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Warren, NJ Fire Protection Training Center Leader

Insurance Engineer — Fri, 18 May 2012 21:23:19 GMT

Chubb is currently seeking a Training Center Leader to join our Loss Control team in Warren, NJ.

The Loss Control Services (LCS) Training Center Leader is responsible for the management of the fire laboratory operations at our Warren headquarters which closed 2011 with approximately $170,000 in total revenue. This person must ensure that the Center is prepared to provide hands on and visual training with regard to the design, operation, and the care and maintenance requirements of fire protection equipment and systems.

Job Responsibilities will include:

� Coordination of the Centers calendar with various users such as HO Administrative Services, Learning Services, LCS management, and LCS University

� Maintenance and operation of the equipment in the Center

� Liaison with Building Services for general maintenance of the facility

� Coordination of the selection, purchase and installation of new equipment to ensure that we provide state of the art learning opportunities

� Demonstration and instruction (hands-on training) in the use of the Center�s equipment

� Creation and development of new and updating/editing of existing course material

� Coordination of course schedule and assignment of instructors to include contingency plans

� Management of expenses related to the Center�s operation to include fee collection/invoicing and budget reporting

� Selection and purchase of supplies and materials such as textbooks and meals

� Printing and inventory of instructor binders

� Development and distribution of CEUs and certificates

� Liaison with Property Specialists for technical support

� Promotion and marketing of the Loss Control University via collaboration with Cross-Commercial Strategic Marketing

� Development and maintenance of chubb.com content for Loss Control University

� Other assignments as necessary in support of the LCS Global Client and Business Development Specialist

Skills and Competencies Needed:

� Prior experience in the property insurance industry, fire protection installation and/or servicing, or fire department fire prevention required.

� Prior experience in Loss Control is preferred

� Excellent communication skills both written and verbal especially public speaking/presentations to large audiences required

� Innovative thinker; pro-active on issue identification and resolution

� High level of organization and the ability to multi-task combined with demonstrated attention to detail

� Demonstrated project management skills

� Ability to work independently and in a team environment

� Ability to work effectively with business partners and staff at all levels within the organization

� Competent in the use of Microsoft Office to include Word, Excel, PowerPoint

� Must be able to lift up to 50lbs. and stand for extended periods of time

Chubb prides itself on the ability to provide all employees with an extraordinary work environment which promotes teamwork, diversity and incentives for those who exceed expectations. Chubb has been recognized as one of the top 50 companies for diversity by Diversity Inc. magazine, one of America�s most admired companies by Forbes, and one of the top 100 companies to work for by Fortune.

Chubb's compensation and benefit plans work together to create a Total Rewards Program for our employees that is among the best in our industry. As a global organization, we work hard to achieve our goal of providing flexible and competitive compensation and benefits packages in each local market in which we operate. Our goal is to exceed average market practices for our performers. For more information about Chubb and our benefits, visit our website at www.chubb.com.

All interested applicants must apply online at www.chubb.apply2jobs.com Reference Requisition number 10309.

http://www.chubb.apply2jobs.com/inde...&CurrentPage=2

Chubb & Son, Inc., a division of Federal Insurance Company, does not accept resumes from unsolicited third party agencies or recruiters. No fees will be paid to third parties who submit unsolicited candidates in this manner.

Apply Now

NFPA 110 and 2 hour rated rooms

mshields — Fri, 18 May 2012 17:42:39 GMT

Yesterday, I learned that Massachusetts has eliminate it's requirement to provide 2 hour rooms for emergency equipment. A colleague of mine responded to this by saying it doesn't matter 110 still requires it.

I don't agree with this. 110 requires separation for the EES system in accordance with Annex B, but I don't believe that this includes down stream panelboards throughout the facility. I suppose one could interpret the requirement as such given that the panelboards down stream of the ATS's are in fact part of the EES system.

What do you think?

