Sprinkler Age Nov/Dec 2018

INAUGURAL AFSA 18 CAPITOL DAY A SUCCESS!

NOV / DEC 2018

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VOL 37/06

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SprinklerAge

Vol 37 / 06 November/December 2018

Features

8 | Teddick Takes Home Top Apprentice Title Best of the Best Compete at AFSA37

14 | Washington Welcomes AFSA37

Convention, Exhibition & Apprentice Competition are a Resounding Success

18 | Inaugural Fly-In a Success

AFSA Members Descend on Capitol Hill for Legislative Day in DC

20 | Members Elect 2018-2019 Board of Directors

AFSA Honors Albares, Welcomes Strickland

24 | NFPA 14, 2019 Edition

Major Updates Made to the Standard

ON THE COVER

27 | Legislative Review 2018

Bryan Teddick, HTH Automatic

38 | Meet Your M/S Council Members

is the winner of AFSA’s 25th National

Codes, Standards and Regulations in the U.S. and Canada Representatives Work on Behalf of Associates

39 | Scholarships Share Safety Message

Over 100,000 Students Learn About Sprinklers

Sprinkler, LLC, Goshen, Connecticut, Apprentice Competition. Read more about the competition and AFSA37 in this issue. Also in this issue: NFPA standards update.

40 | NFPA 20, 2019 Edition

Accepted Changes and Additions

42 | Promoting the Industry to the Next Generation

GFSA and NextGen Exhibit at CEFGA CareerExpo

44 | Nine Contract Provisions Subcontractors Need to Know

The Contract Shall Control

48 | MSMO Fire Pump Benefits

Multi-Stage Multi-Outlet Vs. Series Pumping Vs. Single Pump with PRV

50 | Five Questions About Your Retirement Plan

Do You Know the Answers?

52 | Florida Chapter Hosts Legislative Day

Members Address Fire- and Life-Safety Issues

54 | Design Training Set for 2019

Secure Your Spot for AFSA’s Popular Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School

6

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

58 AHJ PERSPECTIVE 60 NEW MEMBERS 61 U.S. CONSTRUCTION 62 AFSA NEWS 64 CHAPTER NEWS 65 INDUSTRY NEWS 66 PEOPLE IN THE NEWS 68 PRODUCT NEWS 70 PUBLISHER’S NOTE 70

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

56 | Alabama and Georgia Vote to Become AFSA Chapters

AFSA National to Provide Structure for Collaboration, Education, and Support

57 | Thank You for Your Support!

Members Celebrate Milestone Anniversaries

SPRINKLER AGE, (ISSN 0896-2685) is published bimonthly for $33.95 per year by the American Fire Sprinkler Association, Inc., 12750 Merit Drive, Suite 350, Dallas, Texas 75251. Periodicals postage paid at Dallas, Texas and additional mailing offices.

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Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018 5

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE EDITORIAL: 214 349 5965

BY WAYNE WEISZ AFSA Chairman of the Board

NICOLE DUVALL, Publisher Director of Communications & Social Media, ext. 126; nduvall@firesprinkler.org D’ARCY G. MONTALVO, Editor, ext. 115 dmontalvo@firesprinkler.org ADVERTISING: 214 349 5965

REBECCA HERRING, Communications Coordinator, ext. 134; rherring@firesprinkler.org CIRCULATION : 214 349 5965

REBECCA HERRING, Communications Coordinator, ext. 134; rherring@firesprinkler.org

Greetings, There is certainly a buzz in the air throughout our industry regarding the recent success of AFSA37. Leading up to the convention we could tell that preregistration numbers were high. With the venue being in Washington DC, AFSA37 did not disappoint and we hit near-record numbers with close to 1,400 people attending!

The setting and attendance are important, but you also have to put on a great show. In all honesty, I don’t think in past years we have ever received the amount of compliments I received this year. Everyone I have spoken with, from contractors to vendors, all agreed this year was special. I believe a big thank you needs to go out the site selection committee for choosing the site. Also, a big thank you to the AFSA staff as well as all of the many volunteers involved who all really put in an extra effort this year.

As Board of Directors and AFSA staff, we are in full-scale planning for next year.

Once AFSA37 ended, staff were able to spend the weekend relaxing. However, as soon as they all returned to the office in Dallas, planning started for our 2019 event: AFSA38: Convention, Exhibition & Apprentice Competition in San Diego.

As for your AFSA Board of Directors, we are already working very hard to plan for next year. We have already assigned all of the working committee chairs and we are in the process of filling those committees. One question I have been asked multiple times from members is, “How can I get involved or how can I get on one of the national committees?” My answer is simple, just ask. If you know a national Board member or even a member of the AFSA staff, please let someone know that you are interested. Obviously, not everyone can be involved, but getting your name in the mix is important. We strongly encourage everyone to become involved locally first; from there it is an easier transition to a national committee. All of these committees are assigned annually and the Board is always looking for people who want to help and be involved.

By now most of our membership is aware that we have been in search of a new president for our association. We have been very fortunate to have an excellent group of people applying for the position. We have also been fortunate to have our past president Steve Muncy assist in the vetting of the applicants. Steve, along with a transition committee, headed up by past Board of Directors’ Chairman Michael Meehan have vetted this group down to a final three. We are hoping to have a new president in place very soon, hopefully no later than the end of the year.

I am very much looking forward to this next year. AFSA is a great association to be a member of. Please know, as a Board we will be working hard to improve the membership experience for all members. n

6 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

AFSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

WAYNE WEISZ, CHAIRMAN 209-334-9119 THEODORE C. WILLS, JR., FIRST VICE CHAIRMAN 610-754-7836 JACK A. MEDOVICH, SECOND VICE CHAIRMAN 410-787-0639 LINDA M. BIERNACKI, SECRETARY 318-841-0330 PAUL DELORIE, TREASURER 603-432-8221 MICHAEL F. MEEHAN, IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIRMAN 757-213-3660 DWIGHT BATEMAN, 713-910-3242 ROD DIBONA, 605-348-2342 LYLE HALL, 858-513-4949 R. DONALD KAUFMAN, 505-884-2447 JEFF PHIFER, 803-438-2994 JAY STRICKLAND, 301-474-1136 AFSA MANAGEMENT: 214 349 5965

ROLAND J. HUGGINS, PE, Senior Vice President of Engineering & Technical Services, ext. 121 MARLENE M. GARRETT, CMP, COO, Meetings & Events, ext. 118 LAVERNE DAVIS, CFO & Administration, ext. 112 ROGER GRAGG, Director of Marketing & Information Technology, ext. 116 LESLIE CLOUNTS, Director of Education Services, ext. 130 NICOLE DUVALL, Director of Communications & Social Media, ext. 126 BRADLEY ELLIOTT, Director of Member Services, ext. 135 Sprinkler Age is devoted to the professional development of the fire sprinkler industry. Deadline is 1st of the month preceding publication.

Published by American Fire Sprinkler Association, 12750 Merit Drive, Suite 350, Dallas, Texas 75251.

Call (214) 349-5965, FAX (214) 343-8898, or email sprinklerage@firesprinkler.org for information.

Copyright © American Fire Sprinkler Association, Inc. All rights reserved. PRINTED IN USA. Unless expressly stated otherwise, all editorial and advertising material published is the opinion of the respective authors and/ or companies involved and should not be construed as official action by or approved by Publisher or the Association.

Sprinkler Age is a membership benefit, provided free of charge to AFSA members. For information on non-member and/or foreign subscription rates, call (214) 349-5965.

ABOUT AFSA MEMBERSHIP AFSA annual membership dues are a sliding scale for Contractors and Associates and a flat fee for Authorities Having Jurisdiction. (Members receive a free subscription to Sprinkler Age.) Write or call AFSA for membership information. See AFSA’s website at firesprinkler.org.

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Teddick Takes Home Top Apprentice Title Best of the Best Compete at AFSA37 REBECCA HERRING | American Fire Sprinkler Association

On October 2, 2018 hundreds packed into the buzzing exhibit hall at AFSA37: Convention, Exhibition & Apprentice Competition in Washington, DC, to witness seven finalists compete in the silver anniversary, 25th Annual National Apprentice Competition hosted by American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA). The convention and competition were truly a convergence of top industry apprenticeship talent, which drew an impressive crowd of nearly 1,400 industry professionals from all over the world.

After outscoring over 100 other hopefuls to secure a position in the top seven apprentices of 2018, Bryan Teddick of HTH Automatic Sprinkler, LLC in Goshen, Connecticut, found himself at AFSA37 September 30 – October 3. Placing in the top seven was just the tip of the competition iceberg, though, as Teddick still had to outscore the six other well-qualified finalists to claim the first prize.

How Did We Get Here? When approaching the end of his time of technical high school at age 17, Teddick started with HTH Automatic Sprinkler. He heard about the position working his volunteer firefighting job with the Morris Volunteer Fire Department in Morris, Connecticut.

After one of his fellow firefighters encouraged him to apply his plumbing knowledge from technical school with HTH, the position quickly fell into place.

Fast forward to 2018 when Teddick chose to participate in apprentice competition due to his employer’s encouragement. After making up his mind to participate, he hit the books as hard as he could, studying for the written examination which is based on all four levels of AFSA/NCCER Contren® Learning Series Sprinkler Fitting curriculum. He credits his great memory for being able to “commit a lot of the flash cards I created during my extensive studying to memory which helped the test go smoothly.”

When Teddick completed the first round of testing and was informed he had scored in the top seven apprentices and would be travelling to Washington, DC to compete in one final round of written testing and the live apprentice competition, he hit the books again. However, this time he received some helpful study tips from a familiar source, his co-worker Joe Perry, winner of the 2012 National Apprentice Competition. Perry was happy to provide Teddick with 8 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

Bryan Teddick, HTH Automatic Sprinkler, LLC, Goshen, Connecticut, is the winner of this year’s competition.

insight regarding what to expect at the competition and some strategies for preparing.

Additionally, Teddick was proud to credit his family for being “huge supporters,” even going so far as to help him study between the two tests, giving him advice, and walking him through anything he felt lingering nerves about.

Quickly, AFSA37 and the live testing and competition arrived. Teddick recalls he was “pretty nervous about the competition itself and the test.” He didn’t let that deter him on his path to winning, though, and instead he channeled his energy into finishing the written exam efficiently and to the best of his ability.

For the practical portion of the competition, each finalist was given a drawing of the mini fire sprinkler system and all of the required materials to install it. Finalists then constructed the systems, comprised of five sprinklers onto a 9-ft tall metal frame structure. Competitors had to mea-

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Second-place winner Dylan Bonde works for Rapid Fire Protection in Rapid City, South Dakota.

The third-place winner is Tyler Patch with Piper Fire Protection, Inc. in Clearwater, Florida.

sure, cut, thread, and use fabricated materials for the installations per the drawing they were provided. This exercise required pipe threading, math, and pipe make-up skills to complete the mini-system in the four-hour time limit. The CPVC section of the system was joined using one-step solvent cement. After the entire system was installed and allowed to set, it was placed under a static water pressure test of approximately 80 psi, with points deducted for any leaks or pressure drop.

Teddick recalls of the live competition, “It goes by quickly, and while I know it is stuff I do every day, it’s not every day you do it in front of 1,400 people.”

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During the mini-installation, the apprentices were judged in three areas – accuracy, craftsmanship, and safety – to form their practical score, which was then combined with their written test score to determine the winner.

Apprentices Honored at Newseum Party At the Newseum awards party, the hard work of the seven national apprentices was recognized. The night rounded out with the naming of its newest winner – Bryan Teddick.

Teddick recalls when he heard his name it was “nothing like it.” He recounts, “I kind of had a feeling I did well, but I wasn’t sure exactly how well. When they announced my name, it kind of came as a surprise to me.”

And Teddick wasn’t the only one who was pleased. Chair of the National Apprentice Committee and Region 3 Director of the AFSA National Board Rod DiBona of Rapid Fire Protection in Rapid City, South Dakota, recalls, “I was standing in the crowd at the Newseum. The pinnacle for me was watching the seven apprentice finalists stand on the stage and get recognized. The anticipation to see who the top three and ultimately who the top fire sprinkler apprentice in the nation would be was thick in the air. The champion was announced and unbeknownst to me a woman grabbed my arm and shrilled with emotion and excitement, ‘That’s my son!’ It was a cool moment – a proud mom of a young man who had just won a national competition.”

The admiration of family goes both ways, however, as Teddick was sure to mention that he wanted to give an extra big thank you to “my family and my co-workers, without both of them I wouldn’t have made it this far. They

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Finalist Jareth “J.D.” Hilliard.

Finalist Fernando Arias.

went above and beyond helping me prepare and that’s something I’ll never forget.”

“Myself and everyone at HTH Automatic Sprinkler LLC are so very proud of Bryan’s win,” comments from Scott Tillmann, manager/owner of HTH. “My entire team of fitters and Bryan’s family were in DC to give him support.

The competition is such a great way to encourage all apprentices to learn, work hard, and take pride in their career in the fire sprinkler industry. This is the third time we have won the competition and each time it is such a huge up lifting feeling of accomplishment.”

2018 National Apprentice Competition Sponsors 900 Industries, Inc. AFSA Sacramento Valley Chapter Allsouth Sprinkler Company Arkansas Automatic Sprinklers Bamford Fire Sprinkler Company Brendle Sprinkler Company Carolina Fire Control, Inc. Carolina Fire Protection, Inc. Central Connecticut Fire Protection, Inc. Diamond Automatic Sprinklers, Inc. Eagle Fire Inc. ETNA SUPPLY Fire Systems, Inc. FireAway, LLC

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12 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

Finalist Federico Martinez.

Finalist Jason Swartz.

In addition to joining an elite group of past winners, Teddick received bragging rights for the next year as well as a $5,000 grand prize. Dylan Bonde, Rapid Fire Protection, Rapid City, South Dakota, won second place and a $3,000 cash prize; and Tyler Patch, Piper Fire Protection, Inc., Clearwater, Florida, took third place and the $2,000 prize. Honorable mentions received $1,000 prizes: Fernando Arias, Jareth “J.D.” Hilliard, Federico Martinez, and Jason Swartz.

All seven of the finalist apprentices won an expense-paid trip to Washington, DC to compete at AFSA37, a commemorative plaque, tools, cash prizes, and a complimentary convention registration for their employer to attend the convention to cheer them on!

History of the Competition Started in 1994 by the late Robert L. (Bob) McCullough, then chairman of the Apprenticeship & Education Committee, AFSA’s Annual National Apprentice Competition was created to promote apprentice training and give recognition to the apprentices who are actively enrolled in the AFSA apprenticeship program. Nearly 25 years later, the competition continues to draw fire sprinkler apprentices from AFSA local chapters and member training programs from all corners of United States together in the association’s foremost showcase of excellence in training among future industry leaders.

Enrolling in AFSA’s apprentice training program not only offers an excellent education and a fulfilling career, it is also the gateway to competing in the AFSA National Apprentice Competition. Entry forms for next year’s competition at AFSA38: Convention, Exhibition, & Apprentice Competition at the Manchester Grand Hyatt in San Diego, California, will be made available spring of 2019. For more information or to view photos of the apprentices in action as well as other convention activities, visit firesprinkler.org/ apprentice. n

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Washington Welcomes AFSA37 Convention, Exhibition & Apprentice Competition are a Resounding Success The American Fire Sprinkler Association’s (AFSA) annual AFSA37: Convention, Exhibition & Apprentice Competition was held in Washington, DC September 30 – October 3, but the annual get-together felt like something more than just a convention to some. Code issues, business practices, and stellar networking opportunities were among the trends explored by nearly 1,400 fire sprinkler professionals and officials during the meetings and seminars at the Gaylord National Harbor. Over 100 companies participated in a trade show on a floor the size of a football field. The annual tradeshow also gave manufacturers and suppliers an opportunity to speak directly to 632 contracting and 41 design individuals.

AFSA convention goers packed the opening general session.

Chairman of the Board Wayne Weisz, Cen-Cal Systems, Lodi, California, presented this year’s Henry S. Parmelee Award to Kraig Kirschner, retired CEO of AFCON International. (See related article in the September/October 2018 issue of Sprinkler Age.) Legislative Committee Chair Ted Wills, Anchor Fire Protection, Perkiomenville, Pennsylvania, presented the 2018 Fire Sprinkler Advocate of the Year Award to Richard Smith, Maryland State Firemen’s Association, Crofton, Maryland, and NextGen Initiative Chair Meaghen Wills also from Anchor Fire Protection presented the Young Professional of the Year award to Kevin Mozak, Meridian Fire Protection in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. (See related articles in the July/August 2018 issue of Sprinkler Age.)

entered the 2018 AFSA exhibit hall for the Chairman’s Reception, where they enjoyed hors d’oeuvres as they visited with friends and previewed the newest industry products and services. Contractors, guests, and invited Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) continued their focus on sprinkler industry products during more exhibit hours on Friday afternoon where they also watched AFSA’s top seven fire sprinkler apprentices complete in the practical installation portion of the National Apprentice Competition.

AFSA37 featured 46 educational sessions covering a variety of relevant and interesting topics. Sessions ranged from apprentice and field supervisor training to HR topics such as legal and hiring issues, and technical changes in the NFPA codes and standards, fire sprinkler design, installation, service, testing, inspection, service, water delivery, and more, all of which offered important information as well as valuable continuing education credits.

After being welcomed during the annual exhibitor appreciation hour, AFSA’s exhibitors greeted contractors as they

AFSA contractor member Mark Eckard called the company’s attendance at the meeting a success, and proud that Fire Protection Services LLC is an AFSA member. Eckard said the benefits of AFSA membership range “from the wonderful continuing education programs from knowledgeable fire protection officials, networking with other fire sprinkler contractors from around the US and abroad, and to sharing the ‘fish tales’ and ‘war stories’ we have lived in this profession we call the fire protection industry.” He added that in his opinion, “the primary focus of the annual convention is

AFSA Chairman of the Board Wayne Weisz (right) presented the 2018 Henry S. Parmelee Award to Kraig Kirschner.

AFSA Legislative Chairman Ted Wills (left) presented Richard Smith with his 2018 Fire Sprinkler Advocate of the Year Award.

14 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

This page clockwise from top left: Kevin Mozak (left) receives AFSA’s Young Professional of the Year Award from AFSA NextGen Chair Meaghen Wills. The De Camara family joined the AFSA family during the general session to talk about the Philip L. De Camara, Jr. Scholarship. Industry professionals 40 and under socialized during the NextGen Initiative mixer (two photos). Byron Weisz visits with Lyle Hall during the awards party at the Newseum. Bryan Teddick celebrates his NAC win with his family. Michael Meehan and his two daughters enjoyed the Awards Party at the Newseum. Dr. Milke (left) recognized the Philip L. De Camara, Jr. Scholarship recipients.

Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018 15

to gain and share knowledge and best practices with other contractors in the industry.” An industry, Eckard says, that is notable for its high level of dedication, with AFSA members committed “to being the best at what we do while also providing a high level of customer service.”

For the 25th straight year, AFSA offered local AHJs a free plan review seminar and a chance to explore the industry’s largest exhibition. And nearly 50 AHJs attended AFSA’s annual “AHJ Day” this year. The AHJ-only “Fire Sprinkler System Plan Review” seminar proved again to be very popular.

AFSA’s National Apprentice Competition A second day of exhibits on Wednesday continued to showcase what’s up-and-coming in the industry, including seven top apprentices. These apprentices vied for the title of number one sprinkler fitter in the nation during AFSA’s 25th Annual National Apprentice Competition. From over 100 who entered, seven outstanding apprentices advanced to the national stage. (See related article on page 8 of this issue.)

Night at the Newseum The evening culminated with the much anticipated awards apprentice presentation, held at the Newseum. Featuring dramatic vistas of Washington, DC, the Newseum is considered one of the most interactive museums in the world. And the big news that evening was who won the 25th Annual National Apprentice Competition. Bryan Teddick of HTH Automatic Sprinkler, LLC in Goshen, Connecticut, was this year’s winner. Dylan Bonde, Rapid Fire Protection, Rapid City, South Dakota, won second place; and Tyler Patch, Piper Fire Protection, Inc., Clearwater, Florida, placed third. All the competitors received tools and a plaque commemorating their accomplishment.

See You Next Year in San Diego Don’t miss the action! Mark your calendars for AFSA38:Convention, Exhibition & Apprentice Competition October 1-4, 2019 at the Manchester Grand Hyatt in San Diego, California.

For more information on this or next year’s conventions, visit firesprinkler.org. To view additional photos of the action, visit AFSA’s Flickr photo page at flickr.com/ photos/afsa/. n

This page clockwise from top: The top three apprentices celebrated at the Awards Party. The exhibit hall was packed both days, with attendees viewing the latest products and services available in the fire protection industry (four photos).

16 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

This page, top six photos: Over 100 companies participated in the trade show on a floor the size of a football field. Bottom photo: AFSA Region 3 Director Rod DiBona (far left) welcomes the seven top apprentices to the 25th Annual National Apprentice Competition.

Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018 17

Inaugural Fly-In a Success AFSA Members Descend on Capitol Hill for Legislative Day in DC Over 50 fire protection executives from across the nation attended the American Fire Sprinkler Association’s (AFSA) inaugural Capitol Hill Day to advocate for fire sprinklers and other pro-merit shop legislation on Capitol Hill. On October 3, participants attended a two-hour Capitol Hill preparation training featuring Ben Brubeck, vice president of regulatory, labor and state affairs of Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of Metro Washington, who educated members on the legislative issues. Participants received a briefing package with individual schedules, maps, talking points, and other materials to assist with their respective pre-arranged meetings with House and Senate offices. The next day, members took the Hill en masse to meet with elected officials and policy experts about 2018 AFSA policy agendas.

The AFSA delegation met with over 20 Congressional representatives and staffers including: • Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA): Senate Committee on Appropriations, • Rep. Jim Langevin (D-RI): Responsible for inserting the provision for sprinklers in the tax bill in the House, • Rep. Dennis Ross (R-Fl): House Committee on Financial Services & House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, and • Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY): House Committee on Education and the Workforce, Subcommittees on Higher Education and Workforce Development and Workforce Protections.

