This website requires certain cookies to work and uses other cookies to help you have the best experience. By visiting this website, certain cookies have already been set, which you may delete and block. By closing this message or continuing to use our site, you agree to the use of cookies. Visit our updated privacy and cookie policy to learn more.
This Website Uses Cookies By closing this message or continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Learn MoreThis website requires certain cookies to work and uses other cookies to help you have the best experience. By visiting this website, certain cookies have already been set, which you may delete and block. By closing this message or continuing to use our site, you agree to the use of cookies. Visit our updated privacy and cookie policy to learn more.
Home » Probe Blames Fire Deaths On Conflicting Building Codes 10/11/2004
The 11-month study outlines 81 administrative failures that led to six deaths and 13 injuries in the "typical" office fire. "We were critical of just about everybody," says James Lee Witt, chairman of the eponymous Washington, D.C.-based firm that produced the study.
The report blames Illinois fire officials for underestimating their authority to enforce the state code in Chicago. It also faults the city for promulgating a fire code "less stringent" than the state code. "We strongly encourage that there be a harmonization of codes," says Ed Comeau, Witts operations chief.