hot work operations should not be undertaken on combustible walls, partitions,
ceilings, or roofs.
● A fire watch shall be required by the PAI when welding, cutting and other hot work
is performed in a location where other than a minor fire might develop or where
the following conditions exist:
○ a. Combustible materials in building construction or contents are closer
than eleven meters (11 m) to the point of operation.
 ○ b. Combustible materials are more than eleven meters (11 m) away from
the point of operation but are easily ignited by sparks.
○ c. Wall or floor openings within an eleven-meter (11 m) radius expose
combustible materials in adjacent areas, including concealed spaces in
walls or floors.
○ d. Combustible materials are adjacent to the opposite side of partitions,
walls, ceilings, or roofs and are likely to be ignited.

SECTION 10.4.17.4 PUBLIC EXHIBITIONS AND DEMONSTRATIONS

● This document outlines the regulations for oxy-fuel gas welding and cutting
operations at public exhibitions, demonstrations, displays, and trade shows.
● It emphasizes the importance of safe use of compressed gases and the need
for competent operators to install and operate equipment.
● The site must be designed to minimize injury to viewers and be constructed and
operated in a way that minimizes egress during emergencies.
● Fire protection measures include providing portable fire extinguishers,
protecting public materials and compressed gas cylinders from flames, sparks,
and molten metal, and notifying the C/MFM in advance.
● Cylinders must be charged to half their maximum permissible content, and
additional cylinders should be allowed for use.
● Cylinders must be stored in approved areas and transported on hand or
motorized trucks.
● Electrical equipment must be of an approved type and installed in accordance
with NFPA 1, Fire Code, Chapter 11.1, Electrical Fire Safety, and manufacturer
requirements.

DIVISION 18. SAFEGUARDING BUILDING CONSTRUCTION, ALTERATION AND

DEMOLITION OPERATIONS

SECTION 10.4.18.1 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

● Construction, alteration, or demolition operations in structures must comply with
NFPA 241, Standard for Safeguarding Construction, Alteration, and Demolition
Operations. A fire protection plan must be submitted for approval. Adequate
escape facilities must be maintained for construction workers.
● Fire department access roads must be provided at the start of a project and
maintained throughout construction.
● Permanent markings are not required until the building is complete or occupied.

SECTION 10.4.18.2 PROCESSES AND HAZARDS

● Temporary heating equipment must be installed and maintained in accordance
with the manufacturer's instructions, with only familiar personnel allowed to
operate such devices.
● Equipment must be secured and monitored for safe operation and maintenance.
● Oil-fired heaters must comply with NFPA 1, Fire Code, Section 11.5, Heating
Appliances, and liquefied petroleum gas-fired heaters must comply with Section
10.3.7.8 of this RIRR. Refueling operations should be conducted in an approved
manner and the appliance should cool before refueling.
● Waste disposal is essential for safe operations, and combustible waste
materials must be removed at the end of each work shift or more frequently as
necessary. Rubbish should not be burned on the premises without obtaining an
FSC from the C/MFM having jurisdiction.
● Materials susceptible to spontaneous ignition should be stored in an appropriate
disposal container.
 ● Trash chutes must comply with a safety plan submitted to and approved by the
C/MFM having jurisdiction.
● If combustible construction is used, they must be protected with a temporary
automatic sprinkler and connected to water supply with an appropriate fire hose
or flexible rubber hose.
● Storage of flammable and combustible liquids and gases must follow NFPA 704,
Standard System for the Identification of the Hazards of Materials for
Emergency Response, or Globally Harmonized System of Classification and
Labeling of Chemicals.

SECTION 10.4.18.3 FIRE PROTECTION

A. FIRE SAFETY PROGRAM

● A comprehensive fire safety program for construction or demolition
must address good housekeeping, on-site security, fire protection
systems, on-site fire brigade organization and training, pre-fire
plans, rapid communication, consideration of special hazards, and
protection of existing structures and equipment from exposure fires
resulting from construction, alteration, and demolition operations.
B. OWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY FOR FIRE PROTECTION
● The owner must designate a Safety Officer to oversee the fire
prevention program, enforce NFPA 241, and ensure compliance
with fire protection standards.
● The Safety Officer must be knowledgeable about fire protection
systems, inspection procedures, and guard service. Pre-fire plans
should be developed in collaboration with the BFP and updated as
needed.
● The Safety Officer must ensure proper training in protection
equipment, maintain adequate fire protection devices, supervise hot
work operations, implement a weekly self-inspection program,
authorize fire protection system repairs, and remove temporary
protective coverings during renovations.
● Site security includes training guards in notification procedures,
equipment operation, and fire hazards, and securing entrances to
the structure under construction, alteration, or demolition.
C. FIRE ALARM REPORTING
● There shall be a readily available fire alarm box near the premises,
telephone service to the responding fire department, or equivalent
facilities.
● Instructions shall be issued for the immediate notification of the BFP in
the case of a fire. Where telephone service is employed, the local BFP
station number and site address shall be conspicuously posted near
each telephone.
D. ACCESS FOR FIRE FIGHTING
● A command post should be designated at the site, equipped with
emergency information, keys, and equipment.
● A Safety Officer will respond to fires. If access is difficult due to secured
openings or immediate firefighting, a key box can be installed, approved,
and containing keys.
E. STAIRS
● All buildings over one storey must have a usable stairway that meets
NFPA 101 requirements, be extended and maintained during new
 construction and demolition, be lighted, enclosed during construction,
and have stair identification signs for safe egress.
F. STANDPIPES
● In all new buildings in which standpipes are required or where standpipes
exist in buildings being altered or demolished, such standpipes shall be
maintained in conformity with the progress of building construction in
such a manner that they are always ready for use.

