Decorating the workplace for the holidays can bring a festive atmosphere, but please prioritize safety and be aware of workplace policies when decorating to ensure everyone enjoys the holiday season without an incident.

UTSW Guidelines

• Confirm decorations meet fire codes: Flame spread rating of 0-75 (Class 1 or A and Class 2 or B), Smoke-Developed Index 0-450, and non-flammable. Be sure to keep proof of decoration requirements from the packaging to provide upon request.
• Fire safety: Do not hang decorations on or near fire sprinkler heads or in a manner that conceals fire alarm devices, fire extinguishers, or exit signs. Open flame items or heating devices are prohibited.
• Holiday lighting: Battery-operated lighting is required in the hospital locations (no plug-in lighting or decorations permitted). For other areas, lighting must be UL or FM safety listed lighting (LED preferred).
• Holiday trees: Artificial holiday trees are approved for display if they meet the decoration fire code requirements listed above. The use of live trees or branches is prohibited.
• Decoration locations: Do not wrap or place decorations on fire doors, corridor/hallway doors, or patient doors and do not hang decorations from/near the ceiling. Decorations placed on walls shall not cover more than 20% of a wall surface.
• Inspect decorations: Check for damaged wires, broken light bulbs, and garland that sheds; discard any damaged items.
• Use proper safety equipment: Use a stepladder and follow the instructions and warnings on the labels of decorations. Do not use chairs or desks to stand on while hanging decorations.

Safe Decoration Locations

Break Rooms and Employee Lounges

• Decorate walls, tables, or bulletin boards away from exits and fire equipment.
• Avoid ceilings and sprinkler systems.

Lobby or Reception Areas

• Use walls, counters, or freestanding displays that do not block exits or alarms.
• Opt for battery-operated lights or displays in hospital areas.

Offices and Desks (Individual Workspaces)

• Small, lightweight decorations can be placed on desks or shelves.
• Avoid areas near outlets if using powered decorations.

Hallway Walls (Non-critical Areas)

• Decorate only wall surfaces that don’t obstruct exit signs, doors, or fire equipment.
• Ensure decorations are flat and do not protrude into walking paths.

Conference Rooms or Meeting Spaces

• Wall-mounted decorations that comply with safety guidelines are a good choice.
• Tabletop centerpieces should be stable and non-flammable.

Windows and Glass Panels

• Window decals or clings work well if they don’t interfere with visibility for exit signs.

For more information on decoration requirements, please see Appendix C in the Fire and Life Safety Manual and Hospital Policy UHEC 27 Holiday and Celebration Decorations.

Questions? FireSafety@UTSouthwestern.edu the Fire Safety Team.

The Office of Safety and Business Continuity wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season!