These meetings focused on pro-merit shop policies such as advocating for increased funding for workforce development and apprenticeship, fair and open competition on jobsites, providing thanks for the inclusion of fire sprinklers in the recent H.R. 1 Tax Reform Bill, and cautioning about the increase in states prohibiting statewide and new, local adoptions of fire sprinkler requirements in new, one- and two-family homes.

18 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

AFSA’s inaugural Capitol Hill Day on October 4 was a great success!

“This Legislative Fly-In inaugural event was a powerful teambuilder for the Upstate NY AFSA Chapter,” says Stacey J. Fantauzzi of North East Fire Protection Systems, Inc., Burnt Hills, New York. “As we shared our request for continued support of merit shop apprenticeship training, the Fair & Open Competition Act, and expressed our appreciation for their support of the Tax reform bill especially Section 179 to each legislator’s representative, we learned that we have much more in common than we realized.”

Often, when legislation, regulations, and policies are debated and enacted, fire sprinkler contractors are rarely given an opportunity to provide feedback. It’s beneficial for AFSA members to provide more input in shaping these laws. As such, AFSA will continue to increase the voice and influence of fire sprinkler contractors on the Hill and at state legislations.

“I have always utilized the benefits of being an AFSA member, so when the opportunity arose to be a part of Capitol Hill Day, I jumped at the chance,” recalls Jeff Bridges, JB Fire Protection Inc of Lake Forest, California. “Being able to meet with Representatives from California and plant the seeds of change on issues that affect

apprenticeship and small businesses was a priceless experience. I look forward to future opportunities at the state and/or national level.”

While there were some attendees who had lobbied before, for many it was their first time to meet with their federal representatives. Walking the halls of Congress and having the opportunity to make their own voices heard was an experience like no other.

“We look forward to further developing and advocating the AFSA’s policy agenda and remain encouraged by the conversations on Capitol Hill about issues critical to fire sprinkler contractors,” states Kevin Korenthal, AFSA manager of chapter relations. “The pro-merit shop voice that AFSA provides is critical to the continued success and stability of our nation’s commerce and fire safety.”

AFSA hopes to hold another fly-in, so watch for upcoming announcements.

Your participation in lobbying for the fire sprinkler industry can make an incredible difference. To learn more visit firesprinkler.org. n

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The members of the 2018-2019 Executive Committee are (l to r): Chairman Wayne Weisz, First Vice Chair Ted Wills, Second Vice Chair Jack Medovich, Secretary Linda Biernacki, Treasurer Paul DeLorie, and Immediate Past Chairman Mike Meehan.

Members Elect 2018-2019 Board of Directors AFSA Honors Albares, Welcomes Strickland D’ARCY MONTALVO | American Fire Sprinkler Association

The American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) held its 2018-2019 officer elections during the September 2018 Board meeting at AFSA37: Convention, Exhibition & Apprentice Competition in Washington, DC. Wayne Weisz, Cen-Cal Fire Systems, Lodi, California, was elected to serve another term as Chairman of the Board. Other officers elected were: At-Large Director and First Vice Chair Ted Wills of Anchor Fire Protection, Perkiomenville, Pennsylvania; At-Large Director and Second Vice Chair Jack Medovich, Fire & Life Safety America, Hanover, Maryland; At-Large Director and Secretary Linda M. Biernacki, Fire Tech Systems, Inc., Shreveport, Louisiana; and Region 7 Director and Treasurer Paul DeLorie of Hampshire Fire Protection Company, Londonderry, New Hampshire. In addition, Jay Strickland, Strickland Fire Protection, Inc., Forrestville, Maryland, was elected to the Board as an At-Large Director to replace retiring Director Don Albares.

Looking Ahead to 2019 “Next Year is going to be an exciting year as we will be transitioning in a new association president,” comments AFSA Chairman of the Board Weisz. “That person has not yet been chosen, but we are very 20 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

close and should have a decision within the next month.”

He continues: “One goal for 2019 will be to continue expanding our member services. We have great programs already in place and we will focus on making any improvements we can with those programs. As was the case in 2018, we will again, in 2019, look to expand and create new chapters. Membership growth has always been a priority for us,” says Weisz.

New At-Large Director AFSA members have elected Jay Strickland as a new At-Large Director for the association. Strickland is president of Strickland Fire Protection and co-owner with his two sons, Josh and Micah Strickland.

Strickland Fire Protection is located in Forrestville, Maryland and was established in 1983. Strickland has been involved in the fire protection industry since 1983. He is a past chairman of the AFSA Chesapeake Bay Chapter and serves on the Advisory Board for BB&T of Prince Georges County, Maryland.

He is NICET Level II, Fire Protection, Water Based System Layout.

Strickland shares his thoughts on serving as a director: “I plan to continue the

great legacy of those who have served before me by being a voice for the merit shop contractor by promoting and supporting AFSA’s strong training programs. Currently, Strickland Fire Protection has five employees who are enrolled in the apprenticeship program, three employees enrolled in the ITM Inspector Development program, and one employee enrolled in the Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School.”

Strickland continues: “I also want to continue giving back to an industry that has been so good to me and my family. I was blessed to have a great mentor, Manning Strickland, Sr., my dad. He taught me the trade and more than that, a strong work ethic. I realize that everyone is not always fortunate enough to have the same experience; however, every successful person has had someone who inspired them to be the best they could be. That person was someone who was ‘Deliberate And Dedicated’ to your success and instilled in you a passion for this trade. Ask yourself a very valuable question, ‘What are you going to do to carry on the legacy?’ I want to encourage you to look around, take what you have been given, and invest in the next generation. And remember, ‘Iron sharpens iron.’”

Lyle Hall, Region 1

Don Kaufman, Region 2

2018-2019 Board The AFSA Board of Directors is comprised of seven Regional Directors (one for each of the seven membership regions), At-Large Directors, and the Immediate Past Chairman. The Board has a wide array of expertise, experience, and education that provides strong support to both the Chairman and the association as a whole. Meet your 2018-2019 Board of Directors below.

Regional Directors Region 1 Director Lyle Hall, president and co-owner of Western Fire Protection in Poway, California, has been in the fire sprinkler industry for 39 years, with the last 23 years at Western Fire. Hall started in the fire sprinkler industry as an apprentice pipe fitter and worked his way into design, project management, sales and eventually management. Hall is enthusiastic about the continued growth and the direction the AFSA is going, particularly with the development of new training programs and the update and expansion of existing ones.

“These are exciting times for AFSA, and our members will truly benefit from the work going on at the staff and committee levels,” Hall comments. “AFSA is producing nothing but top-quality products by true professionals in the industry.”

Region 2 Director is R. Donald Kaufman, president of Kaufman Fire Protection, Albuquerque, New Mexico. With over 41 years in the sprinkler business, Kaufman was instrumental in starting AFSA’s New Mexico Chapter and is a past president of the chapter.

Region 3 Director Rodney DiBona is the vice president and part owner of Rapid Fire Protection, Rapid City, South Dakota. DiBona entered the fire protection industry in 1990 as a shop employee of Prairie Fire Protection. He then entered

Rod DiBona, Region 3

Dwight Bateman, Region 4

the AFSA apprenticeship program in 1991 and started working in the field. In October of 1993 he was asked by Marty Hammon to join him, his son and son-in-law to create Rapid Fire Protection.

“I am looking forward to ushering in new leadership as we set a path forward to maintain the incredible momentum that AFSA has,” comments DiBona. “I will personally be focusing on apprenticeship and education and, in particular, being part of a team that is updating AFSA’s Leadership Ladder program. This updated program has the potential to positively affect every contractor and supplier member and will hopefully influence many future leaders in our industry.”

Region 4 Director Dwight E. Bateman is founder and president of Southeast Fire Protection, Inc. in Houston, and is a past Chairman of the Board. Beginning his career as vice president of Semico International, Inc., a fire sprinkler contractor, Bateman has 41-plus years of experience in the industry. He opened Southeast Fire Protection in 1986 and joined AFSA in 1989.

Region 5 Director Jeff Phifer is president of Crawford Sprinkler Co. of South Carolina, based in Lugoff, South Carolina, one of the oldest family-owned and continuously operated fire sprinkler contractors in the nation. Phifer has been working at Crawford for 41 years, working as a fitter, service technician, and in administration. In 1999, he became the third generation to be president and chairman of the board.

Region 6 Director and Immediate Past Chairman of the Board Michael F. Meehan is president and a co-owner of VSC Fire & Security, Virginia Beach, Virginia. A 1981 graduate from George

Jeff Phifer, Region 5

Jay Strickland, At-Large

Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia, Meehan began his fire sprinkler career working summers as a pipe fitter apprentice. He is a NICET Level IV Certified Engineering Technician in Water-Based (formerly Automatic Sprinkler) Systems Layout and has more than 36 years’ experience in sprinkler design engineering, estimating, project management and senior management.

Region 7 Director and Treasurer of the Board Paul DeLorie is senior vice president of Hampshire Fire Protection Co., based in Londonderry, New Hampshire.

Hampshire Fire Protection is one of the largest merit shop fire sprinkler companies in New England. DeLorie is a graduate of the University of New Hampshire. He has over 33 years’ experience in sprinkler design, estimating, sales, project management and senior management.

“A big challenge for our industry is workforce development,” says DeLorie.

“Our skilled sprinkler fitters are aging out of the craft and AFSA needs to continue its emphasis on apprenticeship training.

Our industry and community need qualified and properly trained people installing fire sprinkler systems. Lives and property depend on them.”

He continues: “Developing and training design technicians is another vital mission of workforce development that AFSA performs. Many companies struggle with the challenge of producing quality shop drawings that fit. Knowing the NFPA standards is a design necessity, but having a design technician who can effectively navigate computerized coordination with all the other building elements in a timely fashion is almost a luxury. This is especially confounding and very time consuming with projects that have 3D and BIM design requirements. Many companies Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018 21

need more design technicians to maintain their installed head counts when projects are 3D based. Our association is answering the call of workforce development with the AFSA apprenticeship training program and with the AFSA Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School.”

At-Large Directors At-Large Director and Secretary of the Board Linda M. Biernacki is founder and president of Fire Tech Systems, Inc. in Shreveport, Louisiana. With over 28 years of experience in all phases of business, she is certified by the Women’s Business Council Gulf Coast. She holds NICET Level IV, Senior Fire Protection Engineering Technology Water-Based Systems Layout.

“For 2019, the Membership & Chapter Development Committee, along with AFSA Director of Member Services Bradley Elliott, will focus on membership engagement and membership retention and chapter expansion into areas we have a heavy concentration on contractor members,” comments Biernacki. “What we have discovered is that AFSA staff and directors are implementing and expanding member services, but we need to do a better job educating and marketing how to access this information to our members.”

At-Large Director and Second Vice Chair Jack A. Medovich, P.E., is senior vice president and founding partner of Fire & Life Safety America, formerly known as East Coast Fire Protection Inc., in Hanover, Maryland. A 1983 graduate of the University of Maryland School of Fire Protection Engineering, Medovich served three years as fire marshal of Fairfax County, Virginia, before joining the fire sprinkler industry 31 years ago.

At-Large Director and Chairman of the Board Wayne Weisz started his career as an apprentice in 1979 and worked his way up through the ranks to foreman and later general superintendent at American Fire Systems in Lodi, California. In 1986, Weisz and his brother Byron founded Cen-Cal Fire Systems, Inc. in Lodi, California. Weisz has been on the AFSA national Board since 2005.

At-Large Director and First Vice Chair Ted Wills, Anchor Fire Protection 22 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

AFSA Chairman of the Board Wayne Weisz (right) recognized retiring AFSA Director Don Albares (left) during AFSA37’s general session.

Company, Perkiomenville, Pennsylvania, was an active member of AFSA in its early years, serving on the AFSA Board of Directors from 1987-1993. Wills began his fire sprinkler industry career in 1972 in the sprinkler division of his father’s mechanical company. Upon graduation from Waynesburg College, he and his father started Anchor Fire Protection as a separate company.

“In the coming year I would hope that all merit shop sprinkler companies will recognize that the only place to get training for their employees is through AFSA,” says Wills. “It is vitally important that we as an industry train ourselves to take advantage of the economic climate we currently experience.”

Retiring Director Honored AtLarge Director Donald G. Albares, vice president of American Sprinkler Co., Inc. in Harahan, Louisiana, is retiring from the board this year. Albares started his career in the fabrication shop at the age of 13. After attending the University of South Alabama on a baseball scholarship, he began as an apprentice fitter. As past president of the Louisiana Fire Sprinkler Association and an active member of ABC, Albares worked jointly for two years with the state chapters of ABC and AFSA to get the AFSA

apprenticeship program recognized by the state of Louisiana.

Chairman of the Board Wayne Weisz recognized Albares and all he has given to the association during the opening general session of AFSA37.

“Don has truly dedicated his life to this industry as our longest serving member on the Board, with 24 years of service,” comments Chairman Weisz. “We greatly appreciate the time and expertise Don has given to AFSA and the industry and we will miss his involvement.”

Here to Serve You AFSA’s Board of Directors is strongly committed to the continuance of the merit shop philosophy, the promotion of property and life safety through the use of automatic fire protection, and the continued development of training for fire sprinkler fitters, layout technicians, inspectors, and management.

AFSA members are encouraged to voice any questions, concerns or suggestions with any member of the Board or staff. If you have a question or comment, please select the member you wish to contact from the list located in the front of every issue of Sprinkler Age or on the AFSA website at firesprinkler.org/board. n

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NFPA 14, 2019 Edition Major Updates Made to the Standard RUSS BAINBRIDGE, PE, CFPS, MS | American Fire Sprinkler Association

The major updates for the 2019 edition of NFPA 14, Standard for the Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems, are to align the extracted reference tags with previous editions of other standards along with the requirements in other codes and standards. There are not a lot of technical changes to this edition, but the most significant ones will be covered here. Several of the definitions have been clarified in this edition to hopefully alleviate some confusion. Some terms have been added and some removed to align with terminology used by other codes and standards.

The most significant change is to sections 7.8.1.2 and 7.10.1.2.1 in which the wording “topmost outlet” was removed and replaced with “connection point.” This clarifies an issue that the American Fire Sprinkler Association’s (AFSA) technical services department staff is asked about frequently in informal interpretation requests.

As noted, there are not a lot of technical changes for this cycle but here are some of the significant changes you will see: • All references to breezeways (such as section 7.3.2.5) were removed since this is not a term used in building or fire codes.

• Requirements for automated inspection, testing, and distance monitoring devices, meters, and equipment have been added.

– “Where provided, devices, meters, and equipment utilized to perform automated inspection and testing procedures that are not subjected to system pressure shall not be required to be listed.”

– “Where provided, devices, meters, and equipment utilized to perform distance monitoring of system or component status that are not subjected to system pressure shall not be required to be listed.”

24 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

• Requirements for automated valves have been added.

– A listed indicating valve with automated controls shall be permitted.

– A listed automated water control valve assembly with a reliable position indication connected to a remote supervisory station shall be permitted.

– An automated water control valve shall be able to be operated manually as well as automatically.

• Manual standpipes shall be permitted in open parking garages where the highest floor is located not more than 150-ft above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access. This has been an International Building Code (IBC) allowance for some time.

• Water-filled piping shall be allowed in areas where the temperatures drop below 40°F when heat-loss calculations performed by a professional engineer verify that the system will not freeze. This correlates with the allowance added to NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, in the 2013 edition.

• The required pressure sign shall not be required when the pressure for the system is 150 psi or less.

• The maximum allowed pressure has been updated to 400 psi. Previously, it was 350 psi.

• If the static pressure at a 11/2-in. hose connection exceeds 175 psi, a listed pressure-regulating device is required to limit static and residual pressures at the hose connection to 175 psi or less.

Previously, it was 100 psi.

• Section 7.5.1.1, whereby standpipes are not required to be interconnected when approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) is being added to soften section 7.5.1.

• Section 7.6.2.1 has been pulled out from being a subparagraph of section 7.6.2 and is now section 7.6.3. The

existing criteria allows a building that is protected throughout by an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with NFPA 13 or NFPA 13R, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in Low-Rise Residential Occupancies, to have a combined standpipe size of no less than 4 in. for systems hydraulically designed in accordance with section 7.8.1. This change was needed since section 7.6.2 addresses partially protected buildings.

• Section 7.8.1.1 removes the wording “calculated using Table 8.3.1.3” and replaces it with “determined using the valve manufacturer’s most up-to-date friction loss data.”

• Section 7.8.1.1.1 removes the wording “ ... shall be used when published” and replaces it with “values in Table 8.3.1.3 shall be permitted to be used for non-pressure-reducing valves when the ... ” • Section 7.8.1.2 removes the wording “topmost” and replace it with “of the hydraulically most remote 21/2-in.

(65-mm) hose connection valve.” This should help alleviate some confusion when calculating the system to clarify the most remote outlets should be calculated.

• Section 7.8.1.2.1 is being added which opens the door to manual system designs that exceed 175 psi inlet demand.

– “The pressure required at the fire department connection for manual standpipes shall not exceed the working pressure of the system components of the standpipe system or sprinkler system when the system is a combined system.”

• Sections 7.10.1.2.1 and 7.10.1.2.2 remove the wording “topmost outlet” and replace it with “connection point.” This should help alleviate any confusion about whether NFPA 14 is requiring two 21/2-in. outlets to be

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installed at the top of standpipe systems and which outlets should be calculated.

• Section 7.10.1.2.3.1 has a new figure in the Annex in hopes to clarify that when a structure is divided into multiple buildings by a two-hour fire wall that common piping must supply all standpipes on the most demanding system, but are not required to be calculated together. Since the 2019 edition of NFPA 14 won’t be published until later this year, we are unable to reprint the figure within this article. Instead, please reference Figure A.7.10.1.2.3.1 “Common Supply Standpipes Calculated” when the standard is published.

• Section 7.11.2 makes a lot of changes to the requirements for drains by adding sections and removing other sections with the main purpose to clarify that main drains are required to be able to be completely opened without causing damage and/or how to locate the discharge locations to achieve this requirement.

• Section 7.12.2 removes the wording “high-rise buildings shall have at least two remotely located fire department connections for each zone” and replaces it with “number of fire department connections.”

• Section 7.12.2.1 removes the wording “a single connection for each zone shall be permitted where acceptable to the fire department” and replaces it with “a minimum of one fire department connection shall be required for any standpipe system.”

• Section 7.12.2.2 has been added to cover the requirements for high-rise buildings since it was removed from section 7.12.2, and also includes buildings or multiple attached buildings with a perimeter that exceeds 900 ft in length. The specific wording was chosen because many jurisdictions have found additional fire department connections (FDCs) are necessary due to single connections being obstructed by parked cars, storage, landscaping, street closures, etc. or damaged making them unusable.

– “Two fire department connections shall be provided for each zone, located either on opposite corners of the buildings where fire depart26 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

ment apparatus access is provided or, where not possible, physically separated to the greatest extent possible for the following: (1) High-rise buildings (2) Buildings or multiple attached buildings exceeding 900-ft (274.3-m) perimeter distance.”

• Section 7.12.2.3 has been added to require FDCs to “ ... be visible and recognizable from and located within 50 ft (15.2 m) of the street or nearest point of fire department apparatus access.”

• Section 11.7 been changed from Alarm and Supervision Tests to Automated Inspection and Testing Devices and Equipment to align with the allowance of automated inspection, testing, and distance monitoring devices, meters, and equipment in the 2019 edition. The purpose of this section is to maintain automated inspection and testing devices and equipment are as effective as physical and visual inspections and tests.

Along with these changes in the 2019 edition, the 2022 edition of NFPA 14 is going to be reorganized to group relevant information together to limit having to go back and forth between sections in order to find all of the requirements. The reorganizing will also remove redundancies in the hopes to avoid confusion, similar to the purpose of reorganizing the 2019 edition of NFPA 13.

Now that the major changes for the 2019 edition of NFPA 14 have been covered, here are two of the most commonly requested informal interpretations for the AFSA Technical Services Department staff when it comes to previous editions of NFPA 14: • Are horizontal standpipes and branchlines required to be protected from mechanical and fire damage?

– Only in non-sprinklered high-rise buildings and sprinklered high-rise buildings of Type III, IV, and V construction.

• NFPA 14 (2016 edition) requires in section 7.10.1.1.1 the minimum flow rate for the hydraulically most remote standpipe must be 500 gpm through

the two most remote 21/2-in. outlets.

Is it requiring two 21/2-in. outlets to be installed at the most remote location, or can the flow be taken from one 21/2-in. outlet at the most remote outlet and flow from one 21/2-in. outlet at the second most remote outlet on the same system (the top landing and landing below) be used together?

– The flow can be taken from the two most remote outlets. If there are two 21/2-in. outlets provided at the most remote location, then those outlets would be used. If there is only one 21/2-in. outlet at the most remote location (the uppermost landing in a stairwell for example) then the second most remote one 21/2-in. outlet provided on the same system would be used as the second most remote outlet (the next landing down in a stairwell to continue the example). This is clarified in section 7.10.1.2 in the 2019 edition by removing the “topmost outlet” and replacing it with “connection point.” n ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Russ Bainbridge, PE, CFPS, MS, is senior fire protection engineer for the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA). He has a bachelor’s degree in fire protection and safety technology with a minor in emergency management from Oklahoma State University and a master’s degree in fire protection engineering from California Polytechnic State University. Bainbridge has a Professional Engineer license in Fire Protection Engineering in the state of California. He is a member of NFPA’s Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS) Certificate Advisory Group, sits on the Society of Fire Protection Engineers’ (SFPE) Professional Competency & Credentialing and Nominating Committees.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: The article and its content is not a Formal Interpretation issued pursuant to NFPA Regulations. Any opinion expressed is the personal opinion of the author and presenter and does not necessarily present the official position of the NFPA and its Technical Committee.

