FyrBldgGuy
Silver Member
- Joined
- Oct 19, 2009
- Messages
- 356
I realize that this subject comes up time and again. The 2006 IFC states:
308.3 Open flame.
A person shall not utilize or allow to be utilized, an open flame in connection with a public meeting or gathering for purposes of deliberation, worship, entertainment, amusement, instruction, education, recreation, awaiting transportation or similar purpose in Group A or E occupancies without first obtaining a permit in accordance with Section 105.6.
308.3.7 Group A occupancies. Open-flame devices shall not be used in a Group A occupancy.
Exceptions:
1. Open-flame devices are allowed to be used in the following situations, provided approved precautions are taken to prevent ignition of a combustible material or injury to occupants:
1.1. Where necessary for ceremonial or religious purposes in accordance with Section 308.3.5.
1.2. On stages and platforms as a necessary part of a performance in accordance with Section 308.3.6.
1.3. Where candles on tables are securely supported on substantial noncombustible bases and the candle flames are protected.
2. Heat-producing equipment complying with Chapter 6 and the California Mechanical Code.
3. Gas lights are allowed to be used provided adequate precautions satisfactory to the fire code official are taken to prevent ignition of combustible materials.
The use of sterno or other types of open flame devices would not meet the conditions above unless the food was prepared as part of a religious ceremony. Even with a permit it would not be allowed.
So why is the use of open flame food warming devices so prevelant. I can find fire departments that list conditions for open flame cooking devices in A Occupancies where the jurisdictions have clearly adopted the IFC without modification to this section.
308.3 Open flame.
A person shall not utilize or allow to be utilized, an open flame in connection with a public meeting or gathering for purposes of deliberation, worship, entertainment, amusement, instruction, education, recreation, awaiting transportation or similar purpose in Group A or E occupancies without first obtaining a permit in accordance with Section 105.6.
308.3.7 Group A occupancies. Open-flame devices shall not be used in a Group A occupancy.
Exceptions:
1. Open-flame devices are allowed to be used in the following situations, provided approved precautions are taken to prevent ignition of a combustible material or injury to occupants:
1.1. Where necessary for ceremonial or religious purposes in accordance with Section 308.3.5.
1.2. On stages and platforms as a necessary part of a performance in accordance with Section 308.3.6.
1.3. Where candles on tables are securely supported on substantial noncombustible bases and the candle flames are protected.
2. Heat-producing equipment complying with Chapter 6 and the California Mechanical Code.
3. Gas lights are allowed to be used provided adequate precautions satisfactory to the fire code official are taken to prevent ignition of combustible materials.
The use of sterno or other types of open flame devices would not meet the conditions above unless the food was prepared as part of a religious ceremony. Even with a permit it would not be allowed.
So why is the use of open flame food warming devices so prevelant. I can find fire departments that list conditions for open flame cooking devices in A Occupancies where the jurisdictions have clearly adopted the IFC without modification to this section.