By Robert Trotter, CBO, CFM
Evaluation of combustible decorations is always difficult because interpretation of the requirement is subjective. One person may believe the decorations are acceptable and do not constitute a hazard, while another may feel that the decorations are too much. Regardless, combustible decorations must meet the requirements of the Life Safety Code®. For those organizations accredited by The Joint Commission, requirements for combustible decorations are found in the Life Safety Chapter. For example, the hospital accreditation program Standard LS.02.01.70 Element of Performance (1) states, “The hospital prohibits all combustible decorations that are not flame retardant. (For full text and any exceptions, refer to NFPA 101-2000: 18/19.7.5.4.)” Both the new and existing health care occupancy chapters state, “Combustible decorations shall be prohibited in any health care occupancy unless they are flame-retardant. Exception: Combustible decorations, such as photographs and paintings, in such limited quantities that a hazard of fire development or spread is not present.”
