Ra9514 Rirr
Ra9514 Rirr
Ra9514 Rirr
and at a time when firefighting capability hardly catches up with socio-economic and
technological advancements, a proactive and effective fire safety enforcement is crucial. And
so, the enactment of Republic Act No. 9514, amending Presidential Decree No. 1185, otherwise
known as the Fire Code of the Philippines, was celebrated as much as it was awaited in the
realm of fire service and in fire protection industry. Many of the problems that had beset the era
of PD 1185 came to an end with the advent of RA 9514, although there remained issues that
seem to evolve with time.
Over a decade of enforcement, these evolving issues, as well as new challenges, impelled the
Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to go back to the drawing board. The reconstituted Fire Code
Technical Working Group (TWG) for the Revision of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of
RA 9514, under the leadership of Chief Superintendent Leonides Perez, who was also the vice
chairperson of the Fire Code TWG (2008-2009) that gave us the 2009 IRR, carried out the
undertaking of producing this edition from 2016 to 2019.
In collaboration with stakeholders and field experts from professional organizations and fire
protection industry, we crafted this edition of the IRR with a combination of hindsight and
foresight. In response to issues regarding ramps and location of the critical hospital facilities in
existing healthcare occupancies, emergency rooms, operating rooms, intensive care units
(ICUs), delivery rooms and similar facilities located up to five (5) floors from the level of exit
discharge are now allowed subject to certain conditions under Section 10.2.11.1. The occupant
load factor for concentrated-use business occupancies is reduced from 9.3 m2/person to 4.6
m2/person (Section 10.2.16.1), considering the prevalence of such occupancies in certain
special economic or free port zones encompassed by the authority of the BFP to enforce the
Fire Code as mandated by recently enacted laws.
Not only did we try to address the problems and gaps that emerged during the implementation
of the 2009 IRR. We went the extra mile of looking to the foreseeable future, anticipating latent
needs, as well as potential causes and sources of ambiguity in interpreting and applying the
2019 IRR. With the rising number of industries having structures and facilities that were unknown
in the Philippines ten years ago, we incorporated in this edition the fire safety standards for day
care centers; residential board and care facilities; fixed guideways; historical structures;
off-shore energy facilities; wind turbine energy-generating facilities; solar photovoltaic systems;
and motion picture and television production studio, soundstages and certain production
facilities. The competency requirements for and responsibilities of fire safety enforcers, fire safety
practitioners, fire volunteers and fire volunteer organizations are also clarified and enhanced.
The growing presence of hazardous materials (HazMat) in the country prompted us to prescribe
maximum allowable quantities (MAQ) and increase regulatory fees for handling, storage and
use of such materials, as well as for performing hazardous operations (HazOps).
Another novel feature of this edition is the set of original fire safety standards we developed
based on Philippine experience in handling, storage and use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
You will find these standards, alongside internationally accepted standards, in Section 10.3.7.8.
Undoubtedly, all the Fire Code TWGs have given every version of the Fire Code and its IRR their
respective and collective best, building upon the achievements and legacies of one another.
Notwithstanding the resources, care and expertise devoted to its development, we offer the
2019 IRR to the public with ample room for continuing improvement. Until every better edition
becomes best, it is our fervent hope that our edition will indeed serve as a reliable reference and
effective tool for achieving a fire-safe nation.
Message
EDUARDO M. AÑO
Secretary
Departmen of the Interior and Local Government
The law’s IRR is the blueprint that guides the BFP in the implementation of the law to
ensure public safety, promotes economic development through the prevention and
suppression of all kinds of destructive fires.
These are challenging times and the demands to update and review the lRR is not
just timely but necessary. While strictly implementing the law is primordial, we do not
stop in identifying issues and concerns that need to be addressed, and deficiencies
which can be improved.
I laud the BFP for amending the IRR of the Fire Code, a commendable initiative in
adapting to the ever-changing landscape of firefighting and consequent
challenges that go with it. The BFP’s commitment to finish the improvements after
undergoing thorough and careful study is commendable. These include stringent
qualification requirements for personnel in order to recruit more qualified firefighters
together with the increase in resources and manpower for the Bureau. Procedures
on the use of HAZMAT equipment and rescue strategies to enhance the capacity of
BFP firefighters in saving others and themselves were also Included.
Now the next step after its publication is to strictly monitor compliance to the new
IRR to improve fire prevention, response, and rescue. While we all envisioned a true
fire-safe Philippines, we also encourage our communities to be aware and practice
responsible fire safety and prevention.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is one with the BFP in
its noble undertakings including your continuous professionalization of the fire service
and your unrelenting drive to ensure that the Filipino people are far from the harmful
impacts of destructive fires.
May this publication help in the improvement of fire services and ultimately, in
saving more precious lives and properties during fire emergencies.
Message
NESTOR F. QUINSAY, JR.
Undersecretary for Public Safety
Departmen of the Interior and Local Government
The Office of the Public Safety remains adamant in the belief that a fire
safe nation is well within reach and we are ready to stand alongside the BFP in
the pursuit of that vision.
Let me take this opportunity to commend all the people behind this
initiative. This initiative is a validation that team work and unity lead to the
progress of an organization. Let us continue to join hands and work together for
a bigger and better BFP!
Paths don’t move, we do. So let us all move forward. Move the right way.
Message
CSUPT LEONIDES P PEREZ, PME
Deputy Chief for Administration /
Chairperson, Fire Code Technical Staff
Bureau of Fire Protection
The need to update and intensify various provisions of the existing IRR has
become vital for it to be realistic and relevant in the present time due to the
demand of the technological changes in building designs and constructions,
development of cities characterized by high-rise buildings/structures and
amongst others and the evolution of relevant requirements and related laws of
other government agencies.
The realization of this revised IRR is made possible through the efforts of the
Fire Code Technical Staff and its Board of Consultants.
14 April, 2014 The first intention to amend the IRR surfaced after all regional directors were
asked to submit their comments and suggestions in
the implementation of the IRR. The comments submitted become
the basis for the first round of committee meetings.
26 January, 2016 Signing of Bureau Order Number COM-2016-005 re: Composition of the
Fire Code Technical Committee with SSUPT ROEL JEREMY
G DIAZ as the Chairman. One of the functions of the FCTC was to
review and amend the IRR as necessary
09 July, 2016 Resource persons from various agencies, as well as all, City Fire Marshals and
Chief, FSES within NCR, were invited during the
preliminary deliberations on the amendment of the Implementing
Rules and Regulations.
17 August, 2017 An offshoot to the House of Representative’s inquiry regarding the Resort’s
World Manila Fire Incident, which paved the way for
the amendment of Section 9 of RA 7916 or the PEZA Law was
amended, assigning to BFP the sole authority to enforce the Fire
Code.
01 September, 2017 –
17 January, 2018 Series of consultation and coordination meetings with PEZA began under
the chairmanship of SSUPT ABRENICA, up until
January of 2018 when the MOA between the BFP and PEZA was
finally signed with SSUPT DOLOT as the FCTS Chairperson.
18 January, 2018 Signing of Memorandum of Agreement between the Bureau of Fire
Protection and the Philippine Economic Zone Authority.
19 March, 2018 Series of roll-out meetings thru Fire Service Conventions and orientation
seminars to all regional C,FSES regarding the
implementing guidelines of the BFP-PEZA MOA were conducted
22 March, 2018 MC No. 2018-006, The Implementing Guidelines for the conduct of Fire
Safety Inspection and Issuance of Certificates and Licenses
for PEZA-registered Enterprises was signed and cascaded to all
regions, provincial/district and city/municipal fire stations
01 April, 2018 Constitution of BFP-PEZA Central Liaison Unit from different PEZA established
Administrative Regions/Units
May – August 2018 Series of deliberations on the amendment of RA 9514 (Basic Law) were
also conducted along with the major issues until
August 22, 2018 when it was finally submitted to the Secretary
of the Interior and Local Government for review. Similarly, review
of the provisions and continuous deliberations on the proposed
amendment of the IRR were also being conducted
03 September –
14 September, 2018 An in-house workshop on the proposed amendment was slated to fast
track the amendments of its provisions
19 November, 2018 a Public Consultation to all stakeholders was arranged for further
scrutiny of the revisions made thereafter effecting their
comments
and suggestions thru FCTS-TWG meeting
February 2019 Presentation to the DILG for comments and suggestions, eventually
incorporating it in the revision after final deliberation
among the TWG.
May – June 2019 Final proofreading of the RIRR prior to submission to the Chief, BFP for
approval.
09 July, 2019 Submission of the final draft of the Revised Implementing Rules and
Regulations to the Secretary of the Interior and Local
Government for approval.
07 August, 2019 Approval and signature of the Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations
by the Secretary of the Interior and Local Government.
