Emergency department bans the use of candles and torches in restaurants, clubs, theatres

The use of open flames such as candles and torches during theater and opera performances or for ambiance and entertainment in restaurants, bars, and clubs will be prohibited, according to a decision announced by the Bucharest Emergency Situations Inspectorate (ISU). The institution's decision came after the Colectiv club tragedy, at end-October, which has killed 60 people. The fireworks used during a rock concert in the overcrowded club lit up the soundproofing insulation causing a massive fire. Some 27 people died in the fire and about 150 were injured, out of which 33 died at the hospitals, afterward, either due to the burns or due to hospital infections. The ISU shared the blame for the tragedy, as it didn't properly verify the club to see if it met the safety requirements. ISU Bucharest issued on December 10 new rules for organizers of concerts, shows, or meetings of any kind, no matter if they are to be organized indoors and outdoors. For example, those who organize outdoor events, with more than 200 people or covering more than 2,500 sqm, will have to obtain a fire safety permit. When it comes to the events organized inside buildings (theaters, concert halls, and so on), if the premises are classified as crowded spaces, the buildings must also have the mandatory fire safety permit. If the building has the fire safety permit and the event’s organization doesn’t change the conditions on which this permit was issued (capacity, destination, number of people, etc.), the permit is valid only accompanied by the technical documentation endorsed for proof of non-alteration. In case the event’s organization changes the conditions on which the fire safety permit was issued, or if the building is not authorized in terms of fire safety for such events, a new permit must be obtained. The documentation needed to get such a permit must be filed at least 30 days before the event’s date. ISU Bucharest also warns that the use of fire (such as candles or torches) is forbidden during theater, opera, or operetta shows as well as during festivities organized in restaurants. Moreover, candles or torches can no longer be used for ambiance or entertainment in restaurants, bars, clubs, and other such locations. Heads of Romania’s Emergency Situations Inspectorate dismissed Romanian Government’s response to Colectiv tragedy: Emergency Situations Inspectorate to close down all dangerous clubs Irina Popescu, irina.popescu@romania-insider.com