PERMANENT RULES
Purpose: To clarify and amend rules for definitions. To clarify and add rules for issuing fines and citations.
Citation of Existing Rules Affected by this Order: Amending chapter 212-80 WAC, Fire sprinkler system contractors.
Statutory Authority for Adoption: Chapters 43.43 and 18.160 RCW.
Adopted under notice filed as WSR 04-24-009 on November 22, 2004.
Changes Other than Editing from Proposed to Adopted Version: WAC 212-80-010, deleted all of subsections (33) and (34); WAC 212-80-065, deleted all of subsections (3) and (4); and deleted "FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS INSPECTION AND TESTING CONTRACTOR" title before WAC 212-80-135.
Number of Sections Adopted in Order to Comply with Federal Statute: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; Federal Rules or Standards: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; or Recently Enacted State Statutes: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted at Request of a Nongovernmental Entity: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted on the Agency's Own Initiative: New 15, Amended 27, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted in Order to Clarify, Streamline, or Reform Agency Procedures: New 15, Amended 27, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted Using Negotiated Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; Pilot Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; or Other Alternative Rule Making: New 15, Amended 27, Repealed 0.
Date Adopted: February 4, 2005.
Lowell M. Porter
Chief
OTS-7589.5
GENERAL PROVISIONS
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending Order 91-06, filed 7/1/91,
effective 8/1/91)
WAC 212-80-001
Purpose.
The purpose of this regulation
is to adopt rules for the licensing of fire protection
sprinkler system contractors ((and for)), the issuance of
certificates of competency, and for the issuance of civil
fines and citations as defined in chapter 18.160 RCW.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-001, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-005, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
(1) "Authority having jurisdiction (AHJ)" means the organization, office, or individual responsible for approving layout drawings, equipment, an installation or a procedure. Usually the AHJ is the building and/or fire official of the city or county in which the job site is located. In certain cases, such as health care facilities, transient accommodations and day care facilities, the AHJ is the city or county building and/or fire official and the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection.
(2) "Citation" means written notification issued by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, pursuant to RCW 18.160.040 to issue a civil penalty for a violation of any provision of chapter 18.160 RCW. A citation may include, but is not limited to, a description of the violation(s) and a notice of civil penalty assessment.
(3) "Director of fire protection" means the state fire
marshal and/or his((/)) or her authorized representative.
(((3))) (4) "Dry Pipe Sprinkler System" means a system
employing automatic sprinklers attached to a piping system
containing air or nitrogen under pressure, the release of
which (as from the opening of a sprinkler) allows the water
pressure to open a valve known as a dry pipe valve. The water
then flows into the piping system and out to the open
sprinkler(s).
(5) "Fire protection sprinkler system" means an assembly
of underground and/or overhead piping beginning at the
connection to the primary water supply, whether public or
private, that conveys water with or without other agents to
dispersal openings or devices to extinguish, control, or
contain fire or other products of combustion. The fire
protection sprinkler system ((should)) (with the exception of
residential combination systems) starts at the point where the
last nonfire water use is taken from the supply mains. This
((should be)) is the point just down stream of the last tap
for domestic or process water, the last water control valve
that is required by a city or other authority, or the point
where the water can be considered nonflowing. ((The water
source such as a fire pump and suction tank that is dedicated
to supplying water for the fire protection sprinkler system
shall be under the control of the fire protection sprinkler
system contractor. This would also be the case where the
water supply is entirely dedicated to the fire protection
sprinkler system.
(4))) (6) "Fire pump" means a listed pump supplying water at the flow and pressure required by water based fire protection systems.
(7) "For design only" means a certificate of competency holder only allowed to perform the design of a fire protection sprinkler system consistent with the level of certification he or she holds. In the case of a "State Level U certification," "for design only" just allows the individual to maintain their certification.
(8) "Formal hearing" means a hearing before a hearings officer where laws, rules, and evidence are presented, considered, and a decision is rendered.
(9) "Hazard" means a condition which could result in injury or death to a person and/or damage to property.
(10) "Hearings request" means the written request for a formal hearing to contest a civil penalty.
(11) "Inspection" means a visual examination of a fire protection sprinkler system, or portion of the system, to verify that the system appears to be in operating condition, is free from physical damage, and complies with the applicable statutes and regulations adopted by the state.
(12) "Instance" means the number of times a person has been cited for a violation of chapter 18.160 RCW or this chapter. These will be identified as 1st, 2nd, and 3rd instances.
(13) "Maintenance" means work performed on a fire suppression sprinkler system to keep the equipment operable, or to make repairs.
(14) "NFPA" means the National Fire Protection Association.
(((5))) (15) "NFPA 13D" means, in addition to the
definition contained in chapter 18.160 RCW, the inclusion of
minor accessory uses such as garages normally found in
residential occupancies.