G. FIRST-AID FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT

● Section 10.2.6.9 of this RIRR mandates the provision and maintenance
of portable fire extinguishers in buildings under construction or
demolition.
● At least one approved fire extinguisher must be provided in an accessible
location, unless otherwise permitted.
● The requirement can be waived for structures under 14 square meters
or equipped with automatic sprinklers.
● Suitable fire extinguishers must be on self-propelled equipment.

SECTION 10.4.18.4 SAFEGUARDING CONSTRUCTION AND ALTERATION

OPERATIONS

A. SCAFFOLDING, SHORING AND FORMS

● The text prohibits the accumulation of unnecessary combustible forms
or form lumber in structures, requiring only necessary use and removal
after stripping. Combustible forms should not be used for other materials
storage, and portable fire extinguishers or charged hose lines are
provided.

B. TEMPORARY SEPARATION
● The structure must separate occupied areas from alterations,
construction, or demolition operations with higher hazard levels.
● Walls must have a one-hour fire resistance rating, and openings must
have a 45-minute rating.
● Non-rated walls and openings can be used with an approved sprinkler
system.
C. FIRE PROTECTION DURING CONSTRUCTION
● The text outlines the requirements for fire protection, sprinkler
protection, and standpipes in buildings.
● Water supply is available as soon as combustible material
accumulates, and installation of fire protection equipment is not
delayed.
● Underground water mains and hydrants must be installed and in
service before construction work begins.
● Automatic sprinkler protection should be installed as soon as possible,
and the building should not be occupied until complete and tested.
● Lower floors of a building can be occupied if the sprinkler protection is
completed and tested, and separate systems and control valves are
provided for upper floors.
● Sprinkler control valves must be operated by authorized personnel and
accompanied by notification.
● Standpipes must be provided with conspicuously marked fire
department connections and at least one standard hose outlet at each
floor.
 ● They must be securely supported and restrained at alternate floors, and
at least one approved hose valve must be provided at each
intermediate landing or floor level in the exit stairway.
● Valves must be kept closed and guarded against mechanical injury.
Temporary standpipes remain in service until the permanent standpipe
installation is complete.
D. ALTERATION OF BUILDINGS
● Fire protection systems must be operational during alteration, with the
fire department notified. If a portion is modified, the system remains in
service.
● The C/MFM can require alternate protection measures until the system
is returned to service.
● All exit components must be maintained according to Division 5 of
Chapter 2. Fire-resistant assemblies and construction must be
maintained.
E. FIRE SAFETY DURING DEMOLITION
● The C/MFM must be notified of a building's sprinkler system before
rendering it inoperative.
● Demolition operations using welding, cutting, and hot work must follow
Division 17 of this Chapter. Combustible waste should not be burned
at the site, and qualified personnel must serve as on-site fire watch.
F. TORCH-APPLIED ROOFING SYSTEMS
● . An FSC shall be secured from C/MFM having jurisdiction.
● Torch-applied roofing systems shall be installed in accordance with
NFPA 241.
G. TAR KETTLES
● This document outlines the requirements for equipment used for
preheating or heating materials such as tar, asphalt, pitch, or similar
substances for roofs, floors, pipes, or similar objects.
● It requires an FSC to be secured from the C/MFM having jurisdiction
and that operating kettles should not be located inside or on the roof of
any building.
● Kettle supervision must include one knowledgeable employee within
sight of the kettle.
● Fire extinguishers must be provided and maintained within seven and
six tenths meters (7.6 m) of the operating kettle and on the roof in close
proximity to roofing operations.
● Exits must not block exits, means of egress, gates, roadways, or
entrances.
● LPG containers for roofing kettles should not be used in any building.
Maintenance of roofing kettles and all integral working parts must be
free of excessive residue.
● Flexible steel piping should not be used on the vertical extension of
piping systems and must be able to withstand a pressure of at least
four times the working pressure of the pump.
● Roofing kettle doors must have permanent attachments, handles that
allow opening without an operator standing in front of them, and an
approved, working visible temperature gauge.
● Kettle doors must be tightly closed and latched when in transit.
Construction of roofing kettles must be acceptable to the C/MFM
having jurisdiction.
● Steel sheet thickness is required for two-barrel kettles and steel sheet
thickness for more than two-barrel kettles.
● Fuel containers, burners, and related appurtenances must be in
accordance with Section 10.3.7.8 of this RIRR.
 H. ASBESTOS REMOVAL
● The C/MFM must be notified 24 hours before asbestos removal
operations commence and closure.
● Approved signs should be posted at entrances, exits, decontamination
areas, and waste disposal areas, stating asbestos removal, carcinogen
status, and respiratory protection requirements.
● Handling, storage, and transportation must comply with RA 6969 and
DENR Administrative Order.

