F-1414.1 Completion before occupancy. In buildings where an automatic sprinkler system is required by this code or the International Building Code, it shall be unlawful to occupy any portion of a building or structure until the automatic sprinkler system installation has been tested and approved, except as provided in Section [105.3.3] A-701.5 of the Philadelphia Administrative Code.

SECTION F-1418 ASBESTOS ABATEMENT

F-1418.1 Asbestos Abatement. Asbestos abatement work in buildings shall be in accordance with the following fire safety requirements:

1. Materials used in the construction of temporary enclosures shall be noncombustible or flame resistant in accordance with NFPA 701.

2. Means of egress shall not be blocked, unless an alternate exiting plan is approved by the fire code official. Exit doors shall not be held open.

3. Sprinklers, standpipes and other fire suppression systems shall remain in service, unless otherwise approved by the fire code official.

4. A sign shall be posted at the building’s fire alarm annunciator panel indicating the areas undergoing asbestos abatement, as well as signs at each abatement area.

5. Each abatement area shall have at least one portable fire extinguisher with a minimum rating of 2-A:10-B:C. All workers shall be instructed in the proper use of the fire extinguisher.

6. In occupied buildings where automatic fire detection is taken out of service, a 24-hour fire watch, making hourly rounds and having a means to contact the Fire Department, shall be provided.

7. In occupied buildings where negative pressure ventilation equipment does not exhaust to outdoor areas, a fire watch shall be provided, as indicated in item 6 above.