Painted Theater Curtains

[Michele Pagan <michele_johnpagan@xxxxxxxxx>]

There has recently been some discussion on the list
about fire safety as it relates to historic scenery.

Since its inception in 2002, the Vermont Painted
Theater Curtain Project has included common sense fire
safety suggestions for curtain owners along with its
treatment reports, and we are pleased that the
National Fire Safety Board has now incorporated our
suggestions into the following amendment to their Life
Safety Standards:
>
11.2.4:  Fire-retardant treatment of historically
significant fabric shall not be required where such
treatment will cause damage to the fabric.  This
provision shall apply only on an object-by-object
basis
and where alternative protection measures are
approved.
>
Appendix 11.2.4
>
Where historically significant artifacts such as
painted stage drops, tapestries and antique flags are
displayed in public gathering places there is a need
to balance fire and life safety requirements with the
preservation needs of the artifacts.  Life Safety
Standards including NFPA #101 Life Safety Code mandate
fire retardant treatments for fabrics that are used in
gathering places, with NFPA 701 Standard Method of
Fire Tests for Flame Resistant Textiles and Films
referenced as a test protocol.  NFPA 701 requires a
destructive burn test of a fabric sample to verify
compliance with the standard however this action will
cause permanent damage to the material and is not
recommended by accepted preservation practice.
Additionally, specific chemical treatments that may be
applied to reduce combustibility may also result in
irreversible harm fabrics.

None-the-less there is a need to protect artifacts and
the locations in which they are housed from fire, and
safeguards must be implemented for situations where
artifacts are displayed in assembly spaces.

These should include but not be limited to:
prohibiting open flames (i.e. candles, lamps, and
smoking), avoiding the use of heat producing
appliances such as food and beverage preparation
equipment within the room, or adding a fire watch
where the artifact is located.

The use of cool burning lamps such as a fluorescent
or LED within the space is recommended with no lights,
electrical devices or cables located within 1 meters
(3 ft) distance of the artifact.  The placement
of a combustible artifact within an assembly space
should be approved by the authority having
jurisdiction.   The AHJ should consult with
disciplines that have expertise in preservation and
protection of artifacts.



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