IAFC Seeks Feedback on NFPA 72 Code Hearings
IAFC has submitted a series of proposals via the NFPA code change process to update NFPA 72 with the specific intent to provide solutions to the problems caused by the number of false alarms in commercial facilities.
The International Association of Fire Chiefs is calling on fire and emergency service leaders to take action to address the threat of false alarms in commercial facilities. IAFC said it needs feedback from fire service leaders to ensure a national-level discussion at the upcoming NFPA 72 code hearings in San Diego.
IAFC has submitted a series of proposals via the NFPA code change process to update NFPA 72 with the specific intent to provide solutions to the problems caused by the number of false alarms in commercial facilities. The proposals aim to take a comprehensive approach to address both the root cause of the issue (reducing false alarms) and the protocols for response to such calls. IAFC has created a fact sheet that outlines its proposal to NFPA 72.
The proposals center around four main concepts:
- A 90-second verification delay identical to current residential code and including an opt-out provision if a chief doesn’t feel the delay is optimal for the locality
- Recommendation for point ID capability
- Adding a 45-second minimum to pressure change in retard chambers
- Maintenance of the alarm systems by an approved professional