Ohio Fire Protection Mandate

Depending on your type of business and risks, there are many possible codes that apply to your situation per the Ohio Fire Protection Mandate. Correspondingly, you will likely have to meet the standards or references from one or more of the following:

  • Ohio Division of State Fire Marshall
  • Ohio Fire Code
  • National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
  • Local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)
  • Insurance Underwriter
How do I determine the mandated code requirements for my location and my situation in Ohio?
 
Regulations can be hard to keep up with and understand, we know that. However complicated they may be, their intention is to keep us all safe. Follow the items below to gain an understanding of the process KLR Fire and Security takes when working with fire systems.

Ohio State Fire Marshall

As part of the Ohio Administrative Code (OAC), within sections 1301:7, are the requirements that fall under the jurisdiction of the State Fire Marshal. Although there are numerous codes within these sections, the most applicable section is usually the Ohio Fire Code.

Ohio Fire Code

The Ohio Fire Code code is a national code that was modified for Ohio and took effect in 2007. It is a state wide code and consists of the rules as regulated by the Ohio State Fire Marshal. Basically, the code defines the minimal standards required by the state to protect persons and property. As mentioned in the Ohio Fire Code Preface:

“In promulgating the Ohio Fire Code, the State Fire Marshal of Ohio, per Ohio Revised Code Section 3737.82, must include rules relating to: the movable contents of any building, or class of buildings; the transportation, storage, location and use of flammable and explosive materials; the procedures to be employed by persons in the event of fire; the installation and location of fire protection equipment; rules applicable to particular classes of existing buildings or structures as the use and occupancy of such buildings or structures suggest are necessary and other similar matters. The Ohio Fire Code as promulgated is enforceable by the State Fire Marshal, Assistant State Fire Marshals and/or certified fire safety inspectors working for a duly constituted municipal or township fire department in Ohio.”

In other words, this is the minimal standards that any municipality or township enforces through their inspectors. 

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

Although the Ohio Fire Protection Code is the minimal standard, it references the more specific NFPA standards often. NFPA maintains an extensive list of codes and standards that are designed to minimize the risks and effects of fire. Doing so by establishing criteria for building, processing, design, service and installation in the US and around the world.

Local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)

After you have reviewed the Ohio Fire Code and the NFPA standards, next check with your Local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). This is most likely the city or township in which you live or work. Occasionally, the AHJ may have additional rules or requirements for specific hazards. Or they may have requirements for how you must protect your property. Because the local AHJ is the party responsible for inspecting you and your equipment, you will be working with them along the way.

Insurance Underwriter

In addition to all of the groups listed above, you may also have to comply with the demands of your insurance underwriter. Since they are insuring you against any losses, they may have additional requirements based on their risk analysis.

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