FIRE SAFETY MANAGER
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What is a Fire Safety Manager?
In New York City, construction projects that involve high-rise buildings or major renovations often require a certified Fire Safety Manager (FSM) to oversee fire prevention and emergency preparedness during construction, alteration, or demolition activities.
Fire Safety Managers are mandated under New York City Fire Code (FC 1408.1) and DOB regulations for:
- High-rise construction projects
- Major alteration, demolition, or facade restoration projects
- Sites where fire hazards are elevated due to equipment, materials, or temporary structures
Key responsibilities of a Fire Safety Manager include:
- Conducting daily fire safety inspections.
- Enforcing fire prevention protocols on the construction site.
- Maintaining FDNY-required fire safety logs and documentation.
- Conducting daily fire protection equipment inspections (standpipes, extinguishers, etc.).
- Coordinating hot work operations and ensuring all hot work permits are obtained.
- Overseeing flammable materials storage and handling.
- Conducting fire drills and emergency response training for workers.
- Interacting with FDNY and DOB inspectors to ensure full compliance.
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When Is a Fire Safety Manager Required?
You are required to have a Fire Safety Manager assigned when:
- The construction site exceeds 75 feet in height.
- Your project is classified as a high-rise building under DOB code.
- Hot work, cutting, welding, or similar operations occur on site.
- FDNY determines the project poses elevated fire risk.
Failure to assign a licensed FSM can result in:
- Costly FDNY and DOB violations
- Stop-work orders or full site shutdowns
- Legal liability in case of fire-related incidents
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How to Become a Fire Safety Manager in NYC
Education & Experience:
- Applicants must have prior construction site experience.
- Understanding of fire protection systems, construction safety, and emergency procedures.
- Recommended: Background in safety management, fire science, or construction management.
Certification & Licensing:
To become a certified FSM in NYC, applicants must:
Complete FDNY-approved Fire Safety Manager training courses.
Pass the FDNY Certificate of Fitness for Fire Safety Manager (S-56) exam.
Complete the FDNY application and background screening process.
Maintain annual refresher training to keep certifications current.
Key Knowledge & Skills:
- NYC Fire Code (especially FC 1408 & FC 2601 for hot work).
- DOB safety regulations and Chapter 33 of the NYC Building Code.
- Fire suppression systems, standpipes, sprinklers, and emergency response.
- Hot work safety, flammable materials storage, and permit requirements.
- Incident response planning and emergency evacuation protocols.