Building Code Board of Appeals Agenda and Packet 2009 06 18

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An overlooked benefit of properties protected by sprinklers is the reduced amount of fire now as shown previously. in the problem analysis. They lessen demand on the public water supply system. The most important area to address here lacks a dollar value; it is life safety and a feeling of security that total sprinkler protection provides the occupants of the building. VI) Additional Benefits In addition to the obvious and overriding henefit of providing a highly desirable level of public safety, the spin-off benefits are numerous. Financial savings most certainly are realized from the reduction of resources needed for a First alarm assignment, wear and tear on equipment, fuel consumption, firefighter injuries. and personnel hours, to name a few. All of these benefits provide opportunities for substantial savings or cost avoidance to the taxpayers. We also believe that attitude changes can be expected, including a greater sensitivity to Fire prevention and a proactive approach to community fire protection. One could logically expect that our sprinkler efforts would be undertaken in areas not specifically mandated. Other associated prevention actions (e.g., early warning devices, self-inspection, and personnel training) could conceivably be implemented concurrently with installation of sprinklers. Other tangible benefits include a full return on investment within 5-10 years. Property value will increase, as will the desirahility of occupancy. The community as a whole will benefit by making our fire-safe community concepts. Finally, passage and implementation of a stronger sprinkler ordinance is one of the most fiscally reasonable, puhlic welfare-oriented, and visionary efforts government and Fire service leaders can undertake. VII) Recommendation The LFPD has formulated the following automatic sprinkler ordinance and recommends that the city of Louisville implement mandatory sprinkler installations for all occupancies (except for U occupancies, storage) at 5,000 sq. ft. We believe that with a response force of less than 14 on an initial alarm, this ordinance will benefit Firefighter safety and limit fires to a more manageable size. While this recommendation docs not currently discuss the need for a retrofit requirement for existing stTuctures that change owners, we would welcome further discussion about the value of sprinklers in the old town area. This area continues to be one of the highest risks in the community. In closing, we appreciate the opportunity to discuss this proposed ordinance change and welcome your feedback The attached sample ordinance is for illustration purposes and those assigned to work out the Final ordinance language. With your approval, the LFPD board of directors has set a goal for implementation for the 4" quarter of 2008. Again, thank you for your community leadership and interest in making Louisville a fire-safe community. Tim Parker, Chief of Department Bill Dhieux, Fire Marshal