Acknowledgements
STEERING COMMITTEE
DIRECTOR LEONARD R BAÑAGO
CSUPT LEONIDES P PEREZ CSUPT ROEL JEREMY G DIAZ CSUPT JOSE S
EMBANG JR SSUPT JERRY D CANDIDO CSUPT DOMINGO V TAMBALO
SSUPT LILIBETH Q SIMANGAN CSUPT FELIXBERTO F ABRENICA SSUPT
ROMEO M MALTEZO JR CSUPT JOSELITO A CORTEZ SUPT ALVEN D VALDEZ
PROOFREADING COMMITTEE
ENGR ARIEL T MIRANDA
CINSP ESTRELLA-LUZ M LANTION ENGR MARCIAL M BATTUNG
SINSP ANNA RIZZA B CELOSO ENGR MAELA M GUSI ENGR
SINSP EDNA M CONSULTA INSP SIGRADE B AYAN FO2
GABRIEL G SOLANO INSP ARGIE Francis N Bañares FO1
J BANIEL Ronnie C Lastimosa
FCTS-IRR
SUB-COMMITTEE
SUB-COMMITTEE 1
SUPT RENATO B CAPUZ Deputy Director, DFSE SUPT BONIFACIO C CARTA Deputy
Director, DFSE
v
DIVISION 4. COMMAND, EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE AND FIRE DRILLS .........................20
SECTION 6.0.4.1 PRACTICE DRILLS ...................................................................................20
SECTION 6.0.4.2 OPERATION OF EQUIPMENT .................................................................20
SECTION 6.0.4.3 REACTIVATION OF EQUIPMENT ............................................................20
SECTION 6.0.4.4 INSPECTION AND SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE WORK .......................20
SECTION 6.0.4.5 COMMAND AT FIRE SCENE ..................................................................20
xi
DIVISION 4. DUST PRODUCING MACHINES ...................................................................224
SECTION 10.4.4.1 FIRE SAFETY CLEARANCE REQUIRED ..................................................224
SECTION 10.4.4.2 CONSTRUCTION ...................................................................................224
SECTION 10.4.4.3 OPERATION ..........................................................................................224
SECTION 10.4.4.4 PROTECTION AND MAINTENANCE ....................................................224
xiii
SECTION 10.4.15.10 TRAINING AND EMERGENCY PLANNING ..........................................299
SECTION 10.4.15.11 INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE ......................................................299
DIVISION 16. INDUSTRIAL OVENS AND FURNACES..........................................................300
SECTION 10.4.16.1 GENERAL ..............................................................................................300
SECTION 10.4.16.2 LOCATION AND CONSTRUCTION ......................................................300
SECTION 10.4.16.3 COMMISSIONING, OPERATIONS, MAINTENANCE, INSPECTION AND
TESTING ........................................................................................304
SECTION 10.4.16.4 FIRE PROTECTION .................................................................................306
DIVISION 17. WELDING, CUTTING, AND OTHER HOT WORK OPERATIONS
.....................307 SECTION 10.4.17.1 GENERAL
..............................................................................................307
SECTION 10.4.17.2 RESPONSIBILITY FOR WELDING, CUTTING AND
OTHER HOT WORKS .............................................................................308
SECTION 10.4.17.3 FIRE PREVENTION PRECAUTIONS ........................................................309
SECTION 10.4.17.4 PUBLIC EXHIBITIONS AND DEMONSTRATIONS ...................................312
xiv
SECTION 10.5.4.6 RESPONSIBLE PERSON FOR OUTDOOR BURNING .............................328
DIVISION 5. INCINERATOR..............................................................................................328
DIVISION 6. USE OF EQUIPMENT, APPLIANCES, DEVICES AND
VACANT BUILDINGS ...................................................................................328
SECTION 10.5.6.1 TOY BALLOONS ....................................................................................328
SECTION 10.5.6.2 TRACER BULLETS AND SIMILAR DEVICES ............................................328
SECTION 10.5.6.3 ASPHALT KETTLES ..................................................................................328
SECTION 10.5.6.4 ELECTRICAL WIRING AND OTHER DEVICES .......................................329
SECTION 10.5.6.5 TRAPDOORS TO BE CLOSED ...............................................................329
SECTION 10.5.6.6 SHAFTWAYS TO BE MARKED ...............................................................329
SECTION 10.5.6.7 USE OF TORCHES OR FLAME-PRODUCING DEVICES FOR REMOVING
PAINT ................................................................................329
SECTION 10.5.6.8 HAZARDOUS WARNING LIGHTS .........................................................329
SECTION 10.5.6.9 OPEN FLAME DEVICES IN PORTS/WHARVES .....................................329
SECTION 10.5.6.10 VACATING PREMISES ..........................................................................329
SECTION 10.5.6.11 VACANT BUILDINGS ............................................................................329
xv
SECTION14.0.0.4 CITIZEN PARTICIPATION .......................................................................351
SECTION 14.0.0.5 IMPLEMENTING DETAILS ......................................................................351 SECTION
14.0.0.6 ALTERNATIVE AND/OR REMEDIAL FIRE SAFETY MEASURES .............351 SECTION 14.0.0.7
SEPARABILITY CLAUSE ........................................................................352 SECTION 14.0.0.8 REPEALING AND
AMENDING CLAUSE ...............................................352 SECTION 14.0.0.9 EFFECTIVITY
...........................................................................................352 ANNEX A
TABLES.....................................................................................................................................
353 ANNEX B
ILLUSTRATION.......................................................................................................................... 378
xvi
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS
AC Alternating Current
AFFF Aqueous Film Forming Foam
AFSS Automatic Fire Suppression System
AGDB Authorized Government Depository Bank
AGSB Authorized Government Servicing Bank
AIR After Inspection Report
ASA Australia Standards Association
ASHRAE American Society of Heating and Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers ASME
American Society of Mechanical Engineers
ASSS Approved, Supervised Sprinkler System
ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials
BCVs Backflow Check Valves
BFP Bureau of Fire Protection
BJMP Bureau of Jail Management and Penology
BPLO Business Processing and Licensing Office
BPO Business Process Outsourcing
C/MFM City/Municipal Fire Marshal
CAAP Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines
CAF Compressed Air Foam
CCTV Closed-Circuit Television
CE or CEN European Committee for Standardization
CFRS Consumer Fireworks Retail Sales
CHED Commission on Higher Education
CNG Compressed Natural Gases
COA Commission on Audit
COC Certificate of Competency
CRO Customer Relations Officer
DBD Design Basis Document
DC Direct Current
DENR Department of Environment and Natural Resources
DepEd Department of Education
DICT Department of Information Communication and Technology DIFFS Deck
Integrated Foam Firefighting System
DILG Department of Interior and Local Government
DOE Department of Energy
DOH Department of Health
DOLE Department of Labor and Employment
DOTr Department of Transportation
DTI Department of Trade and Industry
EER Evacuation Escape and Rescue
EPSS Emergency Power Supply System
ESD Emergency Shutdown
ESVs Emergency Shutoff Valves
FFFP Film Forming Fluoro-Protein
FM Factory Manual, Incorporated
FPA Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority
FSCP Fire Alarm Control Panel
FSC Fire Safety Clearance
FSCCR Fire Safety Compliance and Commissioning Report
FSCR Fire Safety Compliance Report
lii
FSCS Firefighters’ Smoke-Control Station
FSEC Fire Safety Evaluation Clearance
FSES/U Fire Safety Enforcement Section/Unit
FSI Fire Safety Inspector
FSIC Fire Safety Inspection Certificate
FSMR Fire Safety Maintenance Report
FVO Fire Volunteer Organization
GHS Global Harmonized System Classification and Labeling of Chemicals GLS Gas Leak
Sensor
GLDS Gas Leak Detection System
GRP Glass Reinforced Plastic
HLO Helicopter Landing Officer
HMIS Hazardous Materials Identification Systems
HPG Highway Patrol Group
IDLH Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health
IEC International Electrotechnical Commission
IO Inspection Order
IRR Implementing Rules and Regulations
IT Information Technology
JIS or JISC Japan Industrial Standard Committee
KFI Korea Fire Industry Technology Institute
LE/FL Lower Explosive/Flammability Limit
LFL Lower Flammable Limit
LGU Local Government Unit
LNG Liquefied Natural Gases
LNG Liquefied Natural Gas
LPC or LPCB Loss Prevention Certification Board
LPG Liquefied Petroleum Gas
LTO Land Transportation Office
MAQ Maximum Allowable Quantity
MAWP Maximum Allowable Working Pressure
MCC Motor Control Center
MDPE Medium Density Poly Ethylene
MEC Minimum Explosive Concentration
MGB Mines and Geosciences Bureau
MSDS Material Safety Data Sheet
NBI National Bureau of Investigation
NCA Notice of Cash Allocation
NEMA National Electrical Manufacturers Association
NHCP National Historical Commission of the Philippines NOD Notice
of Disapproval
NTC Notice to Comply
NTCV Notice to Correct Violation
NUI Normally Unmanned Installation
OBO Office of the Building Official
OEM Original Equipment Manufacturers
OPS Order of Payment Slip
PAI Permit Authorizing Individual
PCG Philippine Coast Guard
PEL Permissible Exposure Limit
PEZA Philippine Economic Zone Authority
PFP Passive Fire Protection
liii
PNP Philippine National Police
PNRI Philippine Nuclear Research Institute
PPA Philippine Port Authority
PPE Personal Protective Equipment
PSM Process Safety Management
PV Photovoltaic
RA Republic Act
REE Registered Electrical Engineer
RIRR Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations RFF Residential
Fueling Facility
SARO Special Allotment Release Order
SDS Safety Data Sheet
SILG Secretary of Interior and Local Government TESDA Technical
Education Skills Development Authority TR Temporary Refuge
UE/FL Upper Explosive/Flammability Limit
UL Underwriters Laboratories
UL 1975 Fire Tests for Foamed Plastics Used for Decorative Purpose VFA
Vehicle Fueling Appliances
liv
REFERRAL CODES AND STANDARDS
lv
NFPA 45, Standard on Fire Protection for Laboratories Using Chemicals
NFPA 50A, Standard for Gaseous Hydrogen Systems at Consumer Sites
NFPA 51, Standard for the Design and Installation of Oxygen-Fuel Gas Systems for Welding,
Cutting, and Allied Processes
NFPA 51A, Standard for Acetylene Cylinder Charging Plants
NFPA 51B, Standard for Fire Prevention during Welding, Cutting, and Other Hot Work
NFPA 52, Vehicular Fuel Systems Code
NFPA 54, National Fuel Gas Code
NFPA 55, Standard for the Storage, Use, and Handling of Compressed and Liquefied Gases in
Portable Cylinders
NFPA 58, Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code
NFPA 59A, Standard for the Production, Storage, and Handling of Liquefied Natural Gas
NFPA 68, Explosion Venting
NFPA 69, Standard on Explosion Prevention Systems
NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
NFPA 76, Standard for the Fire Protection of Telecommunications Facilities
NFPA 77, Recommended Practice on Static Electricity
NFPA 80, Standard for Fire Doors and Fire Windows
NFPA 86, Standard for Ovens and Furnaces
NFPA 90A, Standard for the Installation of Air-Conditioning and Ventilating Systems NFPA
90B, Standard for the Installation of Warm Air Heating and Air-Conditioning Systems NFPA
91, Standard for Exhaust Systems for Air Conveying of Vapors, Gases, Mists, and
Particulate Solids
NFPA 92, Standard for Smoke Control Systems
NFPA 96, Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial
Cooking Operations
NFPA 99, Standard for Health Care Facilities
NFPA 101, Life Safety Code
NFPA 102, Standard for Grandstands, Folding and Telescopic Seating, Tents, and
Membrane Structures
NFPA 105, Standard for the Installation of Smoke Door Assemblies and Other
Opening Protectives
NFPA 110, Standard for Emergency and Standby Power System
NFPA 130, Standard for Fixed Guideway Transit and Passenger Rail Systems
NFPA 160, Standard for the Use of Pyrotechnics efore a Proximate Audience
NFPA 170, Standard for Signs and Symbols
NFPA 204, tandard for Smoke and Heat Venting
NFPA 211, Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents, and Solid Fuel–Burning Appliances
NFPA 220, Standard on Types of Building Construction
NFPA 221, Standard for High Challenge Fire Walls, Fire Walls and Fire Barrier Walls NFPA 241,
Standard for Safeguarding Construction, Alteration, and Demolition Operations NFPA 251,
Standard Method of Test of Fire Resistance of Building Construction and Materials NFPA 253,
Standard Method of Test for Critical Radiant Flux of Floor Covering Systems Using a Radiant
Heat Energy Source
NFPA 255 , Method of Test of Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
NFPA 259, Standard Test Method for Potential Heat of Building Materials NFPA 289,
Standard Method of Fire Test for Individual Fuel Packages
NFPA 385, Standard for Tank Vehicles for Flammable and Combustible Liquid NFPA 395,
Standard for the Storage of Flammable and Combustible Liquids at Farms and Isolated
Sites
NFPA 400, Hazardous Materials Code
NFPA 407, Aircraft Fuel Servicing Tank Vehicles
NFPA 409, Standards for Aircraft Hangars
lvi
NFPA 430, Code for the Storage of Liquid and Solid Oxidizers
NFPA 432, Code for the Storage of Organic Peroxide Formulations
NFPA 490, Code for the Storage of Ammonium Nitrate
NFPA 495, Explosive Materials Code
NFPA 502, Standard for Road Tunnels, Bridges, and Other Limited Access Highways NFPA 505, Fire
Safety Standard for Powered Industrial Trucks Including Type Designations, Areas of Use,
Conversions, Maintenance, and Operations
NFPA 654, Standard for the Prevention of Fires for Dust Explosions from the Manufacturing,
processing, and Handling of Combustible Particular Solids
NFPA 664, Standard for the Prevention of Fires and Explosions in Wood Processing and
Woodworking Facilities
NFPA 701, Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Flame Propagation of Textiles and Films NFPA 703,
Standard for Fire Retardant-treated wood and Fire Retardant Coatings for Building Materials
NFPA 704, Standard System for the Identification of the Hazards of Materials for Emergency
Response
NFPA 750, Standard on Water Mist Fire Protection Systems
NFPA 780, Standard for the Installation of Lightning Protection Systems
NFPA 801, Standard for Fire Protection for Facilities Handling Radioactive Materials NFPA 850,
Recommended Practice for Fire Protection for Electric Generating Plants and High Voltage
Direct Current Converter Stations
NFPA 914, Code for Fire Protection of Historic Structures
NFPA 1124, Code for the Manufacture, Transportation, Storage, and Retail Sales of Fireworks
and Pyrotechnic
NFPA 1126, Standard for the Use of Pyrotechnics Before a Proximate Audience
NFPA 1963, Standard for Fire Hose Connections
NFPA 2001, Standard on Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems
NFPA 5000, Building Construction and Safety Code
PD 1096 / NBCP, National Building Code of the Philippines
PD 1866, Codifying The Laws on Illegal/Unlawful Possession, Manufacture, Dealing in,
Acquisition or Disposition of Firearms, Ammunition or Explosives or Instruments Used in the
Manufacture of Firearms, Ammunition or Explosives, and Imposing Stiffer Penalties for Certain
Violations Thereof and for Relevant Purposes and its Rules and Regulations PEC, Philippine
Electrical Code
Philippine Electronics Code
PMEC, Philippine Mechanical Engineering Code
PNS, Philippine National Standard
RA 6969, Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Wastes Control Act of 1990
RA 6975, Department of the Interior and Local Government Act of 1990
RA 7183, An Act Regulating the Sale, Manufacture, Distribution and Use of Firecrackers and
other Pyrotechnic Devices, as Amended
RA 8749, Clean Air Act of 1999
RA 9184, Government Procurement Reform Act of 2003
RA 9292, Electronics Engineering Act of 2004
RA 9263, Bureau of Fire Protection and Bureau of Jail Management and Penology
Professionalization Act of 2004
UL 1975, Fire Tests for Foamed Plastics Used for Decorative Purpose
UL 263, Standard for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Material
UL 790, Tests for Fire Resistance of Roof Covering Materials
lvii
REVISED IMPLEMENTING RULES AND REGULATIONS
(RIRR) OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9514, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS
THE FIRE CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES OF 2008
Pursuant to the provision of Section 14, in relation to Section 5 of Republic Act No. 9514,
entitled “AN ACT ESTABLISHING A COMPREHENSIVE FIRE CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES, REPEALING
PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1185, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES,” the following Rules and
Regulations are hereby adopted in order to carry out the provisions of this Code.
RULE 1. INTERPRETATION
This RIRR shall be interpreted in light of the Declaration of Policy found in Section 2 of this
Code:
“It is the policy of the State to ensure public safety, promote economic
development through the prevention and suppression of all kinds of destructive fires,
and promote the professionalization of the Fire Service as a profession. Towards this
end, the State shall enforce all laws, rules and regulations to ensure adherence to
standard fire prevention and safety measures, and promote accountability in the fire
protection and prevention service.”
RULE 2. COVERAGE
This RIRR shall cover the following:
A. All persons, either natural or juridical;
B. All buildings, facilities or structures and their premises, erected or constructed before and
after the effectivity hereof;
C. Design and installation of mechanical, electronics and electrical systems relative to fire
protection;
D. Manufacturing, storage, handling and/or use, and transportation of explosives and/ or
combustible/flammable liquids and gases, toxic and other hazardous materials and
operations, and their wastes;
E. Fire safety planning, design, construction, repair, maintenance, rehabilitation and
demolition;
F. Fire protective and warning equipment or systems;
G. All land transportation vehicles and equipment, ships or vessels docked at piers or wharves
or anchored in seaports; and
H. Petroleum industry installations.
1
Alternative and/or Remedial Fire Safety Measures. Set of fire safety rules, regulations, and
standards specifically applied to existing public or private buildings, structures or facilities
and their premises or portion thereof constructed or erected prior to the implementation
of RA 9514, where compliance with the fire safety requirements as specified in the RIRR of
RA 9514 will compromise the structural stability/integrity of the said buildings, facilities or
structures.
Apartment Building. A building containing three (3) or more living units with independent
cooking and bathroom facilities, whether designated as condominium, row house,
apartment house, tenement, or by any other name.
Approved. Acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction.
Approved Supervised Sprinkler System (ASSS). An integrated network of hydraulically designed
piping system installed in a building, structure or facility with outlets arranged in a
systematic pattern. It automatically discharges water when activated by heat or
combustion products of fire.
Authorized Government Depository Bank (AGDB) or Authorized Government Servicing Bank
(AGSB). Government servicing banks such as Land Bank ofthe Philippines (LBP),
Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), United Coconut Planters Bank (UCPB), and
Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB), wherein Fire Code revenues are deposited for subsequent
remittance to the Bureau of Treasury (BTr).
Automatic Fire Suppression System (AFSS). An integrated system of underground or overhead
piping connected to a source of extinguishing agent or medium, designed in accordance
with fire protection engineering standards to include, but not limited to Automatic Fire
Sprinkler System which when actuated by its automatic detecting device suppresses fire
within the area protected even without human intervention.
Automotive Service Station. That portion of property where liquids used as motor fuels are stored
and dispensed from fixed equipment into the fuel tanks of motor vehicles and shall include
any facilities available for the sale and service of tires, batteries and accessories, and for
minor automotive maintenance work.
Baffle. A non liquid-tight transverse partition in a cargo tank.
Bale. A large bundle or package of hay or a raw material such as cotton, tightly bound with
string or wire to keep it in shape during transportation or storage.
Blasting Agent. Any material or mixture consisting of a fuel and oxidizer used to set off
explosives. Blowout. A sudden release of oil and gas from a well.
Boiling point. The temperature at which the vapor pressure of a liquid equals the pressure
surrounding the liquid, and the liquid changes into a vapor.
Brush. Land covered with a dense undergrowth of small trees and brushes.
Building. Any structure built for the support, shelter, or enclosure of persons, animals, chattels, or
property of any kind.
Building Administrator. Any person who is authorized to act as an agent or representative of the
owner of the building and performs duties and responsibilities necessary for the effective
management, maintenance, and proper use of said building.
Bulk Oxygen System. An assembly of equipment, such as oxygen storage containers, pressure
regulators, safety devices, vaporizers, manifolds, and interconnecting piping, for supplying
a regulated flow of oxygen to a pipeline.
Bulk Plant. Portion of a property where liquids are received by tank vessel, pipelines, tank cars,
or tank vehicle, and are stored or blended in bulk for the purpose of distributing such
liquids by tank vessels, pipeline, tank car, tank vehicle, portable tank or container.
Bulkhead. A liquid-tight closure between compartments of a cargo tank.
