Multi-Level Exhibits
Multi-Level Exhibit drawings submitted for plan review by the Fire Marshal must meet the following requirements:
1. Meet or exceed the requirements of NFPA 101 Life Safety Code 2000 ed.
2. Drawings must bear a current registered design professional’s stamp (Architect, Structural Engineer, Fire Protection Engineer, etc.). Expired licenses are unacceptable. The professional stamp shall include the state of certification, name of the design professional; his/her license number, signature, registered Engineering firm name and firm number.
3. Measurements must be in inches/feet (not metric).
4. Multi-deck structures exceeding 300 sq. ft of net floor area must have two (2) remote exit stairs; occupant load factor is 15 net sq. ft per person per table 7.3.1.2 of NFPA 101 Life Safety Code, 2000 edition.
5. Stairway widths shall be:
a. A minimum of 36 inches where the occupant load of the upper level is less than 50.
b. A minimum of 44 inches where the occupant load of the upper level is 50 or more.
c. Occupant loads shall be stated on the plan.
6. Handrails shall not be less than 34 inches and not more than 38 inches above the surface of the tread.
7. Handrails are required on both sides. A sign must be placed at the bottom of the stairs stating “Please Use Caution and Hold the Handrail”.
8. Spiral stairways shall be permitted in accordance with section 7.2.2.2.3.3 of NFPA 101, 2000 ed., such that:
a. Occupant load does not serve more than 3.
b. Clear width of stairs is not less than 26 inches.
c. Handrails shall be provided on both sides.
9. Guards shall:
a. Not be less than 42 inches high.
b. Open guards shall have intermediate rails or an ornamental pattern to prevent a 4 inch
diameter sphere to pass through any opening up to a height of 34 inches.
10. Battery-operated smoke detectors shall be installed on a smooth surface under the first level ceiling and spaced no more than 30 feet apart if applicable and installed on the upper floor level with a covered ceiling.
11. Hard covered ceilings shall have a smoke detector installed and if fabric/textile is used to cover the upper deck area, it must be flame resistant. Certificate must be submitted with plan.
12. One portable fire extinguisher, minimum 2A:10BC with current inspection tag by a licensed company shall be provided at each level of the exhibit.
13. Any stationary units (container or other units) using the upper areas as a deck must submit plans.