CHAPTER 5. MISCELLANEOUS SAFETY MEASURES

DIVISION 1. WATER AND WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANTS

SECTION 10.5.1.1 SCOPE

● This division focuses on fire safety measures and explosion prevention
at water and wastewater treatment units, plants, and facilities, including
processes, operations, and related appurtenances.

SECTION 10.5.1.2 GENERAL SAFETY PRACTICES

● The plant owner or operator must adopt basic control procedures to
minimize fire and explosion incidents in water or wastewater treatment
plants.
● These include hazard evaluation, process and equipment controls,
ventilation, construction materials, and education.
● Electrical safety practices must be followed, including proper
classification of hazardous locations and the selection of suitable
equipment.
● The handling of chemicals, fuels, and materials used in treatment
processes must comply with the applicable provisions of this RIRR.

SECTION 10.5.1.3 HAZARD EVALUATION

● A hazard evaluation should be initiated early in the design process,
integrating prevention and protection recommendations into plant
specifications.
● Potential hazards should be identified and evaluated for raw water,
treatment materials, and waste produced.
● Risk evaluations should prescribe control measures for design,
operation, and maintenance, including fail-safe design, emergency
controls, and leak prevention.
● Special attention should be given to hazards related to fuel gases,
sewer gases, and hotworks.
● A written plant safety plan should be prepared and implemented, and
the evaluation should be periodically reviewed and updated.

SECTION 10.5.1.4 PROCESS AND EQUIPMENT CONTROL

● Plant processes and equipment operations manuals must be available
to technicians and operators at all stations, covering control of fire and
explosions, removal of fuel sources, oxygen limitations, ignition
sources, fire suppression, and emergency evacuation.
● Potential sources of ignition must be identified in each part of the plant
system, and control must comply with the manufacturer's Code of
Practices or internationally accepted standards.
 ● Measures to address ignition include protecting entry sites, limiting
ignition sources, regulating introduction, providing adequate ventilation,
and ensuring proper storage of chemicals and fuels.
● In cases of welding, cutting, or maintenance activities, an appropriate
Fire Safety Practitioner must be secured.
● Chemicals and fuels must always be stored according to the
manufacturer's instructions or international standards.

SECTION 10.5.1.5 VENTILATION

● Ventilation rates for enclosed spaces containing used water or waste
water exposed to the atmosphere are determined by the vaporization
rate of the most volatile liquid.
● The designer calculates these rates based on factors like surface area,
temperature, and air temperature.
● Factors like turbulence, ventilation system efficiency, and flammable
vapor release should also be considered.
● Ventilation rates must conform to Annex A, Table 51, or actual
calculations.

SECTION 10.5.1.6 MATERIALS OF CONSTRUCTION

● This RIRR outlines the classification and suitability of materials for
treatment plants, categorized into combustible, noncombustible, and
limited combustibility.
● Materials must comply with NFPA 220 or international standards for
treatment plants.
● Construction materials are chosen based on fire hazard and risk
evaluation, aiming to reduce fire or explosion effects while maintaining
structural integrity, controlling fire spread, and preventing toxic
combustion products.
● Critical buildings or processes must be non-combustible and built in
accordance with the latest edition of the National Building Code of the
Philippines (NBCP).
● In wastewater treatment plants, noncombustible materials are required
for sewers handling flammable or hazardous materials, manholes,
pumping stations, air supply and exhaust systems, and interior finishes.
● Plastic or fibreglass-reinforced materials should be used with extreme
care during maintenance or repair operations due to their fuel load.

SECTION 10.5.1.7 EDUCATION

● Education plays a crucial role in promoting safety and mitigation
measures.
● In-house training programs should be established for plant personnel,
covering emergency organization, housekeeping, operation, repair,
maintenance, first aid, occupational health, and fire prevention.
● A close liaison between the C/MFM and treatment plant's owner or
operator is essential for mutually approved emergency procedures.

SECTION 10.5.1.8 FIRE PROTECTION

● The RIRR mandates the installation of approved, supervised sprinkler
systems in buildings or structures at treatment plants, with the use of
other appropriate fire protection measures in areas with electrical
hazards or chemical storage areas.
 ● Chemical suppression systems, such as clean agents, wetting agents,
foam, and dry chemical systems, are also installed or used in these
areas.
● Standpipes, hose streams, and hydrants are provided where
appropriate in these buildings.
● Fire suppression supply systems must be capable of delivering the total
demand of sprinklers, hose streams, foam, and other chemical
systems.
● In areas with no public water supply or inadequate public water supply,
treatment plant effluent or recycled water is used for fire protection.
● The plant water system must be capable of providing adequate quantity
and pressure, and have sufficient standby capacity to meet all fire water
flow requirements. Portable fire extinguishers of appropriate types are
provided in buildings or structures at treatment plants, with optional
reductions in some areas.
● Special fire protection and miscellaneous measures are considered in
some treatment plants and processes with unique problems or
situations, such as lightning protection, traffic flow and crowd
management arrangements, proper training for plant emergency
organizations, early detection and notification systems in case of fire
and explosion, and central station, local protective auxiliary, remote
station, or proprietary sprinkler water flow alarms.

