PROPOSED RULES
Original Notice.
Preproposal statement of inquiry was filed as WSR 05-07-101.
Title of Rule and Other Identifying Information: Chapter 212-80 WAC, Fire sprinkler system contractors.
Hearing Location(s): Spokane Fire Department Training Facility, 1618 North Rebecca Street, Spokane, WA 99217-7200, on July 7, 2005, at 9:00 a.m.; and at the General Administration Building Auditorium, 210 11th Avenue S.W., Olympia, WA 98504, on June 30, 2005, at 9:00 a.m.
Date of Intended Adoption: August 15, 2005.
Submit Written Comments to: Deputy State Fire Marshal Larry Glenn, P.O. Box 42600, Olympia, WA 98504-2600, e-mail Larry.Glenn@wsp.wa.gov, fax (360) 570-3136.
Assistance for Persons with Disabilities: Contact Deputy State Fire Marshal Larry Glenn at (360) 570-3133.
Purpose of the Proposal and Its Anticipated Effects, Including Any Changes in Existing Rules: (1) The purpose is to add an additional category of fire sprinkler contractor designed to allow work exclusively on the inspection and testing of water based fire sprinkler systems, and to require a person performing the inspection and testing of water based fire sprinkler systems to be certified at a minimum level of competency by the State Fire Marshal's Office.
(2) Add a section exempting state licensed back-flow assembly testers from the requirements of the fire sprinkler contractor law while they are performing inspection, testing, and maintenance of back-flow devices.
Statutory Authority for Adoption: Chapters 43.43 and 18.160 RCW.
Rule is not necessitated by federal law, federal or state court decision.
Name of Proponent: , governmental.
Name of Agency Personnel Responsible for Drafting, Implementation and Enforcement: Deputy State Fire Marshal Larry Glenn, General Administration Building, P.O. Box 42600, Olympia, WA 98504-2600, (360) 570-3133.
No small business economic impact statement has been prepared under chapter 19.85 RCW. Assistant Attorney General Jason Richards ruled the small business economic impact statement was not necessary March 4, 2005.
A cost-benefit analysis is required under RCW 34.05.328. A preliminary cost-benefit analysis may be obtained by contacting Deputy State Fire Marshal Larry Glenn, P.O. Box 42600, Olympia, WA 98504-2600, phone (360) 570-3133, fax (360) 570-3136, e-mail Larry.Glenn@wsp.wa.gov.
May 18, 2005
John R. Batiste
Chief
OTS-7957.3
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 05-05-006, filed 2/4/05,
effective 3/7/05)
WAC 212-80-010
Definitions.
The following definitions
shall apply to this regulation:
(((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.
(((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 (with the exception of residential
combination systems) starts at the point where the last
nonfire water use is taken from the supply mains. This 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.
(((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)) 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)) FOR DESIGN
ONLY" ((just)) merely 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.
(((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.
(((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.
(((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.
(((27))) "State Level I certification" means a
certificate of competency holder who is qualified to prepare
layout drawings, install, inspect, test, maintain, or service
an NFPA 13D fire protection sprinkler system or any part of
such a system.
(((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, test, maintain, or service
an NFPA 13D and/or an NFPA 13R fire protection sprinkler
system or any part of such a system.
(((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.
(((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 certified fire sprinkler system
inspection and testing technician" ("ITT") means a state
certificateholder who is qualified to inspect and/or test NFPA
13D, 13R, or 13, wet and dry pipe fire protection systems per
the definition of fire protection sprinkler system in this
chapter. However, testing of other fire protection systems
such as preaction, deluge, foam, or fire pump and maintenance
of any type of system defined under this chapter or chapter 18.160 RCW shall be performed only by contractors who are also
qualified and licensed to design and install that type of
system or fire pump.
"State level inspection and testing contractor 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 inspection or testing of a wet or dry pipe NFPA 13 - D, NFPA 13 - R, NFPA 13, or other systems per the definition of a fire protection sprinkler system in chapter 18.160 RCW. However, the testing and maintenance of fire protection systems such as preaction, deluge, foam, or fire pumps, shall be performed only by contractors who are also qualified and licensed to design and install that type of system or fire pump being tested or maintained.
