Chris-

Out of nothing but coincidence, my wife is an Otterbien Alum.

Anyway, your first line of defense is the Ohio Fire Code (BOCA for you folks
outside OH):

(3) F-402.3 Candles:
A person shall not utilize or allow to be utilized, any open flame, burning
candle or candles in connection with any public meeting or gathering for
purposes of deliberation, worship, entertainment, amusement, instruction,
education, recreation, awaiting transportation or similar purpose in
assembly or educational occupancies without first obtaining approval.

F-402.3.1 Egress:
Candles shall not be permitted in areas where occupants stand, or in an
aisle or exit.

As far as "approval", that belongs to the primary AHJ...I presume
Westerville FD...if they have no objection, then I suppose it is up to you.

Beyond that, you could also enforce the items on Open Burning.  From a code
standpoint it is a bit of stretch, but the definition of open burning is
wide enough that it seems to cover it.

If somebody were to press the issue further, Section 402.1 of the Ohio Fire
code makes it clear that any open flame or light (which a candle is) needs
to be in a glass globe or wire mesh cage.  Once you add those items, almost
all typical candles are out anyway.

Also, if you need to mount a stronger defense, go to NFPA's website.  I
believe they have some candle fire data.  It is really pretty harsh
statistically and should make a desire to ban or significantly limit use of
candles on campus pretty easy.

If you need anything else, feel free to give me a call

Good Luck

Paul E. Sincaglia, P.E.
Firesafety Solutions, Inc.
Chagrin Falls, OH
440.247.3770
[log in to unmask]

> -----Original Message-----
> From: International Association of Campus Fire Safety Officials
> [mailto:[log in to unmask]]On Behalf Of Chris Steiner
> Sent: Friday, April 06, 2001 9:06 AM
> To: [log in to unmask]
> Subject: Candle Policies & Procedures
>
>
> We are also mulling over a candle policy here at Otterbein, we have a
> small chapel here on campus, and have some people lobbying for candle
> use for religious gatherings. We also discussed this topic at the last
> meeting here in Columbus, where some administrators were allowing
> "responsible" and "mature" adults that lived on campus, have candles,
> but no students were allowed to have candles. I believe this is reckless
> policy. it only takes one mishap (unattended candle burning, someone
> tripping with candle in hand, etc...) to have tragic results!
> Any policies and suggestions you might have would be greatly
> appreciated, as i will print them and present them to our
> administrators.
> Thanks,
> Chris Steiner
> Safety & Security Officer
> Otterbein College
>