Open Flame and Hazardous Liquids Policy

Policy Statement

The use of candles, incense, open flames and flammable liquids on Georgia College campuses are generally prohibited. The unauthorized possession of candles, incense, open flame-producing devices and flammable or combustible liquids may result in the confiscation of the item and removal of the individual or disciplinary action for employees.

Definitions

Open Burning

The burning of materials wherein products of combustion are emitted directly into the ambient air without passing through a stack or chimney from an enclosed chamber. Examples include but are not limited to: campfires, bon fires, and fire pits.

Open Flame

Any candles, torches, lanterns, sparklers, butane burners or other object that incorporates fire.

Open Flame and Open Flame Devices

For the purpose of this Policy, Open Flame and Open Flame Devices shall include but are not limited to candles, torches and lanterns. 

Keywords

Candles

Combustible Liquids

Fire

Flames

Flammable Liquids

Grills

Incense

Torches

Reason for this Policy

Candles, incense, open flames, and flammable liquids all present a significant fire hazard which may cause injury, loss of life and loss of property.  This Policy aims to provide permissible use of open flame in exterior spaces on Georgia College property.

Proposed Outcome

This Policy aims to establish the process for the use of open flames within the University community. 

Applicability of the Policy

This Policy applies to all facilities leased and owed by Georgia College.

Related Policies

Georgia College Facility Use Policy

Procedures

I.  Request for Temporary Exception

1. Any student/faculty/staff or guest group seeking approval for a temporary exception to this policy (for a specific event, such as a candlelight vigil), must first attain written approval from the Office of Environmental Health and Safety & Fire Safety.
2. Specific times, dates, and locations will be needed to attain this permission, as well as an explanation of the event, the purpose of the open flame to the event, and location of fire extinguishers and/or other safety precautions.
3. Approval or denial of a request will be based on possible safety hazards as determined by the Office of Environmental Health and Safety & Fire Safety.
   1. Such approval or denial will be provided within 48 hours.

II. Exceptions to the Open Flame Prohibition

1. The following are exempted from the requirements of this policy:
   1. Outdoor cooking operations where propane and charcoal are used in a safe manner. Ashes, cinders and coals shall be disposed of in an approved manner.
   2. Indoor and outdoor use of Sterno, for the purpose of warming foods. Such use should be maintained and operated in an approved manner.  
   3. Laboratory flame producing equipment.
   4. University-provided outdoor grills.  Materials needed for grilling (charcoal, lighter fluid, etc.) may not be stored in Georgia College Housing facilities.
   5. Maintenance activities.
2. This does not apply to the Freedom Flame, Veteran’s Memorial Flame, and the Centennial Olympic Column which when lighted are monitored by university personnel.

III. Non-Compliance

1. Failure to comply with the requirements of this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination or expulsion in accordance with relevant University policies and may result in prosecution in accordance with state and federal law.

Forms

Use of Open Flame Request Form

Creation Date:  April 2018

Revision Date:July 18, 2019

Last Reviewed Date: May 15, 2020

Next Review Date: April 2022

Responsible Department:  EHS & Fire Safety

Cabinet Approval Date: July 2018

Effective Date: July 2018