Habitats: Guide to On-Campus Living - Tufts University

on University Probation Level One. If students are chronically involved in violations of this
policy, they may be separated from their on-campus housing assignment.
Propping Open Fire Doors – These doors are your protection from fire, heat and deadly
gases during the evacuation from the building in the event of an emergency situation.
When these doors are propped open, they are unable to perform the functions as designed.
Blocking Hallways, Stairways, Suite/Apartment Lounges or Fire Escapes – This
includes leaving personal belongings like shoes, suitcases, boxes, room furniture, athletic
equipment duffle bags, bicycles, etc. in these areas. In an emergency situation, hallways,
stairways, lounges and fire escapes must be kept clear to aide in quick and efficient exit
from the residence halls. Under no circumstances should exits marked “emergency” be
blocked as well.
The Possession of Non-University Upholstered Furniture – Only approved CAL TB 133
furniture and furnishings are to be used in university buildings. CAL TB 133 (California
Bureau of Home Furnishings) is the standard that the university uses when purchasing furniture
for all buildings including residence halls. Non-compliant furniture is strictly prohibited
because when ignited it does not retard the spread of fire and limit the amount of
toxic smoke and gases. This includes non-university provided mattresses as well unless otherwise
approved for a medical condition through Health Services.
The Possession of Halogen Lamps and Multi-Light (“Octopus”) Floor or Desk
Lamps – National Fire Investigation Reports have determined that possession of such
lights have been the cause of numerous fires on campuses across the country.
Excessive Covering of Wall Space and the Exterior Room Doors with Easily
Combustible Materials – The doors and corridors are part of the emergency egress pathway.
Any combustible material will contribute to the spread of fire and prevent the safe
evacuation from the building.
Running Wires of any Kind from Student Rooms to Nearby Lounges/Suites – When
Internet or cable wires are run from a student room out into a nearby lounge or suite, this
creates a “trip hazard.” In an emergency situation all paths of egress must be free of such
hazard to ensure safe exit from the suite or building.
The Possession of Space Heaters with Open Electrical Coils – Such coils are an ignition
source when located too close to combustible material. If a space cannot be adequately heated
via the installed building and heating system, contact the Work Control at 617-627-3496.
The Use of an Outdoor Barbecue Grill Closer than 10 Feet from Any Residence
Hall – It is important to keep a safe separation distance between the building and the open
flame. This is proper fire prevention practice should the grill equipment malfunction.
Those wishing to use an outdoor grill must gain permission from the Fire Marshal’s
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