"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 chief
of the Washington state patrol, through 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)) any
action, general or specific, 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 43.43 and 18.160 RCW. 05-05-006, § 212-80-010, filed 2/4/05, effective 3/7/05. 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 engineer acting solely in a professional capacity.
(5) 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.
(9) A person, licensed by the Washington state department of health, under chapter 246-292 WAC, as a certified backflow assembly tester, performing testing and maintenance of backflow assemblies.
(10) A person licensed by the Washington state department of health, under chapter 246-292 WAC, as a certified backflow assembly tester, and also licensed by the Washington state department of labor and industries, under chapter 18.106 RCW, as a backflow specialty plumber performing repairs of backflow assemblies in accordance with chapter 246-290 WAC.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.43 and 18.160 RCW. 05-05-006, § 212-80-015, filed 2/4/05, effective 3/7/05. 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.]
| EXCEPTION: | A company or individual licensed as an inspection and testing contractor, whose staff performing the work of inspection and/or testing of a fire protection sprinkler system have all been certified by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, as described in this chapter, can bid, offer to bid, contract, or perform only the testing and inspection of a fire protection sprinkler system - excluding preaction, deluge, or foam systems or systems with fire pumps. |
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.43 and 18.160 RCW. 05-05-006, § 212-80-018, filed 2/4/05, effective 3/7/05.]
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.63A and 18.160 RCW. 91-14-086 (Order 91-06), § 212-80-020, filed 7/1/91, effective 8/1/91.]
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.43 and 18.160 RCW. 05-05-006, amended and recodified as § 212-80-028, filed 2/4/05, effective 3/7/05. 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.]
(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,
inspection, testing, maintenance, repair, service, alteration,
fabrication, or addition((, or inspection)) of a fire
protection sprinkler system.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.43 and 18.160 RCW. 05-05-006, amended and recodified as § 212-80-038, filed 2/4/05, effective 3/7/05. 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.]
| Exception: | A company or individual licensed as an inspection and testing contractor, whose staff performing the work of inspection and testing of a fire protection sprinkler system have all been certified by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, as described in this chapter, can bid, offer to bid, contract, or perform only the testing and inspection of a fire protection sprinkler system - excluding preaction, deluge, or foam systems or systems with fire pumps. |
(2) Only licensed contractors who have achieved at least State Level U licensure shall execute contracts for the installation, inspection, maintenance and/or servicing of the underground portions of fire protection sprinkler systems in the state of Washington.
(3) Only licensed fire protection sprinkler contractors who have achieved at least State Level I licensure shall 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.
(4) Only licensed fire protection sprinkler contractors who have achieved at least State Level II licensure shall 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.
(5) Only licensed fire protection sprinkler contractors who have achieved at least State Level III licensure shall 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.
(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 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 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.
(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 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.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.43 and 18.160 RCW. 05-05-006, amended and recodified as § 212-80-043, filed 2/4/05, effective 3/7/05. 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.]
(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))
212-80-078.
(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 43.43 and 18.160 RCW. 05-05-006, amended and recodified as § 212-80-053, filed 2/4/05, effective 3/7/05. 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.]
(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 and/or Level II systems or a contractor to be licensed as an inspection and testing 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 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) 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 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 43.43 and 18.160 RCW. 05-05-006, amended and recodified as § 212-80-078, filed 2/4/05, effective 3/7/05. 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) At least one set of approved plans and calculations,
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) Stamps shall be issued by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection and shall contain the name and 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 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 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 43.43 and 18.160 RCW. 05-05-006, amended and recodified as § 212-80-083, filed 2/4/05, effective 3/7/05. 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.]
(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 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 engineer. Upon completion of the above requirements, the engineer will be granted an equivalency certificate to that of State Level III; or
(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. 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.
(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 requirements.
(6) Proof of competency to the satisfaction of the chief
of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire
protection ((are)) is mandatory.
(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 43.43 and 18.160 RCW. 05-05-006, amended and recodified as § 212-80-093, filed 2/4/05, effective 3/7/05. 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.]
(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)) his or her 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 43.43 and 18.160 RCW. 05-05-006, amended and recodified as § 212-80-113, filed 2/4/05, effective 3/7/05. 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.]
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS INSPECTION AND TESTING CONTRACTOR(1) Make application to the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, on forms provided and pay the fees required.
(2) Meet the bonding requirements of WAC 212-80-125.
