Rhode Island General Laws Title 23. Health and Safety § 23-27.3-125.2. Temporary safeguards

When, in the opinion of the building official, there is actual and immediate danger of collapse or failure of a building or structure or any part thereof, which would endanger life or property, the building official shall cause all necessary work to be instituted to render the building or structure or part thereof temporarily safe despite the fact that the action may occur prior to the institution of those legal procedures provided for by this code.