Building Codes and Inspections/apartment door mailslots

Advertisement


Question
My job as a maintenance associate with a large reality company requires me to seal off all the mail slots on the tenant doors as now we have a mailroom in the building. The local fire department has given us 90 days to complete this task. They also require that when complete, the doors can withstand 20 minutes of fire rating code.  Could you suggest the most cost effective and time managed way of completing this?  Thank you

Answer
The problem with mail slot in doors is that it violates the door's rating. Once the rating is compromised, replacing the door is the fastest and best solution unless you can find a rated mail slot assembly to install. Choose your solution and get approval from the fire department prior to making the changes to be sure your solution is acceptable. Restoring the rating of the exit access corridors will improve building safety for occupants.

Building Codes and Inspections

All Answers


Answers by Expert:


Ask Experts

Volunteer


Keith Fuller

Expertise

I'm an ICC Certified Master Code Professional fielding general building code questions. My experience has been heavy in fire related issues.

Experience

I've been employed since 1985 as an inspector and plan reviewer, and am a municipal Assistant Building Official and Deputy fire Marshal. I've had fire service experience since 1972, having served as a three time Fire Chief and Fire Marshal in years past. The increasing workload, mandatory certifications, and continuing education requirements in recent years have caused me to concentrate my efforts on code related issues. I hold national fire service certifications as well.

Education/Credentials
ICC Master Code Professional

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.