Legislative Review 2018 Codes, Standards and Regulations in the U.S. and Canada This issue of Sprinkler Age features our 31st annual legislative review. This summary of legislation and codes offers a quick overview of regulations affecting the fire sprinkler industry in individual states and Canadian provinces. The information in these charts was gathered from a survey sent to the fire marshals of the 50 states, the District of Columbia and the provinces of Canada in September 2018. If a response was not received, information that appeared in the 2017 Legislative Review (November 2017 Sprinkler Age) has been reprinted, and the fact that the information is a repeat is denoted by an asterisk (*) after the state or province name in the left column of the chart.

Survey Questions and Responses The 2018 AFSA Legislative Survey asked the following questions: 1. What, if any, national codes have been adopted by your state?

2a. In adopting the national codes, were any amendments or modifications made to the code or referenced standard (i.e., NFPA 13, 101, etc. or state supplemental rules) that affect fire sprinklers?

2b. If yes, what were the significant modifications (or provide a Web address to reference)?

3a. Which edition of NFPA 13 have you adopted, either directly or indirectly by code reference?

3b. If you haven’t adopted the latest edition of NFPA 13, do you allow local jurisdictions to use the latest edition?

over 100, business over 50 ft, etc.) or is it all encompassing?

6. If buildings are not included in the state jurisdiction, is there a recognized code adoption recommended for local authorities or is it on individual preference?

7. Are you in a code revision/adoption cycle now? If yes, what codes and years do you anticipate adopting?

8. Has your state adopted NFPA 25: Standard for the Inspection, Testing and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems?

14. Does the Office of the State Fire Marshal have authority over all projects in the state or only over state-owned or state-financed projects?

15. Are there any local jurisdictions that you know of in your state that have residential ordinances for the following occupancies? Single-family, multi-family, high-rise condo/apartment? Please list.

16. Please provide a telephone number that a person can call if he/she has questions about jurisdiction in your state (i.e. state vs. local authorities) regarding fire sprinkler plan review/inspection.

9. Does your state have any pending legislation regarding fire sprinklers, more restrictive or less restrictive, for: Hotels & Apartments, Dwellings & Lodging Housing, Health Care, High-Rise, Nursing Homes, Education, Public Assembly, Business Occupancies, Mercantile, Institutional, Other.

17. Does your state require certification of Plan Reviewers? Inspectors (AHJs)?

10. Are you adopting the 2015 International Residential Code (IRC)? If yes, will it be adopted with the residential sprinkler requirement intact or modified/removed?

If modified, please specify modifications.

19. Does your state require licensing for sprinkler drawings: P.E./Architect Seal?

NICET Level III? NICET Level IV? Other (i.e., NFPA-CWBSD, etc.)

11. Does your state have fire sprinkler retrofitting requirements for the following occupancies? Hotels & Apartments, Dwellings & Lodging Housing, HighRise, Health Care, Nursing Homes, Education, Public Assembly, Business Occupancies, Mercantile, Institutional, College Dormitories, Other.

4. Do the codes adopted by your state have a minimum base or a minimum/ maximum for enforcement purposes?

12. Are there any towns/cities that you are aware of that have retrofitting requirements in excess of the state requirement?

List a contact person and phone number for retrofitting information.

5. Is the scope of state code enforcement limited to the type of occupancy and/or other requirements (i.e., public assembly

13. Does your state require a P.E. to do sprinkler design concepts (i.e., identify occupancies and water supply)?

18. Does your state require licensing for: Fire Sprinkler Contractors? Fire Sprinkler Fitters? Fire Sprinkler Designers? Fire Sprinkler Inspections? Fire Alarm Inspections (separate from sprinkler)?

20. Does your state require any of the following for those who perform inspection, testing and maintenance of waterbased fire protection systems? NICET Level I? NICET Level II? NICET Level III? Other (e.g., CSA, Local)?

21. Does your state require seismic protection on fire sprinkler systems?

22. Do you require a signed copy of the owner’s certification (see NFPA 13, section 4.3) as part of the working plan submittal?

The tables on pages 28 through 31 provide the answers to most of the survey questions. The table on page 34 provides licensing and certification information (questions 17-19). The tables on page 35 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018 27

provide the telephone numbers requested in questions 12 and 16 and the answers to questions 20 and 21.

Survey Findings In Canada, AHJs from Manitoba and Nova Scotia responded. No updates were given regarding pending legislation regarding fire sprinklers in occupancies. For fire sprinkler retrofits, Manitoba indicated health care, nursing homes, and residential care facilities have requirements. Neither province has adopted the 2018 IRC. Regarding pending sprinkler legislation (question 9) for the 50 United States and the District of Columbia, California has pending legislation for accessory dwelling units. Hawaii has pending legislation for dwelling and lodging housing that is less restrictive and pending legislation for healthcare that is more restrictive. Indiana indicated pending legislation for fire sprinklers “to transfer to the fire code from building code.” New Hampshire follows NFPA 101, Life Safety Code®, regarding fire sprinkler legislation. Oregon is considering legislation for high-rises. Utah has

more restrictive legislation pending for hotels, apartments, dwellings, lodging housing, health care, nursing homes, and educational facilities.

Question 10 concerns the International Residential Code (IRC). This year’s survey asked about the 2018 edition.

Most states indicated they were not adopting that edition. Florida indicated the state will adopting it for 2017-2018.

Georgia House Bill 1196 (2010 legislative session) prohibits any residential sprinkler requirement, past or future. Minnesota will adopt the 2018 IRC “modified-most likely; one- and two-family dwellings probably removed; townhomes required.” Utah is pending adoption with the sprinkler requirement removed.

For states that indicated “no changes” from last year’s survey and for those that did not respond this year, responses are for the 2015 edition of the IRC. California has adopted it (water supply) and Colorado has adopted it for dwellings associated with public schools.

Connecticut indicated it has adopted the code. Washington, D.C. is currently

in a code cycle and plans to adopt it.

The 2015 Michigan Residential Code was to become effective in February 2016 and was to adopt by reference the 2015 edition of the IRC with amendments, deletions, and additions deemed necessary for use in the state. North Dakota is adopting but sprinklers are not able to be required in single-family homes. Washington state adopted the 2015 IRC but did not adopt chapters 11-25 and notes residential sprinklers, if added, need to meet IRC P2904 or NFPA 13D. West Virginia has also adopted the code but refers readers to section 87-4-5 of the state building code. Arkansas, Iowa, Mississippi, New Hampshire New Jersey, North Carolina, and Rhode Island are adopting the IRC with the residential sprinkler requirement removed. In Ohio, there are construction trade-offs for the adopted IRC. South Dakota is not adopting the 2012 IRC and indicated the state fire marshal has no authority in most residential occupancies (i.e., one- and two-family dwellings – only six stories or higher). Arizona, Hawaii, Indiana, Massachusetts, Montana, Nevada, and Oregon indicated they

Province

Province Code Adoption

Additional NFPA Standards

NFPA 13 Edition Adopted

Local Jurisdiction Can Use Latest NFPA 13 Ed.

Minimum Base or a Min/Max for Enforcement

Alberta, Canada*

2014 Alberta Building Code (amended 2010 NBC)

NFPA 13D, 13R, 14, 20

2013

Yes, w/AHJ

Minimum

British Columbia, Canada*

NBC 2010 amended

2010 NBC adopted in ‘12 but updated in ‘17 to req. NFPA 13R (‘13 ed.). Also updated ‘14 to req.

‘10 versions of NFPA 13D, 14 & 20

2013 as of 12/14

No

Minimum

Manitoba, Canada

NBC 2015 amended

No

2013

Yes, with AHJ approval

Minimum

New Brunswick, Canada*

2010 NBC

NFPA 13D, 13R, 14, 20

2010

Yes, w/AHJ

Minimum

Newfoundland, Canada*

2010 NBC & NFPA 101

NFPA 13D, 13R, 14, 20

Latest

Yes

Minimum

Nova Scotia, Canada

2010 NBC

NFPA 13D, 13R, 14, 20

2013

Yes, w/AHJ

Minimum

Ontario, Canada*

2012 Ontario Building Code (amended 2010 NBCC)

NFPA 13D, 13R, 14, 20

2013

Yes, w/AHJ

Minimum

Prince Edward Island, Canada*

2010 NBC & NFPA 1 & 101 (NBCC Province not Authority)

NFPA 13D, 13R, 14, 20

2013

Yes, w/AHJ

Minimum

Quebec, Canada*

2015 Quebec Construction Code (amended 2010 NBCC)

NFPA 13D, 13R, 14, 20

2007

Yes, w/AHJ

Minimum

Saskatchewan, Canada*

2010 NBCC with 2013 Saskatchewan amended

NFPA 13D, 13R, 14, 20

2007

Yes, w/AHJ approval

Minimum

approval

approval

approval approval approval approval

*Abbreviations: NBC-National Building Code of Canada; BOCA/National-Building Official and Code Administrators International; IBC-International Building Code; IFC-International Fire Code; IFGC-International Fuel Gas Code; (cont. on next page)

28 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

were not adopting the IRC. New York has adopted a modified IRC and directs readers to dos.ny.gov/dcea for details.

South Carolina has adopted it with modifications and directed readers to see 2012 ICC modifications at llr.state.sc. us.pol/bcc.

When asked about sprinkler retrofit requirements for occupancies (question 11), numerous states indicated they have requirements. Regarding nursing homes,

N N -

N N N N N N N N N

N Y1 Y2 -

N N -

Seismic protection required on fire sprinkler systems:

Yes/No

Other (CSA, Local)

Alberta* British Columbia* Manitoba New Brunswick* Newfoundland* Nova Scotia Ontario* Prince Edward Island* Quebec* Saskatchewan*

NICET Level III

Province

NICET Level II

Required for those who perform inspection, testing and maintenance of water-based fire protection systems:

NICET Level I

While the legislative charts in this issue indicate the most recent responses received from the individual states, some states did not provide updated information to this year’s survey in regards to the 2018 edition of the IRC. Therefore, Sprinkler Age recommends that our readers visit the National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) Fire Sprinkler Initiative website, firesprinklerinitiative. org, on a regular basis. Click on the Legislation & Adoptions tab on that site to find the most up-to-date information on local and state adoption of residential fire sprinkler requirements, as well as anti-sprinkler legislation that has been introduced.

Canada Inspection, Testing & Maintenance and Seismic Protection Requirements

Only in active seismic areas Yes Only in active seismic areas Only in active seismic areas Only in active seismic areas Yes if required by code Only in active seismic areas Only in active seismic areas Only in active seismic areas Only in active seismic areas

1

Manitoba requires apprenticeship certification for sprinklers. 2 Nova Scotia requires a Red Seal sprinkler fitter.

Connecticut, Florida, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, and Virginia have retrofit requirements. Georgia has requirements for existing personal care homes upgrading to assisted living homes. Retrofit requirements for healthcare can be found in Florida and New Jersey. Minnesota has requirements

Scope of Enforcement is Limited or All Encompassing

Recognized Code Adoption for Local Authorities or Individual Preference

In a Code Revision Cycle Now? Codes & Years Anticipating Adoption

All Encompassing

RCA

Yes, 2015 NBCC

-

-

-

-

No provincial code enforcement; done by local govts. (municipalities & regional districts)

Code adopted by province & applies in all local govts.

Yes, working towards adopting NBC 2015 in year 2018

Y, 2008

-

-

All Encompassing

Provincewide adoption

Yes, 2020 NBC

Yes, 2014

-

All Encompassing

RCA

Yes, 2015 NBC

-

All Encompassing

RCA

Yes, 2015 NBC

All Encompassing

RCA

All Encompassing

for retrofitting hospitals per the 2012 IFC. Virginia has requirements for hospitals and Connecticut for elderly occupancies.

Georgia and New Jersey have retrofit requirements for public assemblies (PAs).

Signed copy of owner’s certificate as part of working submittal plan

State Requires PE to do Sprinkler Design Concepts

Office of State Fire Marshal Has Authority Over All Projects in State or Only Over State-Owned/ Financed Projects

-

-

Yes

Yes, federal projects follow NBC

-

-

Local govts would decide

Yes

N/A

No

No

No

Yes

No

Province Only

-

-

-

-

-

No

Yes, federal projects follow NBC

-

-

-

-

-

-

Yes

Yes, federal projects follow NBC

Yes, 2015 NBC

-

-

-

-

-

-

Yes

Yes, federal projects follow NBC

RCA

Yes, OBC

-

-

-

-

-

-

Yes

Yes, federal projects follow NBC

All Encompassing

RCA

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Yes

Yes, federal projects follow NBC

All Encompassing

RCA

Yes, 2015 NBCC

-

-

-

-

-

-

Yes

Yes, federal projects follow NBC

All Encompassing

RCA

Yes, 2015 NBCC

-

-

-

-

-

-

Yes

Yes, federal projects follow NBC

High-rise Condo/apt

MultiFamily

Local Jurisdiction With Residential Ordinances

SingleFamily

Locally

Provincewide

Adopted NFPA 25

(cont. from previous page) IMC-International Mechanical Code; IRC-International Residential Code; LSC-Life Safety Code; NBC-National Building Code of Canada; NEC-National Electric Code; NFPA 5000-Building Construction & Safety Code.

Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018 29

State

State Code Adoption

Additional NFPA Standards

NFPA 13 Edition Adopted

Local Jurisdiction Can Use Latest NFPA 13 Ed.

Minimum Base or a Min/Max for Enforcement

Alabama

2015 IBC & IFC; 2013 NFPA 1 & 101

No

2013

Yes

Minimum

Alaska

2012 IBC, IFC, IMC & IFGC

Yes, http://dps.alaska.gov/fire/regulations

2010

Yes

Minimum

Arizona*

2003 IFC

Yes, view at dfbls.az.gov under Fire Marshal Arizona State Fire Code. Amendments & code adopted through AZ rule writing process

IFC, 2003 NFPA 13, 1999

Yes

Minimum

Arkansas*

2012 IBC, IRC & IFC - all amended

Yes, requirement for sprinklers in one and-two-family dwellings deleted

2010

No

Minimum

California*

2016 IBC & IFC, both amended

Yes, https://codes.iccsafe.org/public/chapter/content/2237

2016

Yes

Minimum

Colorado

2015 IBC & IFC; 2015 IRC; 2012 NFPA 101

No

2013

Yes

Depends on

Connecticut*

2012 IBC, IFC & NFPA 101; 2012 NFPA 1 - amended

Yes, new buildings greater than four stories & all new schools

2010

No

Min/Max

Delaware

2015 NFPA 101 & 2015 NFPA 1, both amended

Yes, http://regulations.delaware.gov

2013

No

Minimum

District of Columbia

2012 IBC & IFC, both amended

Yes, visit dcra.dc/gov/page/permits_codes_zoning to see applicable codes. See Chapters on “Referenced Standards” in each Adopted Code book (i.e., In the 2013 DCBC, see Ch 35; in the 2012 IEBC, see Ch 16; in the 2013 DC Fire Code, see Ch 80.)

Ed. 2010. See Ch 35, IRC 2012 for all ref. stds.

No

Minimum

Florida+

2015 IBC, NFPA 1 & NFPA 101

Yes, Florida specific amendments to: NFPA 1, NFPA 101 & IBC. myfloridacfo.com/division/sfm/bfp; http://codes.iccsafe.org/Florida

2013

No

Minimum

Georgia

2012 IBC, IFC & NFPA 101 - all amended

Yes, all modifications to NFPA 13, 13R, 14, 15, 20, 22, 24 & 101 are contained in GA Chapter 120-3-3 (revised 1/1/2015)

2013

-

Minimum

Hawaii^*

2006 IBC & UPC, 2015 IECC; 2014 NEC; 2010 ASME; 2012 NFPA 1 all amended

Yes, NFPA 1 Act 53 of the 2017 legislative session prohibits the counties from req. automatic fire sprinklers in one- & two-family occup.; provided this shall not apply to new homes that req. a variance from access road or fire fightering water supply req.; http://www. capitol.hawaii.gov/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=GM&billnumber=11 53&year=2017

2010

Yes

Minimum

Idaho

2015 NFPA 101, IBC & IFC - all amended

Yes, www.doi.idaho.gov/sfm

2016

Yes

Minimum

Illinois

SFMO enforces 2000 ed. of NFPA 101 for state fac. and state-licensed fac. Each local juris. can adopt its own codes. State est. 2006 IBC, IEBC, IPMC & 2008 NFPA 70 min. standards for juris. that have not formally adopted codes (admin. by the IL Capital Dev. Board)

No

2002 minimum; Juris. that had adopted codes as of 2011 may retain older ref. ed of NFPA in their adopted codes

Yes

Local Juris. may adopt more stringent/ newer codes

Indiana*

2006 IBC & IFC, 2006 IMC/IFG - all amended

Yes. Indiana amendments to codes and standards are at in.gov/legislative/iac/iac_title?iact=675

-

No

Min/Max

Iowa§*

2015 IBC & IFC; 2012 NFPA 101; 2015 IMC, UPC & IECC; 2012 UBC, 210 ADAAG, 2014 NFPA 70

Yes, bcinfo@dps.state.ia.us; fminfo@dps.state.ia.us

2013 NFPA 13, 13D & 13R by ref. from IBC & IFC

Yes

Minimum

Kansas

2006 IBC & IFC, amended; 2006/2012 NFPA 101

No

2007

Yes

Minimum

Kentucky*

NFPA 1 & 101 & IBC, amended

No

2000

No

Min/Max

Louisiana

2015 NFPA 101; 2015 IBC amended

Yes, http://lsuccc.dps.louisiana.gov/pdf/Title_17_UCC.pdf

2016

-

Minimum

Maine

2012 IBC; 2009 NFPA 1 & 101 all amended

Yes, removal of req. of one- and two-family homes to be sprinklered

2016

Yes

Minimum

Maryland*

2012 IBC, NFPA 101 & NFPA 1 - all amended

Yes, mdsp.org/sfpc; Melt out ceiling tiles not permitted; fire pumps not permitted in vaults or pits

2010

Yes

Minimum

Massachusetts*

2009 IBC amended, IFC partially amended, 2012 NFPA 1 amended (1/1/15)

Yes, reduced sprinkler thresholds

2010

No

Min/Max

Michigan

2012 NPFA 101 & 2006 NFPA 1 - both amended

No

2010

No

Min/Max

occup. type

In Florida, systems <50 heads may be designed by contractor; shop drawings not required to be sealed by a P.E. ^Hawaii information is provided for Oahu only. °Idaho has given an exception to four cities: Boise, Caldwell, Meridian, and Nampa. The SFMO is the authority over all state projects regardless of location (i.e., BSU - the university is in Boise; however, the state handles all sprinkler review and inspections). §Iowa has adopted NFPA 25 statewide by reference from 2015 IFC and 2014 NFPA 25. Abbreviations: BOCA/National-Building Official and Code Administrators International; IBC-Interna-

+

30 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

Local Jurisdiction With Signed Residential Ordinances copy of owner’s certificate as part of working submittal plan

State Requires PE to do Sprinkler Design Concepts

Office of State Fire Marshal Has Authority Over All Projects in State or Only Over State-Owned/ Financed Projects

All Encompassing

IP

No

-

-

-

-

-

Yes

All

State Only

All Encompassing

-

Yes, IBC, IFC, IEBC, IFGC & IMC - 2018

Yes, ‘11

-

-

-

-

No

All

None

Limited

RCA

Yes, IFC 2012

Yes, ‘98

-

-

-

-

All

No

State Only

All Encompassing

RCA

No

Yes, ‘11

-

No

No

No

No

All

State Only

All Encompassing

RCA

Yes, 2018 IBC & IFC

Yes, ‘11

-

-

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes or lic. fire sp. contractor

State Only for crating regulation

Limited

IP

No

Yes

-

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

NICET III or above

All for suppression systems

All Encompassing

RCA

No

Yes ‘11

-

No

No

No

No

No

State Only

All Encompassing

-

Yes, 2018 NFPA codes

Yes, ‘14

-

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

All

All Encompassing

n/a

Yes, 2015 ICC ICodes amended

Yes

-

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

No

None, DC has authority over construction

All Encompassing

RCA

Yes, 2018 NFPA 1, NFPA 101

Yes, ‘14

-

No

No

No

No

Yes

State Only

All Encompassing except 1 & 2 family & individuallyowned residences

-

No

Yes, ‘11

No

No

No

No

No

No

Juris. varies

Limited

RCA

Yes, 2015 NFPA 1; 2017 NEC; 2012 IBC, IRC & UPC

Yes, ‘11

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

No

No

No State Fire Marshal Office

LImited

RCA

Yes, 2015 IBC & IFC

Yes, ‘14

-

No

No

No

Yes

No

All fire sprinkler systems; State Only projects

Limited

IP

Yes, 2015 NFPA 101

No

Yes, varies by juris.

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

All

All Encompassing

-

Yes, 2012 IBC, IFC, IMC, IFGC - eff.

12/1/14

Yes, ‘11

-

No

No

No

-

No

All

All Encompassing

IP

Yes, 2017 NFPA 70

Yes

-

No

No

No

No

Yes

All

All Encompassing

RCA

No

Yes, ‘09

-

-

-

-

Yes

Yes

All

All Encompassing

RCA

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

-

No

n/a

All Encompassing

RCA

No

Yes, ‘14

-

-

-

-

Yes

Yes

All

Limited

RCA

Yes, 2018 NFPA 1 & 101

Yes, ‘14

-

Yes

State

State

No

No

All

All Encompassing

IP

No

Yes, ‘14

-

No

No

No

Yes

No

All

All Encompassing

-

Yes, updating fire & bldg codes in Jan. 2018

Yes, ‘11

-

Yes

-

-

-

No

-

Limited

RCA

No

Yes, ‘11

No

No

No

No

No

No

State Only & other regulated facilities

Locally

Statewide

Adopted NFPA 25

High-rise Condo/apt

In a Code Revision Cycle Now? Codes & Years Anticipating Adoption

MultiFamily

Recognized Code Adoption (RCA) for Local Authorities or Individual Preference (IP)

SingleFamily

Scope of Enforcement is Limited or All Encompassing

state and occup. A,E,H,I,R

tional Building Code; IFC-International Fire Code; IFGC-International Fuel Gas Code; IMC-International Mechanical Code; IRC-International Residential Code; LSC-Life Safety Code; NBC-National Building Code of Canada; NEC-National Electric Code; NFPA 5000-Building Construction & Safety Code.

Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018 31

State

State Code Adoption

Additional NFPA Standards

NFPA 13 Edition Adopted

Local Jurisdiction Can Use Latest NFPA 13 Ed.

Minimum Base or a Min/Max for Enforcement

Minnesota

2012 NFPA 101, 2012 IBC & IFC - both amended

Yes, see https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/sfm/fire-code/Pages/state-firecode.aspx

2010

No

Min fire code; Min/Max bldg. code

Mississippi*

2015 IBC & IFC

No

-

2013 by ref.

Minimum

Missouri

-

-

1999

-

-

Montana

2012 IBC and IFC

No

2010

Yes

-

Nebraska

2003 NFPA 1; 2000 NFPA 101

No

2002

No

Minimum

Nevada

2012 IBC & IFC, amended; 2012 IWUIC, UMC & UPC

No

2013

Yes

Minimum

New Hampshire*

2009 IBC amended; 2015 NFPA 1 & 101 - both amended

Yes, no sprinkler req. for one- and two-family dwellings

2013

Yes, w/variance

Minimum

New Jersey*

2015 NJ IBC New Construction; 2006 IFB NJ as maintenance code - both amended

No

2013 as ref. by 2015 IBC

Yes only by the designer for specific issues not in 2013 ed.

Min/Max

New Mexico*

2009 IBC & 2003 IFC - both amended

Yes, 903.2 exception does not apply; 903.2.7 does not apply to detached oneand two-family homes

1999, ref by IFC 2003

Yes

Minimum

New York*

2015 IBC & IFC, both amended

Yes modify R313 of 2015 IFC

2013

No

Minimum

North Carolina

2015 IBC & 2012 IFC, both amended

Yes, amendments to Ch 9 req. removing sprinklers from certain residential occupancies

2013

Yes

Min/Max

North Dakota

2015 IBC & IFC, both amended

Yes, state law prohibits req. of NFPA 13D single-family residential sprinklers

2013

No

Minimum

Ohio*

2009 IBC & IFC, both amended

Yes, A-3 sprinkler req.

2010

No

Minimum

Oklahoma*

2006 IBC & IFC, 2007 NFPA 101, all amended

No

2007

Yes

Minimum

Oregon*

IBC & IFC, both amended

No

2013

Yes

Min-Fire/ Max-Bldg

Pennsylvania*

2009 IBC & IFC

No

2007

No

Minimum

Rhode Island*

2012 IBC, NFPA 1 & 101 - all amended

Yes, residential deleted

2010

Yes

Minimum

South Carolina

2015 IBC & IFC, both amended

Yes, see llr.state.sc.us/pol/bcc

2013

Yes

Minimum

South Dakota

2015 IBC & IFC

Yes, threshold for sprinkler protection multi-family dwellings at six or more units

2013

Yes

Minimum

Tennessee

2012 IBC amended; 2012 IFC & NFPA 101

Yes, eliminate sprinklers from one- and two-family dwellings & townhomes

2010

Yes

Minimum

Texas*

2012 NFPA 101 amended

No

2013

Yes

Minimum

Utah

2015 IBC & IFC - both amended

Yes, see firemarshal.utah.gov

2013

-

Minimum

Vermont

2015 IBC, NFPA 1 & NFPA 101 - all amended

Yes, firesafety.vermont.gov

2013

No

Minimum

Virginia

2015 IBC & IFC - both amended

http://dhcd.virginia.gov/IMAGES/sbc/2015%20vcc%20state%20publication %2008292018.pdf

2013

No

Min/Max

Washington*

2015 IBC, IFC, IRC, IMC & UPC; 2015 NFPA 101 amended; NFPA 5000 amended

Yes, IRC. Did not adopt Ch 11-25. Residential sprinklers if added need to meet IRC P2904 or NFPA 13D

2013

No

Min/Max

West Virginia

2015 IBC, NFPA 1 & NFPA 101 - all amended

Yes, sprinklers as option in one- and two-family dwellings

2013

No

Minimum

Wisconsin*

2009 IBC & NFPA 1 - both amended

Yes, systems req. in most bldgs over 60 ft. Different sprinkler thresholds protection and alt. for smaller apt bldgs & townhouses, Comm 6.2.09 (5) Wis. Sec Code

2007

Yes

Minimum

Wyoming

2015 IBC & IFC

No

2013

Yes

Minimum

â&#x2030; South Carolina has statewide authority to enforce state and local fire codes, but the requirement to use its free plan review services comes from the primary AHJ or AHJs that control permits, licenses, etc., and can involve AHJs who are state or local or may involve both. Abbreviations: BOCA/National-Building Official and Code Administrators International; IBC-Interna-

32 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

-

No

No

No

Yes

No

State Only

No

-

Yes

-

-

Yes

Yes

State Only

No

No

-

-

-

No

-

State License Only

No

Yes, ‘11

-

No

No

No

No

No

All

RCA

Yes, 2012 NFPA 101

Yes, ‘02

-

No

Yes

Yes

No

No

All

Limited

RCA

Yes, 2018 IFC, IBC, IWUIC, UMC & UPC

Yes, ‘11

-

No

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

State Only

All Encompassing

-

Yes, 2015 NFPA 1 w/ ref.; 2015 IBC & IRC

-

-

Yes

Yes

No

No

Yes

State Only

All Encompassing

RCA

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

Yes

State Only

All Encompassing

RCA

Yes, 2015 IFC

Yes, ‘98

-

No

No

-

Yes

Yes

All

Limited

RCA

Yes

Yes, ‘14

-

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

State Only

All Encompassing

RCA

No

Yes

-

Yes

No

No

Yes

No

State Only

Limited

RCA

Yes, 2012 IBC, IRC, IMC, IFGC

No

No

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

All

Limited

-

No

Yes, ‘08

OH Fire Code

Yes

Yes

Yes

-

Yes

State Only

Limited

RCA

No

Yes, ‘02

-

-

-

-

-

No

All

All Encompassing

IP

Yes, 2009 IRC 7/1/11

Yes, ‘08

-

No

No

No

Yes

Yes

State Only

All Encompassing

RCA

No

No

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

-

No

PA Fire Marshal has no code

All Encompassing

RCA

Yes, 2015

Yes, ‘11

-

No

Yes

Yes

-

Yes

All

See llr.state.sc.us/pol/bcc

See llr.state.sc.us/ pol/bcc

Yes, see llr.state. sc.us/pol/bcc

Yes, ‘14

-

No

No

No

Yes

Yes

All≠

Limited

RCA

No

No

-

No

Yes

Yes

-

Yes

Certain public bldgs outlined in statute

All Encompassing

IP

No

Yes, ‘11

-

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

State Only

Limited

IP

No

Yes

-

-

-

-

No

No

State Only

All Encompassing

RCA

Yes, 2018 IBC & IFC

Yes, ‘14

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

State Only

All Encompassing

RCA

Yes, 2018

Yes, ‘14

No

-

-

-

Yes

No

All

All Encompassing

-

No

Fire Prev.

Code

No

No

No

No

No

No

State Only and where there is no local fire official

All Encompassing

RCA

Yes, 2018

Yes, ‘14

-

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

No

n/a

Limited

-

No

Yes, ‘14

-

-

-

-

No

No

All

All Encompassing

IP

Yes, 2012 ed. of IBC, IECC, IMC, IFGC, IEBC & NFPA 1

Yes, ‘08

-

-

-

-

Eng., arch., or sp. contr.

n/a

All Encompassing

RCA

No

Yes, ‘16

-

No

No

No

No

State Only

Yes, 2018 IBC/IFC; NFPA 13-series – undecided if 2016 or 2019 ed.

Yes, ‘11

Limited

IP

No

Limited

IP

No

Limited

RCA

All Encompassing

Locally

RCA

Statewide

All Encompassing

High-rise Condo/apt

Office of State Fire Marshal Has Authority Over All Projects in State or Only Over State-Owned/ Financed Projects

In a Code Revision Cycle Now? Codes & Years Anticipating Adoption

MultiFamily

State Requires PE to do Sprinkler Design Concepts

Recognized Code Adoption (RCA) for Local Authorities or Individual Preference (IP)

SingleFamily

Local Jurisdiction With Signed Residential Ordinances copy of owner’s certificate as part of working submittal plan

Adopted NFPA 25

Scope of Enforcement is Limited or All Encompassing

enforcement authority

tional Building Code; IFC-International Fire Code; IFGC-International Fuel Gas Code; IMC-International Mechanical Code; IRC-International Residential Code; LSC-Life Safety Code; NBC-National Building Code of Canada; NEC-National Electric Code; NFPA 5000-Building Construction & Safety Code.

Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018 33

Designers

Inspections

Fire Alarm Inspections

PE/Architect Seal

NICET Level III

NICET Level IV

Contact the respective AHJ for more detailed information for particular states. We thank the many individual state fire marshals, deputy state fire marshals, deputy chiefs, fire protection engineers, code specialists, and others who participated in this year’s survey.

Some respondents did not provide a specific telephone number for questions regarding jurisdiction over fire sprinkler plan review/inspections. In those cases, we have listed the telephone number for the state fire marshal’s office, with the hope that a state representative can direct contractors to the appropriate authority. n

Alabama Alaska Arizona* Arkansas* California* Colorado Connecticut* Delaware D.C. Florida+ Georgia Hawaii* Idaho Illinois Indiana* Iowa* Kansas Kentucky* Louisiana Maine Maryland* Massachusetts* Michigan Minnesota Mississippi* Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire* New Jersey* New Mexico* New York* North Carolina North Dakota Ohio* Oklahoma* Oregon* Pennsylvania* Rhode Island* South Carolina≠ South Dakota Tennessee Texas* Utah Vermont Virginia Washington* West Virginia Wisconsin* Wyoming

Fitters

Conclusion The AFSA staff has made every effort to provide the most accurate and current information. Because of the time lapse between gathering the information and publication of these charts, changes may have occurred.

Also, code adoption cycles/processes vary from state to state, but most statewide codes are updated once every three years. So states that are not listed as considering adoptions within the next year may in fact be initiating the process of reviewing all available codes.

State

Requires for Sprinkler Drawings:

Contractors

When asked about towns or cities having retrofit requirements in excess of state requirements (question 12a), several states indicated “yes;” however, most did not provide a list of cities, towns, and/or villages.

Requires Requires Certification Licensing Of: For:

Inspectors

New Hampshire retrofits per NFPA 101, Iowa per Chapter 11 of the 2015 IFC, and South Carolina per Section 1103.5 of the 2015 ICC.

State Licensing & Certification Requirements

Plan Reviewers

For hotels and apartments, Florida and Nevada have retrofit requirements.

Connecticut and Virginia retrofit only hotels. Florida and Nevada have requirements for dwellings and lodging housing.

New Jersey retrofit institutional occupancies. New Jersey and Virginia have requirements for college dorms, and Illinois for dorms and Greek houses.

Y Y N N Y Y N N Y N N N N N N Y Y N Y Y N N N N N Y Y Y N Y N N Y N Y N N Y Y Y N N Y N Y N N Y Y

Y Y N Y Y N Y Y Y N Y N N N Y Y N Y Y N Y N N N N Y Y N Y Y Y Y N Y N N Y Y Y N Y Y N Y Y N N Y Y

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y Y N Y Y N Y N Y Y N N Y Y N Y Y Y

Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y N N Y Y N N Y N N Y Y Y N Y N N Y N Y N N Y N N N Y Y N N Y N N N N N

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N Y Y Y Y N Y Y N Y N Y N Y N Y Y N N Y N Y Y N N Y Y N Y Y N

Y Y N Y Y Y N N Y N Y N N N Y Y N Y N N Y Y

Y Y N N Y Y N N Y N N N N Y Y Y N N N Y Y

Y Y N Y Y -

Y Y N Y Y

Y N Y -

Y

Cert

Y Y N

Y

Cert

Y Y N

Y

Cert

N

N Y+ N Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y -

NICET II

Y N Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y Y

Y N N Y Y Y N Y N Y N

Either

Either Depends

Depends

PE or

NICET II

Req.

Only

NICET II

N N Y Y N Y

Y Y Y N N N N Y -

N N Y Y -

N Y N N Y N N -

sealed by

Y

Determined

Locally

N

or sp ctr

lni.wa.gov

NICET II

Depends

Must be

Cert Only Cert Only Cert OnlyCert Only Cert Only

Y Y Y Y N

NICET II

N Y N Y Y -

N

Y Y N Y

Y Y N Y

N N N Y N N N

Y & cert des

N N -

1 of the 3

N N -

Det. Locally

Y N

Information not available for Canada. A “-” indicates no response was given. +In Florida, a contractor can design systems with less than 49 sprinkler heads. ≠In South Carolina, certification per Title 6, Chapter 8 of SC Code of Laws. The SC-specific design and shop drawings requirements can be found in Title 40, Ch 10 of the SC Code of Laws.

34 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

Hawaii* Idaho Illinois Indiana* Iowa* Kansas Kentucky* Louisiana Maine Maryland* Massachusetts* Michigan Minnesota Mississippi* Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire* New Jersey* New Mexico* New York* North Carolina North Dakota Ohio* Oklahoma* Oregon* Pennsylvania* Rhode Island* South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas* Utah Vermont Virginia Washington* West Virginia Wisconsin* Wyoming

Numbers in ( ) are for retrofit questions. Phone numbers not available for Canada.

Y Y Y N N Y Y via waiver N Y or Y y N Y Y Y State N No Req N No Req N Per Y No Req No Req No Req N Y No Req N N Y

N N N N Minimum Y Y N Y or Y N N N N License N No Req N No Req Y N NFPA 1 & N No Req No Req No Req N No Req -

Y No Req N N No Req No Req No Req N No Req No Req Y Y NFPA 101 No Req No Req No Req Y state cert No Req No Req -

N N/A Y NICET I State No Req

N N/A Req Registered No Req

Y, state cert.

State Fire

Marshal

Certificate

N/A -

Tester No Req

Yes/No

Other (CSA, Local)

Georgia

N N Y N N Y No Req N No Req N N No Req No Req No Req N N/A No Req

State Alabama Alaska Arizona* Arkansas* California* Colorado Connecticut* Delaware D.C. Florida Georgia Hawaii* Idaho Illinois Indiana* Iowa* Kansas Kentucky* Louisiana Maine Maryland* Massachusetts* Michigan+ Minnesota Mississippi* Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire* New Jersey* New Mexico* New York* North Carolina North Dakota Ohio* Oklahoma* Oregon* Pennsylvania* Rhode Island* South Carolina• South Dakota Tennessee Texas* Utah Vermont Virginia# Washington* West Virginia Wisconsin* Wyoming

Seismic protection required on fire sprinkler systems:

NICET Level III

California* Colorado Connecticut* Delaware D.C. Florida

334-241-4166 907-269-5491 602-364-1003 501-618-8624 (501-618-8624) 916-327-4998 303-239-4600 860-713-5750 302-323-5365 202-442-4589 850-413-3610 (850-413-3610) 404-617-8515 (404-617-8515) 808-723-7176 (808-723-7176) 208-334-4378 217-558-0328 317-232-1421 (317-233-1421) 515-725-6145 (515-725-6145) 785-296-0659 502-573-0365 x201 1-800-256-5452 (1-800-256-5452) 207-626-3880 (207-626-3889) 410-713-3780 (410-766-3881) 978-567-3375 (978-567-3375) 517-241-9371 (517-241-9371) 651-201-7204 601-359-1061 573-751-2930 (573-522-6207) 406-791-2710 402-471-2027 775-684-7532 (603-271-3294) 609-984-7609 (609-633-6741) 505-476-0080 518-474-4073 919-647-0011 701-328-5555 614-728-5460 (614-728-5460) 405-522-5006 503-934-8269 (503-934-8269) 717-346-2729 401-393-7717 803-896-9800 605-773-3562 615-741-6246 512-305-7909 801-296-2390 802-479-7566 804-371-7161 360-596-3913 304-558-2191 608-266-0251 307-777-7288

Required for those who perform inspection, testing and maintenance of water-based fire protection systems:

NICET Level II

Alabama Alaska Arizona* Arkansas*

U.S. Inspection, Testing & Maintenance and Seismic Protection Requirements

NICET Level I

Local Jurisdictions and Retrofit Information

Y Y Y Y N Y Y N N N Y Y

Only as req by NFPA 13 Yes, DOL appr program

Yes N Y N N N Yes, in some areas Y N N N Y N Y Y Yes, some Y Based on IBC req N Y N Y Y Y Y N Y N Y Yes, not all systems N Y N Y Y

A “-” indicates no response was given. + In Michigan, in regulated facilities they have to be Act 144 Certified • In South Carolina, the adopted bldg code determines when seismic protection is required.

Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018 35

System Type

TRADITIONAL Per NFPA 13 (standard spray sprinklers)

BACK TO BACK Specific Application Attic Sprinklers

GLOBE’S NEW Specific Application DS/RE

Dry System

300 gpm – 500+ gpm

340 gpm – 400 gpm

120 gpm – 140+ gpm

Wet System

150 gpm – 250 gpm

250 gpm – 300 gpm

100 gpm – 120+ gpm

Meet Your M/S Council Members Representatives Work on Behalf of Associates The American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) Manufacturers/Suppliers (M/S) Council concluded its annual election recently. Chuck Kitts of System Sensor in Lansdale, Pennsylvania, was re-elected to a three-year term. Tim Freiner of Potter Electric Signal Company, St. Louis, Missouri, was newly elected for a threeyear term expiring in 2021, and Andy Kaempfer of Bull Moose Tube Company, in Chesterfield, Missouri, and Jim McHugh of AGF Manufacturing Inc., in Malvern, Pennsylvania, were elected to serve two-year terms expiring in 2020.

The newest members of the Council are enthusiastic to join this prestigious group for the betterment of the industry. “The M/S Council is happy to have Chuck Kitts re-elected to the Council and glad to welcome back former M/S Council Chairman Tim Freiner. Congratulations to both!” says M/S Council Chair Mike Dooley. “Andy Kaempfer from Bull Moose Tube Company and Jim McHugh from AGF were elected to the Council, and both bring a wealth of industry knowledge and are welcome additions.”

New members of the AFSA M/S Council were installed during its meeting Wednesday, October 3 at AFSA37: Convention, Exhibition & Apprentice Competition at the Gaylord National Harbor in Washington, DC. Members of the 2019 M/S Council include: • Chair Mike Dooley, Anvil International, Holliston, Massachusetts; • Vice Chair Chris Stason, Victaulic Company, Temecula, California; • Derek Allen, Core & Main, Hayward, California; • Ray Fremont, Jr., General Air Products, Inc., Exton, Pennsylvania; • Tim Freiner, Potter Electric Signal Company, St. Louis, Missouri; • Michelle Hoffmann, WinSupply, Dayton, Ohio; 38 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

Members of the 2018-2019 Manufacturers & Suppliers Council met on October 3 in Washington, DC.

• Andy Kaempfer, Bull Moose Tube Company, Chesterfield, Missouri; • Chuck Kitts, System Sensor, Lansdale, Pennsylvania; • Randy Lane, Viking SupplyNet, Hastings, Michigan; • Jim McHugh, AGF Manufacturing Inc., Malvern, Pennsylvania; • Bill Phair, Ferguson Fire & Fabrication, Passaic, New Jersey; • Rex Schwendiman, Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Company, Elmsford, New York; • Joe Tieman, Johnson Controls, Hillard, Ohio; and • Ralph Watson, Globe Fire Sprinkler Corporation, Standish, Michigan.

“I am very proud to be chosen to represent the Manufacturers and Suppliers of the AFSA,” says Kaempfer. “It is a great honor and privilege to serve the outstanding membership of the association and I look forward to the opportunity to be an advocate for fire sprinklers and AFSA!” The M/S Council is comprised of both appointed and elected representatives.

Each device manufacturing company that holds AFSA membership at level A-6 or above is allowed one seat, with the representative to be appointed by the individual company, and two appointed seats on the Council are reserved for distributor/fabricators in dues-paying categories A-9 or above with a national

scope. There are seven elected representatives, and persons serving in these positions may represent any supplier or manufacturer company that includes, but is not limited to, suppliers, other manufacturers, or manufacturer’s representatives as long as the company is an AFSA member in good standing.

“Being a member of the council affords me the ability to represent other family businesses,” states McHugh. “I think it is also important to stand up for those companies in our industry which proudly make products in the USA.” The Council, established in 1983, is a national council representing member companies who produce fire sprinkler system components, and supply materials and services to the industry. The M/S Council was created to represent the interests of all associate members that make and supply products in the industry, and assist AFSA’s Board of Directors in meeting the goals of AFSA. All Associate members are encouraged to contact M/S Council representatives if they have any questions or ideas about activities of the AFSA. For more information, contact M/S Council Liaisons Marlene Garrett, CMP at mgarrett@ firesprinkler.org or Nicole Duvall at nduvall@firesprinkler.org. For more information, visit firesprinkler.org. n

Scholarships Share Safety Message Over 100,000 Students Learn About Sprinklers The American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) is proud to offer financial assistance and public awareness of sprinklers through its online scholarship program, AFSAscholarship.org. A total of $25,000 is awarded through this public awareness campaign to 10 lucky graduating high school seniors and five college/trade school students as they pursue their higher education goals.

Since its creation in 1996, the AFSA Scholarship Contest has sought to promote the scholarship outside of the fire sprinkler industry in the hope of reaching students who may otherwise never have recognized the importance of automatic fire protection. Now entering its 23rd year, the AFSA scholarship continues to grow, attracting over 244,961 unique visitors to its website thus far in 2018.

Scholarships for Seniors For the high school senior contest, applicants must be a current high school senior planning to attend an accredited U.S. college, university or trade school in the coming fall. Applicants are required to read a passage about fire sprinklers – which describes their history, how they operate to save lives and property, and the types of careers that are available in the industry – and take an eight-question reading comprehension test. For each question answered correctly, the student receives one entry into a drawing for one of 10 $2,000 scholarships. A total of eight entries per applicant into the drawing are possible.