Cargo Tank. Any tank having a liquid capacity more than four hundred fifty liters (450L) used for
carrying flammable and combustible liquids and mounted permanently or otherwise upon
a tank vehicle. The term “cargo tank” does not apply to any container used solely for the
purpose of supplying fuel for the propulsion of the tank vehicle upon which it is mounted.
Cathodic Protection. A technique to resist corrosion o a metal surface by making the surface
cathode of an electrochemical cell.
Cellulose Nitrate or Nitro Cellulose. A highly combustible and explosive compound produced
by the reaction of nitric acid with a cellulose material.
Cellulose Nitrate Plastic (Pyroxylin). Any plastic substance, materials or compound having
cellulose nitrate (nitro cellulose) as base.
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City/Municipal Fire Marshal (C/MFM). The duly designated head of the City or Municipal Fire
Station including those designated as “Officer-in-Charge” or in “Acting” capacity. This shall
also apply to highly urbanized Cities and Stations where by its approved organization the
head is the District Fire Marshal or Station Commander as the case may be.
Chemical Plant. A large integrated plant or that portion of such plant other than a refinery or
distillery where flammable or combustible liquids are produced by chemical reactions or
used in chemical reactions.
Closed Container. Any container so sealed by means of a lid or other device that neither liquid
nor vapor will escape from it at ordinary temperatures.
Collecting Officer. An accountable officer responsible in the collection, deposit and remittance
of Fire Code revenues from all Fire Code taxes, fees/charges and fines with AGDB or AGSB.
Combustible Fiber. Any readily ignitable and free-burning fibers, such as but not limited, to
cocoa fiber, cotton, excelsior, hay, hemp, henequen, istle, jute, kapok, oakum, rags, sisal,
Spanish moss, straw, tow, waste cloth, waste paper, certain synthetic fibers commonly
used in commerce, or any material in a fibrous or shredded form that will readily ignite
when heat sources are present.
Combustible Liquid. Any liquid having a flash point at or above thirty-seven and eight tenths
degrees Celsius (37.8 °C), and classified as follows:
Class II Liquid. Any liquid that has a flash point at or above thirty-seven and eight tenths
degrees Celsius (37.8 °C) and below sixty degrees Celsius (60 °C).
Class IIIA Liquid. Any liquid that has a flash point at or above sixty degrees Celsius (60 °C),
but below ninety-three degrees Celsius (93 °C).
Class IIIB Liquid. Any liquid that has a flash point at or above ninety-three degrees Celsius
(93 °C).
Combustible Waste. Also known as loose waste material, are thosegenerated by an
establishment or process and, being salvageable, are retained for scrap or reprocessing
on the premises where generated. These include, but not limited to, all combustible fibers,
hay, straw, hair, feathers, down, wood shavings, turnings, styrofoam, all types of plastics, all
types of paper products, soiled cloth trimmings and cuttings, rubber trimmings and buffing,
metal fines, used oil and any mixture of the above items, or any other salvageable
combustible waste material.
Common Atmosphere. A common atmosphere exists between rooms, spaces or area within a
building, which are not separated by an approved smoke partition.
Compressed Air Foam (CAF). A homogeneous foam produced by the combination of water,
foam concentrate, and air or nitrogen under pressure.
Compressed Gas. One that exists solely in the gaseous state under pressure in the range of two
hundred seventy-three kilopascals (273 kPa) to twenty-four thousand nine hundred
twenty-three kilopascals (24,923 kPa) at all normal atmospheric temperature ranging from
twenty degrees Celsius (20 °C) to thirty-seven and eight tenths degrees Celsius (37.8 °C)
inside its container.
Compressed Gas Container. A pressure container designed to hold compressed gases at
pressures greater than one (1) atmosphere at twenty degrees Celsius (20 °C).
Compressed Gas System. An assembly of components, such as containers, reactors, pumps,
compressors and connecting piping and tubing, designed to contain, distribute or
transport compressed gases.
Concourse. A large open passageway in a public building, such as in a rail station or airport
terminal that people meet in or pass through.
Container. Any vessel of less than two hundred twenty-seven liters (227 L) capacity used for
transporting or storing liquids.
Control Area. A building or portion of a building or outdoor area within which hazardous
materials are allowed to be stored, dispensed, used or handled in quantities not
exceeding the maximum allowable quantities (MAQ).
Conservation. All the processes and measures of maintaining the cultural significance or value
of a cultural heritage or property, including but not limited to, preservation, restoration,
reconstruction, protection, adaptation, documentation, examination, research, treatment,
education, or any combination thereof.
Corrosive Liquid. Any liquid which causes fire when in contact with organic matter or with
certain chemicals.
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Crude Oil. Any naturally-occurring, unrefined petroleum liquid.
Cryogenic. Any material which, by its nature or as a result of its reaction with other elements,
produces a rapid drop in temperature of the immediate surroundings.
Cryogenic Container. A pressure or low-pressure or atmospheric container of any size designed
or used for the transportation, handling or storage of a cryogenic fluid, and which utilizes
venting, insulation, refrigeration or a combination thereof to maintain the pressure within
the design parameters for such container and to keep the contents in a liquid state.
Cryogenic Fluids. Fluids produced or stored at very low temperatures and that have normal
boiling point below negative fifty-five degrees Celsius (-55 °C).
Cryogenic Inground Container. A container in which the maximum liquid level is below the
normal surrounding grade and is constructed of natural materials, such as earth and rock
and pendent upon the freezing of water-saturated earth materials for its tightness or
impervious nature.
Curtain Board. A vertical panel of non-combustible or fire resistive materials attached to and
extending below the bottom chord of the roof trusses to divide the underside of the roof
into separate compartments so that heat and smoke will be directed upwards to a roof
vent.
Customer Relations Officer (CRO). An organic member of the BFP who is tasked to attend to the
immediate needs and concerns of the customer, applicant or any taxpayer transacting
business with a unit/station/office.
Damper. A device used in heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) ducts to prevent the
spread of fire or smoke inside the ductwork. It automatically closes upon detection of heat
and smoke. They can be opened or closed from a remote fire command station if
required.
Fire Damper. A device used to interrupt migratory airflow, resist the passage of flame, and
maintain the integrity of the fire rated separation. Its primary function is to prevent the
passage of flame from one side of a fire-rated separation to the other, upon
detection of flame via duct temperature.
Smoke Damper. A device used to prevent the passage of smoke from one side of a fire
rated separation to the other, upon detection of smoke via smoke detector.
Combination Fire and Smoke Damper. A device that meets both the heat and smoke
damper requirements where a wall, floor, or ceiling is required to have both a fire
damper and smoke damper.
Derrick. A framework that is constructed over a mine or oil well for the purpose of boring or
lowering pipes.
Detearing. A process for rapidly removing excess wet coating material from a dipped or coated
object or material by passing it through an electrostatic field.
Dip Tank. A tank, vat or container of flammable or combustible liquid in which articles or
materials are immersed for purposes of coating, finishing, treating, or similar processes.
Dispensing Device. An equipment used to deliver petroleum products such as gasoline, diesel
and kerosene: installed in a fore court/curve area within the retail outlet. Dispensing
device can either be a self-contained or with a remote/submersible pump.
Distillation. The process of first raising the temperature to separate the more volatile from the
less volatile parts, and then cooling and condensing the resulting vapor so as to produce a
nearly purified substance.
Distillery. A plant or that portion where liquids produced by fermentation and distillation are
concentrated, and where the concentrated products may also be mixed, stored, or
packaged.
Dormitories. Buildings where group sleeping accommodation are provided for persons, not
members of the same family group in one room or in series of closely associated room
under joint occupancy and single management, as in college dormitories, convents,
fraternity houses, military barracks, and the like.
Drum. A container which has a total capacity of two hundred twenty-seven liters (227 L) used in
storing liquid.
Dry Standpipe. A type of standpipe system in which the pipes are normally not filled with water.
Water is introduced into the system thru Fire Service connections when needed.
Duct System. A continuous passageway for the transmission of air.
Dust. Any finely divided solid, four millimeters (4 mm) or less in diameter (that is, material capable
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of passing through a U.S. No. 40 standard sieve) which, if mixed with air in proper
proportion, becomes explosive and may be ignited by a flame, spark or other source of
ignition.
Electrical Arc. An extremely hot luminous bridge formed by the passage of an electric current
across a space between two conductors or terminals.
Electrostatic Fluidized Bed. A container holding powder coating material that is aerated from
below so as to form an air-supported and expanded cloud of such material that is
electrically charged with a charge opposite to that of the object to be coated. Such
object is transported through a container immediately above the charged and aerated
materials in order to be coated.
Ember. A hot piece or lump that remains after a material has partially burned, and is still
oxidizing without the manifestation of flames.
Enclosed Platform. A partially enclosed portion of an assembly roomthe ceiling of which is not
more than one and fifty-five hundredths meters (1.55 m) above the proscenium opening
of which is designed or used for the presentation of plays, demonstrations, or other
entertainment wherein scenery, drops, decorations or other effects may be installed or
used.
Explosive. Any chemical compound or mechanical mixture that is commonly used or intended
for the purpose of producing an explosion.
Exit. That portion of means of egress that is separated from all other spaces of a building or
structure by construction, location, or equipment as required to provide a protected way
of travel to the exit discharge.
Exit Access. That portion of means of egress that leads to an exit.
Exit Discharge. That portion of a means of egress between the termination of an exit and a
public way.
Finishes. Materials used as final coating of a surface for ornamental or protective
purposes. Fire. The active principle of burning, characterized by the heat and light of
combustion.
Class A Fire. Fires involving ordinary combustible materials such as wood, cloth, rubber and
plastics.
Class B Fire. Fires involving flammable liquids and gases.
Class C Fire. Fires involving energized electrical equipment.
Class D Fire. Fires involving combustible materials, such as sodium, magnesium, potassium,
and other similar materials.
