Fire Prevention Code for the City of Dallas
The adoption of the International Fire Code and International Building Code by the city of Dallas marks a huge step for the city in the area of public safety. There have been numerous public safety incidents related to building fires in particular. Building fires are especially dangerous in the context of multi-level buildings. Multi-level buildings present heightened public safety risks for the city of Dallas because of the difficulty of exiting the building. Furthermore, the bright long-term outlook for Dallas’ economy indicates a building boom, especially in the Downtown area.
The risks created by building fires extend into more than one section of the Dallas municipal code. Thus, a serious solution to this problem required revisions to multiple sections of the municipal code. Fortunately, the city of Dallas met this challenge with a comprehensive regulatory framework for public safety in buildings. Together, the Fire Code and the Building Code are integrated and comprehensive, drafted with each of the other codes in mind.
The Fire Code also marks a huge step for the city in the area of international integration. Governments in Texas have a reputation for being independent-minded regarding regulation. With its comprehensive Fire Code and Building Code, the city of Dallas has indicated its dedicated support for international public safety standards.
Report
I. The History of the Adopted Codes
The International Building Code was adopted by the city of Dallas, with amendments, in 2008. (http://www.dallascityhall.com/building_inspection/construction_codes.html). The International Fire Code was adopted by the city of Dallas, with amendments, in 2007. (http://www.dallascityhall.com/building_inspection/construction_codes.html).Before the international codes were adopted, the city of Dallas had its own fire code and building code.
II. The Permitting Process Utilized and Enforced in Dallas, TX.
According to the Building Code, “A person, firm or corporation shall not erect, construct, enlarge, add to, alter, repair, replace, improve, remove, install, convert, equip, use, occupy or maintain a structure or building service equipment without first obtaining a MASTER PERMIT from the building official.” (Building Code, Chapter 52, 301.1)
Generally, a building permit is needed for work involving structural elements of a building. Permits are not required for certain construction work. Historic or conservation districts have special requirements for work on the exterior of properties. Most permits are issued at the Building Inspection Permit Center, but can be obtained at a Building Inspection District Office under some circumstances. (http://www.dallascityhall.com/building_inspection/building_inspection_faqs.html)
The Permitting process is over seen by a dedicated Building Official. “The building official who shall be appointed by the city manager shall be in administrative and operational charge of the division of building inspection.” (Building Code, Chapter 52, 201.1) The Building Official may appoint technical officers and inspectors as necessary to accomplish the duties of his office.
To obtain a permit, an applicant shall first file an application in writing on a form furnished for that purpose by the building inspection division. An application must
contain the following information:
1. Identification and description of the work to be covered by the permit.
2. Description of the land on which the proposed work is to be done, by street address or similar description that will readily identify and definitely locate the proposed structure or work.
3. Indication of the use or occupancy for which any proposed structure is intended.
4. Signature of the applicant or an authorized agent, who may be required to submit evidence to indicate such authority, together with a verification of the truth and correctness of the information in the application.
5. Attachment of plans, diagrams, computations, specifications, and other data as required.
6. The name, address, and telephone number of the industrialized builder, if applicable.
7. Other information required by the building official necessary for issuance of the permit. (Building Code, Chapter 52, Administrative Procedures for the Construction Codes)
In addition to submitting a written application users can also go online to the Dallas Permits and Inspections Online website. (http://www.dallascityhall.com/building_inspection/pdf/OnlineApplications_manual.pdf) As with the written application, users will have to enter the site address, public/private classification, work description, land use, and project value. They then pay the permit fee for that particular type of project. Once approved, the user can even print the permit online. (http://www.dallascityhall.com/building_inspection/pdf/OnlineApplications_manual.pdf)
III. Explanation of the process utilized to conduct a code enforcement inspection.
The Inspection Services section is responsible for ensuring new construction meets all applicable City Codes and regulations. This involves inspecting work in progress in the field for conformity with approved plans and the following codes: Building, Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical, Signs, Fire and Fire Sprinkler, and Energy Codes. Safety is the primary function of the inspectors. New construction is typically checked several times during various phases of construction to ensure construction is proceeding according to Code. In addition, inspectors ensure the City’s site management requirements are met. (http://www.dallascityhall.com/building_inspection/inspections.html)
The person that originally applied for the permit, whether it be the homeowner or the contractor is responsible for scheduling an inspection. ((http://www.dallascityhall.com/building_inspection/inspections.html). There is a list of required inspections. (http://www.dallascityhall.com/building_inspection/required_inspections.html).
