Open Flame / Candle Requirements for Non-Residential Buildings

Candles and other open flames create a serious fire hazard, particularly in an educational setting with its many flammable documents and books. It is for this reason that the following procedures have been established.

A. Candles and other open flames are prohibited in all University non-residential buildings, unless the use of such open flame is specifically addressed in this policy or the responsible person has gotten permission from the Environmental, Health, and Safety Manager. (See applicable policies for specific requirements related to residential buildings.)

EXCEPTION: Lighted candles will be permitted for ceremonies and functions of religious, cultural, social, or honorary groups, as well as for catered events.

Lighted candles are not permitted in or with any decorations. Candles used by any religious, cultural, social, or honorary group, as well as for catered events including dining areas, must be extinguished immediately after the ceremony or function is complete.

Candles must be securely fixed in sturdy candleholders, enclosures, glass hurricane type lamps, etc.

B. Open flames of any type, including candles, shall not be used in any assembly occupancy (spaces holding >50 persons) without the approval of the Environmental Health & Safety Manager. Open flames used in assembly occupancies must comply with the requirements of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Life Safety Code 101/13.7.2.

C. Food service operations (portable cooking equipment) may utilize food warmers, but the food warmers must be placed on a non-combustible surface.

D. Laboratories are exempt from this policy but precautions must be taken to ensure safe operation procedures.

E. Sporting events are prohibited from the use of open flames without approval from the Environmental Health & Safety Manager.

F. Open flames fueled by propane tanks are prohibited.

EXCEPTION: Gas barbecue grills are permitted but must be located exterior to the building. Propane tanks shall not be stored inside buildings without the approval of the Environmental Health & Safety Manager. Storage must comply with NFPA 58.

G. Bonfires: Contact the Environmental Health & Safety Manager for review/approval.

H. Pyrotechnic and open flame devices for special effects: Contact the Environmental Health & Safety Manager for review/approval. These must comply with NFPA 1126 and/or NFPA 160.