(((6))) (16) "NFPA 13R" means whatever standard that is
used by the National Fire Protection Association for the
installation and design of fire suppression sprinkler systems
in residential occupancies up to and including four stories in
height.
(17) "NFPA 13" means whatever standard that is used by the National Fire Protection Association for the installation and design of fire suppression sprinkler systems in commercial or high occupancy facilities.
(18) "NFPA 20" means whatever standard that is used by the National Fire Protection Association for the selection and installation of pumps, both centrifugal and positive displacement, that supply liquid for a private fire protection system.
(19) "NFPA 24" means whatever standard that is used by the National Fire Protection Association for the installation of the dedicated underground fire service main of a water based fire protection system.
(20) "NFPA 25" means whatever standard that is used by the National Fire Protection Association for the inspection, testing, and maintenance of water based fire protection systems.
(21) "NICET" means the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies.
(((7))) (22) "Person" means one or more individuals,
legal representatives, partnerships, joint ventures,
associations, corporations (whether or not organized for
profit), business trusts, or any organized group of
individuals and includes the state, state agencies, counties,
municipal corporations, school districts, and other public
corporations.
(23) "Preaction system" means a sprinkler system employing automatic sprinklers attached to a piping system containing air, which may or may not be under pressure, with a supplemental detection system installed in the same areas as the sprinklers.
(24) "Qualified" shall mean an individual who has demonstrated through education, training, examination, and/or national certifications the competency, skill, and ability necessary to perform any work covered and/or defined by this chapter and chapter 18.160 RCW to the satisfaction of a relevant jurisdiction. In matters of compliance with the licensing and certification requirements of this chapter and chapter 18.160 RCW, the relevant jurisdiction shall be the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection.
(25) "Revoke" means the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, shall rescind a company's license or an individual's certification from them. Such action causes said company or individual to cease any and all work in the sprinkler field in Washington state until such time as the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, is satisfied with the resolution of the issue which caused the license or certificate to be revoked.
(26) "State fire marshal" means the director of fire protection or his/her authorized representative.
(((8))) (27) "State Level I certification" means a
certificate of competency holder who is qualified to prepare
layout drawings, install, inspect, maintain, or service an
NFPA 13D fire protection sprinkler system or any part of such
a system.
(((9))) (28) "State Level I licensing" means a sprinkler
contracting company licensed by the chief of the Washington
state patrol, through the director of fire protection, to
contract and/or offer to bid on the design, installation,
service, maintenance, and/or inspection of a NFPA 13D fire
protection sprinkler system or any part of such a system.
(29) "State Level II certification" means a certificate of competency holder who is qualified to prepare layout drawings, install, inspect, maintain, or service an NFPA 13D and/or NFPA 13R fire protection sprinkler system or any part of such a system.
(((10))) (30) "State Level II licensing" means a
sprinkler contracting company licensed by the chief of the
Washington state patrol, through the director of fire
protection, to contract and/or offer to bid on the design,
installation, service, maintenance, and/or inspection of a
NFPA 13D and/or a NFPA 13R fire protection sprinkler system or
any part of such a system.
(31) "State Level III certification" means a certificate of competency holder who is qualified to prepare layout drawings, install, inspect, maintain, or service an NFPA 13D, NFPA 13R, NFPA 13, or all other systems per the definition of fire protection sprinkler system in chapter 18.160 RCW.
(((11))) (32) "State Level III licensing" means a
sprinkler contracting company licensed by the chief of the
Washington state patrol, through the director of fire
protection, to contract and/or offer to bid on the design,
installation, service, maintenance, and/or inspection of a
NFPA 13D, NFPA 13R, NFPA 13, or all other systems per the
definition of a fire protection sprinkler system in chapter 18.160 RCW.
(33) "State Level U certification" means a certificate of competency holder who is qualified to certify the installation of the underground portions of fire protection sprinkler systems in conformance with recognized standards adopted by the director of fire protection.
(34) "State Level U licensing" means a sprinkler contracting company licensed by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, to contract and/or offer to bid on the installation of the underground portions of fire protection sprinkler systems in conformance with the recognized standards adopted by the director of fire protection.
(35) "Suspend" means the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, holds a license or certificate inactive until such time as the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, feels confident that the company or individual is in compliance with the requirements of this chapter and chapter 18.160 RCW.
(36) "Testing" means a procedure used to determine the status of a system as intended by conducting periodic physical checks on water-based fire protection systems such as waterflow tests, fire pump tests, alarm tests, and trip tests of dry pipe, deluge, or preaction valves. These tests follow up on the original acceptance test at intervals specified in the appropriate chapter of NFPA 25.
