Job Specification 06362
FIRE OFFICIAL/ FIRE PROTECTION SUBCODE OFFICIAL, UFD
FIRE OFFICIAL
DEFINITION
Under direction administers and directs the enforcement of
provisions of relevant fire safety codes and related regulations,
establishes day-to-day operating routines of the code enforcement
agency, and coordinates and supervises activities of any fire
safety specialists or other staff employed by the agency; does
related work as required.
NOTE: The definition and examples of work for this title are for
illustrative purposes only. A particular position using this
title may not perform all duties listed in this job
specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may
not be listed.
EXAMPLES OF WORK:
Inspects or directs the inspection of various structures and
premises for the purpose of ascertaining and causing to be
corrected any conditions liable to cause fire, contribute to the
spread of fire, interfere with fire operations, endanger life, or
for any violations of the provisions or intent of the New Jersey
Uniform Fire Code or any other law, rules, or regulations
affecting fire safety.
Investigates or causes to be investigated every reported fire or
explosion occurring within the jurisdiction that involves loss of
life or injury or causes destruction or damage to property.
If it appears that such an occurrence is of suspicious nature,
takes charge immediately of physical evidence, and to preserve
any physical evidence relating to the cause or origin of such
fire or explosion, takes the steps necessary to prevent access by
any person or persons to such building, structure, or premises
until such persons designated by law to pursue investigations
into such matters become involved, and cooperates with such
authorities in the collection of evidence and prosecution of the
case.
Keeps a record of all reported fires in life hazard use
structures and all facts concerning same including investigation
findings and information as to the cause, origin, and extent of
such fires and the deaths, injuries, and damage caused thereby.
Whenever the following dangerous or hazardous conditions or
materials are found in any structure or on any premises, orders
such conditions or materials to be removed or remedied in accord
with provisions of the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code or any other
law, rules, or regulations affecting fire safety:
1. Dangerous conditions which are liable to cause or
contribute to the spread of fire in or on said premises,
building, or structure, or endanger occupants thereof.
2. Conditions which would interfere with efficiency and use
of any fire protection equipment.
3. Obstructions to or on fire escapes, stairs, passageways,
doors, or windows, liable to interfere with egress of occupants
or operation of the fire department in case of fire.
4. Accumulations of dust or waste material in air
conditioning or ventilating systems or grease in kitchen or
other exhaust ducts.
5. Accumulations of grease on kitchen cooking equipment or
oil, grease, or dirt on, under, or around any mechanical
equipment.
6. Accumulations of rubbish, waste, paper, boxes, shavings,
or other combustible materials, or excessive storage of any
combustible material.
7. Hazardous conditions arising from defective or
improperly used or installed electrical wiring, equipment, or
appliances.
8. Hazardous conditions arising from defective or
improperly installed equipment for handling or use of
combustible, explosive, or otherwise hazardous materials.
9. Dangerous or unlawful amounts of combustible, explosive,
or otherwise hazardous materials.
10. All equipment, materials, processes, or operations
which are in violation of provisions and intent of the Code.
Prepares a written notice of violations describing the condition
deemed unsafe and specifies the time limit for required repairs
or improvements to be made to render the building, structure, or
premises safe and secure.
May grant extensions of time when it is determined that, despite
diligent effort, compliance cannot be accomplished within the
time specified in the notice.
If the notice of violation is not complied with within time
periods specified, institutes appropriate enforcement proceedings
to restrain, correct, or abate such violation or to require
removal or termination of the unlawful use of the building or
structure in violation of provisions of the Code or other related
directive or regulation.
Conducts hearings, assesses penalties, and sets and collects
fines for violations of fire regulations.
Ensures that all life hazard use structures are inspected in
accord with the schedule established by the Code.
Ensures that notices of violations are served whenever
inspections reveal violations.
Ensures that permit applications are available and assists the
public in preparing them when necessary.
Reviews all permit applications for completeness as to form.
Ensures that the inspection required for issuance of a permit is
performed in a timely manner.
Ensures that no activity or use which requires a permit is
carried out without one.
Ensures that all life hazard use structures are registered.
Assists the state when requested with any registration survey.
Coordinates activities with the fire subcode official where the
work to be performed, to comply with the fire safety code,
requires a construction permit.
Collects all fees and penalties due the local enforcing agency
and ensures that they are properly accounted for.