DIVISION 2. SMOKING
SECTION 10.5.2.1 DESIGNATED AND PROHIBITED SMOKING AREAS
● The C/MFM has declared the hazardous season as the time when it is
unlawful to light, ignite, or smoke tobacco, cigarette, pipe, or cigar on
land covered with flammable materials. "NO SMOKING" signages must
be posted in all prohibited areas, and safe locations must be designated
by the C/MFM.

SECTION 10.5.2.2 NO SMOKING SIGNAGES

● The text mandates that "NO SMOKING" letters must be readable and
recognizable within a 15-25 meter distance, at least 100 mm high, and
in conspicuous locations. Dedicated smoking areas must be identified
by signage on their entrance, adopting fire safety precautions. The
"SMOKING AREA" sign should be the same color as the "NO
SMOKING" sign.

DIVISION 3. MANUFACTURE AND SALE OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

SECTION 10.5.3.1 SCOPE
● This Division prescribes the guidelines for the regulation of fire safety
measures in the manufacture, sale, servicing and maintenance of fire
extinguishers, including but not limited to prescribing standards and
requirements thereof.

SECTION 10.5.3.2 MANUFACTURE AND SALE

● Fire extinguishers must be manufactured, sold, or serviced in the
Philippines unless an FSIC is obtained from the C/MFM, as a
prerequisite for a permit or license by the DTI.
● An FSIC is issued upon payment of 2% of the
manufacturer's/dealer's/servicing firm's gross sales.
● Locally manufactured fire extinguishers must be classified, tested, and
rated in accordance with the PNS No. 27:1984, Rules for Classification,
Fire Testing and Rating of Portable Fire Extinguishers, or latest PNS.
 Imported extinguishers from other countries are considered acceptable
when manufactured in accordance with ISO norms or internationally
accepted standards.
● Fire extinguishers manufactured or sold in the Philippines must be
marked and labeled with information such as the manufacturer, date of
manufacture, lot number, chemical contents, type of extinguisher,
numerical rating, opening instructions, and safety procedure.

SECTION 10.5.3.3 PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE

● Preventive maintenance audit of fire extinguishers shall be conducted
periodically by the building owners or persons responsible in
accordance with the PNS No 27:1984, at least once (1) every twelve
(12) months.
● If after inspection it shows that servicing is necessary, it shall be
performed by the legitimate supplier/manufacturer duly licensed by DTI.

SECTION 10.5.3.4 PROHIBITED TYPES OF EXTINGUISHERS

● The following types of fire extinguishers and/or extinguishing agents are
prohibited for manufacture or sale:
A. All inverting types which require inversion of the extinguisher
before its operation; B. Soda-acid extinguishers;
B. Stored pressure or cartridge-operated foam solution, water or
loaded stream;
C. Vaporizing liquids (e.g., carbon tetrachloride); 327
D. Thermal special hazards single station extinguishers with
extinguishing capability of less than four and a half cubic meters
(4.5 m3 );
E. Fire extinguishers containing Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS)
in accordance with the phase out schedule by DENR; and
F. Other types which may be prohibited and banned hereinafter by
proper authorities.

SECTION 10.5.3.5 PROHIBITED ACTS

● Removal of inspection tags attached to fire extinguishers.
● Refilling a discharged extinguisher with an extinguishing agent other
than what the unit was designed to contain.
● Selling extinguishers not appropriate to the hazard.
● Selling any extinguisher prohibited under Section 10.5.3.4 of this RIRR.
● Selling defective or substandard extinguishers.
● Using/installing two (2) or more thermal special hazard vaporizing liquid
units in rooms with volume greater than the nominal capability of one
(1) unit.
● Installing pressure gauges in fire extinguishers that do not indicate the
actual pressure of the interior of the fire extinguisher, such as but not
limited to, using defective or not calibrated gauges; not providing, or
blocking the connection between the gauge and the interior; or
fixing/tampering the indicator or needle to indicate a certain pressure.

DIVISION 4. OPEN BURNING

SECTION 10.5.4.1 WHEN ALLOWED

● Open burning is allowed provided that an FSC shall first be obtained
from the C/MFM having jurisdiction.
 SECTION 10.5.4.2 EXCEPTIONS
● Fires for outdoor food cooking/preparation, provided that such fire is
built and maintained in a pit fully containing the fire, or a fireproof
container made of brick, stone, metal or other fireproof material to
prevent fire from spreading.
● Fires that are used for recreation and ceremony such as symbolic torch,
camp fires, and religious/cultural fires, provided that burning must be
attended and supervised at all times.

SECTION 10.5.4.3 PROHIBITION ON OPEN BURNING

● This text outlines the regulations for fire safety, including the use of
hazardous materials, burning waste materials in establishments,
discarding burning objects, dropping lighted substances near
combustible materials, depositing hot ashes or cinders, kindling fire on
another's land without permission, and using sky lanterns. It also covers
the use of flammable materials, hazardous materials, and waste
materials in premises, as well as the disposal of burning objects and
substances.

SECTION 10.5.4.4 REQUIREMENTS

● Outdoor burning must be permitted within 15 meters of structures, with
adequate fire prevention measures in place.
● It's permitted only when wind direction and meteorological conditions
don't pose a hazard to public roads or sensitive equipment.
● Residual fires must be extinguished daily.
● Additional fire safety measures may be imposed by the jurisdiction.