The winners were randomly selected from 72,759 students who entered to receive a one-time $2,000 AFSA scholarship payable to their respective college, university or trade school. The 10 national winners for 2018 are: Vanessa Castellon, Chula Vista, Califor-

nia; Isaac Dienes, Nelsonville, Ohio; Katie Kohlman, Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania; Lilia Nikoomanzar, Chandler, Arizona; Daniel Popach, Marysville, Washington; India Richardson, Prince George, Virginia; Erik Simonsen, Redmond, Washington; Devin Wade, Vandalia, Ohio; Haley Wilkerson, Houston, Texas; and Zoe York, Cary, North Carolina.

Most of this year’s winners were unaware of the life- and property-saving benefits of fire sprinklers before entering this contest. Talking with them afterward, confirms they have been exposed to this life-safety message and hopefully will be sharing that knowledge with others.

correctly, the student receives one entry into a drawing for one of the scholarships. A total of eight entries per applicant into the drawing are possible.

The five “second chance” winners for the 2018 contest are: Sarah McCafferty, Boyertown, Pennsylvania; Gabriela Palafox, Claremont, California; Melanie Rodriguez, Los Angeles, California; Karim Rupani, Tucker, Georgia; and Lindsay Taylor, Greenwood, South Carolina.

Winner Katie Kohlman plans to study meteorology at Pennsylvania State University and now thinks that sprinklers “are an amazing invention that has and will continue to save lives.”

Gabriela Palafox didn’t know very much about sprinklers before entering this contest. “I believe that they are necessary in all public and private buildings.” The University of La Verne sociology major is grateful for the scholarship as it will “alleviate my stress about paying for school and allow me to put my face on my schoolwork and leadership positions.”

Zoe York, another winner, has learned that “sprinklers are necessary in every building as they can save lives by suppressing fires and prevent them from spreading.” York plans to study animal science at North Carolina State University.

Students Enter Online Both contests are being offered in 2018-2019.

The high school senior contest is currently open until April 1, 2019 and the second chance contest will run again in the summer of 2019.

Second Chance Scholarships Applicants for the second chance contest must reside in the United States, hold a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent, and be enrolled at or accepted to a college/university or certified trade school. The winners of this scholarship were randomly selected from 30,642 students who entered to receive a one-time AFSA scholarship payable to their respective college, university or trade school. Second chance students follow the same rules and procedures as the high school senior students for entering. For each question answered

“We are proud to continue helping educate students nationwide about fire sprinklers and are extremely pleased to be able to help even more individuals pursue their educational goals,” comments AFSA Director of Communications & Social Media Nicole Duvall.

AFSA scholarships are open to U.S. citizens or legal residents and are not based on financial need. For details or to apply for either scholarship, visit afsascholarship.org. n

Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018 39

NFPA 20, 2019 Edition Accepted Changes and Additions BILL M. HARVEY, SET | Harvey & Associates, Inc.

The NFPA 20 committee has completed the review process and update of the 2019 edition of NFPA 20, Standard for the Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection, and it is ready for distribution to the public. This article highlights some of the important results of the committee’s review of the Public Proposals and Comments.

The results were presented to the NFPA membership at the annual meeting in Las Vegas in June. No one offered a NITMAM for change and the committee’s work was voted on and accepted by the membership present.

Even with the comparatively small number of proposals offered this cycle, there were plenty of items of work for the committee. The committee had to contend with shortened sessions due to hurricanes in Florida and Texas, the two meeting destinations. The committee was required to use several teleconferences to complete the proposal review.

With an ever-changing industry landscape, we are presented with many new products and claims “of the best gadget you have ever seen” entering the industry on a continuing basis. The committee must sift through these items to ensure a proper review is offered upon each proposal. Some of the proposals presented this cycle did afford just such a challenge to the committee.

Chapters 1 and 2 are virtually unchanged from the preceding edition.

Chapter 1 is unchanged. Chapter 2 reference publications received the normal updates for the referenced publications.

Throughout the new 2019 edition of NFPA 20, the text changes are highlighted by shaded areas and bullets for new sections, deletions, and new 40 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

material. The new marking system in this edition is a real improvement when researching or identifying the changes and additions made in the standard.

In our evaluation we could not determine that these proposed items added any value or better fire protection for the end-user.

Changes to Chapter 3 “Definitions” include additions and clarifications to the variable speed pump controllers and the addition of new equipment such as self-regulating pump controllers and self-regulating variable speed fire pump. These new products are included in addition to the previously approved variable speed pressure limiting and suction limiting controllers. Refer to section 3.3.76 Variable Speed Pumps and Controllers for new definitions related to the addition of the self-regulating control.

Adding self-regulating pumps and remote monitoring to the standard added several areas of concern. We as fire sprinkler professionals must evaluate the application of these products to ensure we provide the fire protection needed by our customers.

Clarifications are included to better identify the different variable speed options. Refer to section 3.3.75.2 through section 3.3.76.5 for the list of options. (section 3.3.76.2*).

As fire protection professionals and licensed fire sprinkler contractors, you should pay more attention to determining the exact cause and effect of problems we encounter during design, installation, and operating of fire pump systems. Record this information and make it available for future reference.

The need for more and more factual record keeping is becoming an everyday requirement. Stay ahead of the game and establish an in depth event recording program.

One of the more interesting proposals received relates to remote distance monitoring for the periodic fire pump no-flow test. There are many devices available to allow development of a remote periodic test of the fire pump system. Providing a remote monitoring system to replace the normal inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) periodic test and inspections will require a lot of pre planning and engineering in addition to the standard or custom NFPA 20 installation.

The remote monitoring equipment required to provide the necessary data delves into a lot more electronics such as cameras, thermal screening, video, and other electronic devices.

As the representative for the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA), we voted to reject both of these proposals.

The new self-regulating variable speed pump system is totally different in concept when compared to the variable speed controls used extensively in excess pressure and suction control applications.

Chapter 4 General Requirements, reflects a large number of text changes that include clarifications in section 4.2* Pump Approvals and Section 4.3 Pump Operation (4.3.1*).

Beginning at Chapter 4 section 4.7.7.3 through section 4.8.24 Variable Speed Pump, there are 28 new sections dedicated to the design criteria and operating guidance for the new self-regulating fire pump system (4.8.16*).

Additionally, new guidance is provided for use of water flow devices. Beginning

at section 4.22 Water Flow Test Devices through section 4.22.1.2.5. (4.22.1.1* and 4.23.1.3*).

New section 4.35 Automated Inspection, Testing, and Distance Monitoring of Devices, Meters, and Equipment outlines a new concept for monitoring the fire pump equipment during a performance test and the regular ITM functions.

Sections 4.35.1* and 4.35.2* list the devices and equipment that can be monitored remotely.

Chapter. 5 Fire Pumps for High-Rise Buildings, has modest texts changes and several new sections. The chapter offers new guidance for the water supply requirements for section 5.6* Very Tall Buildings. Information provided includes new guidance and design info for the extensive cross connections required for refill and replenishment backup through the use of tankage in the upper floors of the structure. New text information is included beginning with section 5.6.1.1* which outlines new guidance for high rise building and continues through section 5.6.1.6*.

Refer to sections 5.6.1.5 through 5.6.1.6.6 for new text and design requirements in tall buildings.

Chapter 6 Centrifugal Pumps has minor changes to the text. Additional guidance is added for use in setting up the variable speed pumps. See sections 6.1.1*; 6.2.2.2; and 6.2.2.3, operating guidance.

Chapter 7 Vertical Shaft Turbine Pumps has minor text changes. New requirements for mass elastic torsional analysis is provided for the manufacturer’s use in obtaining listings for their vertical shaft pumps where right angle gear drives are used.

The major changes in Chapter 14 Acceptance, Testing, Performance, and Maintenance center on the new automated inspection and testing devices and equipment, ITM feature, and testing guidance for the self-regulating fire pump. Refer to sections 14.2.4.1.3 through 14.2.6.2.3 for the basic information needed to use the automated monitoring.

The new automated inspection feature must dove tail into the requirements of NFPA 25, Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems, and NFPA 72®, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code®.

AFSA needs your input and comments related to your concerns and successes in the fire pump industry. Any new methods or equipment added in the design, installation, and performance of fire pump systems often times create concerns that should be addressed by the association. Be an advocate for a better product. The fire pump has always been a tough piece of equipment, designed to withstand abuse and minimum service and continue to perform all the way to destruction. The trend to more solid state components will make the units less robust. It is up to the fire protection professional to evaluate the available equipment and make the right choices to accomplish the mission to provide good fire protection for the customer. n ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Bill M. Harvey, SET, is with Harvey & Associates, Inc. in Fountain Inn, South Carolina. Contact Harvey via email at bill@harveyandassociates.com.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: As a member of the NFPA Technical Committee for NFPA 20, the following disclaimer applies. This article and its content is not a Formal Interpretation issued pursuant to NFPA Regulations. Any opinion expressed is the personal opinion of the author and presenter and does not necessarily represent the official position of the NFPA and its Technical Committee.

Chapter 8 through Chapter 13 have minor changes to the text, and a notable change to the motor service factor requirements for variable speed drive units using VSD controllers and the new self-regulating fire pump units (see section 9.5.2.2).

Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018 41

Promoting the Industry to the Next Generation GFSA and NextGen Exhibit at CEFGA CareerExpo MINDY McCULLOUGH BUCKLEY | Allsouth Sprinkler Company

The Georgia Fire Sprinkler Association (GFSA) recognizes the undeniable need for the next generation of fire sprinkler professionals in our industry. In search of a solution, GFSA met with the Construction Education Foundation of Georgia’s (CEFGA) President and CEO Scott Shelar who encouraged GFSA members to get involved with his organization. CEFGA understands the skilled labor shortage and provides construction companies with reliable, productive workers through the Construction Ready program and a K-12 pipeline to train and encourage the future talent of tomorrow.

By partnering with the CEFGA, GFSA participated in the CareerExpo and SkillsUSA event in the spring of 2018. This impressive event attracted approximately 5,500 students; 1,200 influencers (teachers, parents, counselors and school administrators); and 1,600 industry volunteers and exhibitors all focused on careers in the construction industry. It was comprised of 18 industry “worlds” and had 400 high school and technical college students competing in 20-plus SkillsUSA contests. It also gave employers a way to engage with young people and connect to their future workforce. By linking students directly to professionals in the areas of construction, CEFGA’s CareerExpo gets young people excited about the industry and helps ensure the new generation is aware of the many career opportunities. GFSA members knew this was exactly the type of event in which they wanted to be involved.

Patrick Cordi, Wiginton Fire Systems; Mindy Buckley, Allsouth Sprinkler Company; Chris Conway, Palmetto Automatic Sprinkler Company (PASCO); Scott Donnelly, Challenge Fire Protection; and Terry Pickvet, Atlanta WinSupply. The NextGen committee, workgroup and local contractors – Allsouth Sprinkler Company, Century Fire Protection, PASCO, and Wiginton Fire Systems – were able to team up to create, for the first time ever, a “World of Fire Protection,” and it was a huge success! The two-day event was held at the Georgia International Convention Center in Atlanta and we were able to inform thousands of students, teachers, and counselors about the importance of fire sprinklers. In addition to the contractors above, it would not have been possible without the support and contributions from Ameripipe Supply, Atlanta WinSupply, Challenge Fire Protection, Core and Main, Dixie Construction Products, Globe Sprinkler, Harry Warren of GA, Pro-Tec Fire and Safety, Reliable Sprinkler, The Lubrizol Corporation, Johnson Controls, and Viking SupplyNet, that either sent representatives; donated or loaned hands-on display items; and/or provided labor and materials to help spread the word about careers in our industry.

The GFSA’s NextGen Committee created a workgroup to head up the project. The workgroup included President

Inside the “World of Fire Protection,” GFSA included a 10-ft x 10-ft display structure built with complete systems, demonstrating a CPVC and steel pipe installation including riser manifold and branch lines with sprinkler heads. With this, several different valve displays, and power and hand tools, students were able to work hands-

Tommy Haberman with Viking (far left) and Terry Pickvet with WinSupply (in safety vest) share GFSA’s custom display with students.

Haberman and Pickvet work the display area (at left) while GFSA Executive Director Billy Wood and NextGen Member Madison Horton work the table display area.

42 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

Chris Stewart with Johnson Controls brought a valve display featuring Tyco products. The riser manifold was fabricated by Ferguson Fire and Fab in Atlanta.

on with all different components of fire sprinkler systems.

Each of the four contractors had their own table set up with pictures, displays and giveaways. Two tables in the center provided printed educational information and supplier and manufacturer goodies for students to pick up.

A raised scissor lift displayed AFSA’s scholarship information and there was a table that displayed the NextGen banner with chairs around for students to sit down one-on-one with the many eager industry professionals to educate them about careers in fire protection. With the combined efforts of all, there was much interest in the fire sprinkler industry and many students wanting more information on how to move forward with a career.

By participating in this event, GFSA’s NextGen was able to reach out to the many students and, more importantly, teachers and counselors to let them know that there are many opportunities for fulfilling and rewarding careers in the fire sprinkler industry, whether in contracting by installing, designing, or selling sprinkler systems installations, or in engineering, manufacturing, fabrication, material distribution, research, and development.

During the event, Stuart Weeks, president of the South Carolina Fire Sprinkler Association, paid a visit to learn about the event, chat with students, and talk about becoming involved in a similar event in his area. Since then, Mindy Buckley and Anthony Spencer, along with the rest of the AFSA National NextGen Initiative, are working to finalize a career guide template that will be available to anyone interested in planning or attending a career fair such as this in the future.

GFSA members are proud to have presented the World of Fire Protection and look forward to participating in this event in the spring of 2019. Coordination has already begun with CEFGA and the local fire department to bring a side-by-side burn demonstration to the event. The presentation will be the most powerful way to demonstrate the importance of fire sprinklers and show how rewarding a

Justin Haga and Daniel McConnell with Allsouth Sprinkler installing Globe’s universal manifold check (UMC) to display on a pipe stand.

profession saving lives and protecting property can be. Ideas for next year include featuring more of the design and engineering career paths and showcasing a large valve trailer and fire pump for more hands-on participation. We anticipate more contractors and volunteer presence and know that GFSA’s NextGen will be able to make even more of an impact with next year’s event. GFSA’s NextGen members look forward to future collaborations to bring talent to the fire sprinkler trade. CareerExpo was a huge success in recruiting young talent, and we look forward to finding other pathways to continue to broaden the awareness of a profession in our industry. n ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Mindy McCullough Buckley is the office manager for Allsouth Sprinkler Company in Buford, Georgia. She is a member of GFSA and AFSA National’s NextGen Initiative workgroup. For more information about the event or GFSA, email Mindy Buckley at mindy@allsouthsprinkler.com.

EDITOR’S NOTE: AFSA’s NextGen Initiative is for fire sprinkler industry professionals 40 years and under. To find out more details and get involved, visit firesprinkler.org/nextgen.

Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018 43

Nine Contract Provisions Subcontractors Need to Know The Contract Shall Control DANIEL R. McCABE | Canterbury Gooch Surratt Shapiro Stein Gaswirth & Jones, P.C.

The role of the subcontractor in a construction project is unheralded and put upon, beset by the demands and requirements of general contractors, owners, and government agencies while meeting its own business obligations and trying to turn a profit. Frequently overlooked between “getting the work” and “getting the work done” is what should be treated as equallyimportant: contract review and, if possible, amendment. The contract not only serves to explain the rights and obligations between the parties, so that each, literally, knows what is expected of it, it also is the sole memorialization of those rights and obligations and consequently will serve as the (largely) unquestioned guide for a court or arbitrator if there is a dispute between the parties. Hence, it is incumbent upon the subcontractor to ensure that the contract is tailored adequately to the project and to understand its effect on the key aspects of the job. With that view, we can address nine common contract provisions that a subcontractor must give particular attention before signing on the bottom line.

1. Flow-Through Clause The flowthrough clause is a provision whereby the project’s owner imposes obligations and restrictions on a subcontractor despite that there is no direct contractual relationship between them. It accomplishes this by requiring that the general contractor’s contract with the subcontractor include a section stating that, generally, the project parameters agreed to by the general contractor also must become part of the agreement between it and its subcontractors (i.e., those agreements “flow through” to the subcontractors). The problem presented by a flow-through clause is not so much its substance, as these requirements often are not controversial and reflect common local practice, but that it offers no clear explanation of that substance. The subcontractor does not know to what it is agreeing. When 44 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

presented a flow-through clause, then, a subcontractor should ask for a copy of the general contractor’s agreement. It can be redacted to hide confidential information (in anticipation of the general contractor’s only reasonable excuse for refusal). Otherwise, the subcontractor will have entered into an agreement that, at least in part, it has not even read.

2. Scope of Work The primary issue regarding scope of work is the tension between the general contractor’s preference for generality and breadth and the subcontractor’s demand for specificity. At base, a nonspecific scope of work carries the threat that the subcontractor will be forced to pay unanticipated expenses. Further, scope-ofwork issues are particularly problematic because they do not become apparent until the subcontractor is far into its work, if not done (at least from the subcontractor’s position). As a check against this issue, the subcontractor should confirm at the outset that the contract’s scope of work matches the work included in the bid proposal (fairly easy where the subcontractor also provided the design), ensure that the subcontract accurately states exclusions from the original bid and strike any “catch-all” provisions inserted by the general contractor. The telltale indication of these are statements to the effect that the subcontractor agrees to perform additional work necessitated by the subcontractor’s work as determined by the general contractor. A small provision, or even mere clause, that can lead to big cost.

3. Contingent Payment Clause A contingent payment clause dictates those circumstances under which the general contractor becomes obligated to pay the subcontractor for its completed work. These provisions come in two different forms: “pay when paid” and “pay if paid.” The pay-when-paid clause simply determines

the timing of payment to the subcontractor (after the general contractor is paid), but otherwise does not excuse the general contractor from its obligation to the subcontractor. The general contractor remains bound to pay the subcontractor regardless of whether the owner pays it. As for the “when” after the general contract is paid, the contractor should specify a number of days. Otherwise, the general contractor must pay within a “reasonable time.” Alternatively, the pay-when-paid creates an additional contingency for the subcontractor (beyond, for instance, completing the work) and shifts the general contractor’s risk of nonpayment onto the subcontractor. Clearly, the pay-if-paid clause should be avoided. Phrases indicating its presence include “condition precedent,” “subject to,” “upon condition,” and (obviously) “subcontractor assumes risk of nonpayment by owner.” Note that this punitive clause frequently is regulated or superseded by state statutes, include prompt pay laws, so a subcontractor need not despair if currently working under a pay-if-paid provision.

4. No-Damages-for-Delay Clause The general rule is that a contractor (or subcontractor) can recover damages from the owner resulting from the owner’s delay or hindrance. In response, owners frequently insert a no-damages-for-delay clause into the prime contract precluding recovery of damages for owner-caused delay. This, in turn, affects subcontractors, as well, through operation of the flowthrough clause. Instead of consequential monetary damages, the downstream parties are limited to an extension of time to complete the project. This, of course, can be no remedy at all, especially where the subcontractor has obligated most, if not all, of its resources to the present project and now is unable to meet its timetable for the next project in line. Further,

no-damages-for-delay clauses usually are not affected by fair notice requirements.

Rather, when presented with this provision, a subcontractor should insist that it be limited expressly by situations involving fraud, misrepresentation, bad faith or active interference by the owner and that it not operate against delays that otherwise would justify abandonment of the project or, better yet, that it only apply to types of delay specifically described in the agreement (all of which are common legal exceptions to these clauses).

5. Liens and Releases/Waivers Lien law is state-law specific and, as a result, varies widely from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Subcontractors almost certainly have familiarized themselves with the requirements of lien law in their respective states and are encouraged to do so. Some states permit waiver of lien rights and partial lien waivers are standard practice in those locales. The intended purpose is to cause a release of lien rights matched to claims for payment as they are satisfied. The subcontractor should be vigilant against lien waivers that release its right to payment for extra work performed by agreement, as well as payment for work performed for which payment is not yet due. Again, lien waivers should precisely relate to, and only to, work for which payment is made at that time. In a perfect world a subcontractor would refuse to sign lien releases but, as this is the real world, the subcontractor usually must be satisfied with reviewing and revising any promulgated release form before signing the contract.

6. Indemnification Indemnification also is closely regulated by states and its character varies widely among them.

Regardless, under certain circumstances its operation has the power to ruin a subcontractor financially. Broadly speaking, indemnification is the doctrine by which one party (the indemnitor) promises to safeguard or hold harmless another party (the indemnitee) from existing or future loss liability. There are three types of indemnity clauses: “limited,” which imposes liability only to the extent of the indemnitor’s fault of negligence; “intermediate,” in which the indemnitor assumes all liability except for the indemnitee’s sole negligence, and “broad,” which imposes the entire risk of

loss upon the indemnitor, even for a loss event caused solely by the indemnitee (“I broke it, you fix it.”). Further, indemnity clauses usually require the indemnitor to provide a defense for the indemnitee, including paying for its lawyer. Indemnification provisions often are the most hotly contested subjects during contract negotiation, especially because the language of an indemnification provision is strictly-construed in most states (i.e., the wording matters). Most states require that indemnity provisions be “conspicuous,” which means they appear in all caps

or bolded. Hence, they are not hard to find in a contract. Read them carefully.

7. Change Orders All subcontractors are familiar with change orders. As contracts usually dictate that a subcontractor cannot refuse to perform extra work under most circumstances, it is important that subcontractors follow the contractor’s change order procedure precisely and, likewise, insist that the general contractor satisfy it, as well. If the subcontractor performs substantial extra work without a change order, and is refused payment, there frequently are remedies

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available under state law, including arguments that the owner or contractor waived the requirement or orally modified or supplemented the existing contract. The best practice, though, is to follow the proper process: get all change orders in writing, confirm oral directions by followup correspondence and, in turn, follow the change order itself precisely. The subcontractor should not assume it will be paid for extra work based upon its “good relationship” with the general contractor.

