special amusements

Halloween is fast approaching: If you are planning to host a haunted house or an event in a "Special Amusement" building please note that a Special Occupancy Certificate is required from this department before the general public can occupy these structures. (Ohio Building Code, 2005 edition Section 411-Special Amusement Buildings). Why do we need an inspection? On May 11, 1984 a tragedy occurred to change the building code to include special amusement structures. Eight people died in a fire at the "Haunted Castle" at Six Flags Great Adventure Park in New Jersey because they were unable to exit the building. There were 3 major factors contributing to this loss of life: The failure to detect and extinguish the fire in it incipient stage by means of fixed fire detection and suppression systems. The ignition of synthetic foam material and subsequent fire and smoke spread involving combustible interior finishes and contents. The difficulty of escape by occupants based on fire conditions in the haunted-house type environment. *From the 2003 International Building Code Commentary More recently; in February,2003, 100 people were killed in a nightclub fire in Rhode Island due largely to sound proofing foam, pyrotechnics and locked/unclear exit locations. All of the following elements are common in Haunted houses: Flammable plastics (black plastic to cover exterior light) Dark unclear exit locations Props that may emit sparks or cause excitability Although these items can make for a fun time, they also can be recipe for disaster if not properly used.
*How do I get this certificate?*		*What is a "Special Amusement" Building?*
1. Submit and application and a floor plan of the building in question to our office. Applications can be obtained on our website (under Building Forms and Procedures) or our office at 25 W. Pleasant St. 2. Schedule a special inspection upon submitting the application. 3. Contact the local fire department for a "walk through".		Defined as: is a temporary or permanent building or portion thereof that is occupied for amusement, entertainment, or educational purposes and that contains a device or system that conveys passengers or provides a walkway along, around or over a course in any direction so arranged that the means of egress path is not readily apparent due to visual or audio distractions or in intentionally confounded or is not readily available because of the nature of the attraction or mode of conveyance through the building or structure. Exception: Amusement buildings or portions thereof that are without walls or roof and constructed to prevent the accumulation of smoke.

*What Do I need to Include on my floor plan?*		*How much does this cost?*
All exits locations Emergency lighting locations Aisle ways and direction of flow Anticipated occupants at a time Dates and hours of operation		Application fee of $100.00 upon submittal of plans and application (non-refundable) 45.00 due upon processing of Certificate + 3% for state fees Total Cost: $149.35
This department is committed to assisting the public in building safe structures. We cannot be lenient when it comes to public safety. This certificate can help insure a fun and thrilling time this Halloween instead of tragedy. If you are planning a "Special Amusement Building" this Halloween, please be sure to obtain this certificate. Many times insurance companies will require this certificate before you can be insured. Cutting corners may put someone's life in jeopardy. Application for Temporary Use-Special Amusement Structures
HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!