Ensures that all requests for variances are properly prepared,
documented, and approved or denied in a timely manner.
Ensures that all appeals are promptly referred to the
Construction Code Board of Appeals.
Records all notices of violation and determines the amount of all
penalties for noncompliance.
Ensures that a report of every inspection is completed and
properly filed.
Takes reasonable measure to determine when imminent hazards exist
and enforce the law as provided for by the Code.
Files such reports as the state may from time to time require.
Supervises the work of any assigned enforcement personnel to
ensure completeness and accuracy.
Ensures that any agency staff members requiring certification
possess such certification.
Ensures that procedures of the local enforcing agency conform to
requirements of the Code and regulations.
Prepares and obtains reports required by regulations.
Attends meetings and hearings as required by the Code and
regulations.
Coordinates activities of the local enforcing agency with other
code enforcement agencies and state agencies having a related
interest or responsibility.
Responds to and causes to be investigated any complaints brought
under the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code.
May confer with and speak before civic, school, and community
organizations and groups concerning fire prevention methods.
May plan and direct a public relations program to present the
need for and encourage the use of fire prevention methods among
community residents.
May direct a public information and education program designed to
improve fire safety measures in the home, office buildings,
industrial and commercial structures, and other locations.
May confer with public officials or civic representatives to
improve fire safety education programs.
May give talks and demonstrations before adults and/or children
on methods for ensuring proper use of fire safety procedures in
the home, school, or other buildings.
Will be required to learn to utilize various types of electronic
and/or manual recording and computerized information systems used
by the agency, office, or related units.
REQUIREMENTS:
EXPERIENCE:
Five (5) years of experience in one or more of the areas
indicated below or some combination thereof: (1) as a
firefighter in a paid or volunteer fire company, and/or (2) in
the inspection of buildings to detect fire hazards and to enforce
fire safety codes and regulations, and/or (3) in the
investigation of fires to determine their cause, and/or (4) in
the inspection of the construction of buildings and the review of
building construction plans and specifications to ensure
compliance with fire protection codes and regulations, and/or (5)
in the installation of fire protection equipment.
LICENSE: AND CERTIFICATE
Possession of a current and valid fire official certificate
issued by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs.
Appointees will be required to possess a driver's license valid
in New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than
employee mobility, is necessary to perform the essential duties
of the position.
KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of fire prevention measures required in residential,
commercial, industrial, and public buildings.
Knowledge of administration and enforcement of fire codes.
Knowledge of laws, rules, and regulations concerning all types of
fire prevention measures.
Knowledge of the fire safety system of buildings and uses
including but not limited to means of egress, fire suppression
systems, fire alarm systems, and methods for limiting the flame
spread, flammability, or combustibility of materials.
Knowledge of safe use and maintenance of facilities, buildings,
and uses of such structures which are subject to the New Jersey
Uniform Fire Code.
Knowledge of safe handling, storage, and use of materials which
pose a fire hazard.
Knowledge of provisions of the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code and
regulations.
Knowledge of supervision and management techniques needed to
effectively manage a large staff of field personnel.
Knowledge of operation and maintenance of smoke detectors and
types of smoke detectors and alarms available.
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures used in
organizational analyses and program management.
Knowledge of principles and practices of fire safety and
protection systems including limitations, types, operation,
maintenance, and installation.
Knowledge of methods for handling and storing hazardous
materials.
Knowledge of means of egress requirements including exit access,
exit discharge, and exit signs.
Knowledge of methods and administrative and operational
procedures applied to ensure the timely inspection and
reinspection of life hazard use structures and highrise buildings
required by the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code and regulations.
Knowledge of methods of preparing inspection reports.
Knowledge of procedures involved in amending technical
requirements and in promulgating needed administrative rules and
regulations.
Ability to apply provisions under the Uniform Construction Code
Act, Hotel and Multiple Dwelling Law, and Rooming and Boarding
House Act, and their relation to the Uniform Fire Safety Act.
Ability to organize assigned fire prevention and safety field
inspections and investigative work.
Ability to make required field visits, inspections, and
investigations.
Ability to conduct hearings and assess penalties.
Ability to maintain essential records and files.
Ability to give appropriate assignments, instructions, and
supervision to employees.
Ability to comprehend and interpret basic laws and regulations
pertaining to fire safety, protection, and prevention.