(37) "Type" means the classification of violation as minimal, moderate, and severe. These are identified as Types I, II, and III respectively.
(38) "Violation" means a specific or general action inconsistent with the intent and letter of chapter 18.160 RCW and this chapter and shall be further defined as:
(a) "Minimal violation" means a Type I violation which poses a minor hazard or threat to life and property in the event of a fire.
(b) "Moderate violation" means a Type II violation which poses a significant hazard or threat to life or property in the event of a fire.
(c) "Severe violation" means a Type III violation which poses a substantial hazard or threat to life or property in the event of a fire.
(39) "Wet pipe sprinkler system" means a sprinkler system employing automatic sprinklers attached to a piping system containing water and connected to a water supply so that water discharges immediately when any sprinkler is opened by heat from a fire.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 92-20-070 (Order 92-08), § 212-80-010, filed 10/5/92, effective 11/5/92; 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-010, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
EXCEPTIONS:
(1) Federal, state, and local government employees, or insurance inspectors when acting in their official capacities.
(2) A person or organization acting under court order.
(3) A person or organization that sells or supplies products or materials to a licensed fire protection sprinkler system contractor.
(4) A registered professional ((fire protection))
engineer acting solely in a professional capacity.
(5) ((An)) A properly qualified and/or trained employee
of a licensed fire protection sprinkler system contractor
performing duties for the contractor. Said qualifications
and/or training to be consistent with the level of work
performed by the licensed fire protection sprinkler system
contractor.
(6) An owner/occupier of a single-family residence performing his or her own installation in that residence. It is the intent of this subsection that builders or contractors will not install their own sprinkler systems in single-family residences under their ownership which they plan to sell, lease, or rent.
(7) An employee of a facility or owner who is qualified to the satisfaction of the local authority having jurisdiction to perform inspection and testing of fire protection sprinkler systems in said facility.
(8) An employee of a licensed electrical contractor installing or testing only the electronic signaling devices of a fire sprinkler system.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 94-24-032, § 212-80-015, filed 12/1/94, effective 1/1/95; 92-20-070 (Order 92-08), § 212-80-015, filed 10/5/92, effective 11/5/92; 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-015, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
[]
(2) In certain types of occupancies the authority having jurisdiction may be the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection and the building and/or fire official of the city or county in which the installation is located. Generally these dual responsibilities occur in health care facilities, transient accommodations, and day care facilities.
(3) It is the responsibility of the certificate of competency holder to ascertain which agency or agencies have jurisdiction. If there is a question, the certificate of competency holder should contact the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-025, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
((Subcontracting of such work to persons or firms not
currently licensed as a fire protection sprinkler system
contractor is prohibited.))
(2) Only licensed contractors who have achieved at least
State Level U licensure shall ((install, inspect, maintain or
service)) execute contracts for the installation, inspection,
maintenance and/or servicing of the underground portions of
fire protection sprinkler systems in the state of Washington. ((Subcontracting of such work to persons or firms not
currently licensed as a fire protection sprinkler system
contractor is prohibited.))
(3) Only licensed fire protection sprinkler contractors
who have achieved at least State Level I licensure shall
((install, inspect, maintain, or service)) execute contracts
for the installation, inspection, testing, maintenance and/or
servicing of NFPA 13D fire protection sprinkler systems or any
part of such a system in the state of Washington.
((Subcontracting of such work to persons or firms not
currently licensed as a fire protection sprinkler system
contractor is prohibited.))
(4) Only licensed fire protection sprinkler contractors
who have achieved at least State Level II licensure shall
((install, inspect, maintain, or service)) execute contracts
for the installation, inspection, testing, maintenance and/or
servicing of NFPA 13D or NFPA 13R fire protection sprinkler
systems or any part of such a system in the state of
Washington.
((Subcontracting of such work to persons or firms not
currently licensed as a fire protection sprinkler system
contractor is prohibited.))
(5) Only licensed fire protection sprinkler contractors
who have achieved at least State Level III licensure shall
((install, inspect, maintain, or service)) execute contracts
for the installation, inspection, testing, maintenance and/or
servicing of NFPA 13D, NFPA 13R, NFPA 13, and all other
systems per the definition of fire protection sprinkler system
in chapter 18.160 RCW or any part of such a system in the
state of Washington.
((Subcontracting of such work to persons or firms not
currently licensed as a fire protection sprinkler system
contractor is prohibited.))
(6) Only those certificate of competency holders who have achieved State Level U certification shall supervise and/or certify the installation of underground supplies to fire protection sprinkler systems. To achieve State Level U certification, persons shall satisfactorily complete an examination administered by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection.
