UTMB HANDBOOK OF OPERATING PROCEDURES

Section 8 Policies Subject 8.1 Health and Safety Policy 8.1.20 Open Flames Prohibited

11/14/06 - Originated -Reviewed w/ changes -Reviewed w/o changes Environmental Health & Safety -Author

Open Flames Prohibited

Policy

The use of open flames, including but not limited to: candles, incense, kerosene lamps, oil lamps, flames fueled by propane tanks, and any similar items, is expressly prohibited on properties owned or leased by UTMB. Open flames create a serious fire and personal injury hazard. UTMB is committed to maintaining a safe environment by prohibiting the use of open flames. The intent of this policy is to reduce potential hazards capable of contributing to loss of property or life at UTMB. This policy is not intended to restrict the use of laboratory, facilities maintenance, or food services equipment used in normal operations. Compliance with this policy will be monitored by Environmental Health and Safety (EHS). EHS may, at any time, remove or order the removal of any item found in violation of this policy. Any planned deviation from this policy will require prior approval from Environmental Health and Safety – Occupational Safety and Fire Prevention.

Exemptions

Because UTMB is a diverse community, this policy will allow the use of open flames in University approved situations listed below (not to include any patient care areas): • Routine religious /institutional ceremonies in chapels and public assembly halls. o Open flames used in assembly occupancies must have prior approval from EHS and comply with the requirements of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Life Safety Code 101/13.7.2 and 13.7.3.

Exemptions, continued

• Food service operations, food preparation, and food warming supplies (portable cooking equipment): food warmers must be placed on a non-combustible surface • Birthday cakes presented in public assembly halls with the advance approval of Environmental Health & Safety. • Welding and associated work: must obtain a hot work permit. • Laboratories: excluded as long as precautions are taken to ensure safe operation during experiments and other related procedures • Gas barbecue grills are permitted at approved UTMB functions but must be located at least 30 feet from the exterior of any building-NOTE: propane tanks shall not be stored inside buildings or within 10 feet of any building egress. Additionally, safety measures must be followed to assure that open flames used in the above exempted situations are handled properly. For specific guidelines or questions concerning deviations from this policy, contact Environmental Health and Safety – Occupational Safety and Fire Prevention at Extension 70515.

References

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Life Safety Code 101/13.7.2