Viewing page 211 of 242

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

[[underlined]] Fire Detection and Suppression Systems. [[/underlined]] The Institution is continuing to develop and implement plans for upgrading fire protection systems in all buildings in order to provide a level of safety consistent with today's standards and technology. Work in this category includes such items as the installation of heat and smoke detection systems, sprinkler and chemical suppression systems, and fire doors and walls. Improved systems are installed as exhibitions are changed, and fire retardant materials are used whenever possible.
    The implementation of comprehensive fire protection master plans is in progress at both the Museum of Natural History and Museum of American History. Construction includes the installation of upgraded sprinkler systems, new detection systems, fire pumps, generators and control panels, and architectural modifications to create more efficient fire zones. A total requirement of approximately $5,675,000 is anticipated for this planning period, of which about $3,600,000 will be required for the Museums of Natural History and American History, Other major fire protection projects planned for the next five years include the installation of additional smoke detectors in the Smithsonian Institution Building, and the installation of a sprinkler system at the Freer Gallery, the American Art Museum and the Portrait Gallery in addition to several buildings at the Garber facility at Suitland. Plans also include the implementation of a fire protection system for Barro Colorado Island in Panama, upgrading of smoke detectors and sprinklers in the Arts and Industries Building, and completion of a fire protection system at the Chesapeake Bay Center.
    [[underlined]] Access for the Disabled, Safety and Security, and Correction of Hazardous Conditions. [[/underlined]] Substantial progress has been achieved in eliminating architectural barriers at Smithsonian buildings. Modifications to the Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden were completed in FY 1981 and a wheelchair lift has been installed at the Mall entrance of the Smithsonian Building. All public areas at the Museum of African Art were made accessible to the disabled during FY 1982. Several Smithsonian facilities still require additional modifications to meet recently updated standards for disabled person access. These projects are scheduled to be accomplished during this planning period.
      The elimination of exposed asbestos insulation located in several buildings continues to be a high priority. An amount of $350,000 is included in the FY 1983 budget request for this purpose, and approximately $1,800,000 will be applied to the correction of this problem between FY 1984 and FY 1988.
       Construction and equipment related to a new proprietary security system will be a prominent item in the Institution's R&R budget requests for the next 5-to-10 years. Now being designed, this system will incorporate state-of-the-art computer software which can be updated as new