(7) Only those certificate of competency holders who have
achieved at least State Level I certification shall supervise
and/or certify the preparation of layout drawings,
installation, inspection, testing, maintenance, servicing, or
the installation ((of underground supplies)) of NFPA 13D fire
protection sprinkler systems or any part thereof. To achieve
State Level I certification, persons shall hold a current
NICET Level 2 classification or satisfactorily complete an
examination administered by the chief of the Washington state
patrol, through the director of fire protection.
(8) Only those certificate of competency holders who have
achieved at least State Level II certification shall supervise
and/or certify the preparation of layout drawings,
installation, inspection, testing, maintenance, servicing, or
the installation ((of underground supplies)) of NFPA 13D and
NFPA 13R fire protection sprinkler systems or any part
thereof. To achieve State Level II certification, persons
shall hold a current NICET Level 2 classification ((or
satisfactorily complete an examination administered by the
director of fire protection)).
(9) Only those certificate of competency holders who have
achieved at least State Level III certification shall
supervise and/or certify the preparation of layout drawings,
installation, inspection, testing, maintenance, servicing, or
the installation of ((underground supplies)) NFPA 13D, NFPA
13R, NFPA 13, and all other systems per the definition of fire
protection sprinkler system in chapter 18.160 RCW or any part
thereof. To achieve State Level III certification, persons
shall hold a current NICET Level 3 or 4 ((or satisfactorily
complete an examination administered by the director of fire
protection)).
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 94-24-032, § 212-80-030, filed 12/1/94, effective 1/1/95; 92-20-070 (Order 92-08), § 212-80-030, filed 10/5/92, effective 11/5/92; 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-030, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
FIRE SPRINKLER CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCY HOLDER(2) At least one set of approved plans, containing information as specified in subsection (3) of this section, and calculations shall be maintained on the job site while the work is being performed.
(3) ((Effective January 1, 1995, seals)) Stamps shall be
issued by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through
the director of fire protection and shall contain the name and
((certificate)) certification number of the certificate of
competency holder, name and license number of the holder's
employer, the expiration date of the current certificate, a
place for the signature of the certificate of competency
holder and the date of the signature. On all plans the
((seal)) stamp shall be easily recognizable and visible.
(4) An original stamp and signature shall appear on each page of plans, on the cover sheet of hydraulic calculations and on all test certificates for fire protection sprinkler systems submitted to the authority having jurisdiction.
(5) Plans and calculations for "underground only"
portions of fire protection sprinkler systems submitted to the
authority having jurisdiction by a State Level U licensed fire
protection sprinkler contractor shall be stamped (((sealed)))
by either a licensed professional engineer registered in the
state of Washington or the appropriate level certificate of
competency holder and the State Level U certificate of
competency holder employed by the submitting contractor.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 94-24-032, § 212-80-035, filed 12/1/94, effective 1/1/95; 92-20-070 (Order 92-08), § 212-80-035, filed 10/5/92, effective 11/5/92; 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-035, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
(2) Contractor's material and test certificate forms shall be of such form as accepted or approved by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection.
(3) The authority having jurisdiction ((may)) shall
require ((a)) an approved flow test of heads as part of the
approval of NFPA 13R and NFPA 13D fire protection sprinkler
systems.
(4) The authority having jurisdiction and the building owner shall retain copies of the contractor's materials and test certificate for a minimum of five years.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 94-24-032, § 212-80-040, filed 12/1/94, effective 1/1/95; 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-040, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
(1) For State Level 1 certification, have satisfactorily
passed with a final score of eighty percent or better an
examination administered by the chief of the Washington state
patrol, through the director of fire protection((;)) or show
evidence of passing the National Institute for Certification
in Engineering Technologies element requirements for Level 2
certification in fire protection system layout design.
(2) For State Level U certification, have satisfactorily passed with a final score of eighty percent or better an examination administered by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection.
(3) Be a registered professional ((fire protection))
engineer acting solely in a professional capacity. Such
engineer shall comply with all other requirements of this
regulation including payment of fees, completion of the
application process, and supplying the director of fire
protection with proof that the applicant holds a current,
valid state of Washington registration as a professional
((fire protection)) engineer. Upon completion of the above
requirements, the engineer will be granted an equivalency
certificate to that of State Level III; or
(((3) By presenting)) (4) Present a copy of a current
certificate from the National Institute for Certification in
Engineering Technologies showing that the applicant has
achieved the classification ((of Engineering Technician, Level
3 or Senior Engineering Technician, Level 4 in the field of
fire protection automatic sprinkler system layout; or)).
State Level 2 certification requires a minimum certification
from the National Institute for Certification in Engineering
Technologies of Level 2 in the field of fire protection
automatic sprinkler system layout or better. State Level 3
certification requires either Engineering Technician, Level 3
or Senior Engineering Technician, Level 4 in the field of fire
protection automatic sprinkler system layout.