Massachusetts Electrical Code

mshields — Fri, 18 May 2012 17:39:36 GMT

Wanted to add to a string I started yesterday but I can't find it. Question I had posed had to do with the Mass codes requirement for 2 hour rated rooms. I've since been in touch with Fred Hartwell who is on the Advisory Committee for Article 700. Didn't think he'd mind me sharing it with you. Here is what he had to say.

From: Fred Hartwell
Date: Thu, May 17, 2012 at 3:49 PM
To: mshields1162@gmail.com

This is the text I wrote as part of Appendix 4 to the Advisory Committee report covering changes made by the BFPR over the Advisory Committee�s objections. We did not suggest making the approach similar for equipment because we wanted to preserve, to the extent possible, our unanimous position that the MEC and the NEC should no longer differ in this part of the Code.

[Secretary�s Note: The Massachusetts Electrical Code Advisory Committee unanimously concluded that the change in the NEC required separation rule to a two-hour specification was close enough to our long-standing (since 1984) amendment that we could drop this variance entirely. However, that NEC provision does not apply in low-occupancy and low-rise buildings, and in fully-sprinklered areas. The MI cable interests successfully objected to applying these NEC allowances in Massachusetts. This amendment removes the occupancy loading and height parameters in the NEC for the two-hour provision and therefore it will apply to all emergency system wiring, and it will also apply whether or not there is full sprinkler protection.

Note that the MEC will follow the NEC on equipment separations if sprinkler protection is provided because 700.10(D)(2) is unamended, although here again this provision is extended to all occupancy emergency systems regardless of height or occupancy load due to the changes in the parent language of (D). Note also that the prior MEC language regarding elevator coverage has been removed. This was frequently erroneously interpreted as mandating a two-hour separation on elevators generally, even though applying the wording in that way would exceed the scope of Article 700 for other than elevators deemed to be part of an emergency system. Removing the reference removes this source of confusion.]

City of Douglas Wyoming Building Official

jpranch — Fri, 18 May 2012 17:33:05 GMT

Contact Person: Mary Nicol (307) 358-3462
The City of Douglas is seeking an individual to conduct building project examinations, reviews, and inspections, including plumbing and mechanical, for compliance with IBC/IRC and other adopted codes. Ability to read and review construction and development plans is required.
The position requires current ICC Commercial Inspector (B-2), Residential Inspector B-1 and P-1 certifications or the ability to obtain within three months of hire. Also required is a valid Class C Wyoming Driver�s License. ICC General Plans Examiner B-3 certification is desirable.
This position is also responsible for investigating and resolving inquiries from the general public regarding possible violations of adopted ICC codes. The successful applicant will have the demonstrated ability to perform technical inspections and maintain records as well as the ability to handle difficult situations with tact and diplomacy while maintaining a positive working relationship with the general public and contractors.
This is a full-time, exempt position with a salary range of $43, 000 to $50, 000 per year and includes an excellent benefit package with medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance; retirement health savings; and paid vacation, sick and holiday leave.
Applications will be accepted for this position until filled. Applications may be obtained at the City of Douglas Administrative Services Department at 101 North 4^th Street, P.O. Box 1030, Douglas, WY 82633, 307-358.3462, or visit our website at www.cityofdouglaswy.com, or by contacting the Wyoming Workforce Center at 307-358-2147.
The City of Douglas is an EEQ/ADA Employer.

Horizontal fire separation

georgia plans exam — Fri, 18 May 2012 17:14:06 GMT

An applicant is proposing UL Design No. U356 for the supporting structure for the one-hour floor/ceiling assembly in a two family dwelling. U356 is rated only where exposed to fire on the interior face only. Six dwellings are proposed and are 40' apart per Zoning stipulation. Code compliant?

Thanks in advance.

GPE

How do you educate contractors in between code cycles?

Darren Emery — Fri, 18 May 2012 16:58:56 GMT

We are dealing with a number of issues now that have resulted in modified inspection procedures, but not code changes. ie - we're now more actively enforcing code issues that have been on the books for quite a while. We're trying to find a balance between being flexible as the local contractors come up to speed and dropping the hammer.

