(A) Any commercial building that is protected by an automatic alarm system and/or sprinkler system, or access to, or within a structure, or an area on that property is unduly difficult because of secured openings, and where immediate access is necessary for lifesaving or firefighting purposes, the fire official may require a key box to be installed in an approved location. The same applies to automatic gate access. The box type shall be approved by the Fire Chief or his designee. The current approved lock box is the Knox Rapid Entry System Box 3200 or 4400 hinged door boxes, tamper switch is optional but not required. Reference: IFC code 506.1
(B) The key box shall contain:
(1) Keys to locked points of ingress whether on the interior or exterior of such buildings;
(2) Keys to locked mechanical equipment rooms;
(3) Keys to locked electrical rooms;
(4) Keys to elevator controls;
(5) Keys to other areas as directed by the fire official;
(6) Keys to post indicator valves controlling the water supply for fire sprinkler systems;
(7) Fire alarm control panels; and
(8) A map indicating location of alarm panels.
(C) The owner, operator, lessee, or responsible party shall immediately notify the Fire Inspector and provide the new key when a lock is changed or re-keyed. The key to such lock shall be secured in the key box.
(D) Alert decals, supplied by the Knox Co., to alert fire companies to the presence of security features covered by this chapter, shall be displayed on the upper right corner of outside doors or windows nearest the Knox Box as designated by the fire official.
(E) This section is intended to apply to any new or existing commercial structures within the city. All existing buildings shall comply with this section and, the Fire Inspector is instructed to meet with all existing commercial structure owners or occupants for the purpose of informing them of the public health, safety and welfare benefits of the establishment of a key box on their premises. This will be done at the time the inspections are performed.
(Ord. 6569, passed 12-8-08) Penalty, see § 94.99