Floor Finishing

Fire Safety Education
  • Starting June 1st 2010 A permit is required from the head of the fire department prior to engaging in floor finishing while using flammable liquids.  
  • The exception is for residential buildings containing three units or less as long as a written notification is forwarded to the fire department at least 48 hours in advance of commencing work.  
  • Most of the consumer grade polyurethanes are combustible, not flammable.  Use of these or use of water-based floor refinishing products does not require notification to or a permit from the fire department.  Look on the label to see if the product is flammable or combustible. Professional grade products are more likely to be flammable and therefore do require a permit.
  • This law is CMR527 10:15 which prior to June 1st 2010 applied only to bowling alleys and other commercial occupancies. As a result of some recent fires and deaths this law now applies to some residential occupancies. The law outlines precautions that should be taken to reduce the risk of a fire or an explosion.

These consist of, but are not limited to:

  • Remove all ignition sources
  • Post warning signs
  • Do not smoke in or near the building
  • Properly store of all supplies (especially flammable liquids)
  • Properly discard all waste materials( such as wood dust and rags)
  • Properly hook up equipment to the electrical supply( do not hot wire directly to the panel)
     

If you have any questions or concerns contact your local fire department.