Title
Amending Title 4 of The Philadelphia Code, Subcode "F" (The Philadelphia Fire Code), by requiring building owners to have certain tests performed on fire dampers, smoke dampers and smoke control systems; to require such tests be performed by qualified persons; and to provide for penalties for violations of such code requirements.
Body
WHEREAS: The Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code has adopted and incorporated by reference the International Fire Code (2009), as codified at 34 Pa. Code § 403.21(8); and
WHEREAS: By Pennsylvania Act 45 of November 10, 1999 (35 P.S. § 7210.501(a)), as amended, the City of Philadelphia was required to adopt the International Fire Code in order to administer and enforce the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code; and
WHEREAS: As required by the above-referenced state law, the City of Philadelphia adopted the International Fire Code (2009), as codified at Title 4, Subcode "F" of The Philadelphia Code, with certain subsequent amendments; and
WHEREAS: Section F-909.2.1 of The Philadelphia Code requires that smoke control systems, including all dampers by definition, must be subject to a routine maintenance and operational testing program; and
WHEREAS: Title 4, Subcode "F" of The Philadelphia Code does not currently provide for such a program, nor does it establish any minimum standards for such maintenance and operational testing; and
WHEREAS: Faulty and inoperable fire dampers, smoke dampers and smoke control systems are likely to exist in the City of Philadelphia without periodic testing as required by law and applicable industry codes and standards; and
WHEREAS: The absence of testing of fire dampers, smoke dampers and smoke control systems creates serious imminent risks to public safety and is detrimental to the health, and welfare of the citizens of the City of Philadelphia, and the dwellings and businesses thereof, and visitors thereto; now, therefore:
THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA HER...
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