SECTION 10.5.4.5 PROCEDURES FOR OBTAINING FIRE SAFETY

CLEARANCE
● Application for FSC shall be filed in writing before the Office of the
C/MFM having jurisdiction at least two (2) days prior to the date of
burning.
SECTION 10.5.4.6 RESPONSIBLE PERSON FOR OUTDOOR BURNING
● The applicant shall be the responsible person for outdoor burning who
shall be present prior and during the burning activity. He shall be liable
for the consequences, damages, or injuries resulting from the said
burning.
● The granting of the herein FSC does not exempt or excuse the applicant
thereof from complying with all other applicable laws, ordinances,
regulations and orders of governmental entities having jurisdiction.

DIVISION 5. INCINERATOR

● Incinerators shall comply with the Implementing Rules and Regulations of

Republic Act No. 8749, Clean Air Act.

DIVISION 6. USE OF EQUIPMENT, APPLIANCES, DEVICES AND VACANT

BUILDINGS

SECTION 10.5.6.1 TOY BALLOONS

● Toy balloons inflated with toxic, explosive, or flammable gas are
prohibited without C/MFM authority, and open flames are strictly
prohibited near them.
SECTION 10.5.6.2 TRACER BULLETS AND SIMILAR DEVICES
● No one is allowed to possess, fire, or discharge tracer bullets or
projectiles that discharge flammable materials in brush or grass-
covered areas or areas with flammable materials.

SECTION 10.5.6.3 ASPHALT KETTLES

● It shall be unlawful to transport over any highway, road or street any
asphalt kettle beneath which is being heated by an open fire, coals or
ashes. Heating of asphalt kettles inside or on the roof of any building
shall be done only with an FSC issued by the C/MFM having jurisdiction.
There shall be at least one (1) approved fire extinguisher of a minimum
12-B or C classification within nine meters (9 m) of each asphalt kettle
being heated and one (1) additional fire extinguisher of 16-B or C
classification in the area of work being covered.

SECTION 10.5.6.4 ELECTRICAL WIRING AND OTHER DEVICES

A. Use and Installation
● It shall be unlawful to use and/or install any electrical wiring
appliance, apparatus or device in violation of the latest edition
of the PEC.
B. Fire Hazard
● The C/MFM having jurisdiction shall notify the local Building
Official of the existence of any hazardous electrical installation.
He/She may order the use of such installation discontinued
immediately until correction or the hazard be effected

SECTION 10.5.6.5 TRAPDOORS TO BE CLOSED

● All trapdoors and scuttle covers, except those that are automatic in their
operations, in any building other than single-family dwelling, shall be
kept closed at all times, in order to prevent the easy passage of smoke
and heat in case of fire.

SECTION 10.5.6.6 SHAFT WAYS TO BE MARKED

● To prevent fire-related accidents, every outside window in a building
with a shaftway opening between floors must be marked with the word
"SHAFTWAY" in red letters on a white background, and every door or
window opening from the interior must be similarly marked.

SECTION 10.5.6.7 USE OF TORCHES OR FLAME-PRODUCING DEVICES

FOR REMOVING PAINT
● To remove paint from a building, individuals using a torch or flame-
producing device must obtain an FSC from the C/MFM and provide an
approved fire extinguisher or water hose. They must remain on the
premises for one hour after use.

SECTION 10.5.6.8 HAZARDOUS WARNING LIGHTS

● It shall be unlawful to maintain any torch or lantern utilizing an open
flame along any excavation or road, or any place where the
dislodgement of such torch or lantern might permit the same to roll, or
slide on to any brush-covered land, or any land containing flammable
material.
 SECTION 10.5.6.9 OPEN FLAME DEVICES IN PORTS/WHARVES
● The Philippine Coast Guard and Philippine Port Authority require
permits for the use of open flame devices for maintenance, repair,
portable barbecues, braziers, and cooking on boats, ships, and wharfs,
and for lighting or decoration on the exterior.

SECTION 10.5.6.10 VACATING PREMISES

● Upon leaving a premise, the occupant must remove any hazardous or
noxious materials or waste, leaving the premises clean and neat.

SECTION 10.5.6.11 VACANT BUILDINGS

● Owners or managers of vacant buildings must remove flammable or
combustible waste and securely lock or secure all doors, windows, and
other openings.

DIVISION 7. URBAN AND RURAL PRE-FIRE PLANNING

SECTION 10.5.7.1 HYDRANT

● Housing developers and owners must provide a hydrant system and
water source for fire suppression in accordance with RA 9514 and its
RIRR. Fire hydrants must be 250 meters away and deliver at least
35,000 liters per minute for one hour. Industrial/storage occupancies
must have at least one fire hydrant. Local Government Units must
provide fire hydrants and tanks, and provide 20% fire reserves above
the Average Daily Demand Supply.

SECTION 10.5.7.2 FIRE DEPARTMENT ACCESS ROADS

● Fire department access roads must be provided for every facility,
building, or part of a building that can accommodate the largest fire
apparatus of the nearest fire station.
● If access roads cannot be provided due to property, topography,
waterways, or similar conditions, additional fire protection features may
be required.
● Access roads should extend within 15 meters of at least one exterior
door that opens from the outside and provides access to the interior of
the building.
● If buildings are protected with an approved automatic sprinkler system,
the distance may be increased to 137 meters. Multiple access roads
may be provided if a single road access is impaired by factors such as
vehicle congestion, terrain conditions, or climatic conditions.
● Access roads should have an unobstructed width and vertical
clearance.