8. Termination for Default There are two different categories of contract terminations, for default and for convenience, each governed by its own contractual provisions and body of law. “Termination for default” is allowed where one party is in default to an extent that constitutes a material breach of the contract. This almost always is invoked downstream by an owner or general contractor. Examples of actions considered sufficient default include failure to perform, to fix substandard work, to comply with laws, ordinances or code provisions or to pay subcontractors or suppliers. Often the contract designates the architect as the decisionmaker and requires

it to issue a certificate confirming the sufficiency of the default. A notice requirement and a right to cure also usually are provided in the contract. A subcontractor should scrutinize the contract to ensure these saving provisions are present and otherwise confirm that there is a sufficient barrier to termination for default, as its effect can be punitive financially, including liability for consequential damages (not merely forfeiture of future payment and exclusion from the project). The general contractor should not be able to claim as a default what ordinarily would be a termination for convenience.

9. Dispute Resolution Procedures Unless otherwise specified, the standard resolution procedure for a dispute between parties to a contract is a lawsuit in court.

More and more frequently, though, construction contracts contain arbitration provisions that require the parties to litigate their case in binding arbitration. Both state and federal courts have made clear that these provisions are enforceable. If a subcontractor signs a contract containing an arbitration provision it must assume that it will be barred from court. The advantages

Conclusion Because of time constraints and the desire to get down to business, subcontractors routinely sign lengthy contracts without closely reading the terms and conditions. Every clause in a construction contract is important and warrants your attention. It is important to understand your rights and obligations before you sign on the dotted line. And in many cases, it is wise to retain counsel. n

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46 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

of arbitration are speed, informality and a decisionmaker (the arbitrator) who is an expert in construction law and the world of contractors. The chief disadvantage is that arbitration effectively precludes appeal. The arbitrator’s decision is final. Arbitration provisions should be reviewed carefully to understand the allocation of up-front costs and the arbitrator’s power to award damages. Costs of arbitration far exceed those of the courthouse. Filing fees and arbitrator’s fees can run into the thousands of dollars or even five figures. The contract will dictate who pays and when. It is common for the defendant (respondent) to be relieved of that obligation prior to a finding of liability, but this likewise is a substantial barrier to the plaintiff (petitioner) as it initially must pay for both parties.

Regarding damages, the arbitrator should be empowered to award the full gamut of damages under the law, including an award of attorney’s fees to the prevailing party.

And, regardless of whether a case is in court or arbitration, mediation (non-binding until a then-binding settlement is reached) is available to the parties and is recommended as a relatively inexpensive tool to reach a settlement resolution.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Daniel R. McCabe is a shareholder at the Dallas-based law firm of Canterbury Gooch Surratt Shapiro Stein Gaswirth & Jones, P.C. His practice focuses primarily in the areas of labor and employment law, including litigation, and civil trial work, including construction litigation, commercial disputes and personal injury matters. He is a graduate of Boston College and Texas Tech University School of Law. He can be reached at dmccabe@canterburylaw.com.

EDITOR’S NOTE: AFSA’s contractor members are entitled to a free initial consultation on labor and employment issues from the law firm of Canterbury Gooch Surratt Shapiro Stein Gaswirth & Jones, P.C., located in Dallas. Questions should be directed to Daniel McCabe at )972) 239-7493 or fax 972-490-7739. McCabe will give initial advice, at no cost, to AFSA members, and if further action is deemed necessary, can assist members with finding counsel in their city.

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MSMO Fire Pump Benefits Multi-Stage Multi-Outlet Vs. Series Pumping Vs. Single Pump with PRV KEDAR KHANZODE | SPP Pumps, Inc.

The urban migration rate for the United States is on the rise every year. According to the 2010 census, 80.7 percent of Americans lived in urban areas, which is up by 1.7 percent as compared to the 2000 census. This is what’s driving the growth of cities; large cities are even larger today and will continue to grow.

The city skylines are also getting higher and denser every year. This means newer challenges for protecting the lives of people occupying these skyscrapers, especially from a potential fire hazard.

Designing a fire suppression system for a high-rise building with due attention to the real estate it occupies is challenging and at times very complex to install.

Selecting the heart of the fire suppression system, a fire pump is not easy.

Often times the zone split of a high-rise building will be dictated by the fire pump selection.

Fire suppression systems for high-rise or super high-rise buildings utilize multiple fire pumps arranged in a series to deliver water to the farthest sprinkler (hydraulically) in that very building zone.

Selection and design intention typically is not to protect the entire high-rise at once, but to protect individual building zones at one time. This conventional solution is a pretty expensive way of meeting the purpose of fire protection as it typically involves multiple pumps, pump drivers, and controllers. It also needs considerable space for it to be housed in the building, which is very dear to any skyscraper. Design and installation of such systems is a complex affair as the system designer has a limited set of options from listed and approved products to pick from.

If one does not wish to use multiple pumps due to space limitations, pre-existing pipework, or any other reason, a 48 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

single high-pressure pump, duly sized to meet pressure requirements for hydraulically farthest sprinkler can be employed.

In this type of fire suppression system, use of pressure reducing valves (PRV) is often inevitable to avoid overpressurization of branches and sprinklers. However, NFPA 20 discourages the use of pressurereducing devices on the discharge side of a fire pump due to the known history of installation and maintenance issues associated with PRVs. Without use of PRVs, fire system components rated for high pressure availability is rare and that means these components are relatively expensive. In such a system, the fire pump will always run to meet peak pressure requirement at the demanded flow, which may result in paying that month’s electricity bill at higher rates than normal due to spike rate.

How about a third solution, which offers the best of the above two solutions – a single fire pump that does deliver exact pressure at each zone of the building without using pressure reducing valves. We are talking about a multi-stage multi-outlet (MSMO) pump, which offers interstage outlets to serve pressure requirements of individual zones of a high-rise building. Each inter-stage outlet is hydraulically sized to meet specific pressures as needed by the building zone it serves.

This product is novel to the United States commercial fire protection market, but the working principle and its application is an old and commonly followed practice in critical pumping applications where pressurized water from a multistage pump is utilized for forced cooling of bearings or for shaft sealing. In essence, its working principle can be easily compared with a diesel-engine-driven

fire pump which is also providing cooling water for engine cooling.

To understand the basic working and sizing principle of an MSMO, let’s consider a three-zone high-rise building needing rated 1,000 gpm flowrate and zone split as given below: • Zone 1 – 130 psi • Zone 2 – 220 psi • Zone 3 – 360 psi To aid simplicity, let’s assume city mains average water pressure of 50 psi and each pumping stage of an MSMO pump rated for 1,000 gpm produces 50 psi at its maximum impeller diameter.

For Zone 1 sizing pump needs to deliver a discharge pressure of 130 psi with 50 psi suction pressure, the pump needs to create 130 - 50 = 80 psi of differential pressure, which it can do in two stages.

That means the first pump outlet needs to be at the second stage of pump, with each stage creating 50 psi pressure.

For Zone 2 sizing which needs 220 psi from the pump, our first outlet is already sized for 130 psi and is situated at the second stage of the pump. We need to find the pressure boost that pump would need to produce, i.e., 220 - 130 = 90 psi, with each stage creating 50 psi. We would need two more stages added to the pump to produce 220 psi discharge pressure, meaning our second pump outlet will be at fourth stage.

Zone 3 will need 360 - 220 psi = 140 psi boost, which can be obtained by adding three more stages to the pump, making the seventh stage our final pump discharge outlet.

This means we would need a seven-stage pump with hydraulically sized discharge

outlets at the second, fourth, and seventh stages, serving Zone 1, Zone 2, and Zone 3, respectively. Now letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s make another assumption of a fire initiated at Zone 1. Sprinklers serving the area of fire are now fully open and the main fire pump will be started as soon as the pressure in the piping drops below the set point. Though all of the impellers within the pump are rotating, only the first outlet, which serves Zone 1, will be active and outlets 2 and 3 serving Zones 2 and 3 will be at the state of churn as there is no flow possible through Zones 2 and 3. Another critical point to remember is that fluids follow path of least resistance, meaning the pump will discharge its entire capacity through the active outlets and remaining pump stages. Though the impellers are rotating within it, they will be inactive and will not create any further pressure boost.

The power consumed by the pump will correspond to a two-stage pump power consumption and not to a seven-stage pump power consumption.

This means for the above-stated application, a correctly sized MSMO pump can replace three individual fire pumps arranged in a series and work more efficiently without needing a PRV on the downstream side of the pump to prevent over pressurization. An MSMO pump offers considerable savings of space, overall equipment costs, and minimum start lag.

As stated before, this product is novel to the United States but is already employed in Europe, Asian, and the Middle East for the purposes of providing fire protection to high-rise buildings per BS EN 12845:2015 Fixed Firefighting Systems. Automatic Sprinkler Systems.

Design, Installation and Maintenance.

I have purposefully avoided to make any sprinkler system design-related comments in this article as the intention is to provide a brief overview of working principle, sizing, and selection of an MSMO pump. The overall sprinkler system design for a conventional pump in a series system can be applied to designing a system with MSMO pumps with little state- or county-specific code variations. All the discharge outlets will

need individual pressure sensing lines, driver sizing will be based on final outlet peak power, three separate controllers or one controller with three pressure lines with hi-low settings are the elements similar to a conventional pump in series type system design. NFPA 20, Standard for the Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection, 2016 and 2019 editions have advised the basis of system design with MSMO pumps, the verbiage being used in NFPA 20 for MSMO pumps is â&#x20AC;&#x153;Multi-Stage Multi-Portâ&#x20AC;? pump. Fire pump approval standards such as UL 448, Standard for Centrifugal Stationary Pumps for Fire-Protection Service, is amended to include MSMO pumps and FM has introduced approval standard FM 1310, Centrifugal Fire Pumps (Multi-Stage Outlet Type), specifically to address MSMO pumps. Apart from high-rise buildings, MSMO fire pumps can also be used in applications such as large warehouses, remote train stations, metros, etc.

tional pump in a series fire system. It is a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective solution for providing fire protection to occupants of high-rise buildings. I am hopeful that this new technology will help to modernize fire protection in many old buildings where it really matters and many new buildings to use this revolutionary product in near future. n ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Kedar Khanzode is the engineering manager for SPP Pumps, Inc. in Norcross, Georgia. He has a bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Pune and over 12 years of experience in world of pumping. He is responsible for fire pump engineering and is a member of the Hydraulics Institute. He can be reached at kedar_khanzode@ spppumps.com.

To sum it up, an MSMO pump offers benefits of a PRV-based single highpressure pump with flexibility and code compliance levels of a conven-

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Five Questions About Your Retirement Plan Do You Know the Answers?

ALLAN H. STRANGE | The Strange Group at Janney Montgomery Scott LLC

After doing business with the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) for over 20 years, we were recently endorsed by the AFSA Board of Directors to provide unbiased advice to members about their retirement plan benefits. Much like how AFSA members are entitled to a free legal consultation, your membership with AFSA entitles you to a free consultation with our team of investment professionals that have been advising retirement plans and families for over 35 years. We are committed to providing AFSA members with unbiased, fiduciary advice and superior service.

on your membership to AFSA (see Figure 1). o Every investment has a cost, even if you don’t realize you are paying it. Investment costs may not seem like a big deal, but they can eat away at your investments over time.

All AFSA members receive reduced pricing based on their membership to AFSA. • Transparency on all costs. o 401(k)s are notorious for having hidden costs that make it hard for employers and participants to know exactly what they are paying. We can provide an analysis to show your current costs an what hidden costs may be lurking in your plan.

It’s extremely important to know how your 401(k) works • Fiduciary advice with no conflicts. and what options are available to you since a 401(k) is the o The responsibilities and risks 401(k) plan sponsors face are primary vehicle to save for retirement for most Americans. daunting. We share this risk alongside you and serve as a Pensions are becoming contractual fiduciary. This scarce, and Social Security is means that we are legally only a supplement to your obligated to put your best “We encourage you to call Allan and his team to take income source after you interest ahead of our own. advantage of this complimentary benefit to AFSA quit working.

• Flexibility to choose the members. Members who have utilized Allan’s team plan structure and investhave dramatically cut their costs and improved service.

Not all plans are created equal, ments to fit your specific If nothing else, Allan’s team can give you the peace of so it is important to us that needs. mind that your 401(k) plan is operating at current you know how to answer the o We do not provide market standards.” following questions regarding “one-size-fits-all” advice. your 401(k) plan.

– Wayne Weisz, AFSA Chairman of the Board Every employer has a different employee base and For Business Owners: every participant has his or 1. Is my advisor operating as a her own individualized fiduciary? needs. A 401(k) may be costlier than a simple IRA for a 2. Does my plan have any conflicts of interest? small employer. We get to know each employer and 3. What are my fees? participant in order to provide the best advice for each 4. Do I offer low-cost index investment options? specific situation.

5. Do I have the right plan structure in place?

• Reliability that comes from working with our deep, experienced team.

For Participants: o We have worked with the AFSA organization for over 20 1. Does my employer match contributions? years and have a strong track record with the organization.

2. How much should I contribute?

This relationship is extremely important to us, and we 3. Should I contribute pre-tax or Roth? take our commitment to the Board and to the organiza4. Do I have access to investment advice? tion very seriously.

5. What are my investment and advisory costs?

• Investment advice to all employees of member organizations.

If you do not know the answers to these questions, we are o Our group is available to all employers and employees to here to help. provide unbiased investment and financial planning advice. When you do business with our team, you have What We Can Provide our direct phone numbers and email addresses – you will • Affordability through a competitive fee structure based never need to call an 800 number!

50 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

“Our organization has enjoyed a long, successful partnership with Allan and his team,” says Jack Medovich, AFSA Second Vice Chairman. “As a trusted partner of AFSA, the Board encourages all members to reach out to Allan and his team with any questions or concerns about their company retirement plan.”

We are pleased to be offering retirement plan consulting service to all AFSA members, and we look forward to getting to know you all. We hope to be able to provide you with value-added information and services that can improve the quality of your retirement plan benefits. n ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Allan H. Strange is executive vice president of investments and leads The Strange Group at Janney Montgomery Scott in the firm’s Richmond, Virginia branch office. He has been advising clients on their investments for nearly 40 years. An Accredited Investment Fiduciary®, he has been a member of Janney’s premier CEO Roundtable since joining the firm in 2009 and was honored as the firm’s Financial Advisor of the Year in 2015.

Strange was recognized by the Financial Times in its 2018 list of “401 Top Retirement Advisors.”

EDITOR’S NOTE: AFSA has endorsed Allan Strange and The Strange Group at Janney Montgomery Scott as its 401(k) retirement plan consultant. AFSA has a long-standing relationship with Allan Strange and his team, who have been managing the association’s assets for over 20 years. In addition to managing assets for associations and families, The Strange Group partners with employers to provide

Figure 1. This hypothetical illustration doesn't represent any particular investment nor does it account for inflation. “What you lose to costs” represents both the amount paid in expenses as well as the “opportunity costs” – the amount you lose because the costs you paid are no longer invested. There may be other material differences between investment products that must be considered prior to investing.

Numbers are rounded. Source: Vanguard. fiduciary retirement plan management. For more information, visit AFSA’s website at firesprinkler.org and click on Business Solutions’ under “Membership.”

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Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018 51

Florida Chapter Hosts Legislative Day Members Address Fire- and Life-Safety Issues CAROLYNANN MOHR & WILLIAM STANDER | AFSA Florida Chapter

The Florida Chapter of the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) held its inaugural Legislative Planning Day Thursday, August 2, 2018, ending in what was hailed by many in Florida as “the most productive day for our industry.”

The Warm-Up The day began with several guest speakers, including a candidate for an open seat in the Florida House of Representatives and a former Representative running for the Florida Senate, before beginning the day’s briefing. Florida’s statewide elected Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis gave the keynote address during lunch, after which the planning session resumed.

Many commented that it was great to see elected officials and candidates for elected office from both political parties visit and address the group which was a welcome addition to the day.

The Process Legislative Chair Ron Cox, Cox Fire Protection, Inc., Tampa, Florida, kicked off the general session by sharing the purpose of the day as ultimately for all members to have a voice in guiding our legislative agenda. Cox explained the day’s agenda and the goal of

identifying our industry’s top three legislative issues for 2019. Next, Lobbyist William Stander went over, in detail, the 40-page reference presentation. This included last year’s legislative wrap-up report and the most recent legislation on notable bills, including the high-rise retrofit bill, among many other items.

After lunch, Leavitt moderated the refreshed minds to dwindle the top five issues that received the most overall votes down to three, thus arriving at the expectation of the day. Not surprisingly, Florida’s current high-rise retrofit law that is under fire by condominium managers made the top of the list.

Russ Leavitt, CEO of Telgian Corporation and board member of the Florida Chapter, took control and dove into the meat of the day – the process. Members counted off and were redirected into smaller workgroups to allow for fresh ideas and exchanges between people who may not have met otherwise. Regrouping also prevented the legislative committee from sitting together. Leavitt lead the group to identify the wide range of issues important to them as individual contractors, while Chairman Chris Johnson, Piper Fire Protection, Clearwater, Florida, wrote them on giant sticky notes that were plastered across the room, so they remained visible to everyone. Thus began the most intensive part of the day as the groups debated the merits of each and put their heads together to arrive at their top five issues from the almost 20 that adorned the walls.

Planning the Planning A successful day such as this does not just happen; it takes months of planning – five to be exact. Numerous discussions ensued to uncover the vision of the legislative chair coupled with the logistics from the lobbyist’s perspective and the realization of the day by the executive director.

AFSA Florida Chapter members addressed fire- and life-safety issues during their 2018 Legislative Day. 52 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

Venue is as important as content and finding just the right one that allowed for interaction in a relaxed, bright environment and movement from the workspace to the dining space were considered.

Viewing Daytona’s beach while reading the sticky notes made people feel like they were outside, not in a classroom.

Care was taken to ensure the day remained fun, focused, and stress-free with several longer breaks that left no one feeling overworked or hungry – good food equals a good mood!

The Legislative Committee worked hard to plan an informative day for members.

From l to r: Bart Trueblood, Chris Johnson, Bradley Elliott, CarolynAnn Mohr, William Stander, Suzanne Saults (not pictured Ron Cox).

Everyone who had an integral role was given a minute-by-minute breakdown of the day so the conversation flowed flawlessly. Such a detailed schedule took hours of conversation, numerous phone calls and many days to finalize but is a step that should never be overlooked. No project manages itself and the most important part of any event is constant project management.

And sponsors. Our associate members saw quickly the importance of the day and acted in kind. We would be remiss if we didn’t take this opportunity to recognize Closson Insurance, Core & Main, Ferguson, Johnson Controls, and Viking for adding to the conversations and providing for a great breakfast and lunch!

From l to r: Florida CFO Jimmy Patronis delivered the keynote address (shown here with CarolynAnn Mohr and Chris Johnson).

The Wrap-Up The legislative committee meeting the following day was immediately productive as the process removed the burden of discovery from the committee, lightening the load and proving once again that many hands make quick work. The experts who know the political process then took the work of the day and determined the direction of the top three issues. Care was also taken to identify “back-pocket” items on hand if the right legislative opportunity came along.

At the end of the day, there is nothing more important to you than for your lobbyist to know your top issues. A carefully planned and executed legislative planning day will generate a greater return on that investment, since having

more than three priorities equates to not having priorities at all.

The Result This day came about as a way to include Florida Chapter members, to hear their voices and act on their concerns. It afforded a wider range of opinions, suggestions, and expertise.

Additionally, this day vastly expanded the buy-in from the general membership – everyone who participated was heard and felt their value, both as hard-working contractors and members of an association. They now have a vested interest in the outcome which ultimately leads to a stronger legislative program and association. There is renewed interest in contacting legislators, attending board meetings, serving on committees, and joining the Florida board.

The Lesson Present and future company leaders are encouraged to attend future Legislative Planning Days and take an active role in the process of bringing forth positive legislation for the fire sprinkler industry. These leaders can make great strides in life safety while leaving the guests with a lasting impression of who we are so that when they are faced with fire sprinkler and life safety issues in Tallahassee, they will recall the day. Your voice and presence matter. n ABOUT THE AUTHORS: CarolynAnn Mohr is executive director and William Stander is lobbyist for the AFSA Florida Chapter. For more information about the chapter or its legislative activities, contact Mohr via email at carolynexecdir@afsafl.org.

Part of the day’s events included Russ Leavitt leading the group to identify the wide range of issues important to fire sprinkler contractors.

Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018 53

Design Training Set for 2019 Secure Your Spot for AFSA’s Popular Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School Celebrating 35 years of designer training in 2019, the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) has set its 2019 schedule for it’s Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School. Seven sessions are planned for the coming year: January 14-25, February 25-March 8, April 22-May 3, June 3-14, August 19-30, October 7-18, and November 11-22.

Taught by AFSA’s expert technical staff, AFSA’s Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School teaches the essential elements of system layout in accordance with NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems. It is designed to train a beginner to be productive immediately upon returning to work. This class is designed for those with no experience, or those who need assistance with design. The school, held at AFSA’s training center in

Dallas, presents a comprehensive, practical approach to preparing fire sprinkler system drawings. Students receive two full weeks of instruction: 60 percent is study and review of NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, (2016 edition) and 40 percent is preparation of fire sprinkler system layout, shop drawings and hydraulic calculations. Students learn by actually planning and drawing sprinkler systems while studying and applying NFPA 13 (2016 edition).

AFSA’s Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School is geared toward those with limited experience or those who need assistance with design. Classes are held at AFSA’s training center in Dallas, and presents a comprehensive, practical approach to preparing fire sprinkler system drawings. Students receive two full weeks of instruction: 60 percent is study and review of NFPA 13 and 40 percent is preparation of fire sprinkler system layout, shop drawings and hydraulic calculations. Students learn by actually planning and drawing sprinkler systems while studying and applying NFPA 13.

Attendees are given the tools to accelerate the comprehension of plans and various types of building construction for proper sprinkler spacing applications; determine the proper and economical planning of fire sprinkler system layout and installation methods; know the importance of sprinkler specifications, types of pipe, hangers, fittings, flow tests, etc.; learn to develop shop drawings from start to finish; learn to coordinate with other trades such as plumbing, mechanical, structural and electrical; perform manual hydraulic calculations, preparing the student for an easier decision-making process when using a computer to perform hydraulics; and prepare shop drawings in class for projects with different applications.