Ability to recognize existing and potential fire safety hazards,
call these to the attention of the persons concerned, and prepare
detailed reports.
Ability to establish cooperative work relationships with tenants,
owners, municipal officials, and others interested in or
concerned with enforcement of laws relating to fire safety.
Ability to estimate time required to abate violations and
establish realistic deadlines by which owners must complete
abatement of violations.
Ability to supervise the establishment and maintenance of
essential records and files.
Ability to prepare extensive, detailed, and technical
correspondence in the course of official duties.
Ability to prepare or supervise preparation of detailed narrative
and statistical reports containing findings, conclusions, and
recommendations.
Ability to act as a witness in hearings and court procedures and
give testimony under oath.
Ability to learn to utilize various types of electronic and/or
manual recording and information systems used by the agency,
office, or related units.
Ability to read, write, speak, understand, or communicate in
English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position.
American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as
acceptable forms of communication.
Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligible as long
as they can perform the essential functions of the job after
reasonable accommodation is made to their known limitations. If
the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the
employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible.
CODES: LG-06350 CAH 7/1/96
This job specification is for local government use only.
FIRE PROTECTION SUBCODE OFFICIAL, UFD
DEFINITION
Under direction of the Construction Official, is
responsible for administering the fire protection subcode of the
State Uniform Construction Code within the concerned
jurisdiction; inspects
and/or supervises the inspection of construction projects under
way to ensure that compliance with plans and specifications for
fire protection approved in accord with State Uniform
Construction Code is achieved; when necessary responds to fire
alarms and participates in extinguishing fires; does other
related duties.
NOTE: The examples of work for this title are for illustrative
purposes only. A particular position using this title may not
perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely,
all duties performed on the job may not be listed.
EXAMPLES OF WORK:
Reviews and approves plans of proposed structures, as provided in
the Uniform Construction Code regulations, for conformity with
the fire protection subcode.
Has charge of the fire protection inspection staff and activities
concerned in the inspection of construction projects.
Develops the inspection work program with effective and
appropriate procedures, analyzes fire protection inspection
problems, and establishes appropriate work methods.
Has the final responsibility in the inspection for fire
protection compliance of all new construction and renovation
projects.
Supervises the work operations and/or functional programs and has
responsibility for effectively recommending the hiring, firing,
promoting, demoting, and/or disciplining of employees.
Gives appropriate assignments, instruction, and supervision to
fire protection inspectors and clerical employees.
Inspects, evaluates, and supervises the inspection of
construction work in projects under way to ensure that all work
installed conforms to the requirements of the approved plans and
the fire protection
subcode and the regulations of the New Jersey Uniform
Construction Code.
Has the responsibility in supervising the code compliance for the
fire protection subcode of all construction and contractors to
ensure that required standards are observed in accord with
approved plans and specifications.
Takes the initiative in halting construction work by contractors
when and if reasonable standards of workmanship and safety and
plans, specifications and/or legal requirements are not being
observed.
Collects and records permit and other fees, and verifies that
required prior approvals have been obtained and is responsible
for ensuring that these actions are in accord with the
regulations for the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code.
Establishes and maintains cooperative working relationships with
architects, engineers, and construction personnel as required.
Reviews construction to ensure that all materials, methods, and
assemblies conform to the standards referenced by the code and
manufacturers installation directions as well as other matters
not shown in a set of plans but required for conformity with the
code.
Issues on site warnings, citations, and stop work orders in cases
of serious violations of the adopted subcode or regulations,
which might endanger the health, safety, and/or welfare of the
public or
building occupants.
Prepares and supervises the preparation of recommendations
regarding both temporary and final certificates of occupancy.
Prepares and supervises the preparation of violation reports.
Testifies in court and in administrative hearings.
Prepares inspection reports showing the progress of work on each
project relative to construction code compliance, weather
conditions, and the percentage of the project completed.
Maintains and supervises the maintenance of the records, reports,
and files required to show the details of each project inspected.
Establishes inspection schedules for fire protection inspection
staff and ensures that all buildings being constructed or
renovated are inspected at critical points during the course of
construction as provided for in regulations for the Uniform
Construction Code.
Identifies, inspects, and supervises the inspection of the
placement of materials being incorporated in the construction and
renovation of buildings located within the jurisdiction to ensure
that they conform to the approved plans and that they meet the
necessary performance standards established in the regulations
for the Uniform Construction Code and the fire protection
subcode.