SECTION 10.5.7.3 DESIGNATION OF FIRE LANE

● The C/MFM must oversee the installation of fire lanes, signages, or
approved notices for emergency use in coordination with government
agencies.
● Curbs must be painted red with "FIRE LANE" stenciled at intervals of
15-24 meters.
● Fire lanes must have an unobstructed width of 6.1 meters and vertical
clearance of 4.1 meters.
● Fire lanes should be located within 46 meters from fire department
access roads. Enforcement of fire lanes involving public roads is the
responsibility of the C/MFM.
 RULE 11. PROHIBITED ACTS

SECTION 11.0.0.1 PROHIBITED ACTS AND OMISSIONS

● The prohibited acts related to fire safety include blocking exit pathways,
obstructing fire-fighting vehicle access, interfering with firefighters' work,
preventing the use of fire lanes and hydrants, overcrowding in public spaces,
locking escape doors, blocking safety devices, misusing fire safety equipment,
making false fire alarms, smoking in restricted areas, neglecting safety
precautions, tampering with official safety signs, and compromising electrical
system safety.

RULE 12. FIRE CODE TAXES, FEES/CHARGES AND FINES

SECTION 12.0.0.1 SOURCES OF INCOME

● The sources of income for the BFP, as per RA 9514, include fees for certificates,
permits, and licenses; a percentage of the building's estimated value; an annual
fee based on assessed building value (except single-family dwellings); a
percentage of fire, earthquake, and explosion hazard insurance premiums; a
percentage of sales of firefighting equipment and devices; and a percentage of
service fees from reinsurance surveys and insurance adjustment companies
operating in the Philippines.

SECTION 12.0.0.2 FIRE CODE REVENUES

● The Fire Code specifies various taxes, fees, and fines, including construction
tax, realty tax, premium tax, sales tax, proceeds tax, inspection fee, storage and
conveyance clearance fees, installation clearance fee, fines, and other fees.
Account codes for these financial categories will be determined by the
Commission on Audit (COA).

SECTION 12.0.0.3 ASSESSMENT

● The BFP has the authority to assess and collect Fire Code taxes, fees, and
fines. They may delegate this authority to LGUs with specific rules and the
approval of the DILG. Fire Code Fee Assessors are designated in city and
municipal BFP offices, and the Chief of the BFP has the power to assess, issue
Order of Payment Slips, and review documents for any apparent misdeclaration
of income sources.

SECTION 12.0.0.4 SCHEDULE OF FEES AND FINES

● Fees for FSIC (Fire Safety Inspection Certificate) issuance include charges for
Certificate of Occupancy, Business Permit, and annual inspection, with a
minimum fee of PhP 500. Storage Clearance, Conveyance Clearance, and
Installation Clearance fees depend on the type and capacity of materials or
systems. Additional fees are charged for various activities and document
authentication.
● Administrative fines are imposed for specific violations, and their schedule is
determined accordingly.

SECTION 12.0.0.5 MANNER OF COLLECTION

● The BFP can collect Fire Code revenues through direct deposit with an
Authorized Government Depository Bank (AGDB), collection by BFP or
deputized officers, electronic payments, and other methods as prescribed by the
Chief, BFP, following accounting and auditing rules and regulations.
SECTION 12.0.0.6 DESIGNATION OF COLLECTING OFFICER
● The Chief, BFP or Regional Director designates Collecting Officers in City and
Municipal BFP offices based on recommendations from C/MFM.

SECTION 12.0.0.7 UTILIZATION

● BFP prepares an annual program approved by the DILG Secretary. DBM
releases funds to BFP based on the approved program through SARO and
NCA.
● 80% of BFP's collected revenues are used for modernization, while 20% goes
to LGUs for fire station operations, following DILG guidelines.
● BFP creates modernization plans and determines the equipment needed for
local government units.
● Standards are established for procurement of firefighting and investigation
supplies, certified by BPS for compliance with product standards set by BFP.

SECTION 12.0.0.8 MONITORING

● The Chief, BFP submits a management tool within six months for monitoring
Fire Code enforcement, including fee collection.
● Fire Marshals maintain a secure recording system for taxes, fees, and fines.
● Detailed assessment, collection, and reporting procedures are outlined in a
manual approved by the Secretary, DILG.

RULE 13. ADMINISTRATIVE COURSES OF ACTION

SECTION 13.0.0.1 GENERAL GUIDELINES

● Violations must be reported and corrected within a reasonable time, as per
Section 13.0.0.6 of the RIRR. If compliance isn't met, the first violation is
committed, and repeated failures result in subsequent violations. Administrative
fines are imposed for every violation.
● The Notice to Comply mandates immediate abatement of fire hazards, which
can include removing ignition sources, rearranging articles, reducing flammable
materials, changing hazardous operation procedures, limiting fire and smoke
spread, installing fire protective systems, and remodeling buildings. If the
violator is inactive, the BFP may make abatement as the only recourse to
remove imminent danger and achieve fire safety.
● Closure of the building shall be resorted to by the BFP when the offender fails
to comply with the abatement order or when the deficiency constitutes a clear
and imminent danger to life and property.

