Q: We have a large wall 15 ft. x 12 ft. in our public cafeteria in the hospital that gets decorated with a different theme every quarter. This was started early this year and everyone seems to love it. Materials used varies from papers, pictures, plastics, cardboard, etc. Should this be a concern or a violation of the Life Safety Code?
A: Yes… it should be a concern. Section 19.7.5.6 of the 2012 LSC discusses the limitations of combustible decorations on wall and ceiling surfaces. You are only allowed to cover 20% of the wall surface in non-sprinklered areas, and only 30% in sprinklered areas. Keep an eye on the quantity of wall surface covered to make sure they do not cover more than the allowed amount.
Brad Keyes, CHSP, is the owner of KEYES Life Safety Compliance, and his expertise is in the management of the Life Safety Program, including the Environment of Care and Emergency Management programs.
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