[Tang-residents] HOLIDAY SEASON 2005

[Michael Collins]

HOLIDAY SEASON 2005


SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR HOLIDAY DECORATIONS AND FUNCTIONS

The Environmental Health and Safety Office (EH&S) has in place the 
following guidelines for holiday decorations and functions in all Institute 
buildings.   By following the below guidelines our residence halls will 
remain safe over the holiday season.

HOLIDAY TREES, WREATHS, BOUGHS, GREENERY,
AND OTHER DECORATIONS

Types Permitted
Artificial trees, wreaths, boughs, greenery, and other decorations labeled 
as flame retardant and that are UL listed or classified are 
permitted.  Non-combustible decorations are also permitted.  Artificial 
trees may be metallic or non-metallic.

Types Not Permitted
Natural trees (cut or alive), natural wreaths, boughs, or greenery are not 
permitted in Campus buildings or residence halls.

Flammable decorations such as natural greens, straw, crepe paper, 
streamers, and surface coverings are prohibited.  Flammable decorations are 
also prohibited in corridors, stairways, lobbies, and student residential 
rooms.  The use of greeting cards, wrapping paper, and streamers to 
decorate exit corridor walls is prohibited.

Locations Permitted
Artificial trees and related decorations permitted above are allowed in 
offices, enclosed lounges, student rooms and other non-public areas not 
excluded below.

Locations Not Permitted
Artificial trees and related decorations are not permitted in corridors, 
aisles, stairways, or passageways. They must not obstruct an exit or narrow 
a pathway to the exit.  Trees are not permitted in public assembly areas or 
laboratories.  Trees and related decorations are not allowed to obstruct 
the usual view of exit signs.

ELECTRICAL DECORATIONS

Trees Lights
Only UL approved lights rated for use on artificial trees are to be 
used.  Larger tree lights normally used on natural trees generate enough 
heat to melt plastic and ignite decorations. Miniature or "twinkle" lights 
are preferred.  Remote spotlights are recommended for use with metal trees 
to avoid an electrical shock hazard.  The use of holiday lights, electric 
ornaments, and extension cords in corridors and over exit doors are prohibited.

ACCESSORY CORDS
Extension cords for temporary use only for the holiday season should not be 
used in a way that will create a fire, tripping, or electrical hazard.  The 
cords must be UL listed, be a minimum of 16 gauge wire (this excludes #l8 
lamp wire), and properly plugged into a wall outlet.


OPEN FLAMES AND HEAT SOURCES
The use of candles or any type of open flames for lighting, or decorative 
purposes are prohibited.   All decorations should be kept a safe distance 
or be shielded from sources of heat such as radiators, light bulbs, desk 
lamps, dryers, and heating appliances.

FIREPLACES
If prior approval has been given for their use, fireplaces should only be 
used according to the operating guidelines.

The following information will provide guidelines on how to conduct holiday 
functions and similar festive events safely and in accordance with city and 
state laws:

General
The quickest and easiest way to ensure that appropriate guidelines and 
approvals are obtained for decorations or events is to start 
locally.   Contact your department administration, House Manager, or 
student group advisors for information on what is required and where to 
begin to seek the required approvals for your event.  Start the planning 
early to allow time to make adjustments or obtain city permits if required.

The following are some of the most common items to be considered 
for  events within the residence halls.
1. Never block, hide, or disguise an exit
2. Keep exits free and clear from combustibles and obstructions
3. Decorations or furnishings must not constrict or obstruct corridors
4. Never place combustibles in corridors, lobbies, or on corridor walls
5. All exits should have illuminated exit signs
6. Large amounts of plastics, Styrofoam, and polyurethane forms must not be 
used for decorations or furnishings in public assemblies, corridors, 
stairways, or lobbies.  Limited amounts may be permissible.
7. Fabrics and other combustibles should not be hung from ceiling
8. Fabrics such as curtains, drapes, furniture coverings, floor coverings, 
must be fire retardant in public areas.  A certificate of flame proofing is 
required
9. Exotic lighting or unusual visual effects utilizing lasers or other 
unusual optical devices must be approved for use by your House Manager.
10. Avoid the use of decorations with sharp edges or corners
11. The use of flash pots, smudge pots, pyrophoric materials, or fire 
works, of any kind for recreation, art, or entertainment is  strictly 
prohibited
12. The use of existing conduit, cables, or piping to hang items or 
equipment is prohibited.
13. Gasoline, propane, or other internal combustion  engines are not 
permitted in the buildings.
14. Temporary wiring such as extension cords and multiple outlet strips 
must be approved by your House Manager for safety use with lighting or 
sound equipment and lighted decorations
15. Combustible materials should be kept at a safe distance or be shielded 
from sources of heat such as radiators or light bulbs

Best Wishes for a Safe and Happy Holiday Season.


Michael Collins
Manager
Tang Residence Hall
Westgate Apartments
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Housing Department
W84-104   617-253-5146
collinsm at mit.edu