IV. Explanation of the anticipated different types of hazards that will be discovered in different types of occupancies.
Large quantities of flammable liquids, solids, and gases are found in industrial buildings, such as warehouses or factories.
Faulty electrical systems, which may cause fires through hot wires and connections, can be found in residential, commercial, or industrial buildings.
Storage areas containing combustible materials are often found in or around industrial buildings.
Combustibles near equipment that generates heat, flame, or sparks
Highly flammable candles are often found in residential buildings.
Improperly-extinguished cigarettes, cigars, and lighters are often found in residences.
Improperly sealed fireplace chimneys are found in residential buildings.
Cooking appliances, such as stoves and ovens, can cause fires if not properly turned off and are often found in residential buildings.
Heating appliances that come into contact with flammable – wood burning stoves, furnaces, boilers, portable heaters
Exposed computer power cords and cables, which can spark a fire, can often be found in office buildings.
V. Problems anticipated to be encountered during a code enforcement inspection.
Exceeding the maximum occupancy within any part of the building.
Not maintaining proper fire exits and public emergency guidance
Not maintaining fire extinguishers in easily accessible places.
Improperly storing hazardous materials that are used for operations within the building.
Improperly storing flammable materials in certain areas of the facility.
Not maintaining fire detection and warning systems.
Not maintaining a list of firestops.
Not maintaining adequate fireproofing.
Not providing adequate fire safety education and training to building users.
Conduct fire drills at regular intervals throughout the year.
VI. Anticipated Public Reaction
The city expected the residents of Dallas to be enthusiastic about the new safety codes because they were stricter and more in line with new technology. Because they are based on the International Fire Code and Building Code, they promote energy efficiency, which means reduced utility bills for compliant buildings.
Public fear of building fires were well publicized and the city had already taken steps in 2003 to add more building inspectors. (Wrolstad). From a public safety perspective, the citizens of Dallas were relieved that the city had taken steps to address the risk to public safety created by building fires. However, some citizens have been alarmed at the enthusiasm with which the city has been enforcing the building code, including one Church which was shut down for “sheet rock falling from the ceiling; electrical issues; and structural deficiencies that must be repaired.” (Vega).
The city of Dallas was also attentive to the concerns of builders and businesses. Dallas has one of the healthiest economies in the country and the city is careful not to curb the city’s attractiveness as a site for corporate headquarters. In fact, city public safety inspectors actually declined to pursue building code violations committed by the Dallas Cowboys during the construction of their defective training facility. (Formby)
The city’s new focus on green building and international standards are a huge turnaround from what many of the city’s residents are used to. As a city, Dallas was developed relatively early compared to many cities in the American west. Because of its early development, many buildings in Dallas were built according to outdated public safety and building codes. For this reason, the city exempted existing buildings from the new safety codes. Instead, it created a special regulatory framework for existing buildings. (Dallas Existing Building Code) This code had special provisions regarding improvements, alterations, and additions.
VII. Key components of a successful code enforcement program.
In Dallas, successful enforcement of the fire prevention and building codes require, first, education regarding the requirements and applicability of the fire prevention and building codes. Second, there must be adequate, accessible resources available for applying for a building permit and scheduling a building inspection. Third, because the building inspections are initiated by the users instead of the city government, the city must have monitoring mechanisms in place to detect users who neglect to schedule a required building inspection.