Class K Fire. Fires in cooking appliances that involve combustible cooking media
(vegetable or animal oils and fats).
Fire Alarm. Any visual or audible signal produced by a device or system to warn the occupants
of the building or firefighting elements of the presence or danger of fire.
Fire Alerting System. A fire alarm system activated by the presence of fire, where the signal is
transmitted to designated locations instead of sounding a general alarm.
Fire Area. The aggregate floor area enclosed and bounded by fire walls, fire barriers, exterior
walls or fire resistance-rated horizontal assemblies of a building.
Fire Barrier. A continuous membrane or a membrane with discontinuities created by protected
openings with a specified fire protection rating, where such membrane is designed and
constructed with a specified fire resistance rating to limit the spread of fire, that also
restricts the movement of smoke.
Fire Barrier Wall. Interior wall that extends from floor to floor or floor to roof, including concealed
and interstitial spaces. They are designed to sub-divide portions of the building, and can
be supported by structures, such as roofs, columns or floors. All support structures should
have a fire-resistance rating no less than that of the fire barrier they support. Fire barriers
restrict the initial flow of heat within the area of origin, which provides building occupants
with adequate time to evacuate to safe areas. These walls shall have at least three (3)
hours fire resistance rating.
Fire Brigade. A collective term that refers to a group of firefighters, primarily performing fire
suppression activities in specified areas such as, but not limited to, community/barangay,
company, and other government and non-government establishments.
Fire Code Fees/Charges. Charges for regulation, inspection and other Fire Service activities in
the enforcement of RA 9514 and its RIRR.
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Fire Code Fines. Amount imposed for violators of RA 9514 and its RIRR.
Fire Code Fee Collection/Revenues. Collective income derived from the collection of Fire Code
taxes, fees/charges and fines.
Fire Code Taxes. Taxes prescribed in para A.1 through A.6 of Section 12.0.0.2 of this RIRR.
Fire Compartment. A space within a building that is enclosed by fire barriers on all sides,
including the top and bottom.
Fire Department Access Road. The road or other means developed to allow access and
operational setup for firefighting and rescue apparatus.
Fire Detection and Alarm System. A system that detects fire at the earliest stage, and gives an
alarm to alert the occupants so that appropriate action can be taken.
Fire Door. A fire resistive door prescribed for openings in fire separation walls or partitions. Fire
Exit Drill. A practice drill for the orderly and safe evacuation of occupants in the buildings.
Fire Hazard. Any condition or act which increases or may cause an increase in the probability
of the occurrence of fire, or which may obstruct, delay, hinder or interfere with firefighting
operations and the safeguarding of life and property.
Fire Lane. The portion of a roadway or public way that should be kept open and unobstructed
at all times for the expedient conduct of firefighting operations.
Fire Protective and Fire Safety Device. Any device intended for the protection of buildings or
persons to include, but not limited to, built-in protection system such as sprinklers and other
automatic extinguishing system, detectors for heat, smoke and combustion products, and
other warning system components, personal protective equipment such as fire blankets,
helmets, fire suits, gloves and other garments that may be put on or worn by persons to
protect themselves during fire.
Fire Protective Assembly. An assembly incorporated in the structure designed to prevent the
spread of fire, such as dampers, curtain boards, fire stoppers and the like.
Fire Resistance Rating. The duration that a material or construction can withstand the effect of
a standard fire test.
Fire Safety Compliance Report (FSCR). A written report composed of plans, specifications and
design analysis per building prepared by its Engineer/Architect-of-Record and Fire Safety
Practitioner.
Fire Safety Compliance and Commissioning Report (FSCCR). A compilation report of all
approved submittals, test and acceptance forms of all fire protection and life safety
features, which shall form part of the “as-built” documents turned over by the contractor
to the building owner.
Fire Safety Construction. Refers to the design and installation of walls, barriers, doors, windows,
vents, means of egress and other elements integral to and incorporated into a building or
structure in order to minimize danger to life from fire, smoke, fumes or panic before the
building is evacuated. These features are also designed to achieve, among others, safe
and rapid evacuation of people and properties through means of egress on construction,
which are sealed from smoke or fire; and confinement of fire or smoke in the room or floor
of origin and delay their spread to other parts of the building by means of smoke-sealed
and fire resistant doors, walls and floors. It shall also mean to include the treatment of
building components or contents with flame retardant chemicals.
Fire Safety Evaluation Clearance (FSEC). A document issued by the BFP as a prerequisite for the
grant of Building Permit by the Office of Building Official having jurisdiction upon
determination that the evaluated plans are compliant with RA 9514 and its RIRR.
Fire Safety Inspector (FSI). A uniformed/non-uniformed personnel of the BFP responsible for fire
safety inspection and assessment of fire hazards, and whose function, duties and
responsibilities are defined under Division 1, Chapter 2, Rule 8 of this RIRR.
Fire Safety Inspection Certificate (FSIC). A document issued by the BFP as a prerequisite for the
grant of Certificate of Occupancy, Business Permit, Certificate of Annual Inspection from
PEZA and other licenses and permits being issued by other government agencies upon
determining that the required fire safety construction are in place, and fire protective and/
or warning systems are properly installed in accordance with the approved plans and
specifications and in compliance with RA 9514 and its RIRR.
Fire Safety Maintenance Report (FSMR). A written report prepared by the building owner, his/her
fire safety practitioner or authorized representative. This is a compilation of the
maintenance
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and testing records kept by the building’s engineering and maintenance department, as
a prerequisite for the issuance of FSIC for Business or Mayor’s Permit renewal, Certificate of
Annual Inspection, Permit to Operate, PHILHEALTH Accreditation for Hospitals, DOH License
to Operate and other permits or licenses being issued by other government agencies.
Fire Safety Practitioner. Any qualified person, recognized by the BFP, engaged in, but not
limited to, the design, construction, installation, repair and maintenance, assessment, and
rehabilitation of fire safety construction, suppression and control systems, protective and
warning systems and life safety related services, or employed as a safety officer of public
and private establishments/companies.
Fire Trap. A building unsafe in case of fire because it will burn easily or because it lacks
adequate exits or fire escapes.
Fire Volunteer Organization (FVO). An organized group of private firefighters recognized by the
BFP, who have voluntarily formed themselves to perform fire-related activities.
Fire Volunteer. A person who voluntarily enters into firefighting service through a Fire Volunteer
Organization (FVO) and undergoes the same discipline as that of BFP firefighters.
Fire Wall. An exterior wall designed to prevent the spread of fire, having a fire resistance rating
of not less than four (4) hours with sufficient structural stability to remain standing even if
construction on either side collapses under fire condition. Fire walls particularly erected
above or along property lines shall have absolutely no openings and shall extend above
the roof to one meter (1 m).
Fixed Guideway Transit System. An electrified transportation system, utilizing a fixed guideway,
operating on right-of-way for the mass movement of passengers within a metropolitan
area, and consisting of its fixed guideways, transit vehicles, and other rolling stock; power
systems; buildings; stations; and other stationary and movable apparatus, equipment,
appurtenances, and structures.
Flame Retardant. Any compound or mixture which when applied properly improves the
resistivity or fire resistance quality of fabrics and other materials.
Flame Spread Rating. The time in which flame will spread over the surface of a burning material.
Flammability. The characteristic of a material on how easily it will burn or ignite, causing fire or
combustion.
Flammable Cryogenic Fluids. Cryogenic fluids which are flammable in their vapor state.
Flammable Finishes. Material coatings in which the material being applied is a flammable
liquid, combustible liquid, combustible powder, or flammable or combustible gel coating.
Flammable Liquids. Liquids having flash points below thirty-seven and eight tenths degrees
Celsius (37.8 °C), except any mixture having components with flash points of thirty-seven
and eight tenths degrees Celsius (37.8 °C) or higher, the total of which make up
ninety-nine percent (99%) or more of the total volume of the mixture. Flammable liquids
are classified as follows:
Class IA Liquid. Liquid having flash points below twenty-two and eight tenths degrees
Celsius (22.8 °C), and having a boiling point below thirty-seven and eight tenths
degrees Celsius (37.8 °C).
Class IB Liquid. Liquid having flash points below twenty-two and eight tenths degrees
Celsius (22.8 °C), and having a boiling point at or above thirty-seven and eight tenths
degrees Celsius (37.8 °C).
Class IC Liquids. Liquid having flash points at or above twenty-two and eight tenths
degrees Celsius (22.8 °C), and below thirty-seven and eight tenths degrees Celsius (37.8
°C).
Flammable Vapor Area. An area in which the concentration of flammable constituents (vapor,
gas, fume, mist or dust) in air exceeds twenty-five percent (25%) of their Lower Flammable
Limit (LFL) because of the flammable finish processes operation. It shall include the interior
of spray booths; the interior of ducts exhausting from spraying processes; any area in the
direct path or any area containing dangerous quantities of air-suspended powder,
combustible residue, dust, deposits, vapor or mists as a result of spraying operations; and
the area in the vicinity of dip tanks, drain boards or associated drying, conveying or other
equipment during operation or shutdown periods.
Flash Point of a Liquid. The lowest temperature a liquid at which sufficient vapor is given off to
form an ignitable mixture with air, near the surface of the liquid or within the vessel used.
Flexible Plan Buildings. Buildings that have movable corridor walls and movable partitions of full
height construction with doors leading from rooms to corridors. Flexible plan buildings
7
without exit access doors between rooms and corridors shall be classified as open plan
buildings.
Fogging. The creation of a cloud of ultra-fine droplets, which are airborne and readily picked up
by the insect as it flies through the swathe of insecticide, fog or mist.
Forging. A process where a piece of metal is heated prior to changing its shape or dimensions.
Fluidized Bed. A container holding powder coating material that is aerated from below so as to
form an air-supported expanded cloud of such material through which the preheated
object to be coated is immersed and transported.
