The information contained in this brief outline does not by any means thoroughly cover the criterion and standards contained in the Uniform Fire Code, as adopted by the City of Austin, but it does provide the fundamental rules governing exhibits in any building open to the public.
The following entities are responsible for ensuring all regulations are followed; facility client, exhibitor, service contractors and the Austin Convention Center Department (ACCD). It is a requirement that the Austin Fire Department review and approve all event pre-planning documents and floor plans.
Remember, the fire codes for Austin may be different from other cities, and exhibitors will be responsible for complying with the Uniform Fire code. ACCD will take reasonable steps to ensure that you are allowed to display your products effectively, as long as it does not create a fire or life safety hazard to yourself, other exhibitors or people attending the exhibit.
1. Floor plans for all shows are to be submitted to ACCD for review and approval. ACCD will submit the floor plans and event pre-planning documents to the Austin Fire Department's Fire Marshal for approval. An approved copy will be provided to the event client. A copy of the approved plans must be available on site.
2. No display or exhibit shall be installed or operated as to interfere with access to or with the visibility of any required exit or exit sign, nor shall any display block access to fire equipment.
3. All exhibit booths must maintain clear and appropriate exits from the booth. Any booth of 750 square feet or more must have a minimum of two exits as far from each other as possible.
4. Displays with any type of cover, i.e., tents, buildings, awnings, etc. must be 300 square feet or less; if larger than 300 square feet they must meet the following regulations:
a) a single level or multi-level exhibit larger than 300 square feet with a covered ceiling requires protection from an automatic extinguishing system.
b) a booth with an open grate style ceiling does not have to meet this requirement. If there is any question, please forward a copy of the booth plans for ACCD and Fire Department review.
c) the upper deck of the multi-level exhibit must have at least two remote means of egress (as far from each other as possible).
5. The storage of combustible materials not on display (including packing materials) shall be in a storage area approved by the facility management. Any storage area that contains combustibles must be reviewed and approved by the Fire Marshal's Office.
6. All curtains, drapes, decorations and decorative or construction materials are to be non-combustible or flame retardant. Documentation affirming non-combustible or flame retardant properties must be available on site.
7. Any merchandise or material attached to drapes or table skirts is to be non-combustible or flame retardant.
8. Combustible waste is to be collected as it accumulates and should be stored in a non-combustible covered container which is emptied at least once a day.
9. The use of open flames, burning or smoke emitting materials as part of an act, display or show is prohibited unless prior written approval is received from the Fire Marshal's Office.
10. Electrical equipment is to be installed, operated and maintained in a manner which does not create a hazard to life or property.
11. Whenever, in the opinion of the Austin Fire Department, it is essential for public safety in any place of public assembly, the owner, agent or lessee shall employ one or more qualified persons, as required and approved by the Austin Fire Department, to be on duty. These individuals shall be subject to the Austin Fire Department's orders and shall be in uniform and remain on duty during the times such places are open to the public.
12. The following items may not be used without prior written approval of the Fire Marshal's Office:
a. Display or storage of LPG
b. Flammable or combustible liquids
c. Flammable gas
d. Cotton, hay, paper, straw, moss, split bamboo, wood chips, etc.
e. Welding or cutting equipment for demonstration purposes
f. Gas-fired appliances for demonstration purposes
g. Salamander stoves
h. Lit candles or lanterns for demonstration purposes
i. Compressed gas cylinders. If approved for use, cylinders are to be firmly secured in an upright position
j. Any cooking or heat producing devices
13. The following address the display of automotive vehicles and equipment.
a. There is to be no more than five gallons of fuel or 1/4 the capacity of the fuel tank, whichever is less.
b. Fuel tanks are locked and all portable tanks removed. Locking the auto will be
sufficient for cars in which the gas cap cover can only be unlatched from inside the vehicle.
c. Battery cables are to be disconnected. Batteries used to power auxiliary equipment
shall be permitted to be kept in service providing an appropriate disconnect is furnished.
d. Ignition keys are to be removed and placed in a central location on site.
e. The positioning of such vehicles shall be subject to approval of the Fire Marshal's Office.
f. Vehicle operation will be limited to brief parade-type displays specifically approved by the Fire Marshal's Office.
g. Vehicles, boats and similar exhibited products having over 100 square feet of roofed area are to have a smoke detector.
14. The following requirements are for food shows:
a. One K Type extinguisher is to be provided for every deep fat fryer.
b. Deep fat fryers are to be thermostat controlled.
c. Fryer units are not to be located on tables that are along aisles. No public access to fryers.
d. Deep fat fryer units are to be placed on sheet pans or similar non-combustible materials. (Foil is not acceptable.)
e. Combustible materials will not be located near deep fat fryers.
f. Chafing dishes are to be designed with a shelf for the fuel or chafing dish is to be placed on a sheet pan.
15. Public display of compressed flammable or toxic gases, hazardous materials, Class II, III or IV laser, blasting agents and explosives is only permitted after a review of the materials and/or devices is conducted and the proposed display has received approval of the Fire Marshal's Office.