Serves subpoenas and other legal process notices including
notices of violations of the Uniform Construction Code and fire
protection subcode.
Assists the construction official in the preparation of all
reports.
Prepares correspondence.
Participates in fire drills and other training courses.
Responds to fire alarms and drives or accompanies fire apparatus
and assists other uniformed personnel in extinguishing fires.
Operates and uses fire hoses and other fire fighting equipment
and apparatus.
Performs special duty at theaters, schools, and other public
gatherings to help maintain proper fire precautionary measures.
Responds to calls concerning bomb threats and conducts bomb
searches.
Inspects the condition of fire protection apparatus in public and
private buildings.
Inspects fire hydrants. Performs rescue work.
Pumps out cellars.
Receives fire alarms and notifies proper fire company.
Maintains records and files.
Will be required to learn to utilize various types of electronic
and/or manual recording and information systems used by the
agency, office, or related units.
REQUIREMENTS:
NOTE: Positions in this class may be filled through
promotion examination procedures only. Candidates must meet those
requirements and qualifications for promotion specified in
Department of Personnel law, rules, and regulations.
EDUCATION:
Graduation from High School, Vocational High School, or
possession of an approved High School Equivalency Certificate.
AGE:
Not less than 18 years of age.
LICENSE:
Possession of a valid license as a Fire Protection Subcode
Official of the appropriate grade, issued by the New Jersey
Department of Community Affairs. There are two (2) licenses
issued based on the class of structure to be reviewed, industrial
and commercial (ICS), or high-rise and hazardous (HHS). The
responsibility for ensuring that the employee possesses the
appropriate level of license, commensurate
with the type of structures inspected, rests with the Appointing
Authority.
Appointees will be required to possess a driver's license
valid in New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle rather
than employee mobility, is necessary to perform the essential
duties of the position.
MEDICAL EXAMINATION
As a prerequisite for appointment, appointees may be
required to pass a thorough medical and psychiatric examination
to be administered by the appointing authority. Any
psychological, medical
or physical condition or defect which would prevent efficient
performance of the duties of the position, cause the appointee to
be a hazard to himself/herself or others, or become aggravated as
a result of performance of these duties will be cause for
rejection.
KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:
There are two (2) classes of licenses, which are cumulative in
terms of knowledge and abilities. The basic license (RCS)
comprises the core knowledge and abilities for this title:
Knowledge of the laws, rules, and regulations concerning all
types of fire protection measures.
Knowledge of the organization and content of the Uniform
Construction Code regulations.
Knowledge of the organization and content of the fire protection
subcode and its background, purpose, history, place in local
government structure, and relation to construction code
enforcement programs at other levels of government.
Knowledge of classification of structures into class categories.
Knowledge of systems design and installation practices required
by the uniform construction code and/or its referenced standards
for active and passive fire suppression, fire detection, and fire
alarm systems sufficient to permit the review of plans to
determine the adequacy of the systems.
Knowledge of basic fire protection requirements.
Knowledge of height and area limitations.
Knowledge of fire resistance ratings of structural components,
arrangement, sizing, and protection means of egress.
Knowledge of flame spread and smoke generated requirements.
Knowledge of combustibility of materials.
Knowledge of requirements for installation of fire detection,
alarm, and suppression systems.
Knowledge of chimneys, flues, and vents.
Knowledge of heating equipment and appliances.
Knowledge of basic plan reading sufficient to perform the duties
of the position.
Knowledge of testing methods, agencies, and test verification
procedures incorporated in the code for combustibility and flame
spread of materials.
Knowledge of the use of basic inspection tools and test methods.
Knowledge of the construction process for smaller buildings and
the points at which inspection must be made.
Knowledge of basic inspection report writing including the
preparation of violation notices and required inspection record
keeping.
Knowledge of the office procedures for inspectors, including form
and records used and purpose of each.
Knowledge of methods of establishing proper review and approval
of permit applications for compliance with construction code and
applicable laws and ordinances.
Knowledge of legal aspects of code enforcement.
Knowledge of the purpose and fundamentals of stop orders, notices
of penalty, and court action.
Knowledge of the powers and procedures available to deal with
hazardous conditions and emergency situations including emergency
work orders, bids, and quotations process.