Registration is $2,700 for non-members and $1,500 for AFSA members. Classes are kept small and enrollment is open exclusively to AFSA contractor members until six weeks prior to each school. Early registration is highly encouraged. Register online atfiresprinkler.org/schools.

For additional details, contact AFSA Meeting Programs Manager Maricarmen Martinez via email at mmartinez@ firesprinkler.org or call (214) 349-5965 ext. 132. n

54 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

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Alabama and Georgia Vote to Become AFSA Chapters AFSA National to Provide Structure for Collaboration, Education, and Support For over 37 years, the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) has provided a local connection for fire sprinkler contractors, designers, manufacturers, suppliers, and Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) to become part of a larger national organization through its network of local chapters throughout the United States and Canada.

Recently, two of AFSA’s state affiliate organizations – the Alabama Fire Sprinkler Association and Georgia Fire Sprinkler Association – voted to become full-fledged AFSA chapters.

Adding to the growing network of AFSA chapters nationwide is the Georgia Fire Sprinkler Association (GFSA).

Founded in 1983, GFSA was founded to “promote, educate, and legislate” the fire sprinkler industry within Georgia; however, in recent years, the non-profit realized it needed additional support to grow. So, seeking to add strength to their numbers, the contractor members of GFSA voted to become the 31st chapter of AFSA. “I am excited for the members of the Georgia Fire Sprinkler Association to see the advantages of becoming an official chapter of the AFSA,” says GFSA Board Member Mindy McCullough Buckley, Allsouth Sprinkler Co. in Buford, Georgia. “With the educational seminars, online resources, legislative representation, annual convention, and the networking opportunities to make valuable professional contacts and access to a wealth of information, we are sure to become a more effective and productive association. I look forward to the help we will receive nationally to expand and enhance the GFSA.” AFSA Membership Committee Chair and National Board Member Linda Biernacki of Fire Tech Systems in Shreveport, Louisiana; Region 5 Board Member Jeff Phifer Crawford Sprinkler Co. of South Carolina, Inc. in Lugoff, South Carolina; and Director of Member Services Bradley Elliott were on hand at GFSA’s October 9 membership meeting to advocate on behalf of AFSA. Biernacki recalls, “I was so impressed with the contractors wanting to affiliate their chapter with the organization that best aligned with training and contractor support for their businesses. We know what contractors need because our board is comprised of contractor members who help develop these programs for our members. AFSA is a 56 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

one-stop shop and the Georgia Chapter overwhelmingly voted to align their chapter with AFSA. We happy to welcome them to our growing family of chapters!”

AFSA’s chapters serve as a vehicle to support, enhance, and honor the dedicated skilled work being done in local regions and states, such as Alabama. On October 12, the Alabama Fire Sprinkler Association voted to become the 32nd local chapter of AFSA. “I have seen firsthand the importance and value in being a contracting member of the American Fire Sprinkler Association,” says Alabama Fire Sprinkler Association President Hunter Brendle of Brendle Sprinkler Co. in Montgomery, Alabama. “I am excited to see how that carries into our state association as well. With chapter grants, seminars, and a support system like no other, Alabama and our state association will greatly benefit from being a member of AFSA.” Elliott joyfully celebrates AFSA’s steady growth over the past few years, noting the national organization only had 20 local chapters and four state affiliates two years ago. “I am overjoyed that the Alabama and Georgia affiliates have taken this step,” says Elliott. “I believe that AFSA can provide meaningful growth opportunities for both organizations and that working together we can ultimately strengthen the fire sprinkler industry in both states.”

Chapters provide a framework to increase awareness and provide connection to AFSA resources that help with education, support, and advocacy. To find your local chapter, visit firesprinkler.org/chapters. n

Thank You for Your Support!

Members Celebrate Milestone Anniversaries As the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) celebrates its 36th anniversary in 2018, we also recognize those members who are celebrating milestone membership anniversaries. The member companies featured have belonged to AFSA for 15 or more years of continuous membership. Several members are celebrating milestone anniversaries in November and December including Contractor Member Fireline, Inc. in Tupelo, Mississippi. Rick Reddout, president of Fireline, shares some of his favorite AFSA memories and things he’s learned within the fire protection industry.

How did you get involved in the fire sprinkler industry? Baptism by fire! With a drafting table, lots of non-print pencil lead, and Bobby Davis as my mentor, I started as a know-nothing designer. In 1985, the great Charles Fullerton of Fire Pro (Monroe, Louisiana) took a chance on me while I worked toward my architecture degree. Urban Wilson, our resident purveyor of folksy wisdom, always told me if I stayed more than three years I would never get out. Boy, was he was right!

How did you get involved with AFSA? When I started my own company, Fireline, in Tupelo, Mississippi, I knew we would need help. AFSA was an emerging force in the open-shop fire sprinkler industry. For such a young company, it didn’t take long to realize how valuable an asset AFSA would be.

What is your favorite or most used AFSA benefit? In a word, knowledge. AFSA has educated us across two decades with apprenticeship training, webinars, articles, seminars, tradeshows, informal interpretations, etc. Without this support base, we are not who we are!

What is the most significant change you’ve seen in the industry over the past 20 years? Technology. The transition from paper-based business to a fully-functional digital workforce has forever changed construction. Technological tools have improved processes and capabilities. AFSA continues to lead in this area by improving the mechanisms in which they deliver their knowledge to us, keeping us ahead of fast-paced industry advances.

AFSA Milestone Membership Anniversaries November and December 2018 35-Year Anniversary Contractor Members Viking Fire Protection Inc. of the SE, High Point, NC 25-Year Anniversary Associate Members Ridge Tool Company (Emerson), Elyria, OH 20-Year Anniversary Contractor Members Dependable Fire Protection, Inc., Cedar Springs, MI Fireline, Inc., Tupelo, MS Sun State Fire Sprinkler Company, DeBary, FL 15-Year Anniversary Contractor Members Advanced Fire Protection Systems, LLC, Baltimore, MD MCM Mechanical Corporation, Randolph, NJ Mid Atlantic Fire Protection, Inc., Virginia Beach, VA Performance Fire Protection, LLC, Mooresville, NC Total Fire Sprinkler Corporation, Oakland Park, FL Universal Fire Systems, Tampa, FL Associate Members Pac Pump & Systems, Hackensack, NJ

What’s the key ingredient to your success? Faith and good employees. You can’t do this trade alone and you need both. Being anchored to Christ provides stability of values during the good and peace to endure in the bad. Proverbs 3:5-6 is my key. Customers come and go and are as necessary as oxygen, but good employees are the body that breathes that oxygen! Besides, this trade would be no fun without good folks to share it with!

Happy Anniversary! AFSA looks forward to celebrating with more members! Recognition in Sprinkler Age will be done in five-year anniversary increments and is available to all membership types. n

The team at Fireline, Inc. is celebrating its 20th anniversary as AFSA members.

Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018 57

AHJ PERSPECTIVE

BY RONNY J. COLEMAN

Adios, Adieu and Aloha George Lucas had a most interesting screen crawl as he prepared his audience for Star Wars. His statement “a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away” is easily recognizable as part of the movie’s introduction.1 The film was an overnight success, especially in establishing a franchise known almost universally. The year was 1977.

I looked up this information because I was interested in the context of movies at various intervals in my own lifetime. It was the era of some classic films. For example, Beverly Hills Cop was already on its second film. Lethal Weapon was there to set to tone of violence in movies. Recently, I was reviewing all of my columns with respect to the passage of time and I was informed that my first column for Sprinkler Age was in January 1987. That certainly qualifies as being a long time ago.

That means that I have written this column for 30 years.

Taking an average of 12 columns for most of those years (until Sprinkler Age started publishing biannually in 2016), that means that I produced about 300 columns in my tenure. That is a lot of opinions and perspectives during that period.

However, things are changing for me also. I have been retired now for over 10 years. The world is changing very rapidly as we speak. Health issues have limited my mobility to be out amidst all of you who are still active in fire prevention. This month’s issue covers the annual legislative review and NFPA standards. Due to limitations in my involvement, it is hard for me to maintain currency on these topics. I cannot help but feel that there is a young fire officer out there who is as passionate about fire prevention as I am. It is time for the changing of the guard.

As a result, I have chosen to end my columns. It has been an incredible journey writing for Sprinkler Age that started with being a sprinkler advocate in the City of Costa Mesa, California. One of my most proud achievements was the development of the San Clemente, California residential sprinkler ordinance.

While working to keep my column termination in perspective by reading and writing other textbooks, I ran across an interesting quote: “Every ending is a new beginning.”2 I got my beginnings with Sprinkler Age with the active support of such people as Janet Knowles, Steve Muncy, and D’Arcy Montalvo. I could not have achieved all of the deadlines without the assistance of some extremely competent secretaries 58 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

including Jeannie Smith and Linda Colley. I got most of my ideas for my columns by carrying out “coffee break” dialogue with the professionals in the field. If I started to name all of them, it would begin to look like a laundry list of the who’s who of the fire service.

Words cannot express how I feel about the opportunity to share my ideas with Sprinkler Age readers. It provided me with an opportunity to travel not only nationally, but internationally. The experience has been professionally fulfilling and personally delightful.

But, while we have fought many battles over the last 30 years, the world has yet to accept sprinkler protection as the appropriate solution for residential fire problems. The solution is not that far, far away. I would like to hope that over the next 30 years, we are able to obtain that support.

The title of this column is taken from three words in other languages. They are adios, adieu, and aloha. All are friendly ways of saying goodbye. They all also stand as invitations to continue into the future.

As I depart this process, please let me add my favorite: auf wiedersehen. It literally means until our reunion. As you proceed forward in your career, I hope our paths will cross again. n REFERENCES: 1. Lucas, George, Star Wars 2. Williamson, Marianne ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Ronny J. Coleman is currently the president of Fireforceone. He is a past president of the IAFC and CFAI. Over his lifetime, he has received numerous awards including the AFSA’s 1989 Henry S. Parmelee Award, the 2011 Mason Lankford Award from the Congressional Fire Services Institute, and the Tom Brennan Lifetime Achievement Award from Fire Engineering in 2014. He continues as a contributor to the fire service in many ways.

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AFSA MEMBERSHIP New Members The following is a list of new contractor members that have joined as of November 1, 2018.

Contractor 315 Fire Protection Services Scottsdale, AZ

Battleground Fire Protection Deer Park, TX

Fire Sprinkler Corporation Quincy, MA

A-Total Fire Protection Company Inc. Cameron Park, CA

C & C Fire Protection, Inc. Concord, CA

Hope Fire Extinguisher Hope, AR

Federal Fire Protection Davidsonville, MD

Newark Professional Fire Protection Corp.

Newark, NJ RLS Fire Protection Systems Castle Rock, CO

L & M Fire Protection Soquel, CA

Rock Fire Systems Inc. Yuma, AZ Trident Fire Protection, Inc. Hesperia, CA VSS Mechanical, LLC Parlin, NJ

AFSA Chapter Contacts Alabama alfiresprinkler.org Hunter Brendle – Pres.

334-270-8571 Greg Willis – Exec. Dir. 334-567-4257

Colorado afsacoloradochapter.org Roger Wallace – Chair.

719-337-6550 Kim Cook – Exec. Dir. 704-213-4368

Alberta, Canada afsaalberta.org Kevin Mozak – Pres.

780-203-5263

Connecticut afsact.org Rick Russo – Chair.

203-877-7983 Wendy Callahan – Exec. Dir. 978-855-6495

Arkansas Randy Gilliam– Chair.

479-646-8934 Coleman Farrar – Vice Chair.

479-986-9090 Arizona Bob Caputo – Chair.

864-222-1381 British Columbia, Canada Alan Thompson – Pres.

778-867-7039 Carolinas afsacarolinaschapter.com David Smith – Chair.

828-327-4116 John Turnage – Exec. Dir. 919-624-3456 Chesapeake Bay afsachesapeakechapter.org Jay Zollars – Chair.

410-286-3314 Danielle Fowler – Exec. Dir. 410-960-3450

Dallas-Fort Worth afsadfwchapter.org CJ Bonczyk – Chair.

817-529-1693 Florida afsafl.org Chris Johnson – Chair.

800-327-7604 CarolynAnn Mohr – Exec. Dir. 239-771-3907 Georgia Affiliate georgiafiresprinkler.org Patrick Cordi – Pres.

404-416-0762 Billy Wood – Exec. Dir. 404-226-8304 Greater Bay Area afsa-gba.org Dave Karrick – Chair.

925-417-5550 Lorelei Upshaw – Exec. Dir. 925-913-0145

Greater Kansas City Mark McKenzie – Chair.

913-432-6688 Brett Heinrich– Exec. Dir. 785-825-7710

Northern New England Ryan Gadhue – Chair.

802-865-3600 Tim Christie – Exec. Dir. 978-437-7612

San Diego Ron Aday – Chair.

858-513-4949 ext. 307 Rhonda Hill – Exec. Dir. 951-326-4600

Louisiana lafiresprinkler.org Linda Biernacki – Chair.

318-688-8800

Ohio afsaoh.org Bill Hausman, Chair 937-859-6198 Don Eckert– Exec. Dir. 513-310-9660

South Carolina scfsa.org Stuart Weeks – Chair.

843-442-3346 Taylor Young – Exec. Dir. 980-253-3241

Michigan afsamichiganchapter.org Doug Irvine, Jr.- Chair 616-784-1644 Frank L. Mortl – Exec. Dir. 517-285-7665 Mid-Atlantic afsamac.org Meaghen Wills – Chair.

610-754-7836 Ilyse Shapiro – Exec. Dir. 610-642-7427 New Jersey Thomas Bowlby Jr. – Chair.

908-226-5313 Robert K. Melofchik – Exec. Dir. 201-741-0056 New Mexico Dave Wilson – Exec. Dir. 505-573-6712 North Central Michael Winiecki – Chair.

651-484-5903

AFSA Affiliate Contacts Oklahoma Affiliate ofsa.info Gary Field – Chairman 918-266-2416

60 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

Texas Affiliate fscatx.org David Stone – Pres.

713-466-9898 Carol McCain – Exec. Dir. 281-361-8069

Pacific Northwest afsanw.org Tracy Moore – Chair.

425-271-5598 Ron Greenman – Exec. Dir. 253-576-9700 Patriot afsapatriot.org Chad Dubuc – Chair.

508-431-9938 Wendy Callahan – Exec. Dir. 978-855-6495 Rocky Mountain Mark Winder – Chair.

801-463-1621 Brent Heiner – Exec. Dir. 801-544-0363 Sacramento Valley sacvalleyafsa.org Hal Burton – Chair.

916-332-1266 Paulene Norwood – Exec. Dir. 916-296-0635

Southern California socalafsa.com Jeff Bridges – Co-Chair.

714-285-0200 Terry Housholder– Co-Chair.

714-632-8646 Amber Barrios - Exec. Dir. 562-833-9492 Tennessee Casey Milhorn – Chair.

615-349-5278 Upstate New York afsaupstatenychapter.org Justin Petcosky - Chair 607-296-7969 Virginia afsavirginia.com Jack Medovich, PE – President 804-222-1381 George Wagner – Exec. Dir. 804-779-3921

CONSTRUCTION REPORTS

U.S. Construction

U.S. Construction

The value of new construction starts in August decreased 9 percent from the previous month to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $741.9 billion, according to Dodge Data & Analytics. The August downturn for total construction starts matched the 9 percent decline reported for July, as activity in the latest two months pulled back after the sharp increases in May (up 14 percent) and June (up 10 percent). During the first eight months of 2018, total construction starts on an unadjusted basis were $540.0 billion, up 1 percent from a year ago. The August data produced a reading of 157 for the Dodge Index (2000=100), down from 173 in July. During the previous seven months the Dodge Index averaged 170, with this year’s high of 190 reached in June while the low of 152 took place in April.

New construction starts in September fell 5 percent from the previous month to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $709.6 billion, according to Dodge Data & Analytics. The September downturn followed 9 percent declines in both July and August, as the pace of construction starts has now pulled back for the third month in a row after reaching the current year’s high in June. Through the first nine months of 2018, total construction starts on an unadjusted basis were $599.9 billion, down 1 percent from the same period a year ago. September’s data produced a reading of 150 for the Dodge Index (2000=100), after the 157 reported for August.

August 2018

September 2018

Monthly Summary of Construction Starts

Monthly Summary of Construction Starts

Prepared by Dodge Data & Analytics

Prepared by Dodge Data & Analytics

MONTHLY CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT VALUE Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rates, In Millions

August 2018 July 2018 % Change Nonresidential Building $255,183 $316,663 -19 Residential Building $307,028 $330,852 -7 Nonbuilding Construction $179,725 $169,998 +6 Total Construction $741,936 $817,513 -9 THE DODGE INDEX (Year 2000=100, Seasonally Adjusted) August 2018....................157 July 2018 ........................173

MONTHLY CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT VALUE Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rates, In Millions

Sept. 2018 Aug. 2018 % Change Nonresidential Building $236,377 $251,394 -6 Residential Building $316,635 $311,580 +2 Nonbuilding Construction $156,544 $180,422 -13 Total Construction $709,556 $743,396 -5 THE DODGE INDEX (Year 2000=100, Seasonally Adjusted) September 2018...............150 August 2018 ....................157

YEAR-TO-DATE CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION STARTS Unadjusted Totals, In Millions

8 Mos. 2018 8 Mos. 2017 % Change Nonresidential Building $188,934 $191,049 -1 Residential Building $223,852 $210,229 +6 Nonbuilding Construction $127,223 $130,875 -3 Total Construction $540,009 $532,153 +1

YEAR-TO-DATE CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION STARTS Unadjusted Totals, In Millions

9 Mos. 2018 9 Mos. 2017 % Change Nonresidential Building $209,348 $224,627 -7 Residential Building $249,750 $235,230 +6 Nonbuilding Construction $140,828 $146,038 -4 Total Construction $599,926 $605,895 -1

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Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018 61

AFSA NEWS ITM Spring 2019 Class Open for Enrollment In only its second year, AFSA’s ITM Inspector Development Program continues to hit new milestones: • The third class graduates November 2018.

• One hundred and twenty students have enrolled in this industry-first ITM program.

• AFSA has delivered over 7,000 hours of ITM training through blended methods including live webinars, live classroom, and hands-on learning.

AFSA ITM students lead the way and out perform national average exam scores on both NICET Level I and Level II I&T exams. Of all AFSA ITM students who have taken the exams: • 90 percent pass Level I exams on first try compared to 72 percent national average • 87 percent pass Level II exams on first try, compared to 60 percent national average For more information or to register for the Spring 2019 classes, visit firesprinkler.org/ITM. Informal Interpretations Save Time, Money Are you using one of your most valuable AFSA membership benefits? Informal interpretations are written interpretations from AFSA’s Technical Services Department on any subject related to automatic fire sprinklers. In addition to submitting a written request, an online searchable archive provides over 1,000 informal interpretations.

Users have reported saving time and money when utilizing this service. Watch the video below and follow the steps to submit a request for an informal interpretation. You can receive your answer in as little as three business days! Visit firesprinkler.org/interp to submit your question.

Visit the AFSA Safety Portal Have you visited afsasafetyportal.com yet? It’s AFSA’s newest member-only safety resource!

This virtual library delivers the accidentprevention and safety-related information you need to educate your staff, help prevent claims, and create a safe work environment.

Developed by the AFSA Insurance & Safety Committee in partnership with Blue River Underwriters, an AFSA-endorsed insurance partner, AFSA’s online Safety Portal is a customized safety website built with the specific needs of fire sprinkler contractors in mind.

With over 1,000 resources and references, AFSA’s Safety Portal aims to address some of the key issues in fire sprinkler construction safety today, such as electrical safety, ladder safety, loss control, personal protection, and vehicle safety.

Whether members are in need of OSHA regulations, workplace safety posters, or even loss statistics to better prepare their staff, AFSA’s Safety Portal helps to make your place of business and jobsites safe and compliant. Visit afsasafetyportal.com/gateway to start using the safety portal right away!

AFSA Members Can Attend FREE Webinars Did you know that AFSA webinars are FREE for members? Get the most out of your AFSA membership! AFSA offers webinars on technical topics and business solutions several times a year. This is a hasslefree way to learn from any location that is convenient for you!

Past webinars have covered Building Heights & Rack Storage; 2019 Format of NFPA 13; Low Voltage System Basics; Seismic Bracing: 2016 Edition Update; Safety,

Insurance, & Retirement... AFSA has You Covered; NFPA 14, 2016 Edition Updates; Performance-Based Design; Fire Sprinklers in the IBC and IFC; and NFPA’s Certified Water-Based Systems Professional.

Subscribe to AFSA’s Education & Training Updates to be notified of upcoming webinars at training@firesprinkler.org. For more information on webinars and other AFSA educational offerings, visit the AFSA Education webpage at firesprinkler.org/ events.

AFSA Announces 2019 Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning Schools The American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) is excited to announce the dates for all 2019 Beginning Fire Sprinkler Design System Planning School. This class presents a comprehensive, practical approach to preparing fire sprinkler system drawings. Students receive two full weeks of instruction, 60 percent of which is study and review of NFPA 13 (2016 edition).

