Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: vangiew
Asked on: Wednesday, April 6, 2011 at 11:07 pm EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 3:54 am EDT
Question: I submitted a Fire Alarm Package for a hospital in Sandoval County and the Fire Marshall rejected it. One of the comments was that I didn't need strobes in the exam rooms. In all my years of designing, I've always put strobes in the exam rooms. I read something somewhere that strobes are required in rooms where patients are left unattended or public access. I can't find it again. Is this an ADA requirement? IFC or IBC? Please help...remember this is for the State of NM. Thank you.
New Mexico Fire Code (NMFC)
According to the New Mexico Fire Code (NMFC) 704.2.
2.3.1, visual notification appliances (strobes) are required in all areas where occupants may be sleeping, including patient rooms and exam rooms.
Additional Considerations NFPA 101: Life Safety Code requires visual notification appliances in all patient sleeping areas and public areas. ANSI A117.1: Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities recommends visual notification appliances in patient care areas where patients may be unattended or have difficulty hearing audible alarms.
Code Interpretation
The Fire Marshal's interpretation that strobes are not required in exam rooms may be based on a specific exemption or allowance in the NMFC. However, it is generally recommended to follow the requirements of NFPA 101 and ANSI A117.1 to ensure the safety of patients and staff.
Recommended Action
To address the Fire Marshal's concern, you could: Research the specific exemption or allowance in the NMFC that supports the Fire Marshal's decision. Contact the Fire Marshal's office for clarification on their interpretation.* Submit a revised Fire Alarm Package that includes strobes in exam rooms and provides обоснование for their inclusion. Flag for review