Knowledge of the procedures for processing cases involving
condemnations and other violations of the subcode from initiation
through final compliance.
Knowledge of preparation of case records.
Knowledge of situations requiring a warrant and process of
obtaining and issuing the warrant.
Knowledge of the administrative hearings process under the State
Uniform Construction Code Act.
Knowledge of the legal aspects of the operations of the enforcing
agencies, including legal processes and rules of evidence.
Knowledge of legal responsibilities of inspection personnel.
Knowledge of methods of appealing hearing decisions to court,
legal basis of doing so and knowledge of related legislation.
Knowledge of the laws and ordinances which are significant from
the fire fighting point of view.
Knowledge of the methods likely to be effective in fighting
various types of fires.
Knowledge of the varied kinds of fire fighting equipment and
apparatus.
Knowledge of the location of schools, large buildings, streets,
and fire alarm boxes in the municipality.
Knowledge of the types of fire alarm communications that are
useful and feasible in the fire department.
Knowledge of the procedures likely to be effective in enlisting
the support of citizens and others in taking fire precautionary
measures.
Knowledge of the material requirements found in the electrical
code.
Knowledge of the proper installation methods for all approved
materials.
Knowledge of the relationship of fire prevention codes which
regulate the use and occupancy of industrial and commercial
buildings, and fire protection codes which regulate their
construction.
Knowledge of fire prevention code provisions, enforcement
procedures, and objectives including the protection of places of
assembly.
Knowledge of the fire prevention code regulatory process which
will ensure an understanding of the manner in which those fire
hazards not regulation by the construction code can be regulated
in the interest
of public safety and fire protection.
Knowledge of the information pertaining to structural,
architectural, mechanical, fire protection, and electrical
features of buildings which must be shown on the plans to ensure
compliance with requirements of the code.
Knowledge of analysis methods needed to ensure that fire
protection elements of buildings depicted on plans do in fact
conform to code requirements.
Knowledge of field inspection and controlled inspection
techniques necessary to ensure that the materials installed at
the construction site are of the appropriate strength and
quality. Ability to review plans to determine the adequacy of
fire alarm systems.
Ability to analyze and interpret the Uniform Construction Code,
the fire protection subcode, and other laws, rules, regulations,
and policies applicable to fire protection.
Ability to carry out the provisions of the Uniform Construction
Code and fire protection subcode as they relate to residential
and small commercial structures.
Ability to review fire protection provisions of plans and
specifications prepared by others for accuracy and conformity.
Ability to give assignments and instructions to individuals and
groups, provide them with advice and assistance when difficult
and unusual problems arise, and check their work to see that
proper procedures are followed.
Ability to work effectively with other municipal unit heads and
with private contractors and architects.
Ability to make thorough investigations, inspections, and
investigations containing findings, conclusions, and
recommendations.
Ability to maintain records and files.
Ability to prosecute violations of the fire protection subcode by
appearing in court.
Ability to remain cool and decisive in emergency situations.
Ability to take immediate and correct action when a fire alarm is
sounded.
Ability to recognize approved materials found in the electrical
code.
Ability to understand the standards and test methods which lead
to approval.
Ability to ensure that all materials are installed in accord with
proper methods.
The highest level license (HHS) incorporates all knowledge and
abilities previously listed, and these following:
Knowledge of fire protection material requirements established by
the code including testing and listed procedures, and an
understanding of test methods.
Knowledge of code requirements related to fire divisions in
buildings exceeding the height and area limitations established
in the code.
Knowledge of code requirements related to unlimited area
buildings.
Knowledge of design analysis methods needed to ensure that fire
protection elements of buildings depicted on plans do in fact
conform to code requirements.
Ability to read, understand, and interpret test reports for both
active and passive fire protection requirements of systems of the
type required to be incorporated in class I buildings.
Ability to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual
recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or
related units.
Ability to read, write, speak, understand, and communicate in
English sufficiently to perform duties of this position. American
Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as acceptable
forms of communication.
Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligible as long
as they can perform essential functions of the job after
reasonable accommodation is made to their known limitations. If
the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the
employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible.
CODES: LG-06037 CAH 4/30/99
This job specification is for local government use only.
TITLE CODE FOR DUAL TITLE: LG: 06362
This job specification is for local government use only.
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