Appeal 34775

3308.3.1 Prefile plan #2 and 3304.5 Fire watch

1. 3308.3.1 Prefire Plan #2 - On-site after-hours security.
2. 3304.5 – Fire Watch: A fire watch must be provided during nonworking hours for

new construction exceeding 40 feet in height, as required by the fire code official.

The intent of this appeal is to request approval for an alternate method of fire watch by implementing a monitored video surveillance system with motion and heat detection in lieu of a full-time on-site fire watch during nonworking hours.

The affordable housing development site is located on a site bounded by private
residences on the South & West, with N. Alberta Street and N. Williams Avenue on the North and East respectively.
In lieu of a full-time on-site Fire Watch during non-working hours as required by PFC 3304.5, the project proposes to implement a comprehensive video surveillance system with the following features:

1. Video Surveillance and Detection: The site will be equipped with video cameras featuring infrared and thermal / heat detection. These cameras will be actively

monitored off-site by a contracted security monitoring company during all nonworking hours.

1. Alert and Escalation Protocol: Upon detecting motion or thermal changes, the

system will trigger an audible alert locally and at the monitoring company. The
monitoring staff will assess live footage in real-time and immediately notify the
Contractor of any suspicious activity.

1. On-Call Response: If the activity is confirmed as unauthorized, the Contractor

will investigate and notify the Portland Police if necessary. Any observed smoke or
fire will result in immediate notification to the Portland Fire Bureau.

1. Site Patrols and Access Control: In addition to camera monitoring, the site will

be enclosed by a full perimeter fence with locked gates during nonworking hours.

1. Documentation and Reporting: All alerts, responses, and observed incidents will

be documented and retained in a report log accessible to the Fire Marshal upon
request.

This alternate design provides continuous fire safety monitoring and rapid emergency response capability, aligning with the intent of PFC 3304.5 while offering a practical and secure solution suited to the project conditions.

This alternate approach provides continuous real-time monitoring and immediate
emergency response, meeting the intent of PFC 3304.5 without requiring a full-time on-site fire watch. As this is an affordable housing development, the proposed method helps ensure life safety while avoiding financial burden on the project.