(((4) Provided the application for the certificate of
competency is made prior to ninety days after May 1, 1991, the
director of fire protection, in lieu of the examination
requirements of the applicant for a certificate of competency,
may accept as satisfactory evidence of competency and
qualification, affidavits attesting that the applicant has had
a minimum of three years' experience. In addition to the
affidavits and application form, the applicant shall provide
the following information:
(a) Copies of approved plans and calculations, if applicable, for systems installed in the last three years.
(b) Evidence of installation of sprinkler systems.
(c) Evidence of acceptance of the systems by the authority having jurisdiction.
(d) References from an authority having jurisdiction.
(e) The number of fire protection sprinkler system installations completed within the last three years.
(f) Other information as directed and accepted by the director of fire protection.))
(5) The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the
director of fire protection may accept equivalent proof of
qualification in lieu of the examination((, as recommended by
the fire sprinkler advisory committee)) requirements.
(6) ((Examination requirements)) Proof of competency to
the satisfaction of the chief of the Washington state patrol,
through the director of fire protection are mandatory ((except
as otherwise provided in this regulation)).
(7) Every applicant for a certificate of competency shall fulfill the requirements established by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection under chapter 18.160 RCW.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 94-24-032, § 212-80-045, filed 12/1/94, effective 1/1/95; 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-045, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
[]
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-050, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
(2) The temporary certificate of competency shall remain
in effect for a period of one year ((and)). If the temporary
certificate of competency holder provides evidence to the
chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of
fire protection, of testing with NICET in the previous year,
the temporary certificate of competency may be renewed two
times.
(3) In no case shall a person hold a temporary certificate of competency for more than three years, either cumulative or consecutive.
(4) To convert from a temporary certificate of competency to a regular certificate of competency, a person shall:
(a) Within three years from the initial issuance of the temporary certificate of competency, apply for a regular certificate of competency; and
(b) Complete the requirements specified in this regulation and chapter 18.160 RCW.
(5) An individual having a temporary certificate of competency shall not be exempt from taking an examination to acquire a regular certificate of competency.
(6) Prior to the expiration of the temporary certificate of competency at the end of the three-year period, the temporary certificate of competency holder shall make application for a regular certificate of competency. Upon expiration of the temporary certificate of competency at the end of the three-year period, if the holder has not met the requirements of subsection (4) of this section, the holder shall cease all activities associated with the holding of a certificate of competency.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 92-20-070 (Order 92-08), § 212-80-055, filed 10/5/92, effective 11/5/92; 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-055, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 94-24-032, § 212-80-060, filed 12/1/94, effective 1/1/95; 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-060, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
(a) Gross incompetency or gross negligence in the preparation of layout drawings, installation, repair, alteration, maintenance, inspection, service, or addition to fire protection sprinkler systems.
(b) Conviction of a felony.
(c) Fraudulent or dishonest practices while engaging in the fire protection sprinkler systems business.
(d) Use of false evidence or misrepresentation in an application for a certificate of competency.
(e) Permitting his or her certificate to be used in connection with the preparation of any layout drawings, installation, maintenance, inspection, service or certification of any system when such activity is not under his or her supervision, or in violation of this regulation.
(f) Knowingly violating any provisions of this regulation or chapter 18.160 RCW.
(2) The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection shall revoke the certificate of a certificate of competency holder who engages in the fire protection sprinkler system business while the certificate of competency is suspended.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 94-24-032, § 212-80-065, filed 12/1/94, effective 1/1/95; 92-20-070 (Order 92-08), § 212-80-065, filed 10/5/92, effective 11/5/92; 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-065, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
(2) If the certificate of competency holder should leave the employment of the fire protection sprinkler system contractor, he or she shall notify the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection within thirty days of the last day of employment.
(3) Should any individual who meets the criteria to be a certificate of competency holder as defined by this chapter and chapter 18.160 RCW wish to be certified to perform design work only, he or she may request to work as a "FOR DESIGN ONLY" certificate of competency holder. This certification can also be utilized to maintain state certification, as in the case of the State Level U certification.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-070, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
(2) Application for renewal forms shall be provided by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, upon request, and the certificate holder shall furnish the information required by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection.
(3) The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection may suspend the certificate of competency for failure to apply for a renewal certificate of competency within sixty days after the expiration date.
(4) The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection may, upon the receipt of payment of all delinquent fees and a late charge, restore a certificate of competency that had been suspended.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-075, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
(2) The relinquishment is effective when the certificate is received by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection.
(3) After relinquishing the certificate of competency, he or she shall not be known as a certificate of competency holder and shall desist from the practice thereof.
(4) Within two years from the time of relinquishment of the certificate of competency, he or she may again qualify for a certificate of competency, with the approval of the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, by the payment of the required fee.