SECTION 13.0.0.2 FIXING OF FINES

● Administrative fines are determined by multiplying the weight/volume/unit by the
rate of the violation. Fines within a certain range increase with the number of
violations, with the minimum amount being the first violation and the maximum
being the second. For two or more offenses, the fine is the sum of all
administrative fines.
● Failure to Pay Fine – Failure on the part of the violator to pay the administrative
fine within the period fixed in the Notice shall constitute a ground for the
issuance of Closure Order for the building or the portion thereof.

SECTION 13.0.0.3 JURISDICTION

● Abatement, administrative fines, closure of the building, and assessment and
declaration for public nuisance shall be imposed by the C/MFM having
jurisdiction.
SECTION 13.0.0.4 GENERAL PROCEDURES
● The Fire Safety Inspector (FSI) must issue a Notice to Comply within 15 days of
a violation of RA 9514 and its RIRR.
● This notice includes citations of the specific provisions violated and specific
actions/corrections to be complied with.
● If the FSI's report indicates non-compliance, the C/MFM must impose a sign in
front of the building or structure that it is a fire hazard, impose administrative
fines, and issue a Notice to Correct Violation.
● After the lapse of the prescribed period to comply, a re-inspection must be
conducted.
● If the FSI's report indicates non-compliance, the C/MFM must continue posting
the sign and implement a closure order for the owner, administrator, or occupant
of the building or structure.
● Any existing FSIC must be revoked. If initial compliance is achieved, the NTCV
or Abatement Order may not be issued. Instead, the owner may execute an
Affidavit of Undertaking, specifying the completion period of work.
● The C/MFM may approve or disapprove the Affidavit of Undertaking, and failure
to comply within the specified period can lead to the issuance of a closure order
and imposition of administrative fines.
● In cases where the building owner/administrator refuses or disallows fire safety
inspection, the FSI must indicate in the AIR that they are not allowed to inspect
and submit the report to the Chief, FSES/U.
● The C/MFM will notify the owner/administrator via registered mail, stating that
an actual inspection will be conducted under a new Inspection Order (IO).

SECTION 13.0.0.5 PUBLIC NUISANCE

● A building or structure that is considered a fire trap or poses a clear and
imminent danger to nearby establishments or habitations is declared a public
nuisance by the Central Bureau of Fire Protection (C/MFM) having jurisdiction.
● Clear and present danger includes the absence of secondary exit or at least five
fire safety violations, such as insufficient exit width, fire-resistive enclosure,
swung exit door, obstructed fire exit, fire wall, defective fire alarm and smoke
detection system, inadequate automatic battery-operated emergency light or
illuminated exit signs, standpipe system, automatic fire suppression system,
defective smoke management system, and lack of fire safety measures in the
manufacture, storage, handling, display, and/or use of hazardous material/s.
● The C/MFM issues a notice of declaration within 24 hours, requiring immediate
abatement of the hazard within specified periods.
● Failure to comply within five days results in a "FIRETRAP" sign being posted at
the entrance, and a Closure Order issued if the hazard is not abated.

SECTION 13.0.0.6 PERIOD FOR CORRECTING VIOLATIONS

A. Immediately or within twenty-four (24) hours
● The text outlines various violations related to fire safety in buildings,
including blocking exit ways, preventing fire brigade operations,
obstructing designated fire lanes, overcrowding, locking fire exits, using
fire protective equipment, giving false alarms, smoking in prohibited
areas, removing authorized marks, overloading electrical systems, and
failing to observe fire safety precautions for various materials.
● Violations include obstructing exits, overcrowding, locking fire doors,
using fire fighting equipment for other emergencies, giving false alarms,
smoking in prohibited areas, removing or destroying authorized marks,
overloading electrical systems, and failing to observe fire safety
 precautions for hot ashes, flammable paints, combustible liquids,
metallic magnesium, blasting agents, explosives, liquid nitroglycerine,
firework materials, explosive dusts, welding, cutting, baking, forging,
and refilling flammable/combustible liquids. Other violations similar to
these will also be addressed.
B. Within three (3) days
● The text outlines several violations related to fire safety, including
construction of obstructing fire fighting vehicles, abandonment of
buildings without safety measures, failure to submit fire insurance
policies, and failure to observe fire safety precautions for high piled or
widely spread combustible stock, corrosive liquids, oxidizing materials,
toxic materials, matches, commercial quantities, waste materials,
spontaneous combustion products, waste disposal, pressurized
burning equipment, and motion picture projection using electrical
lamps.
C. Within seven (7) days
● 1. Failure to provide the fire safety precautions for the following:
○ a. Combustible fibers;
○ b. Cellular materials such as foam rubber, sponge rubber and
plastic foam;
○ c. Mineral, vegetable or animal oils and other derivative by-
products.
● 2. Other violations similar to or of the same nature as any of the
above, but not included in this listing, shall likewise be allocated the
same period.
D. Within ten (10) days
● Failure to provide fire walls to separate adjoining building or warehouse
and storage areas from other occupancies in the same building; and
● Other violations similar to or of the same nature as any of the above,
but not included in this listing, shall likewise be allocated the same
period.
E. Within fifteen (15) days
• The building is failing to provide a fire alarm system, fire-stopping
components, an emergency evacuation plan, and properly marked
exits.
• It is also failing to develop and implement fire safety and education
programs.
• The building is not providing fire protection features, exit terminations,
sealed egress means, self-closing doors, fire dampers, or roof vents.
Other violations similar to these will be allocated the same period.

