Knox boxes shall be installed preferably at the main entrance, and at a location and height that allow them to be readily accessible. Circumstances such as the size of the property, nature of any hazards, etc., may warrant the need for additional boxes to be located on the same property.
The number and sets of keys shall be determined based on the following criteria:
- 1 story building: 1 set
- 2-3 stories: 2 sets
- 4-6 stories: 3 sets
- High-rise: 5 sets
- Large Assembly: Up to 5 sets
Note that a "set" of keys could be one master key to all entrance doors and interior rooms. If no master key is available, then each set should include building entrance key(s), keys to special use rooms such as electrical/mechanical rooms, fire alarm control panel room, fire sprinkler riser room, elevator equipment room, rooms that may contain hazardous material storage, etc. If the building has an elevator, each set should also include an elevator key.
Knox Box style descriptions, price lists, and order forms are are available by accessing their web site at http://www.knoxbox.com. Important: If ordering on-line, upon accessing their web site, you will be prompted to select the fire department that serves your area. Make sure you select "Charlotte Fire Department, 441 Beaumont Avenue".
For most applications, the 3200 series style is acceptable. For larger applications requiring numerous keys (up to 50), the 4400 series may be warranted.
For a complete document outlining the Charlotte Fire Department's Knox Box requirements, you may download the bureau's Standard Operating Guideline FPB 232 Knox Boxes.pdf (55k) for additional information.