(5) If two or more years have elapsed, he or she shall return to the status of a new applicant.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-080, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
| EXCEPTION: | Any individual who attempts to certify with the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, after performing work covered by this chapter and chapter 18.160 RCW shall be required to pay the full annual certification fees, in addition to any penalties assessed by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, for uncertified operation(s). |
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-085, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
FIRE PROTECTION SPRINKLER CONTRACTOR(1) Must be or have in his or her full-time employ a holder of a valid certificate of competency whose level is consistent with the license level.
(2) Make application to the director of fire protection on forms provided and pay the fees required.
(3) Meet the bonding requirements of WAC 212-80-125.
(4) Be licensed as a contracting company in the state of Washington by the department of labor and industries and possess the twelve digit alphanumeric business license number assigned by that agency.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-090, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-095, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
EXCEPTION:
Should a currently licensed fire protection sprinkler contractor merge or form another company, that license can be reissued to the newly formed/incorporated company provided:
(1) The principal officers of the licensed company remain the same;
(2) Continues, takes over, or otherwise reestablishes the bond required by chapter 18.160 RCW for licensing;
(3) Continues to perform fire protection sprinkler contractor work as defined by chapter 18.160 RCW;
(4) Employs a certificate of competency holder of the appropriate level; and
(5) Meets the criteria necessary for licensing as a fire protection sprinkler contracting company as defined by chapter 18.160 RCW.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-105, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
(2) If a certificate of competency holder should leave
the employment of the fire protection sprinkler system
contractor, and the contractor has no other certificate of
competency holder on staff, the contractor shall have six
months or until the expiration of the current license,
whichever occurs last, to submit a new application. In order
to be issued a new license, the contractor shall identify a
new certificate of competency holder who, at the time of
application, shall be either an owner or full-time employee of
((the)) that fire protection sprinkler business.
(3) If such application is not received by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection and a new license issued within the allotted time, the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection shall revoke the license of the fire protection sprinkler system contractor.
(4) The fire protection sprinkler system contractor may
only complete the active phase of existing work in progress
which has been approved by the authority having jurisdiction,
((but)) and may not receive new approvals from the authority
having jurisdiction without a certificate holder's number on
the documents. Installation can continue on approved design
plans, however, the contractor's material and test certificate
for the system must be stamped (((sealed))) by a certificate
of competency holder in the full-time employ of the installing
contractor.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 94-24-032, § 212-80-110, filed 12/1/94, effective 1/1/95; 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-110, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
(2) Application for renewal shall be upon a form prescribed by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, and the license holder shall furnish the information required by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection.
(3) Failure of any license holder to secure his or her renewal license within sixty days after the expiration date shall constitute sufficient cause for the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection to suspend the license.
(4) The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection may restore a license that has been suspended. In addition to other provisions of this regulation, any of the following will constitute cause for the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection not to restore a license that has been suspended:
(a) Nonreceipt of payment of all delinquent fees;
(b) Nonreceipt of a late charge and/or application fee;
((and))
(c) Failure to comply with the bonding requirements of chapter 18.160 RCW; and
(d) Failure to obtain or show evidence of having a full time employee certified as a certificate of competency holder of the appropriate level as defined by chapter 18.160 RCW.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 94-24-032, § 212-80-115, filed 12/1/94, effective 1/1/95; 92-20-070 (Order 92-08), § 212-80-115, filed 10/5/92, effective 11/5/92; 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-115, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
| EXCEPTION: | Any contracting company who attempts to license as a fire sprinkler contracting company after performing work covered by this chapter and chapter 18.160 RCW shall be required to pay the full annual licensing fees, in addition to any penalties assessed by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, for unlicensed operation(s). |
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-120, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
(a) The fire protection sprinkler system contractor, to be licensed as a Level III or Level "U" fire protection sprinkler system contractor, files with the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection a surety bond executed by a surety company authorized to do business in the state of Washington, in the sum of ten thousand dollars, conditioned to compensate third-party losses caused by the acts of the principal or the principal's servant, officer, agent, or employee in conducting the business registered or licensed under this regulation; or
(b) The fire protection sprinkler system contractor, to be licensed for Level I or Level II systems files with the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection a surety bond executed by a surety company authorized to do business in the state of Washington, in the sum of six thousand dollars, conditioned to compensate third-party losses caused by the acts of the principal or the principal's servant, officer, agent, or employee in conducting the business registered or licensed under this regulation.
(2) ((Bonds required by other state agencies are separate
from the bonding requirements of chapter 18.160 RCW. Bonds
filed with the department of labor and industries cannot be
used to satisfy the bonding requirements for a fire protection
sprinkler system contractor.
