What gives the head of the Boston Fire Department the authority to evacuate buildings?

The head of the Boston Fire Department has the authority to evacuate buildings based on the provisions outlined in the Boston Fire Prevention Code, specifically in Section 105(b). This section is designed to provide local fire officials with the necessary legal framework to take prompt and decisive actions in situations where there is an imminent threat to life and property due to fire hazards or emergencies.

Section 105(b) empowers fire officials to implement evacuation orders to safeguard the health and safety of the public, ensuring that individuals in buildings at risk can be safely removed from dangerous situations. This authority is crucial in effectively managing fire emergencies and ensures that public safety is prioritized.

In contrast, while City Ordinance 204, Massachusetts Fire Safety Regulation, and NFPA Compliance Code may contain regulations and standards that relate to fire safety, they do not specifically grant the authority to the head of the fire department for the evacuation of buildings in the same clear and direct manner as outlined in the Boston Fire Prevention Code.