Fulminate. A kind of stable explosive compound which explodes by percussion.
Fumigant. Any substance which, by itself or in combination with any other substance, emits or
liberates a gas, fume or vapor used for the destruction or control of insects, fungi, vermin,
germs, rats, or other pests, and shall be distinguished from insecticides and disinfectants
which are essentially effective in the solid or liquid phases. Examples are methyl bromide,
ethylene dibromide, hydrogen cyanide, carbon disulphide and sulfuryl fluoride.
Fumigation. The utilization within an enclosed space of a fumigant in concentrations that are
hazardous or acutely toxic to humans.
Fumigators. Persons or establishments engaged in fumigation and thermal insecticidal fogging.
Globally Harmonized System (GHS). A system developed by the United Nations that defines
and classifies the hazards of chemical products, and communicates health and safety
information on labels and safety data sheets.
Gross Floor Area. The floor area within the inside perimeter of the outside walls of the building
under consideration with no deduction for hallways, stairs, closets, thickness of interior
walls, columns, elevator and building services shafts, or other features, but excluding floor
openings associated with atriums and communicating spaces.
Hangar. A large building in which aircrafts are kept or repaired.
Hazard Evaluation. Identification of potential hazards which includes risk evaluation that takes
into account the likelihood of the hazard resulting in a fire or explosion.
Hazardous Fire Area. Any area covered with dry grass, cogon, reeds, brush, and other highly
combustible growth or any area used for stockpiling of used or waste materials that, by
virtue of exposure to environment, may cause its deterioration, decomposition or other
conditions that fires are likely to occur therein and hard to suppress.
Hazardous Operation/Process. Any act of manufacturing, fabrication, conversion, or other
similar operations that use or produce materials which are likely to cause fires or explosions.
Heavy Casting. Casting greater than eleven and three tenths kilograms (11.3 kg) with walls of
large cross-sectional weights six and four tenths millimeters (6.4 mm). Castings less than
eleven and three tenths kilograms (11.3 kg) are considered light.
Heliport. An area of land, water or a structural surface that is used or intended for landing and
taking off of helicopters, and any appurtenant areas which are used or intended for use as
heliport buildings and other heliport facilities.
Helistop. Same as “heliport” except that fueling, defueling, maintenance, repairs or storage of
helicopters are not permitted.
High Piled Storage. Combustible materials on pallets or in racks more than four meters (4 m)
high. For highly combustible materials such as rubber goods and certain plastics, the
critical height of piling may be as low as two and four tenths meters (2.4 m). Buildings shall
be deemed to be used for the storage of high piled combustible stock when the floor
area used for such purpose exceeds either one tenth (0.1) of the total floor area, or at
least two hundred thirty-two square meters (232 m2).
High Rise Building. Building, structure or facility in which the distance between the floor of the
topmost storey and the ground level is fifteen meters (15 m) or more. Building height shall
be measured from the lowest level of fire department vehicle access to the floor of the
highest occupiable storey.
Historic Center. Historic zone, district, core, precinct, town, legacy zones, heritage area, zone or
town; a designated area with historical and other special significance, consisting of
buildings or group of buildings, and their environs that collectively contribute to the area’s
importance and character; a place where a significant event in history occurred; any
town, district or ancient settlement site with special historic and/or cultural significance.
Historic centers are sometimes called living museums, outdoor museums or museum
preserves whether inhabited or uninhabited, historic centers and preservation areas.
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Horizontal Channel. Any uninterrupted space between horizontal layers of stored commodities.
Such channels may be formed by pallets, shelves, racks or other storage arrangements.
Horizontal Exit. A passageway from one building to another, or through or around a wall in
approximately the same floor level. A way of passage from one building to an area of
refuge and another building on approximately the same level, or a way of passage
through or around a fire barrier to an area of refuge on approximately the same level in
the same building that affords safety from fire and smoke originating from the area
incidence and areas communicating therein.
Hose Box. A box or cabinet where fire hoses, valves and other equipment are stored and
arranged for firefighting.
Hose Reel. A cylindrical device turning on an axis around which a fire hose is wound and
connected.
Hospital. A place devoted primarily to the maintenance and operation of health facilities for
the diagnosis, treatment and care of individuals suffering from illness, disease, injury or
deformity, or in need of obstetrical or other surgical, medical and nursing care. It shall also
be constructed as any institution, building or place where there are installed beds, cribs or
bassinets for twenty-four hour (24-hr) use or longer by patients in the treatment of diseases.
Hotels. Buildings or group of buildings under the same management in which there are more
than fifteen (15) sleeping accommodations for hire, primarily used by transients who are
lodged with or without meals, whether designated as a hotel, inn, motel, or by any other
name. So-called appartelle, condotel or pension houses shall be classified as hotels,
because they are potentially subject to transient occupancy like that of hotels.
Interior Room. A room whose only means of egress is through an adjoining or intervening room
which is not an exit.
Interstitial. Any concealed space between the ceiling and the floor or roof above shall be
fire-stopped for the full depth of the space along the line of support of the floor or roof
structural members and, if necessary, at other locations to form areas not to exceed
ninety-three square meters (93 m2) for any space between the ceiling and floor, and two
hundred eighty square meters (280 m2) for any space between the ceiling and the roof.
Industrial Baking and Drying. Industrial process of subjecting materials to heat for the purpose of
removing solvents or moisture from the same, and/or to fuse certain chemical salts to form
a uniform glazing on the surface of materials being treated.
Jumper. Any piece of metal or an electrical conductor used to bypass a safety device in an
electrical system.
Level of Exit Discharge. The lowest storey from which not less than fifty percent (50%) of the
required number of exits and not less than fifty percent (50%) of the required egress
capacity from such a storey discharge directly outside at grade; or the storey with the
smallest elevation change needed to reach grade where no storey has fifty percent (50%)
or more of the required number of exits and fifty percent (50%) or more of the required
egress capacity from such a storey discharge directly outside at grade.
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). A group of flammable hydrocarbon gases that are liquified
through pressurization and commonly used as fuel heating appliances, cooking
equipment, and vehicles. It is produced during natural gas processing and petroleum
refining. LPG is more dense than air, at a relative density of 1.5219:1.
Lodging or Rooming Houses. Building in which separate sleeping rooms are rented providing
sleeping accommodations for a total of fifteen (15) or less persons, on either a transient or
permanent basis; with or without meals, but without separate cooking facilities for
individual occupants.
Loose Fibers. Fibers that are not bundled or packaged in suitable bales.
Loose House. A separate detached building in which unbaled combustible fibers are stored.
Machinery Room. A specific room which is permanently installed and used for the operation of
machineries. Closets solely contained within and opening only into a room shall be
considered a part of such room.
Magnesium. A highly flammable metal which burns to over two thousand nine hundred eighty
degrees Celsius (2,980 °C). It is used as a principal element of aluminum alloy for the
manufacture of mobile phones, laptop computers, cameras, and other electronic
components, beverage cans, flashlight photography, flares, pyrotechnics, fireworks
sparklers, automotive and truck components.
9
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). Also known as Safety Data Sheet (SDS). A form that contains
data and information regarding the properties of a particular substance.
Maximum Allowable Quantity (MAQ). The quantity of hazardous material permitted in a control
area.
Maximum Allowable Working Pressure (MAWP). The maximum pressure permissible at the top of
a container in its operating position for a designated temperature, as established by the
container manufacturer.
Means of Egress. A continuous and unobstructed route of exit from one point in a building,
structure or facility to a public way consisting of three (3) distinct parts: exit, access and exit
discharge.
Medical Air. A type of air product produced through the blending of compressed nitrogen and
oxygen and used in variety of patients’ application. It is also used during anesthesia as a
substitute for nitrous oxide to reduce the high concentration of oxygen exposure.
Medical Gas. A type of gas used in medical and similar facilities, including oxygen, nitrous
oxide, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, helium, medical air and mixtures of these gases.
Nacelle. A cover housing that houses all of the generating components in a wind turbine,
including the generator, gearbox, drive train, and brake assembly.
Nesting. A method of securing flat-bottomed compressed gas containers upright in a tight mass
using a contiguous three-point contact system whereby all containers within a group have
a minimum of three points of contact with other containers, walls or bracing.
Normally Unmanned Installation (NUI). A type of automated offshore oil/gas platform designed
to be primarily operated remotely, without the constant presence of personnel. These
generally are characterized by their small size, often consisting of just a well bay with a
helipad on top.
Nursing Home. A building or part thereof used for the lodging, boarding and nursing care, on a
twenty-four hour (24-hr) basis, of four (4) more persons who, because of mental or physical
incapacity, maybe unable to provide for their own needs and safety without the
assistance of another person. Nursing home, wherever used in this RIRR, shall include
nursing and convalescent homes, skilled nursing facilities, intermediate care facilities, and
infirmaries of homes for the aged.
Occupancy. The purpose for which a building or portion thereof is used or intended to be used.
Occupant. Any person actually occupying and using a building or portions thereof by virtue of
a lease contract with the owner or administrator or by permission or sufferance of the
latter.
Occupant Load. The maximum number of persons that may be allowed to occupy a particular
building, structure, or facility, or portions hereof.
Occupiable Storey. A portion or area in a building accessible to occupants and intended for
use in accordance with occupancy classification defined under the RIRR of RA 9514.
However, roof deck that is accessible to occupant(s) and is used mainly for providing
maintenance on equipment/facilities installed therein shall not be counted for purposes in
measuring the building height
Oil Burning Equipment. An oil burner of any type together with its tank, piping, wiring controls,
blower, and related devices, and shall include all oil-fired units, heating and cooking
appliances.
Open Plan Buildings. Buildings that have rooms and corridors delineated by use of tables, chairs,
desks, bookcases, counters, low height partitions, or similar furnishings.
Organic Coating. A liquid mixture of binders such as alkyd, nitrocellulose, acrylic, or oil, and
flammable and combustible solvents such as hydrocarbon, ester, ketene or alcohol, which
when spread on a surface becomes a durable protective and decorative finish.