(3))) Upon approval by the chief of the Washington state
patrol, through the director of fire protection, property or
cash may substitute for a surety bond provided the value ((is
at least ten thousand dollars and the property or cash is not
otherwise encumbered for Level III systems)) matches the
appropriate level of bonding required for the level of work to
be performed. The value of property shall be determined by an
appraiser selected by the chief of the Washington state
patrol, through the director of fire protection. All
appraisal fees shall be paid by the fire protection sprinkler
system contractor.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 92-20-070 (Order 92-08), § 212-80-125, filed 10/5/92, effective 11/5/92.]
(2) Nothing in this regulation limits the power of the municipality, county, or the state to adopt any system of permits requiring submission to and approval by the municipality, county, or the state of layout drawings and specifications for work to be performed by contractors before commencement of the work.
(3) The official authorized to issue building or other related permits shall ascertain that the fire protection sprinkler system contractor is duly licensed by requiring evidence of a valid fire protection sprinkler system contractor's license and a valid certificate of competency stamp consistent with the contractor's license.
(4) This regulation applies to any fire protection sprinkler system contractor performing work for any municipality, county, or the state.
(5) Officials of any municipality, county, or the state are required to determine compliance with this regulation before awarding any contracts for the installation, repair, service, alteration, fabrication, addition, or inspection of a fire protection sprinkler system.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-130, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
REVOCATION OF LICENSE/CERTIFICATE(a) Gross incompetency or gross negligence in the preparation of layout drawings, installation, repair, alteration, maintenance, inspection, service, or addition to fire protection sprinkler systems.
(b) Conviction of a felony.
(c) Fraudulent or dishonest practices while engaging in the fire protection sprinkler systems business.
(d) Use of false evidence or misrepresentation in an application for a license.
(e) Permitting his or her license to be used in connection with the installation of any system when such installation is not under his or her supervision, or in violation of this regulation.
(f) Knowingly violating any provisions of this regulation or chapter 18.160 RCW.
(2) The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection shall revoke the license of a licensed fire protection sprinkler system contractor who engages in the fire protection sprinkler system business while the license is suspended.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 94-24-032, § 212-80-135, filed 12/1/94, effective 1/1/95; 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-135, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
CIVIL PENALTIES AND FINES
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(2) Each violation is classified and penalties assessed according to the violation type and instance as defined by this chapter.
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(2) These rules apply to persons who violate the intent, chapter, and requirements of chapter 18.160 RCW and/or chapter 212-80 WAC.
(3) Each separate instance of noncompliance with chapter 18.160 RCW and/or chapter 212-80 WAC shall be considered a separate violation.
(4) Each day the violation continues may be considered a separate violation.
(5) In addition to the issuance of citations and/or penalties, the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, may also revoke, suspend, and/or deny the renewal of any license or certificate issued under chapter 18.160 RCW to person(s) and/or company(ies) who fails to pay any penalties assessed under these rules. Such action does not preclude the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, from assessing further violations for unlicensed and/or uncertified operations.
(6) The penalty for each violation shall range from $0.00 to $5,000.00 per day per violation per occurrence.
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(2) The violation types are as follows:
(a) Minimal - Type I;
(b) Moderate - Type II; and
(c) Severe - Type III.
(3) The instances are as follows:
(a) 1st - The first time the individual, person, and/or company is in violation of chapter 18.160 RCW and/or chapter 212-80 WAC in any one calendar year, regardless of the number of individual violations or the duration of them;
(b) 2nd - The second time the individual, person, and/or company is in violation of chapter 18.160 RCW and/or chapter 212-80 WAC in any one calendar year, regardless of the number of individual violations or the duration of them; and
(c) 3rd - The third time the individual, person and/or company is in violation of chapter 18.160 RCW and/or chapter 212-80 WAC in any one calendar year, regardless of the number of individual violations or the duration of them.
(4) In the event of a fourth instance in any one calendar year, that company and/or individual will no longer be allowed to work in the sprinkler field in the state of Washington. This decision may be appealed, pursuant to RCW 74.20A.320.
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(2) Hearings requests shall be filed with the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, within thirty days of the date of the service of a civil penalty.
(3) Any person who requests a hearing shall be entitled to a hearing.
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(2) An informal conference may be requested prior to a request for a formal hearing. However, it shall not exceed nor extend their thirty-day timeline allotted for the request of a formal hearing - regardless of the outcome.
(3) The request for an informal hearing may be in any form and:
(a) Shall be addressed to the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection; and
(b) Clearly state the subject to be discussed.
(4) As a result of an informal conference, the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, may for good cause choose to amend, withdraw, or reduce the civil penalty.
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(2) The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, will arrange for a hearings officer to conduct the formal hearing.
(3) The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, will set a date, time, and location for the formal hearing.