Conclusion
The city of Dallas’ new Fire Code and Building Code stand as a faithful model of international public safety standards international. The codes also serve as a model, in themselves, of an integrated, comprehensive regulatory framework for public safety in buildings.
Bibliography
http://www.dallascityhall.com/building_inspection/construction_codes.html
http://www.dallascityhall.com/building_inspection/pdf/OnlineApplications_manual.pdf
http://www.dallascityhall.com/building_inspection/required_inspections.html
City of Dallas Building Code (2006)
City of Dallas Fire Code (2006)
http://www.dallascityhall.com//pdf/Building/Chapter52Booklet.pdf – p. 10 Enforcement
Annual check not required, Questions arise about what city could have done to ensure safety
MICHAEL GRABELL and BRENDAN M. Dallas Morning News, July 27, 2007.
Dallas to add more safety inspectors, MARK WROLSTAD and SELWYN CRAWFORD.
Dallas Morning News. February 22, 2003.
Code violations shut down homeless shelter. CYNTHIA VEGA. WFAA-TV. Thursday, December 11, 2008
Team didn’t have roof work inspected, Cowboys were contractor for ’08 project; inquiry may take months
BRANDON FORMBY. Dallas Morning News. May 5, 2009.
Get Professional Assignment Help Cheaply
Are you busy and do not have time to handle your assignment? Are you scared that your paper will not make the grade? Do you have responsibilities that may hinder you from turning in your assignment on time? Are you tired and can barely handle your assignment? Are your grades inconsistent?
Whichever your reason is, it is valid! You can get professional academic help from our service at affordable rates. We have a team of professional academic writers who can handle all your assignments.
Why Choose Our Academic Writing Service?
- Plagiarism free papers
- Timely delivery
- Any deadline
- Skilled, Experienced Native English Writers
- Subject-relevant academic writer
- Adherence to paper instructions
- Ability to tackle bulk assignments
- Reasonable prices
- 24/7 Customer Support
- Get superb grades consistently
Online Academic Help With Different Subjects
Literature
Students barely have time to read. We got you! Have your literature essay or book review written without having the hassle of reading the book. You can get your literature paper custom-written for you by our literature specialists.
Finance
Do you struggle with finance? No need to torture yourself if finance is not your cup of tea. You can order your finance paper from our academic writing service and get 100% original work from competent finance experts.
Computer science
Computer science is a tough subject. Fortunately, our computer science experts are up to the match. No need to stress and have sleepless nights. Our academic writers will tackle all your computer science assignments and deliver them on time. Let us handle all your python, java, ruby, JavaScript, php , C+ assignments!
Psychology
While psychology may be an interesting subject, you may lack sufficient time to handle your assignments. Don’t despair; by using our academic writing service, you can be assured of perfect grades. Moreover, your grades will be consistent.
Engineering
Engineering is quite a demanding subject. Students face a lot of pressure and barely have enough time to do what they love to do. Our academic writing service got you covered! Our engineering specialists follow the paper instructions and ensure timely delivery of the paper.
Nursing
In the nursing course, you may have difficulties with literature reviews, annotated bibliographies, critical essays, and other assignments. Our nursing assignment writers will offer you professional nursing paper help at low prices.
Sociology
Truth be told, sociology papers can be quite exhausting. Our academic writing service relieves you of fatigue, pressure, and stress. You can relax and have peace of mind as our academic writers handle your sociology assignment.
Business
We take pride in having some of the best business writers in the industry. Our business writers have a lot of experience in the field. They are reliable, and you can be assured of a high-grade paper. They are able to handle business papers of any subject, length, deadline, and difficulty!
Statistics
We boast of having some of the most experienced statistics experts in the industry. Our statistics experts have diverse skills, expertise, and knowledge to handle any kind of assignment. They have access to all kinds of software to get your assignment done.
Law
Writing a law essay may prove to be an insurmountable obstacle, especially when you need to know the peculiarities of the legislative framework. Take advantage of our top-notch law specialists and get superb grades and 100% satisfaction.
What discipline/subjects do you deal in?
