No. 37443 (5-year Review): Rule R710-5. Automatic Fire Sprinkler System Inspecting and Testing

DAR File No.: 37443
Filed: 03/25/2013 09:34:14 AM

NOTICE OF REVIEW AND STATEMENT OF CONTINUATION

Concise explanation of the particular statutory provisions under which the rule is enacted and how these provisions authorize or require the rule:

Subsection 53-7-225.5(2) directs the Utah Fire Prevention Board to make rules prescribing an application form and standards for certification qualification and for renewal and revocation for those who inspect and test automatic fire sprinkler systems.

Summary of written comments received during and since the last five-year review of the rule from interested persons supporting or opposing the rule:

Rule R710-5 has been amended four times in the past five years. There have been no written comments received in that same five year period. It is the practice of the Utah Fire Prevention Board to notify anyone who might be affected by any amendments to the rule at least 14 days in advance of the meetings of the Board. This allows and encourages public participation in the rule making process. Prior to any action, the Board always requests and holds time during the meetings to allow for public comment and input. This process seems to have reduced or eliminated the submission of written comments to the Board.

Reasoned justification for continuation of the rule, including reasons why the agency disagrees with comments in opposition to the rule, if any:

Automatic fire sprinkler systems are fire suppression systems located in public and private schools, colleges, universities, hospitals, nursing homes, state-owned facilities, businesses, etc. When automatic fire sprinkler systems are in place, the individual sprinkler heads activate based upon heat within the protected area and controls the fire even before a local fire department arrives. Due to their functioning process, it is imperative that these systems operate correctly. This rule provides the requirements for the service technicians that inspect and test these life-saving systems. Such systems are required to be inspected, tested and tagged as operational on an annual basis. Over the past five years, such systems have been found to be in a state that would not have allowed the system to operate in an efficient manner and such detections would not have been identified without this program. Therefore, this rule should be continued to ensure the continued safety of the public.

The full text of this rule may be inspected, during regular business hours, at the Division of Administrative Rules, or at:

Public Safety
Fire MarshalRoom 302
5272 S COLLEGE DR
MURRAY, UT 84123-2611

Direct questions regarding this rule to:

• Coy Porter at the above address, by phone at 801-284-6358, by FAX at 801-284-6351, or by Internet E-mail at [e-mail]

Authorized by:

Coy Porter, State Fire Marshal

Effective:

03/25/2013

---