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Part 2 Fire Protection Systems
PART II: FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
The fire protection systems normally installed in nightclubs and bar lounges are sprinkler systems, fire alarm systems, and fire suppression systems. Each of these systems are designed based on NFPA codes and standards and must be maintained properly in order for the systems to function as designed.
In the State of Florida, all fire protection systems must be installed, inspected, and serviced by licensed contractors. The nightclub owner must hire only State licensed contractors for inspection and service as required by the Florida Fire Prevention Code.
REPORTS
Sprinkler Systems
Existing nightclubs or establishments of similar usage are required to have an automatic sprinkler system where the occupant load exceeds 300 people. New nightclubs or similar usage (built or renovated since 1/1/2009) are required to have an automatic sprinkler system where the occupant load exceeds 100 people.
The sprinkler system must be inspected and tested by a licensed contractor as indicated in NFPA 25, Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems. The contractor must follow guidelines in SFM Rule 69A-46, Fire Protection System Contractors and Systems.
The contractor is licensed as a Fire Protection Contractor I or II issued by the State Fire Marshal's Office. Please check the SFM website for contractors with the proper license. http://www.myfloridacfo.com/Division/SFM
All deficiencies must be corrected as soon as possible. If the system is not operational, the contractor must notify the building owner, occupant, and Fire Marshal's office within 24 hours of the inspection date.
FIRE PREVENTION DIVISION STANDARDS
Fire Alarm Systems
A fire alarm system is required for nightclubs or similar usage where the occupant load exceeds 300 people.
The fire alarm system must be inspected and tested by a licensed contractor as indicated in NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm Code. The contractor must follow guidelines in SFM Rule 69A-48, Fire Safety Standards for Fire Alarm Systems.
The fire alarm contractors are licensed as EC or EF contractors issued by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Please check the DBPR website for contractors with the proper license. www.myfloridacfo.com/Division/SFM
All deficiencies must be corrected as soon as possible. If the system is not operational, the contractor must notify the building owner, occupant, and Fire Marshal's office within 24 hours of the inspection date.
Please attached Fire Prevention Standard on fire alarm systems for additional information.
FIRE PREVENTION DIVISION STANDARDS
Fire Suppression Systems
The fire suppression system would be installed in the kitchen, if the nightclub provides food for normal operation. Each commercial cooking appliance must be protected with an automatic extinguishing system. The system is designed to discharge suppression agent through nozzles strategically placed over the particular cooking appliances. It is important that cooking appliances are not moved or relocated without the prior evaluation from the licensed contractor, and may also require a new fire permit.
This type of suppression system must be inspected every six (6) months in accordance with NFPA 96, Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations. The contractor must follow guidelines in SFM Rule 69A-21, Fire Extinguishers and Pre-Engineered Systems.
The contractor is licensed as a Fire Equipment Class D issued by the State Fire Marshal's Office. Please check the SFM website for contractors with the proper license. www.myfloridacfo.com/Division/SFM
Fire Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers are required by code and must be maintained and service by a licensed dealer. The contractor must be licensed as Fire Equipment Class A, B, or C issued by the State Fire Marshal's Office. Please check the SFM website for properly licensed companies. http://www.myfloridacfo.com/Division/SFM
FIRE PREVENTION DIVISION STANDARDS