Organic Peroxide. A strong oxidizing organic compound which releases oxygen readily. It
causes fire when in contact with combustible materials especially under conditions of high
temperature.
Overloading. The use of one (1) or more electrical appliances or devices which draw or
consume electrical current beyond the designed capacity of the existing electrical system.
Owner. The person who holds the legal right of possession or title to a building or real property.
Oxidizing Material. A material that readily yields oxygen in quantities sufficient to stimulate or
support combustion.
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Ozone Depleting Substance/Refrigerant. Any group of halogenated hydrocarbon chemicals
which photochemically reacts in the stratosphere in a way which destroys the ozone layer.
Panic Hardware. A mechanical device consisting of linkages and horizontal bars across a door,
which when pushed from the inside will cause the door to open and facilitates exit from
the building, structure or facility.
Passenger Rail System. A transportation system, utilizing a rail guideway, operating on
right-of-way for the movement of passengers within and between metropolitan areas,
and consisting of its rail guideways, passenger rail vehicles, and other rolling stock; power
systems; buildings; stations; and other stationary and movable apparatus, equipment,
appurtenances, and structures.
Picking Rooms. Rooms where baled, bundled or piled materials are segregated into desired
sizes or groups.
Plastics
Group A Plastics. Plastic materials having heat of combustion much higher than that of
ordinary combustibles and burning rate higher than that of Group B plastics. Examples
of Group A plastics include, but are not limited to, the following:
• ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer)
• Acetal (polyformaldehyde)
• Acrylic (polymethyl methacrylate)
• Butyl rubber
• EPDM (ethylene propylene rubber)
• FRP (fiberglass-reinforced polyester)
• Natural rubber (expanded)
• Nitrile rubber (acrylonitrile butadiene rubber)
• PET or PETE (polyethylene terephthalate)
• Polybutadiene
• Polycarbonate
• Polyester elastomer
• Polyethylene
• Polypropylene
• Polystyrene (expanded and unexpanded)
• Polyurethane (expanded and unexpanded)
• PVC (polyvinyl chloride greater than fifteen (15%) percent plasticized, e.g., coated
fabric unsupported film)
• SAN (styrene acrylonitrile)
• SBRr (styrene butadiene rubber)
Group B Plastics. Plastic materials having heat of combustion and burning rate higher than
that of ordinary combustibles, but not as high as those of Group A plastics. Examples
of Group B plastics include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Cellulosics (cellulose acetate, cellulose acetate butyrate, ethyl cellulose) •
Chloroprene rubber
• Fluoroplastics (ECTFE, ethylene-chlorotrifluoroethylene copolymer; ETFE, ethylene
tetrafluoroethylene copolymer; FEP, fluorinated ethylene-propylene copolymer)
• Natural rubber (nonexpanded)
• Nylon (nylon 6, nylon 6/6)
• PVC (polyvinyl chloride greater than five percent (5%), but not exceeding fifteen
percent (15%) plasticized)
• Silicone rubber
Group C Plastics. Plastic materials having heat of combustion and burning rate similar to
those of ordinary combustibles. Examples of Group C plastics include, but are not
limited to, the following:
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• Fluoroplastics (PCTFE, Polychlorotrifluoroethylene; PTFE, polytetrafluoroethylene) •
Melamine (melamine formaldehyde)
• Phenol
• PVC (polyvinyl chloride, rigid or plasticized less than five percent (5%), e.g., pipe,
pipe fittings)
• PVDC (polyvinylidene chloride)
• PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride)
• PVF (polyvinyl fluoride)
• Urea (urea formaldehyde)
Limited quantities of Group A plastics in mixed commodities shall be used to determine
the quantity of Group A plastics allowed that can be stored in a package or carton, or on
a pallet without increasing the commodity classification.
Plenum. An air compartment or chamber to which one (1) or more ducts are connected and
which form part of an air distribution system.
Portable Tank. Any closed vessel having a liquid capacity over two hundred twenty-seven liters
(227 L) and not intended for fixed installation.
Pressurized/Forced-Draft Burning Equipment. Any type of burner where the fuel is subjected to
pressure prior to discharge into the combustion chamber and/or which includes fans or
other provisions for the introduction of air at above normal atmospheric pressure into the
same combustion chamber.
Propeller. An inclusive term for all parts, appurtenances, and accessories of a propeller.
Proscenium wall. A fire resistive wall which separates a stage or enclosed platform from the
public or spectators’ area of an auditorium or theater.
Public Way. Any street, alley or other strip of land unobstructed from the ground to the sky,
deeded, dedicated or otherwise permanently appropriated for public use.
Pyrophoric. Any substance that ignites spontaneously when exposed to air.
Refining. A process where impurities and/or deleterious materials are removed from a mixture in
order to produce a pure element or compound. It shall also refer to partial distillation and
electrolysis.
Refrigerating System. An assembly of four (4) major components, namely the compressor,
condenser, expansion valve, the evaporator, through which a very low boiling point
substance (refrigerant) flow in cycle, and absorbs heat from the immediate surroundings,
thereby producing the cooling effect (also known as the refrigerating effect).
Residential-Custodial Care Facility/Institution. A building, or part thereof, used for the lodging or
boarding of four (4) or more persons who are incapable of self-preservation because of
age, or physical or mental limitation. This includes facilities such as homes for the aged,
nurseries (custodial care for children under six (6) years of age), and mentally retarded
care institutions.
Roll Coating. A process of coating, spreading and impregnating fabrics, paper or other
materials as they are passed directly through a tank or trough containing flammable or
combustible liquids, or over the surface of a roller revolving partially submerged in a
flammable or combustible liquid.
Safety Can. An approved container, of not more than eighteen and nine tenths liter (18.9 L)
capacity having a spring-closing lid and spout cover and so designed that it will safely
relieve internal pressure when subjected to fire exposure.
Safety Data Sheet (SDS). A document that describes composition of a material, hazardous
properties and hazard mitigation, and disposal information.
Safety Factor. The ratio of the design burst pressure to the maximum working pressure and shall
not be less than four (4).
Safety Officer. Any employee or officer of the company trained by the Department of Labor
and Employment (DOLE); and tasked by the employer to implement an occupational
safety and health program, and ensure that it is in accordance with the provisions of
Occupational Safety and Health Center (OSHC) standards.
Salvage Yards. An inclusive term that refers to wrecking yards, junk yards or waste material
handling plants/shops, which can be used interchangeably.
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Self-Closing Fire Doors (or Self-Closing Fire-Resistive Doors). Automatic closing doors that are
designed to confine smoke and heat and delay the spread of fire.
Separate Atmosphere. A separate atmosphere exits between rooms, spaces area, that are
separated by an approved smoke partition.
Separate Means of Egress. A means of egress separated in such a manner from other means of
egress as to provide an atmosphere separation which preclude contamination of both
means of egress by the same fire. (See Section 10.2.6.7 of this RIRR).
Single and Two -Family Dwellings. Detached dwellings in which each living unit is occupied by
members of a single family.
Smelting. The process of melting or fusing metallic ores or compounds so as to separate
impurities from pure metals.
Smoking Area. A designated area where smoking is permitted within premises where smoking is
otherwise generally prohibited.
Smoke Barrier. A continuous membrane, or a membrane with discontinuities created by
protected openings, designed and constructed to restrict the movement of smoke.
Smoke Compartment. A space within a building enclosed by smoke barriers on all sides,
including the top and bottom.
Solvents or Liquid Classifications. A method of classifying solvents or liquids according to the
following:
Class I Solvents. Liquids having a flash point below thirty-seven and eight tenths degrees
Celsius (37.8 °C).
Class II Solvents. Liquids having a flash point at or above thirty-seven and eight tenths
degrees Celsius (37.8 °C) and below sixty degrees Celsius (60 °C).
Class IIIA Solvents. Liquids having a flash point at or above sixty degrees Celsius (60 °C)
and below ninety-three and three tenths degrees Celsius (93.3 °C).
Class IIIB Solvents. Liquids having a flash point at or above ninety-three and three tenths
degrees Celsius (93.3 °C).
Class IV Solvents. Liquids classified as non-flammable.
Source of Ignition. A source of energy sufficient to ignite a flammable atmosphere and includes
open flames, smoking, incandescent material, electrical welding arcs, and electrical or
mechanical equipment not suitable for use in a particular hazard zone.
Special Bank Receipt (SBR). An accountable form transferred to the AGDB or AGSB thru a
Memorandum Receipt (MR) which shall be issued as a proof of payment in the collection
of the fees and charges imposed in pursuit of the statutory and regulation functions of the
BFP.
Spray Booth. A mechanically ventilated appliance of varying dimensions and construction
provided to enclose or accommodate a spraying operation and to confine and limit the
escape of spray vapor and residue and to exhaust it safely.
Spraying Area. Any area in which dangerous quantities of flammable vapors or mists, or
combustible residues, dusts or deposits are present due to the operation of spraying
processes.
Sprinkler System. An integrated network of hydraulically designed piping system installed in a
building, structure or area with outlets arranged in a systematic pattern which
automatically discharges water when activated by heat or combustion products from a
fire.
Stage. A partially enclosed portion of an assembly building which is designed or used for the
presentation of plays, demonstrations, or other entertainment activities wherein scenery,
drops or other effects may be installed or used, and where the distance between the top
of the proscenium opening and the ceiling above the stage is more than one and fifty-two
hundredths meters (1.52 m).
Staircase or stairway. One (1) or more flights of stairs or steps leading from one floor to
another. Stairwell. A compartment extending vertically through a building in which stairs are
placed.
Standpipe System. A system of vertical pipes in a building to which fire hoses can be attached
on each floor, including a system by which water is made available to water outlets as
needed.
