Gated Impairments.pdf
MEMORANDUM
May 11, 2007
Date:
Fire Code Interpretations, Rules and Regulations
To:
FM Westfall
From:
Subject: GATED FIRE ACCESS IMPAIRMENTS
Fire department modifications and code interpretations shall be maintained in writing so as to aid in
conformance and uniform application to the intent of ruling fire and life safety related codes, ordinances,
and standards. ECDC 19.25.045 & IFC 104.1.
REF: IFC 503.6 SECURITY GATES
DISCUSSION: No installation of security gates or traffic obstructions ever meets the urgency of
immediate unfettered emergency response for the protection of life, property, and the environment
or law enforcement. The Fire Department is obligated to meeting the immediate emergency
needs for every property taxpayer and tenant on public and private property. Standards developed
to acknowledge and accommodate the unanimous, political, or legal choice these stakeholders
have to slow emergency responses to their property should not be construed as fire department
concurrence for the installation of security gates or obstructions to normal traffic flow. Standards
are listed to meet minimum level of requirements to address the reasonable expectation of public
services that are funded and provided for every citizen. All installations shall be approved by the
Fire Chief.
Unanimous approval by affected property taxpayers and tenants, or approval by the legal
·
representative group responsible to the affected property owners and tenants (e.g. city
council, howeowners associations, etc ).
Minimum fire access gate width requirement of 20 and vertical clearance of 136 when open
·
(24 clear width is Engineering requirement for roadways with 2-way traffic).
Approved primary activation trigger for opening gate, such as Opticom light signal from
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mobile-mounted equipment inherent to all local public safety vehicles and apparatus.
Electric security closure feature failing in the open position during power outage events.
·
Fire Department lockbox mounted in approved location with keys, keycodes or other
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secondary means to open gate as backup to primary activation trigger.
All systems, equipment, activation, and operations will be tested on a minimum annual basis.
·
A report of proper operation will be provided to Edmonds Fire Prevention Division.
Additional city Engineering and Building Division requirements may apply for installation, such
·
as encroachment permits and/or fence permits.
City of Edmonds Fire Marshal