The other 40 percent is preparation of fire sprinkler system layout, shop drawings and hydraulic calculations. The 2019 dates are: January 14-25, February 25 – March 8, April 22 – May 3, June 3-14, August 19 – 30, October 7-18, and November 11-22. For more information, see page 54 of this issue or visit firesprinkler.org/schools. n

Correction There was an error in the article “Alternate Protection for Rack Storage: An Answer for Many Problems Including Sloped Ceilings” which appeared in the September/October 2018 issue of Sprinkler Age. The third paragraph of that article should have stated: “ ... This criterion can be applied when there is no other guidance (within NFPA 13) such as exposed expanded Group A plastic when using spray sprinklers. It’s also of great value when the water supply is marginal and a localized higher ceiling demand would drive you to a water pump. For example, for exposed expanded Group A plastics in racks, the only identified option is ESFR sprinklers with a K-Factor of 25.2 flowing at 60 psi. This would require around 2,900-plus gpm (with overage) at 120-plus psi. It’s also limited to storage no greater than 35 ft and buildings no higher 40 ft (as well as the obstruction headaches). Amazingly, for the above example, this alternative approach for the more demanding double or multiple row racks would have a system demand of only around 570 gpm at 45 psi. Considering all these factors, plus the fact that this approach includes no ceiling sprinklers, a better way of phrasing it would have been “than available from an overhead sprinkler system.” Also, allow me to emphasize that it is only in chapters 16 and 17 so it applies to standard commodities and does not apply to rolled paper, rubber tires, etc. ... “ We apologize for any confusion or inconvenience this may have caused. n

62 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

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ITM

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Visit firesprinkler.org/ITM

CHAPTER NEWS Colorado Chapter The Colorado Chapter of AFSA held their first CEU training session for 40 fitters on October 25, 2018, at West Metro Fire Rescue Training & Event Center. Many thanks to Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Co., Inc. for sponsoring the training and reception afterward!

Visit afsacoloradochapter.org to learn more about upcoming events.

ers, their spouses, and golf committee members and their spouses. A group of 161 attendees enjoyed a buffet dinner and casino night.

The tournament was held the next day at the Williamsburg National Golf Club. Visit afsavirginia.com to keep up-to-date with all things AFSA Virginia. n

Louisiana Fire Sprinkler Association On October 23, the Louisiana Fire Sprinkler Association (LFSA) hosted a meeting and NextGen mixer in Baton Rouge. Members of LFSA along with three other fire organizations honored the efforts retired State Fire Marshal VJ Bella with a bronze bust that will be housed at the nearby Louisiana Fallen Firefighters Memorial.

Congratulations to LFSA members for raising $20,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) in memory of retired Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s V.J. and Grace Bella’s son Brad at their golf tournament on October 24. Thank you to all the sponsors, golfers, and volunteers for making this event such a success! Visit lafiresprinkler.org to keep up-to-date on Louisiana area Chapter events.

Ohio Chapter The AFSA Ohio Chapter hosted its first annual golf outing on August 27. The outing was a huge success with 80 attendees to play!

Sponsors for the event include: Ferguson, Viking, Reliable, Johnson Controls, Firetech, and Victaulic. At the end of the event, the Chapter was proud to present a check for $10,000 to the Fallen Fire Fighter Association. The Ohio Chapter thanks all of the volunteers who helped to make the event a success!

The Colorado Chapter’s CEU training session had a great turnout!

Virginia Chapter On Tuesday, October 16 the AFSA Virginia Chapter held an AFSA Viriginia board meeting, a Burn Survivors Foundation Board meeting, a general AFSA Virginia Chapter meeting, and a wine and beer tasting event at the Fairfield Inn in Williamsburg, Virginia. Later that night a dinner and Casino Night was held for the Burn Survivors Foundation at the Colonial Heritage Country Club.

At the Virginia Chapter meeting, chapter news was reported by Chapter President Jack Medovich and the all of the Virginia Chapter Committee Chairmen reported on their chapter issues. Medovich reviewed the details for the 25th annual golf tournament and all the events for the 25th eelebrations. Bradley Elliott of National AFSA gave a presentation on AFSA programs, products, and current AFSA growth and involvement in the fire sprinkler industry.

Following the meeting, the Burn Survivors Foundation held a free wine and beer tasting event. Over 110 attendees enjoyed the wine, beer, and snacks provided.

After the wine and beer tasting, busses began rolling in to take guests to the Burn Survivors Foundation Dinner and Casino Night, held at the Colonial Heritage Country Club. This event was free to all registered golf-

LFSA members raised $20,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Virginia Chapter members gathered for meetings, social events, and golf in October.

AFSA’s Ohio Chapter’s first golf outing was a great success!

64 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

LFSA members honored retired State Fire Marshal VJ Bella at their October meeting.

INDUSTRY NEWS

ECS Announces the Opening of their Ecommerce Store for Fire Sprinkler Contractors ECS has revolutionized fire sprinkler system corrosion management with the development of industry-leading dry and wet pipe corrosion control products. Fire sprinkler contractors now have a direct channel to purchase ECS cutting-edge products through the new ecommerce store.

The web offering https://shop.ecscorrosion.com was developed to enhance the direct buying experience that ECS offers to fire sprinkler contractors. The new capability provides pricing to contractors ready to purchase corrosion control solutions for their projects.

The initial phase roll-out includes the ECS Ejector Automatic Air Vent (PAV-W) and the ECS Protector Nitrogen Inerting Vent (PAWWN) part of the industry preferred ECS wet pipe fire sprinkler system product family. The ecommerce store will grow and eventually include all ECS nitrogen-based corrosion control and monitoring solutions.

When a fire sprinkler contractor navigates to https://shop.ec-

is now available. Read the full report at usfa.fema.gov. Findings in 2017 include: • Forty-eight firefighters (48 volunteer, 33 career and 6 wildland agency) died while on duty.

• Fifty firefighters died from heart attacks.

• Forty firefighters died from activities related to an emergency incident.

• Seventeen firefighters died from activities at a fire scene.

• Twelve firefighters died while training.

• Twelve firefighters died during non-fire emergency duties.

• Eleven firefighters died while responding to or returning from emergency incidents.

scorrosion.com a simple sign-up process is completed to create an account. Once the account is created and verified, contractors will receive access to Engineered Corrosion Solutions automatic air vents, gas composition monitoring, and nitrogen generator filter kits. Volume discounts will be available for select products. All major credit cards will be accepted and multiple shipping options will be available. Visit shop.ecscorrosion.com.

supplied by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The industry has added 308,000 net new jobs since the first of the year, a robust increase of 4.4 percent.

The construction industry unemployment rate dove to 3.4 percent in July, recording its lowest level in the 18-year history of the series. The national unemployment rate for all industries inched down to 3.9 percent. Learn more at abc.org. n

Viega Introduces Trades Education Network Program Viega LLC introduces its Viega Trades Education Network (VTEN) program.

VTEN is offered as a partnership to supplement a school’s curriculum regarding the design, installation and function of plumbing and hydronic systems.

VTEN is designed to go beyond product-focused instruction to include training on mechanical systems as a whole by providing complete tooling packages, access to LoopCAD® radiant heating and cooling systems design software and Viega’s eLearning platform.

Since VTEN started, more than 1,400 users have enrolled in the eLearning program. VTEN also provides instructor’s conferences, workshops and comprehensive curriculum modules that easily integrate into a school’s program. A partial list of Viega’s current modules includes: Hydronics 101, Piping and Controls, Trades Math and Blueprint reading, CAD and BIM, Radiant Design and more.

VTEN also offers credentialed classes for innovative Viega products, including Viega ProPress® and Viega MegaPress® for carbon steel and stainless pipe. To date, nearly 600 people enrolled in the VTEN program received credentials for these products. VTEN’s online learning management system can be customized to help schools educate their students with specific online training courses. With onsite orientation to the network and Zoning Demonstration Board and Mixing Demonstration Board, students receive hands-on experience troubleshooting these systems, while instructors create customized problems for students to solve. For more information or to sign up for VTEN’s quarterly newsletter, please visit viega.us/VTEN.

Construction Adds 19,000 Jobs as Unemployment Plummets in July, Says ABC The U.S. construction industry added 19,000 net new jobs in July after adding 13,000 net new jobs in June, according to an Associated Builders and Contractors analysis of data

Help us Sound the Alarm about fire safety.

Every day 7 people die in home fires. You can help change that.

This spring, the American Red Cross will team up with fire departments, volunteers, and partners like AFSA to Sound the Alarm with home fire safety and smoke alarm installation events. Volunteers will install 100,000 free smoke alarms in more than 100 at-risk communities across the country.

Help us Sound the Alarm about fire safety.

us millions preventabout thesethe needless tragedies all 50fire states.

Help Help educate life-saving benefits in of home sprinklers.

The American Fire Sprinkler Association has partnered with the American Red Cross Join AFSA in supporting the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign: to include fire sprinklers in their nationwide Home Fire Preparedness Campaign. donate at www.redcross.org/afsa-pub orhistoric sign up to volunteer at an event in your community.

Be a part of this effort to educate millions about home fire sprinklers, by helping us raise $10,000 to include sprinklers in this campaign.

Donate online at www.redcross.org/afsa-pub

To donate go to www.redcross.org/afsa-pub or volunteer at SoundTheAlarm.org.

We make lives better through Home Care

U.S. Fire Administration Releases 2017 Firefighter Fatalities Report. The annual report on firefighter fatalities in the United States

156101-11 1/18

Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018 65

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS RIDGID® Names Tim Dunphy Marketing Director of Underground Technologies Tim Dunphy has been named marketing director of underground technologies for RIDGID® in Elyria, Ohio. In this role, Dunphy Dunphy will manage new product development, partner relations and new business opportunities for the RIDGID line of diagnostics, inspection, locating and drain cleaning products.

Dunphy is an accomplished marketing leader with global expertise in market and brand strategy, new product development, omnichannel marketing communications, and market research. He has more than 20 years of experience in consumer-packaged goods and durables marketing. His proven ability to develop and implement marketing strategies, combined with his knowledge of the tool industry, make him an asset to the RIDGID team.

Dunphy holds a bachelor of science degree in marketing from the University of

Florida. Learn more at emerson.com/en-us/ commercial-residential/ridgid.

Nita Greer Joins the Telgian team as Director of Corporate Marketing Communications Telgian Holdings, Inc. recently announced the appointment of Nita Greer as director of Greer corporate marketing communications. In this position, Greer will be responsible for the development and management of Telgian’s corporate marketing strategies and programs across multiple business units worldwide.

Greer brings more than 30 years of experience in marketing communications to Telgian, including strategy and planning, as well as the creation of award-winning digital and print ad campaigns, public relations, collateral and interactive projects.

In 2007, Greer founded her own marketing firm, Greer Creative, which for the last 11 years has collaborated with a wide variety of businesses, from start-ups to Fortune 500 companies, and has earned a reputation for creating innovative and on-target marketing solutions. Visit telgian.com to learn more.

Ralph Bless Recognized for 20 Years of Leadership and Service to Telgian Vice President of Account Management Ralph Bless recently celebrated a 20-year milestone at Telgian Holdings, Inc. His many outstanding contributions to the growth and success of the company were recognized during leadership’s quarterly strategic planning meeting.

Bless provides Telgian customers with a vast store of knowledge, with more than 30 years of fire protection engineering experience. His areas of expertise include system design, consulting, risk analysis, and code review. Bless is a Professional Engineer licensed in six states and is a Level IV NICET senior certified fire sprinkler layout technician. He also holds several state and national certifications including Certified Fire Protection Specialist. In addition, he is a senior instructor with Fire Smarts and serves on a number of NFPA technical committees.

As vice president of account management, Bless directs the Telgian national ac-

66 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

From l to r: Telgian CEO Jim Tomes, Ralph Bless, and Executive Chairman Russ Leavitt celebrate Bless’ 20 years with the company. count management team. Over the past two decades, however, Bless has held numerous roles including consultant, regional director, and strategic account manager.

Visit telgian.com for more information.

ABC Announces New Director of Workforce Development Associated Builders and Contractors announces that Timothy Mongeau has been appointed as director of workforce development.

With more than 15 years of experience designing and implementing construction education programs, Mongeau will spearhead ABC’s workforce development strategies and initiatives at the state and local level. Mongeau will also be tasked with creating new opportunities to increase the pipeline of skilled construction professionals and support workforce public policy efforts.

Active in the merit shop construction community for more than a decade, Mongeau has been a member of ABC and NCCER workforce development and assessment committees, as well as a research committee for the Construction Industry Institute. Mongeau served 11 years active duty and two years in the reserves of the U.S. Navy and has an associate degree in applied science from Kaplan University. He will be based in San Antonio, Texas. Visit abc.org for more information. n

IN JO

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AFSA’S ONLINE SAFETY PORTAL

www.afsasafetyportal.comoRTAL.COM AFSA American Fire Sprinkler Association

THE TOOLS YOU NEED FOR WORKER SAFETY This virtual library proactively delivers the accident-prevention and safety related information you need to educate your staff, help prevent claims and create a safe work environment. Highlights include: • Electrical Safety • Ladder Safety • Loss Control • Personal Protection • Vehicle Safety • Reference Links • OSHA Resources Links • Workers Comp Resources

• AFSA’s Toolbox Talks (a safety series custom tailored for the fire sprinkler industry)

www.afsasafetyportal.com

PRODUCT NEWS

Johnson Controls Announces SprinkCAD 3D 5.0 and New Revit® Tools Johnson Controls SprinkCAD 3D 5.0 is the newest version of SprinkCAD 3D and supports fire sprinkler system design for AutoCAD®, BricsCAD® and Revit®, enabling designers to create system designs, generate detailed system fabrication reports and perform complex hydraulic calculations – all in one place. In addition, SprinkCAD 3D 5.0 now features 3D earthquake bracing, job file portability, 3D Tidypipe™ plotting and SMART annotations. Long-lease licenses are available for on-site and no internet conditions, and “network” licenses for multiple users are also now available.

The SprinkCAD software suite now includes an optional set of add-on Revit Tools

for use with SprinkCAD 3D or SprinkCAD Classic. Using Revit tools, designers can insert a piping plan from any source into Revit, then connect sprinklers to branch pipes directly or with arm-overs or return bends automatically. Designers can map Revit pipes, heads, valves and pumps to the rich set of parts in the SprinkBASE database and create Revit custom families from that same database in seconds. Licenses for Revit tools are sold separately. To learn more about SprinkCAD, visit sprinkcad.com. To learn more about Johnson Controls, visit johnsoncontrols.com.

IntelliView TM Mobile App Introduced Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC of St. Louis, Missouri, announces the release of the IntelliView TM mobile app. Now available to download in the iOS and Google Play app stores, this app provides the same info as the webbased IntelliView dashboard but allows for

easier access to monitor your nitrogen systems on all of your devices.

The IntelliView App allows the user to monitor their Potter IntelliGenTM nitrogen generator from anywhere in the world. Simply connect the nitrogen generator to the building’s networked internet connection and download the IntelliView app to create an account and register your nitrogen generator.

From here, you will be able to remotely view the status of your nitrogen generator and any networked IntelliPurge TM valves conveniently from your tablet or smartphone.

With the app, you will be able to monitor every facet of your Potter Intelligen system: • System Status – System run times, advance leak rate, and automatic bypass capabilities are all monitored and can be viewed with the app.

• System Analytics – System leak rate, run time, and nitrogen purity are shown through easy to understand graphs that

Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation

68 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

allow you to quickly monitor the performance of your IntelliGen units.

• Multi-System Management – Manage multiple buildings or a campus from one location using the IntelliView app.

• User Administration – System administrators can add and remove additional users to view system information and be alerted when maintenance alerts are triggered.

Learn more at pottersignal.com.

Viking Unveils Its “Next Generation” XT1 Sprinkler Platform The Viking Corporation has introduced a new sprinkler platform – the XT1. With XT1, Viking engineers have re-thought and reinvented the fire sprinkler from the ground up. This new platform represents a true advancement of fire sprinkler technology, and integrates several key features providing for easier installation and an overall “best-inclass” level of fire protection.

In conjunction with the XT1 launch, Viking has developed a new ergonomic-grip sprinkler wrench. A rubber coated grip and six-sided contact with the sprinkler boss limits slipping and eliminates the need for socket-type wrenches. The new XT1 wrench is designed for exposed and recessed pendent and upright XT1 sprinkler styles. Viking has also developed a new, significantly smaller guard for XT1 sprinklers, to protect the sprinkler when installed in areas where there is risk of external damage.

Moving forward, XT1 will serve as Viking’s design-basis for most of its commercial sprinkler models. The first XT1 sprinkler models introduced include Viking’s quick response and standard response, 5.6 (81) and 8.0 (115) Kfactor upright and pendent commercial sprinklers. In total, 12 new XT1 sprinklers are now available. Visit vikinggroupinc.com/XT1 for additional information on Viking’s “next generation” XT1 sprinkler platform.

Johnson Controls Unveils Powerful Flex IR PTZ for Enhanced Resolution and Control Johnson Controls has developed a competitive Illustra IR PTZ camera with powerful zoom and control capabilities to handle even most challenging lighting conditions. Illustra Flex IR PTZ indoor and outdoor cameras feature a 30x optical and

IR illuminators on the outdoor model allow for a night scene illumination of up to 150m. Packaged in a bubble-free, environmentally sealed, and vandal-resistant design, the Flex IR PTZ maximizes video quality at any tilt angle.

Illustra® IntelliZip provides powerful bandwidth management beyond H.264 and H.265, reducing network bandwidth and video storage requirements. This embedded technology continuously monitors and optimizes system streaming parameters to match the level of activity within the camera’s field of view, offsetting the added video storage required when streaming at 4K resolution.

For crystal clear images day and night, the versatile Illustra Flex cameras feature true

day/night and true wide dynamic range for balanced images in challenging lighting conditions.

The Flex IR PTZ adheres to the rigorous security standards of the Tyco Cyber Protection Product Security Program. The holistic cyber approach begins at initial design concept, continues through product development, and is supported through deployment. For details, visit illustracameras.com. n

Join AFSA

and get an immediate tax reduction

In today’s competitive environment... it is more important than ever to strengthen your business by building your professional network. AFSA members work together to promote and improve our industry through training, information and technical services. AFSA membership dues are deductible as an ordinary and necessary business expense. To qualify for your 2018 tax deduction, your membership application must be postmarked by December 31, 2018. Apply online at firesprinkler.org or call (214) 349-5965.

Be a Member

firesprinkler.org

12x digital magnification to effectively resolve scene details at up to 1,000 feet. The powerful Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018 69

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

BY NICOLE DUVALL I must confess I love fall. A distinct chill is in the air, and the trees are beginning to display their vibrant colors. For me, the season always evokes thoughts of change, prompting me to reflect on the past few months and my hopes for the coming year.

Let me introduce myself: I am SprinklerAge’s new publisher. Many of you know my voice as AFSA’s Director of Communications & Social Media. It shouldn’t be a surprise that I love the written word. I read a lot, write a little.

To start, let me say that I am a media enthusiast, a junkie who from my earliest Journalism school days at Texas Christian University has been obsessed with flipping through the pages of magazines, first absorbed in their images and stories, later assigning and editing my own. I really believe that no matter whether your copy of Sprinkler Age magazine is delivered to your mailbox or to your email inbox, appearing on your iPad or your iPhone, it is foremost the work of an editorial team, led by longtime Editor D’Arcy Montalvo and supported by Communications Coordinator Rebecca Herring and myself. Sixtimes-a-year our staff and experts develop a meaningful – we hope – package of ideas, words, and images for our readers.

Impactful words can inform and inspire others into action. That’s exactly what I hope will happen with this issue of Sprinkler Age. In this issue are amazing stories from members, chapters, and industry partners that have grown tired of hearing about the worker shortage and have taken a pro-active approach to industry recruitment, a theme AFSA’s young professional group, the NextGen Initiative, hopes to take head on in 2019. Rather than sit idle, this impressive group of up-and-comers are now fighting for their industry – implementing programing aimed at attracting more young people to careers in fire protection, launching a how-to conduct a career fair guide based on their real-life experiences, and encouraging the professional development of members of all ages through their quarterly webinar series. (Shameless plug: Don’t miss the next NGI webinar “Developing a Practical Plan to Work with Schools” presented by Christina Catron at NCCER on December 6.)

talked to members, fire marshals, elected officials, lobbyists, and others to find out what’s working and where the challenges lie, from strategies for advocating for pro-sprinkler legislation and executing our first Legislative Day on Capitol Hill, to complying with residential fire sprinkler requirements as well as local and state jurisdictions across the United States.

Through the increased dialogue surrounding fire sprinklers, it is a clear sign that these topics are becoming more open for discussion.

While participating in AFSA’s Legislative Fly-In Day, I was struck by how receptive to the fire sprinkler message the elected officials that I meet with were, but AFSA’s work to laud the many live-saving benefits of fire sprinklers and the industry as a whole is far from done.

Within the past year, AFSA has noticed an increase in education and advocacy about these issues, with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) together with the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition (HFSC) even designating May 19 last year as Home Fire Sprinkler Day. As a member of the Steering Committee organizing the event, I can assure you that plans are already in the works to ensure #HomeFireSprinklerDay and its supporting pro-sprinkler messages become a recurring topic of discussion – across not only the U.S. and Canada, but across the pond in England as well, because it’s something that we know is not only important to presenting a positive sprinkler message, but will also continue to be in the spotlight as fire service allies and, some cases, the general public become more open and active in promoting fire sprinkler advocacy.

But, to keep fighting toward a safer world, we need even more advocates to help. Being a member of AFSA is great first step, but how are you advocating for the fire sprinkler industry in your business, local AFSA chapter, or community? Taking an active role in the process is the first step – just ask the members of our Florida Chapter (see page 52)!

Even if you’re not ready to contact your representatives in Congress, you can recruit your friends to like our Facebook and Instagram pages or follow us on Twitter. Or, you can register to participate in a local event at one of our 32 chapters or attend AFSA38: Convention, Exhibition & Apprentice Competition October 1-4, 2019 at the Manchester Grand Hyatt in San Diego, California. Let your

and inspire others. And if you too find yourself thinking about change, I’ll leave you with this quote: “To exist is to change, to change is to mature, to mature is to go on creating oneself endlessly.” – Henri Bergson, French philosopher n

In these pages, we also take our annual dive into the legislative climate of the fire sprinkler industry. Our team of writers have

voice be heard however you can.

May all of these written words impact and inspire you just as your actions impact

U.S. Tool

10

Viking Group

19

70 Sprinkler Age | November/December 2018

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Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Co. SprinkFlex, LLC

IFC, BC 7

FM Approved K8.0 (115 metric) flat plate concealed sprinkler. Available with standard finish or stainless steel clad cover plate, with or without gasket. Offered in 165°F or 212°F temperature rating. Additional information on the Model G5-80F can be seen in Bulletin 034 on our website at reliablesprinkler.com