Nothing generates excitement and energy for a business like a special promotional event. Putting together something out of the ordinary is often just the trick for fresh interest and a broader customer base. When planning an event like this, lots of preparing must take place. An item on that checklist is (or should be!) including fire safety. The FDNY has special mandates for flameproofing temporary sets and props that may be used for a special event. Today we will go over some of the things you should know about flameproofing temporary structures, decorations, and scenery.
If you're planning a special event for your business, scenery and materials that are used for this must either be inherently non-combustible or they are required to undergo flameproofing treatments, which involve soaking or coating the items with fire retardants.
A fire commissioner is able to use his discretion to grant an exemption. He may choose to do so if the following things apply:
1. The business owner submits a report from a nationally recognized laboratory that indicates that objects being used for temporary scenery were previously deemed non-combustible or they were treated with authorized flameproofing chemicals. (A certified flameproofing company is able to give you a certificate that states the same.)
2. The scenery and setting will be up for less than 30 days.
3. The business owner demonstrates that it would be an extreme hardship for him/her to provide a proper affidavit stating non-combustibility or flameproofing treatments.
Similar to scenery, there are special rules that apply to temporary decorations that are used in special events. The requirements for this are similar to the rules for scenery with a few variations. As in the previous regulations regarding scenery, #2 and #3 apply here as well. However, for #1, the difference is that a testing report showing that the decorations have passed the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) 701 Test (for fabrics, curtains, window treatments, single-layer fabrics) or Test 2 (for plastic films, tarps, tents, awnings, vinyl-coated fabrics) - whichever is applicable - would suffice.
Lastly, there are some special rules that apply to temporary structures. As with the others, the general regulation is that an affidavit showing that items are inherently non-combustible or treated with flame repellents is needed. However, the fire commissioner can make exceptions here, too. He may also allow a report from a nationally known lab or certificate from a certified flameproofing company if the following things apply to your situation:
1. The report or certificate clearly indicates that the materials are inherently non-combustible or have been treated with flame repellent #25 or have a Class A flame spread rating.
2. The structure will be in use for 30 days or less.
3. The person who is putting in an application for the event can adequately demonstrate hardship to acquire the needed affidavit.
A special event is a fantastic boost for business and definitely worth all the work and planning involved. However, for it to be successful, fire safety, as well as public safety, is a must. Many times, fire safety is overlooked because the event is temporary and fires are so uncommon. However, it is because fire safety regulations and flameproofing requirements for temporary scenery, structures, and decorations are adhered to that these events are so safe and successful.
At Brooklyn Flameproofing, we are committed to partnering with local businesses for all special events to provide quality flameproofing services and help meet all requirements put forth by the FDNY. If you have a special event in your future and are in need of having temporary scenery, decorations or structures treated with fire retardants, don't hesitate to call us. We would love to offer our assistance, answer any questions, and offer a free, no-obligation quote. Call today! 1-800-401-5415