The IFIA or Illinois Fire Inspectors
Association is engaged in a statewide process that may result
in a unified method of presenting documents at the time of
submittal.
Currently, acceptable methods vary across the state. While
generally, plan submittals in the more populous areas of
Northern Illinois require detailed documentation, that is
not the case as we move South across Interstate 80. Many
of the less populated counties and smaller communities do
not have the budget and manpower to require and review information
needed to do the job. In many of those areas, budgets do
not include a trained fire safety inspector.
What officials are looking at is a uniform Fire Alarm Plan
Submittal Form which has been circulated among officials
and is being evaluated. Should such a form be agreed upon,
it would give clear direction to property owners, developers,
architects, engineers and general contractors. It is hoped
that such a standard submittal would help local officials
in those smaller communities that must wear several hats.
Of equal importance is the value of having complete documents
on hand after a building has been inspected. Having legible
drawings, complete specifications and correct manufacturer
cut sheets for fire safety officials years after final inspection
is invaluable in times of crises. |