Street Floor. A storey or floor level accessible from the street outside the building at the finished
ground level, with the floor level at the main entrance located not more than three (3)
risers
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above or below the finished ground level, and arranged and utilized to qualify as the main
floor.
Tank Truck. Any single self-propelled motor vehicle equipped with a cargo tank mounted
thereon and used for the transportation of flammable and combustible liquids.
Tank Vehicle. Any vehicle carrying or towing a cargo tank used for transporting flammable
fluids or hazardous chemicals.
Tank, Full-Trailer. Any vehicle with or without auxiliary motive power, equipped with a cargo
tank mounted thereon or built as an integral part thereof, used for the transportation of
flammable and combustible liquids, and so constructed that practically all of its weight
and load rests on its own wheels.
Tank, Semi-Trailer. Any vehicle with or without auxiliary motive power, equipped with a cargo
tank mounted thereon or built as an integral part thereof, used for the transportation of
flammable and combustible liquids, and so constructed that, when drawn by a tractor by
means of a fifth wheel connection, some part of its load and weight rests upon the towing
vehicle.
Thermal Insecticidal Fogging. The utilization of any insecticidal liquids passed through thermal
fog-generating units where, by means of heat, pressure and turbulence, such liquids are
transformed and discharged in the form of fog or mist blown into an area to be treated.
Thermal Insecticidal Fogging Liquid. Any insecticidal liquid specifically designed for emission
from a thermal fog-generating unit in the form of an aerosol fog which is lethal to pest
organisms and insects. Examples of thermal insecticidal fogging liquids are permethrin,
deltamethrin, cyfluthrin, malathion, pirimiphos methyl and fenithrothion.
Thrust Stage/Arena Stage. The portion of a stage which projects into the audience on the
audience side of a proscenium wall or opening.
Tote Box. A box constructed for use in the handling of stocks in process or finished stocks while in
tote box store rooms.
Toxicity. The degree to which a substance is able to damage an exposed organism.
Type Designation of Powered Industrial Trucks. A system for identifying types of powered
industrial trucks for operation in non-classified and classified areas.
Type Designation CGH. A compressed hydrogen powered unit utilizing a fuel cell that has
minimum acceptable safeguards against inherent fire and electrical shock hazards.
Type Designation CN. A compressed natural gas–powered unit that has minimum
acceptable safeguards against inherent fire hazards.
Type Designation CNS. A compressed natural gas–powered unit that, in addition to
meeting the requirements for Type CN units, is provided with additional safeguards to
the exhaust, fuel, and electric systems.
Type Designation D. A diesel-powered unit that has minimum acceptable safeguards
against inherent fire hazards.
Type Designation DS. A diesel-powered unit that, in addition to meeting all the
requirements for Type D units, is provided with additional safeguards to the exhaust,
fuel, and electric systems.
Type Designation DX. A diesel-powered unit in which the diesel engine and the electric
fittings and equipment are so designed, constructed, and assembled that the unit
can be used in atmospheres that contain specifically named flammable vapors,
dusts, and, under certain conditions, fibers.
Type Designation DY. A diesel-powered unit that has all the safeguards of Type DS units
and, in addition, any electric equipment is completely enclosed and equipped with
temperature-limitation features.
Type Designation E. An electrically powered unit that has minimum acceptable safeguards
against inherent fire and electrical shock hazards.
Type Designation EE. An electrically powered unit that, in addition to meeting all the
requirements for Type E and ES units, has its electric motors and all other electric
equipment completely enclosed.
Type Designation ES. An electrically powered unit that, in addition to meeting all the
requirements for Type E units, is provided with additional safeguards to the electric
system to prevent the emission of hazardous sparks and to limit surface temperatures.
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Type Designation EX. An electrically powered unit in which the electric fittings and
equipment are so designed, constructed, and assembled that the unit can be used
in atmospheres containing specifically named flammable vapors, dusts, and, under
certain conditions, fibers.
Type Designation G. A gasoline-powered unit that has minimum acceptable safeguards
against inherent fire hazards.
Type Designation G/CN. A unit that operates on either gasoline or compressed natural gas
that has minimum acceptable safeguards against inherent fire hazards.
Type Designation G/LP. A unit that operates on either gasoline or liquefied petroleum gas
and that has minimum acceptable safeguards against inherent fire hazards.
Type Designation GS. A gasoline-powered unit that, in addition to meeting all the
requirements for Type G units, is provided with additional safeguards to the exhaust,
fuel, and electric systems.
Type Designation GS/CNS. A unit that operates on either gasoline or compressed natural
gas and, in addition to meeting all the requirements for Type G/CN units, is provided
with additional safeguards to the exhaust, fuel, and electric systems.
Type Designation GS/LPS. A unit that operates on either gasoline or liquefied petroleum gas
and, in addition to meeting all the requirements for the Type G/LP units, is provided
with additional safeguards to the exhaust, fuel, and electric systems.
Type Designation LP. An LP-Gas-powered unit that has minimum acceptable safeguards
against inherent fire hazards.
Type Designation LPS. An LP-Gas-powered unit that, in addition to meeting the
requirements for Type LP units, is provided with additional safeguards to the exhaust,
fuel, and electric systems.
Used Water. Liquid waste generated by treatment plants, housekeeping, operation and
maintenance, and laboratory activities, including but not limited to washing, flushing, and
cleaning activities. It also includes the cleaning, flushing and draining water that bear dirt
and sludge from sedimentation basin, settling tank, and other treatment processes and
unit operation facilities, and backwash water generated in the backwashing, cleaning
and flushing of filter media or beds.
Ventilation. The process of supplying or removing air by natural or mechanical means to or from
any space. Such air may or may not have been conditioned. Also refers to the copious
flushing of an area with fresh air for the mitigation of explosion and other fire hazards.
Vertical Shaft. An enclosed vertical space of passage that extends from floor to floor, as well as
from the base to the top of a building.
Vestibule. A passage hall or antechamber between the outer doors and the interior parts of a
house or building.
Water Treatment Plants. Single or compact or multi-stage units and/or combination of unit
processes and operation systems, including but not limited to their facilities,
appurtenances, service areas and premises, for the purification or treatment of raw water
or water from a source that requires the removal and/or reduction of impurities or
improvement of its quality to comply with water quality standards, as prescribed by the
concerned government agency, intended for public use or for specific industrial
applications.
Waste Water. Liquid waste generated by human activities that use water and/or those water
that come from residential, commercial, institutional, recreational, industrial, agricultural
and other facilities, similar occupancies and related activities.
Waste Water Treatment Plants. Single or compact or multi-stage units and/or combination of
unit processes and operation systems, including but not limited to their facilities,
appurtenances, service areas and premises, for the treatment of used water or waste
water generated by residential, recreational, institutional, commercial and industrial and
other similar occupancies and related activities that required the removal and/or
reduction of contaminants and/or pollutants or improvement of its quality to comply with
effluent water quality standards of receiving body of water or environment as prescribed
by the concerned government agency.
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RULE 4. AUTHORITY OF THE CHIEF, BUREAU OF FIRE PROTECTION
SECTION 4.0.0.1 GENERAL AUTHORITY TO ADMINISTER AND ENFORCE RA 9514 AND
ITS RIRR
The Administration and Enforcement of the RA 9514 and its RIRR shall be under the direct
supervision and control of the Chief, BFP, through the hierarchy of organization as provided for
in Chapter VI of Republic Act No. 6975, the DILG Reorganization Act of 1990 as amended by
Republic Act No. 9263, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and Bureau of Jail Management and
Penology (BJMP) Professionalization Act of 2004.
SECRETARY OF INTERIOR AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT (SILG) The Chief, BFP, with the
approval of the Secretary, DILG, is hereby authorized to:
A. Issue Implementing Rules and Regulations, and prescribe standards, schedules of fees/fire
service charges and administrative penalties therefor as provided in the pertinent provisions
of the RA 9514 and its RIRR;
B. Reorganize the BFP as may be necessary and appropriate;
C. Enter into long term agreement, either through public biddings or negotiations in
accordance with the provisions of Republic Act No. 9184, otherwise known as the
Government Procurement Reform Act of 2003, for the acquisition of fire prevention, fire
protection, firefighting, investigation, rescue, paramedics, hazardous material handling
equipment, supplies, materials, and related technical services necessary for the fire service;
and
D. Enter into Memoranda of Agreement with other departments, bureaus, agencies, offices
and corporations of the government, as well as private institutions, in order to define areas
of cooperation and coordination and delineate responsibility on fire prevention education,
fire safety, fire prevention, fire suppression and other matters of common concern.
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8. Require the building owner/occupant to submit plans and specifications, and other
pertinent documents of said building to ensure compliance with applicable codes and
standards; and
9. Issue a written notice to the owner and/or contractor to stop any portion of any work
due to the absence, or in violation of, approved plans and specifications, permits and/
or clearances or certifications as approved by the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized
representative. The notice shall state the nature of the violation and no work shall be
continued on that portion until the violation had been corrected.
B. However, the authority granted under this Section shall not in any way diminish the power of
the SILG to change, alter, modify, revise or amend the actions of the Chief, BFP.
DIVISION 1. SCOPE
This Rule shall govern the organization, equipage, operation, and proficiency training of
company and community fire brigades as well as continuous training and competency
evaluation of fire volunteers and fire volunteer organizations in the country who shall undergo
mandatory fire prevention, fire suppression, rescue, emergency medical services and other
related emergency response training programs and competency evaluations to be conducted
17
by the BFP. This also prescribes the continuous professional education, competency evaluation
and recognition of Fire Safety Practitioners, to be conducted by the BFP. For this purpose, the
term “company” shall include government and/or private offices and buildings.
DIVISION 2. ORGANIZATION OF FIRE BRIGADES
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In his/her absence, the Deputy Fire Brigade Chief shall assume and perform the duties and
responsibilities of the Fire Brigade Chief.
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DIVISION 4. COMMAND, EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE AND FIRE DRILLS
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