SECTION 13.0.0.7 PENALTIES FOR SPECIFIC INDIVIDUALS

● The Philippine Fire Safety Code (RA 9514) outlines penalties for violations of
building, structure, facilities, and premises.
● Private persons, fire safety practitioners, and those responsible for the condition
of these premises can face administrative fines, closure of premises, or both.
● For fire safety practitioners, they can face administrative fines and revocation of
their certificate of competency.
● Punitive penalties include imprisonment for willful failure to correct deficiency or
abate fire hazards, imprisonment for 30 days or a fine, or both.
● In cases of corporations, firms, partnerships, or associations, fines and/or
imprisonment may be imposed on officials responsible for the violation. If the
violation is attended by injury, loss of life, or property damage, the violator must
be proceeded against under the Revised Penal Code.
 ● Public officers are also liable for administrative violations, such as unjustified
failure to conduct annual inspections, deliberate failure to display a "FIRE
HAZARD" or "FIRETRAP," endorsement of certification or report, issuance or
renewal of permits without the FSIC, failure to cancel permits, failure to abate
public nuisances within specified periods, abuse of authority, involvement in
FSCR, FSCCR, or FSMR preparation, or gross negligence.
● Punitive penalties include imprisonment for up to six months or six years, fines,
or both.

SECTION 13.0.0.8 CONDUCT OF HIGHWAY MONITORING

● The BFP, in collaboration with the LTO, Highway Patrol Group, or Local PNP, will
conduct highway monitoring to ensure hazardous materials and chemicals
handling and transport comply with RA 9514 and its RIRR provisions.

SECTION 13.0.0.9 REMOVAL OF HAZARD

● Hazardous materials and chemicals found during highway monitoring,
inspections, or citizen reports pose imminent threats to building residents or the
public. If possible, the BFP will take custody and turn them over to the government
agency. If flammable, they will be deposited at the fire station and released only
to the owner.

RULE 14. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

SECTION 14.0.0.1 PROTEST

● The text outlines the process for parties aggrieved by the actions or findings of
the C/MFM to challenge them by filing a verified protest within five days of
receiving a notice or order.
● Any requests for reconsideration, extension of time to comply, or other matters
related to the issued notice or order are considered protests and must be paid
a non-refundable protest fee.
● The protest must include the protestant's name, address, the notice or order
being protested, the fire marshal's office address, and other relevant
information.
● The protest must be supported by a certified copy of the order and be verified
by an affidavit that the allegations are true and correct. Failure to comply with
these requirements can lead to the protest being dismissed.
● The concerned District/Provincial Fire Marshal or Regional Director may require
the fire marshal to forward necessary records.
● The protest must be resolved within fifteen days of receipt of the complete
complaint.

SECTION 14.0.0.2 APPEAL

● The Provincial Fire Marshal, District Fire Marshal, or Regional Director can
challenge protest resolutions by filing a verified appeal to the next higher
authority within five days.
● The Regional Director's decision is final and executory, except for closure order
decisions.
● An appeal must be paid, and the lower unit must submit its comment and case
records. The appeal must be resolved within 30 days, except when appealed to
the DILG.
SECTION 14.0.0.3 EFFECT OF FILING A PROTEST OR APPEAL
● The filing of a protest or an appeal shall in no way stay the running of the period
of correction indicated in the Notice to Comply/Correct Violation or
Abatement/Closure Order, unless otherwise ordered by the higher authorities to
where the protest or appeal is filed.

SECTION 14.0.0.4 CITIZEN PARTICIPATION

● RA 9514 and its RIRR aim to improve community fire safety through BFP
inspections conducted by designated Fire Safety Inspectors (FSI).
● Citizens can help by cooperating with FSI.
● Individuals are encouraged to inspect their premises, take necessary
precautions, and organize effective fire safety and prevention organizations to
prevent loss of life and property.

SECTION 14.0.0.5 IMPLEMENTING DETAILS

● The Chief, BFP shall have the authority to issue such further implementing
details as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of RA 9514 and its
RIRR, with the approval of the Secretary, DILG.

SECTION 14.0.0.6 ALTERNATIVE AND/OR REMEDIAL FIRE SAFETY MEASURES

● The Chief of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) may accept alternative fire
safety measures for buildings that may compromise structural stability or
integrity, with a Fire Safety Technical Committee to evaluate these measures,
following approved implementing guidelines.

SECTION 14.0.0.7 SEPARABILITY CLAUSE

● If any part of this RIRR is ruled to be unlawful or unconstitutional, the remaining
parts will remain intact. Affected parties shall continue to exist and be valid.

SECTION 14.0.0.8 REPEALING AND AMENDING CLAUSE

● Every administrative directive, set of guidelines, circular, memorandum, and
other publication in conflict with this agreement or with the terms of these rules
and regulations are hereby repealed and/or altered appropriately.

SECTION 14.0.0.9 EFFECTIVITY

● These Implementing Rules and Regulations shall take effect thirty (30) days
after publication of the last installment in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper
of general circulation.