(3) Be licensed as a contracting company in the state of Washington by the department of labor and industries and provide the twelve digit alphanumeric business license number to the state fire marshal or his or her designee.
(4) Have each individual working as an inspection and testing technician certified as "qualified" by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, as defined by this chapter.
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| EXCEPTION: | Should a currently licensed inspection and testing 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 inspection and testing contractor work as defined by chapter 212-80 WAC; | |
| (4) Employs at least one full-time inspection and testing technician; and | |
| (5) Meets the criteria necessary for licensing as an inspection and testing contracting company as defined by chapter 212-80 WAC. |
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(2) If a sprinkler system inspection and testing contractor should at any time lose all inspection and testing technicians certified by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, that company is no longer able to perform work in Washington state as a sprinkler system inspection and testing contractor. Further, all work currently being performed by this contractor will be halted until such time as the company is able to employ full time at least one state certified inspection and testing technician to personally complete any existing physical work.
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(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 due 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;
(c) Any evidence or complaint which verifies that employees of the sprinkler system inspection and testing contractor have performed inspection and testing technician work without being certified by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection;
(d) Failure to comply with the bonding requirements of chapter 18.160 RCW; and
(e) Failure to obtain or show evidence of having at least one full-time certified sprinkler system inspection and testing technician.
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| EXCEPTION: | Any sprinkler system inspection and testing contracting company who is required to be licensed as a sprinkler system inspection and testing contractor 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 licensing fee, in addition to any penalties assessed by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, for unlicensed operation(s). |
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(2) 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 six thousand dollars and the property or cash is not otherwise encumbered. 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 sprinkler system inspection and testing contractor.
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INSPECTION AND TESTING TECHNICIAN(2) Under no condition shall any employee working for a sprinkler system inspection and testing contractor perform any inspection and testing work on a water based fire protection system unless they possess certification as a competent inspection and testing technician by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection.
(3) Wallet cards shall be issued by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, and shall contain the name and technician number of the inspection and testing technician, the expiration date of the current certification, a place for the signature of the inspection and testing technician, and the date of the signature.
(4) An original signature shall appear on each page of documentation for all inspection and testing certificates for water based fire protection sprinkler systems conducted by the inspection and testing technician.
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(2) All inspection and testing certificates shall be signed by an inspection and testing technician possessing the proper certification by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection.
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(a) Possess a National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Level 2 or Level 3 certification; or
(b) Demonstrate satisfactory completion of educational elements as specified by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, through the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies.
(c) Provided the application for the inspection and testing technician certification is made prior to ninety days after final adoption of this rule, the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, may in lieu of the examination requirements for an inspection and testing technician, and following a thorough review by the fire sprinkler advisory group, accept the following as satisfactory evidence of competency and qualification:
Notarized affidavits from the applicant's employer attesting that the applicant has had a minimum of four thousand hours experience in the installation, or the inspection and testing of fire sprinkler systems.
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(2) If the inspection and testing technician 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.
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(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 technician 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 inspection and testing technician certification for failure to apply for a renewal of their technician certificate within sixty days after the expiration date.
(4) The chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, upon receipt of payment for all delinquent fees and a late charge may restore an inspection and testing technician certification that had been suspended.
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| EXCEPTION: | Any individual who attempts to certify with the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, as an inspection and testing technician 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). |
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(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 or an inspection and testing contractor who engages in the fire protection sprinkler system business while the license is suspended.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.43 and 18.160 RCW. 05-05-006, amended and recodified as § 212-80-200, filed 2/4/05, effective 3/7/05. 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.]
(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 or a state certified fire sprinkler inspection and testing technician who engages in the fire protection sprinkler system business while the certificate of competency is suspended.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.43 and 18.160 RCW. 05-05-006, amended and recodified as § 212-80-205, filed 2/4/05, effective 3/7/05. 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) 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,
inspection, testing, maintenance, 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,
inspection, testing, maintenance, 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, or, in the case of an inspection and testing contractor, allowing any employee not certified by the chief of the Washington state patrol, through the director of fire protection, as an inspection and testing technician.
(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.
[Statutory Authority: Chapters 43.43 and 18.160 RCW. 05-05-006, § 212-80-265, filed 2/4/05, effective 3/7/05.]