We have highlighted some of the most popular subjects we handle above. Those are just a tip of the iceberg. We deal in all academic disciplines since our writers are as diverse. They have been drawn from across all disciplines, and orders are assigned to those writers believed to be the best in the field. In a nutshell, there is no task we cannot handle; all you need to do is place your order with us. As long as your instructions are clear, just trust we shall deliver irrespective of the discipline.
Are your writers competent enough to handle my paper?
Our essay writers are graduates with bachelor's, masters, Ph.D., and doctorate degrees in various subjects. The minimum requirement to be an essay writer with our essay writing service is to have a college degree. All our academic writers have a minimum of two years of academic writing. We have a stringent recruitment process to ensure that we get only the most competent essay writers in the industry. We also ensure that the writers are handsomely compensated for their value. The majority of our writers are native English speakers. As such, the fluency of language and grammar is impeccable.
What if I don’t like the paper?
There is a very low likelihood that you won’t like the paper.
Reasons being:
- When assigning your order, we match the paper’s discipline with the writer’s field/specialization. Since all our writers are graduates, we match the paper’s subject with the field the writer studied. For instance, if it’s a nursing paper, only a nursing graduate and writer will handle it. Furthermore, all our writers have academic writing experience and top-notch research skills.
- We have a quality assurance that reviews the paper before it gets to you. As such, we ensure that you get a paper that meets the required standard and will most definitely make the grade.
In the event that you don’t like your paper:
- The writer will revise the paper up to your pleasing. You have unlimited revisions. You simply need to highlight what specifically you don’t like about the paper, and the writer will make the amendments. The paper will be revised until you are satisfied. Revisions are free of charge
- We will have a different writer write the paper from scratch.
- Last resort, if the above does not work, we will refund your money.
Will the professor find out I didn’t write the paper myself?
Not at all. All papers are written from scratch. There is no way your tutor or instructor will realize that you did not write the paper yourself. In fact, we recommend using our assignment help services for consistent results.
What if the paper is plagiarized?
We check all papers for plagiarism before we submit them. We use powerful plagiarism checking software such as SafeAssign, LopesWrite, and Turnitin. We also upload the plagiarism report so that you can review it. We understand that plagiarism is academic suicide. We would not take the risk of submitting plagiarized work and jeopardize your academic journey. Furthermore, we do not sell or use prewritten papers, and each paper is written from scratch.
When will I get my paper?
You determine when you get the paper by setting the deadline when placing the order. All papers are delivered within the deadline. We are well aware that we operate in a time-sensitive industry. As such, we have laid out strategies to ensure that the client receives the paper on time and they never miss the deadline. We understand that papers that are submitted late have some points deducted. We do not want you to miss any points due to late submission. We work on beating deadlines by huge margins in order to ensure that you have ample time to review the paper before you submit it.
Will anyone find out that I used your services?
We have a privacy and confidentiality policy that guides our work. We NEVER share any customer information with third parties. Noone will ever know that you used our assignment help services. It’s only between you and us. We are bound by our policies to protect the customer’s identity and information. All your information, such as your names, phone number, email, order information, and so on, are protected. We have robust security systems that ensure that your data is protected. Hacking our systems is close to impossible, and it has never happened.
How our Assignment Help Service Works
1. Place an order
You fill all the paper instructions in the order form. Make sure you include all the helpful materials so that our academic writers can deliver the perfect paper. It will also help to eliminate unnecessary revisions.
2. Pay for the order
Proceed to pay for the paper so that it can be assigned to one of our expert academic writers. The paper subject is matched with the writer’s area of specialization.
3. Track the progress
You communicate with the writer and know about the progress of the paper. The client can ask the writer for drafts of the paper. The client can upload extra material and include additional instructions from the lecturer. Receive a paper.
4. Download the paper
The paper is sent to your email and uploaded to your personal account. You also get a plagiarism report attached to your paper.
PLACE THIS ORDER OR A SIMILAR ORDER WITH US TODAY AND GET A PERFECT SCORE!!!
