New Rules For Fire Alarms And Sprinkler Systems Criticized

Some fire officials in Massachusetts are criticizing proposed new rules they fear would roll back requirements for fire alarm and sprinkler systems in some multi-unit residential buildings.

About 40 fire officials attended a meeting Tuesday of the Board of Building Regulations and Standards in Wellesley to oppose the draft white paper, which examines the cost and effectiveness of fire alarm and sprinkler systems in buildings with three to six units.

Critics say the paper singled out fire alarms and sprinklers as contributors to the high cost of housing in Massachusetts without providing evidence or taking into account the ability of sprinklers to save lives.

Board member Alexander MacLeod tells The Boston Globe the costs need to be addressed.

State Fire Marshal Stephen Coan called the paper ``seriously flawed.''