It has been shown that smoke detectors are of a significant value in
the preservation of public safety and welfare in places occupied by human
beings and should be required to be installed in multiple dwellings and commercial
and industrial structures.
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings
indicated:
APPROVED DETECTORS
Any battery-powered, alternating-current-powered or combination battery-powered/alternating-current-powered
ionization- or photoelectric-type detector that bears the approval stamp or
mark of Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc., or other recognized testing laboratory.
APPROVED MANNER
That the unit or units are positioned or located and installed per
the manufacturer's instructions. Approved wiring shall be as prescribed by
the New York Board of Fire Underwriters.
SMOKE DETECTOR
Any device designed and tested for the express purpose of detecting
products of combustion, either visible or invisible, and bearing the mark
or stamp of approval of Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc., or other nationally
recognized testing laboratory.
SPRINKLER SYSTEM
A system of water supply, distribution and application appurtenances
designed, tested and installed in strict accordance with the New York State
Fire Prevention Code.
Maintenance of smoke detectors shall be the responsibility of the building
owner or his agent, in accordance with the following provisions:
A. Battery-powered smoke detectors shall have new batteries
installed therein in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications.
B. Necessary maintenance or replacement of smoke detectors
shall be the responsibility of the building owner or his agent; provided,
however, that the renter or lessee notify the building owner or his agent
of the need for such maintenance or replacement.
C. The building owner or his agent shall assume no liability
in the event that any unauthorized person, renter or lessee tampers with,
attempts to repair or damages any smoke detector so as to render it inoperative.
Smoke detectors required by this chapter shall be installed and operational
in all affected buildings by not later than 18 months after the adoption of
this chapter.
The building owner or his agent shall be required to certify that smoke
detectors have been installed in accordance with this chapter. Such written
certification shall be furnished to the Fire Commissioner twice a year, on
December 31 and June 30 of each and every year. The Fire Commissioner and
his duly appointed representatives shall have the right to inspect annually
any building which is required to be in compliance with this chapter.