Decorations Policy
The safety of College employees, faculty, students and visitors is paramount. It is crucial that the college facilities are maintained in a condition that will allow for quick and safe evacuation in the event of an emergency. This policy will outline the state and local regulatory requirements designed to provide good fire prevention practices as well as maintaining safe egress (exit) routes.
ALL activities requiring pre-approval must be made at least 2 weeks in advance. Inquiries made after that time are not guaranteed of review for approval.
Definitions
- Decorations, as defined by state code, include all materials such as curtains, draperies, scenery, plastic shields, upholstery materials, streamers, surface coverings applied over the building interior finish for decorative effect, and also cloth, cotton batting, straw vines, leaves, trees and moss used for decorative effect, bamboo and other wood fibers. (Excluded from this definition are ordinary window shades).
- Combustibles include any material that will readily ignite when heat sources are present. Some examples are cardboard, paper products, some plastics, wood products, etc.
General Guidelines for Dorms and at Functions/Events
The quickest and easiest way to ensure that appropriate guidelines and approvals are obtained for decorations or events is to plan ahead. Please contact the Environmental Health & Safety Office, x3882, for further information.
Candles and other open flames
- Candles and other open flames are prohibited.
- Candles may be used for normally recognized religious services only if preapproved by EH&S and Housing (for Residence Halls) and a fire extinguisher is close by.
- The use of flash pots, smudge pots, incense, pyrophoric materials, or fire works of any kind for recreations, art, or entertainment is strictly prohibited.
- Fog type devices are prohibited by WFD. Any items using or creating mist or smoke for theatrical effects must be approved by the WFD through the EH&S Office.
- By state law no gasoline, propane, or other internal combustion engines are permitted inside the buildings.
- Fireplaces should only be used according to the College guidelines available from the EH&S or the Housing Office.
Exits and corridors
- Never block, hide, or disguise an exit.
- Keep exits free and clear from combustibles and obstructions.
- Decorations or furnishings must not constrict or obstruct corridors.
- Never place combustibles in corridors, lobbies, stairwells or on corridor walls.
Materials used for decorating
- Plastics, styrofoams, and polyurethane foams can not be used for decorations or furnishings.
- Fabrics and other combustibles should not be hung from the ceiling.
- Massachusetts Fire Prevention Regulations prohibit flammable decorations such as natural greens, straw, crepe paper, streamers, and surface coverings on building interior finish in school buildings and places of public assembly.
- Fabrics such as curtains, drapes, furniture coverings, floor coverings, and other fabric hangings must be fire retardant. A certificate of flame proofing is required.
- Exotic lighting or unusual visual effects utilizing lasers or others unusual optical devices must be approved by the EH&S Office. o Avoid the use of decorations with sharp edges or corners.
- The use of existing conduit, cables, or piping to hang items or equipment is prohibited unless permission is granted. Contact the EH&S Office for further information.
- Wood frame or other combustible construction on Campus is not permitted without EH&S Office and Physical Plant approval.
- Combustible materials should be kept at a safe distance or be shielded from sources of heat such as radiators and light bulbs.
Electrical related concerns
- Temporary wiring such as extension cords and multiple outlet strips must be approved by the EH&S Office for use with lighting or sound equipment and lighted decorations.
- Extension cords are for temporary use only. During the holiday season they should not be used in a way that will create a fire, tripping, or electrical hazard.
- The cords must be UL listed, be a minimum of l6 gauge wire (this excludes #l8 lamp wire also known as "zip" cord), and be properly plugged into a wall outlet. Extension cords can not be connected to each other.