(4) The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, will notify by letter the person requesting the hearing (or their designated representative) of the date, time, location, and hearings officer conducting the formal hearing.
(5) The hearings officer will hear the case and, within ninety days of the hearing, render a proposed opinion and order including recommended findings of fact and conclusions of law, according to chapter 34.05 RCW.
(6) The formal hearing shall be conducted as follows:
(a) The hearings officer will act as an impartial third party.
(b) It is not necessary for the person who requested the hearing to be represented by legal council.
(c) An official record shall be made through a scribe.
(d) Testimony shall be taken under oath.
(e) All evidence of a type commonly relied upon by a reasonably prudent person in the conduct of their serious affairs is admissible.
(f) Hearsay evidence is admissible if it meets the statutory standards for being reliable and trustworthy.
(g) A proposed opinion and order will be provided.
(7) The proposed opinion and order shall be reviewed by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, and if accepted be finalized and issued as a final order.
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(2) The assessment of penalties for not being in conformance with chapter 18.160 RCW and/or chapter 212-80 WAC may be made only after considering:
(a) The gravity and magnitude of the violation.
(b) The person's previous record.
(c) Such other considerations as the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, may consider appropriate.
(3) During a formal hearing or informal conference, the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, may modify or adjust the citation, cited violations, and/or penalties assessed in order to meet the requirements of these rules and to ensure uniformity and consistency in their application statewide.
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(2) The attorney general may bring an action in the name of the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, in the superior court of Thurston County or of any county in which the violator may do business to collect any penalty imposed under chapter 18.160 RCW.
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(2) Examples of Type I violations include, but are not limited to:
(a) Failing to inform the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, of the loss of their primary certificate of competency holder, as required by RCW 18.160.40.
(b) Failing to have the certificate of competency holder stamp plans, calculations, and/or test certificates.
(c) Allowing an employee to certify, install, inspect, maintain, and/or service water based fire sprinkler systems or equipment contrary to NFPA codes, standards, or manufacturers' specifications without specific written permission from the local authority having jurisdiction.
(d) Working without a permit, or permission to do so, by the local authority having jurisdiction.
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(2) Examples of Type II violations include, but are not limited to:
(a) Performing work on a sprinkler system where the employee's certificate of competency holder under RCW 18.160.40 does not have a current or valid license.
(b) Working without the appropriate level of license or certificate of competency.
(c) Permitting his or her license to be used in connection with the preparation of any technical drawings that have not been prepared by him or her personally, or under their direct supervision.
(d) Working with an expired license or permit (more than ninety days).
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(2) Examples of Type III violations include, but are not limited to:
(a) Demonstrating gross incompetency or gross negligence in the preparation of technical drawings, the installation, repair, alteration, maintenance, inspection, service, and/or addition to a fire sprinkler system.
(b) Allowing an employee to demonstrate gross incompetency or gross negligence in the installation, repair, alteration, maintenance, inspection, service and/or addition to a fire sprinkler system.
(c) Charging a customer for fire sprinkler work not performed.
(d) Offering to contract for fire sprinkler work without a certificate of competency holder, as described in RCW 18.160.040.
(e) Allowing an employee to falsify any fire sprinkler tags, labels, or inspection reports.
(f) Working without a certified full-time certificate of competency holder on staff.
(g) Falsifying an application or document submitted to the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, to obtain a sprinkler contractor license or certificate of competency.
(h) Committing three or more Level II offenses within a three year period either as a company, through an employee of the company, through an employee acting as a certificate of competency holder for the company, and/or any combination thereof.
(i) Permitting his or her license to be used in connection with the stamping of any test certificates for work performed by someone other than his or her full-time employees.
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The following sections of the Washington Administrative
Code are recodified as follows:
| Old WAC Number | New WAC Number |
| 212-80-025 | 212-80-023 |
| 212-80-095 | 212-80-028 |
| 212-80-100 | 212-80-033 |
| 212-80-130 | 212-80-038 |
| 212-80-030 | 212-80-043 |
| 212-80-090 | 212-80-053 |
| 212-80-105 | 212-80-058 |
| 212-80-110 | 212-80-063 |
| 212-80-115 | 212-80-068 |
| 212-80-120 | 212-80-073 |
| 212-80-125 | 212-80-078 |
| 212-80-035 | 212-80-083 |
| 212-80-040 | 212-80-088 |
| 212-80-045 | 212-80-093 |
| 212-80-050 | 212-80-098 |
| 212-80-055 | 212-80-103 |
| 212-80-060 | 212-80-108 |
| 212-80-070 | 212-80-113 |
| 212-80-075 | 212-80-118 |
| 212-80-080 | 212-80-123 |
| 212-80-085 | 212-80-128 |
| 212-80-135 | 212-80-200 |
| 212-80-065 | 212-80-205 |