We have meetings prior to code adoption, to try to let everyone know what's on the horizon, but these are very poorly attended. We have a quarterly newsletter, but it gets pitched more often than read. We have a website, but not many visit it.

Does anyone have a method they have successfully used to let contractor's know of changes?

ADA Expert Helps North State Businesses Avoid Lawsuits

mark handler — Fri, 18 May 2012 04:09:06 GMT

ADA Expert Helps North State Businesses Avoid Lawsuits
http://www.khsltv.com/content/localn...ZC9dfGNcw.cspx
Reported by: Alan Marsden amarsden@khsltv.com
Just one violation of the Americans With Disabilities Act can earn a business owner a $55,000 fine. But The Department of Justice, which enforces that law, isn't exactly scouring the countryside looking for violations. But across Northern California, lawyers who specialize in ADA lawsuits are. Many small business owners want to comply, whether out of fear or obligation. But they almost always find the law impossible to understand.
Unless you are disabled you likely would never notice any access problems with this property on the North Esplanade in Chico. �I�ve been in business for 36 years,� said Mike Friend. � There's not an access problem."

But Sacramento attorney Scott Johnson found several access problems at Mike Friend Rvs, so he sent the owner a letter, warning him to remove the barriers, or else. But Mike Friend soon discovered just how complex the Americans With Disabilities Act is and knew that a simple trip to the hardware store would not be the solution. Mike Friend said "Well first you've got to figure out what the law is, what you need to do to be compliant. You cannot do it on your own."

And like it or not, it appears he's right. If you want to comply with the law and avoid being sued you're going to need help from an expert. For "Mike Friend RVs that expert is Gary Layman, a certified access specialist. "There's a lot of frustration with the businesses,� said Layman. �Not just that it's the law but there's not any notification to them to make it aware to them and for them to be able to come into compliance, and who do they reach out to."

With fees starting at more than $800, these experts identify the barriers and draw up a plan of action. As for Mike Friend, he's following through one step at a time. �This service counter is one example, Gary said it was too high. I think the measurements had to be 34 inches." And door handles need to be replaced. In fact, the front door itself was too heavy. �They have to be no more than a five pound pull, so we replaced rollers and put new tracks on the doors.

As much as possible, Friend is trying to do the work himself. He still needs to create a safe path of travel from the sidewalk and a van-accessible parking spot with signs that include correctly worded warnings and the proper reflectivity. He expects that by the time all's said and done, he'll have paid several thousand dollars. Layman said "we do find businesses with the economy the way it is that can't actually afford to remove all the barriers. But they can get on a transition plan. �

And there are tax incentives to encourage a business owner to come into compliance with the ADA, up to $15,000 worth. That is if the very real threat of finding yourself the target of an activist lawyer isn't incentive enough. Mike Friend isn't happy he was targeted, but he is grateful that in his case, he was at least given a warning with a 120-day period to make the required changes. And his message to other businesses owners: if you get a warning in the mail don't ignore it. "Trust me that goes by way too fast when you're dealing with permit issues and trying to find out what the law is, and assembling all these different people that you need to gather information from, and deal with the weather, and deal with a business like mine that's very seasonal." Friend has been in communication with attorney Scott Johnson updating him on his progress and so far, has not actually been sued.

Vegas Paul

Rider Rick — Thu, 17 May 2012 21:38:16 GMT

Any word on Paul?

Modular Service Writer Counter

Mech — Thu, 17 May 2012 21:23:22 GMT

A117.1 / ADA

Chapter 9 of each publication deals with "built-in" furnishings.
Does this chapter apply to modular furnishings as well?
If not, what sections would be applicable?

I am looking particularly at the sales and service counter section. A manufacturer sells modular automotive service writer desks. The customer countertop is 45" high x 14" deep and the employee countertop is 36" high x 22"-28" deep. To provide for accessibility, separate "ADA compliant" sections are available that either attach to or sit next to the service writer desks. This countertop is 34" high, 18" wide, and 24" deep with solid front and side panels, meaning only a parallel approach will work.
Does this two piece arrangement meet the applicable code requirements?

