R.I. Extending Deadline for Nightclubs to Install Fire Sprinklers

A number of nightclubs have received extensions on the July 1 deadline for installing sprinklers.

Sprinklers and fire alarms are required at many nightclubs in an upgrade of the state fire code following the 2003 Station nightclub fire that killed 100 people in West Warwick.

Nightclubs with capacities of over 300 had until July 1, 2005, to put in sprinklers. Those that hold between 150 and 299 guests have until this July 1 to comply with the sprinkler requirement. Smaller clubs are exempt.

The Fire Safety Code Board of Appeal and Review granted half a dozen clubs extensions yesterday. Board Chairman George Farrell said it has been regularly granting 120-day extensions to businesses that are willing to fix code violations and update their fire safety equipment but need more time.

“We have had a number of people having trouble getting a sprinkler construction company because of the amount of work being done,” Farrell said.

The board has given a blanket extension of October to large banquet facilities.