If the service writer counter is fastened to other desk components, making it impractible to move the assembly as one unit and the "ADA compliant" is placed at the end of the assembly, does this arrangement meet the applicable code requirements?

ANSI (ADA Similar)
904.3 Sales and Service Counters. Sales and service counters shall comply with Section 904.3.1 or 904.3.2. The accessible portion of the countertop shall extend the same depth as the sales annd service countertop.

904.3.1 Parallel Approach. A portion of the counter surface 36 inches (915 mm) minimum in length and 36 inches (915 mm) maximum in height above the floor shall be provided. Where the counter surface is less than 36 inches (915 mm) in length, the entire counter surface shall be 36 inches (915 mm) maximum in height above the floor. A clear floor space complying with Section 305, positioned for a parallel approach adjacent to the accessible counter, shall be provided.

Thanks in advance.

ASCET Wilmington (NC) Chapter Kick-Off Meeting

FAST at CFCC — Thu, 17 May 2012 18:43:13 GMT

The Wilmington (NC) Chapter of the American Society of Certified Engineering Technicians (ASCET) is considering local venues to host its kick-off meeting during the last week in June (2012). We need to get an idea of the number of attendees to ensure adequate space and facilities. Please contact me via LinkedIn or pinferrera@cfcc.edu to RSVP.

ASCET was formed in 1964 at an organizational meeting sponsored by the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) to pursue the concept of an "engineering team", and other mutual goals of engineering professionals. NSPE also created the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies or NICET, as "a non-profit organization created to serve the certification needs of the engineering technology community".

A few of the benefits of membership include networking with colleagues, continuing education, the ability to earn NICET Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points and other technical resources. Click on the link to visit ASCET's web site.

http://ascet.org/

Chains on a fire hydrant

Pcinspector1 — Thu, 17 May 2012 17:24:45 GMT

Do the chains on the fire hydrant caps serve any other purpose other than preventing the cap from disapearing when the hydrant is in use?

pc1

Electric Power Transfers

LGreene — Thu, 17 May 2012 17:17:29 GMT

I'm not an expert on the NEC but this doesn't seem like it would be acceptable. :oops

http://idighardware.com/2012/05/crea...wer-transfers/

Fire Pump 695

jar546 — Thu, 17 May 2012 13:31:48 GMT

Does the electric motor of a fire pump have to be connected before the main disconnect or is it simply allowed?

I think it is allowed.

This question came up because I have a fire pump for a sprinkler system that the electrician just wants to put on a regular breaker at the MDP

Prior to this, all other electric fire pumps were spec'd out with a connection before the main disco so we never had to question it.

Ex Cons taking advantage.....

beach — Thu, 17 May 2012 13:25:07 GMT

By FRANK MICKADEIT COLUMNIST / THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER He became a paraplegic when he was shot while attempting a robbery. Now he's one of the serial plaintiffs engaged in a safer and, unfortunately, legal form of ripping off people.
I've written in recent weeks about small Orange County businesses being hit with lawsuits for alleged violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Garden Grove computer store owner Tue Nguyen has decided not only to fight his the lawsuit filed against him for alleged violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act, but he's organizing local business owners who have been hit with a spate of ADA suits in the last three weeks.

FRANK MICKADEIT, THE ORANGE COUNTY REGIISTER

As we've learned, these are generally filed by a small group of lawyers on behalf of a small group of disabled plaintiffs who appear to roam California looking for violations, such as handicap parking spaces that are too small. Plaintiffs can get $4,000 per case. Often the businesses pay triple that to settle when they realize the $4,000 doesn't include all of the other costs involved in going to court. Twelve grand usually gets the parasites to detach and search for a new host.
One of the other things I'd heard but which had heretofore remained unreported in this space was that some of these serial plaintiffs are ex-cons who live in the Inland Empire but do their drive-bys in the O.C. Now, one of them has struck inland north Orange County.
Since Jan. 1, Dan Allen Jones, 52, has filed at least 20 lawsuits against mom-and-pop businesses in that subregion. A convenience store in Anaheim. A bar in Stanton. You get the idea. His latest victim was a flower shop in La Habra on Tuesday.
One of the business owners, Tue Nguyen of KAT Computer and the adjacent Co Donuts in Garden Grove, hired attorney David Warren Peters of San Diego to defend him. Turns out, Peters was quite familiar with Mr. Jones. From a deposition taken in a 2004 ADA lawsuit:
Peters: "What is the exact nature of your disability?"
Jones: "Paralyzed from the waist down."
Peters: "Do you mind my asking how that happened?"
Jones: "Gunshot wound to the back."
Peters: "Were you committing a crime at the time?"
Jones: "Yes, I was."
Peters: "What sort of crime?"
Jones: "Attempted robbery."
In between questions, Jones' attorney objected, saying the circumstances weren't relevant. But Jones ultimately answered.
Peters says the criminal backgrounds of the plaintiffs are relevant because it goes to their veracity as victim-witnesses. In their complaints, they are swearing that they went to the particular business because they intended to patronize it (that is, they weren't "testers") but were unable to � or unable to do so equally with the able-bodied populace � because the business was inaccessible to people with disabilities.
In the case involving the above deposition, Jones was allegedly on his way from San Diego County to Las Vegas when he decided to stop at a Mexican restaurant located about two miles off the freeway in San Bernardino. Jones was unable to provide receipts or any other proof that he went to Las Vegas or San Bernardino the day he said he was there.
Jones' attorney did not return a call for comment.
Eight years ago, at the time of the deposition, Peters' law firm, which specializes in Disabilities Act defense, identified four felons who had filed at least 1,150 lawsuits. That number is surely dwarfed now; one felon in Northern California alone has filed 2,000, Peters says.
The $4,000 bounty has resulted in a perverted code-enforcement system that appears unique to Disabilities Act issues. Other codes are enforced by city building or fire departments. But with this law you have private individuals, some of them former crooks who are disabled � including at least one guy who became disabled while being a crook � serving as the enforcement arm on behalf of all the disabled. And getting paid well for it.
"It has made it more profitable than narcotics," Peters says. "On any afternoon, me and a handful of (disabled) friends could go out and make $50,000."
Nonetheless, Peters urged me to "be compassionate" about how I used the information about Jones. "Regardless of my concerns with Mr. Jones' credibility, I would not want to trade places with him, and (I) recognize that there are a number of very good people with disabilities frustrated by non-compliance."
Tomorrow: Nguyen and the Garden Grove Chamber of Commerce are going proactive.
Mickadeit writes Mon.-Fri. Contact him at 714-796-4994 or fmickadeit@ocregister

Massachusetts Electrical Code

mshields — Thu, 17 May 2012 13:10:41 GMT

This is actually a repost of one I posted yesterday in the Sawhorse section. I was advised that this was a better way to reach a broader audience. Anyway, here's my question:

I�ve got a Hospital client who is challenging me on the idea that his Emergency systems need to be in a two hour rated room. i.e. I�m saying they do, he�s saying that as per the 2011 MEC they don't need to be.

I started out confident that I was right. Now I�m not so sure.

I�m aware that the revisions to 700.10 (formerly 700.9) went under some major changes from 2008 to 2011 but had up until this point been under the impression that since the MA code replaced �Feeder circuit wiring� with �Emergency Systems� in paragragh (1), we still needed to have our Emergency Equipment in a 2 hour rated room.

But as I look at it more closely, I see that this only applies to buildings that fall into the categories described in 700.10(D). I further note that healthcare is not one of those categories and even for the categories that it does list, it�s only if those categories are high rises.

Am I reading this correctly, is the era of all Emergency System in MA being in a 2 hour rated rooms over. And am I 18 months behind the curve?