NFSA 2003 News Archives
January
 March April May June July September October November
January
 
Barrington Chief Joins Sprinkler Board as Consultant
Jan. 3, 2003 - David Danley, former Chief of the Barrington, IL Fire Department, will work with the Northern Illinois Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board to assist municipalities in all phases of fire sprinkler codes.  Dave served 33 years in the fire service in positions from firefighter to Chief and was instrumental in the passage of an ordinance in Barrington requiring the installation of sprinklers in single family homes.  He appeared twice on Good Morning America with Ron Hazelton and in the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition's video entitled "Protect What You Value Most". 
Louise Viniello Mourned
Jan. 3, 2003 - Louise Viniello, mother of NFSA President John Viniello passed away last evening.  The Staff and friends of the Association extend their deepest sympathies to the Viniello family.
A Tale of Two Apartments
Jan. 6, 2003 - The Murfreesboro, TN Daily News Journal recently reported two apartment fires that had totally opposite results.  One fire at the Woods of Greenland at 4 a.m. was doused by a single fire sprinkler which prevented the fire from spreading to other apartments and possible loss of life.  In discussing the event, Fire Marshal Ken Honeycutt noted there had been six recent apartment fires.  In one case, sprinklers extinguished a kitchen fire and total damage was estimated at $2100.  A week earlier, several non-sprinklered apartments at College Park sustained $225,000 in damage.  The Fire Marshal noted, "Sprinklers save lives and property".
Election Results Announced
Jan. 8, 2003 - NFSA President John Viniello announced today the results of the elections held for vacancies in the NFSA Board of Directors.  In Area 11, Jeff Bennett of The McKinstry Company was re-elected; Mark Tate from Northstar Fire Protection of Texas was elected to represent Area 7 succeeding Rex Miller of LaDew Fire Protection; Richard Ackley of Dalmatian Fire, Inc. succeeds Phil Cook from Shambaugh & Son to represent fire sprinkler contractors in Area 5.
    In making the announcement, Viniello noted, "In addition to congratulating Jeff, I am pleased to welcome the new members to the Board who are fully familiar with the industry and know they will work diligently with the members of the Contractors Council to represent their constituents."  He continued, "I must also take a moment to thank both Rex and Phil for their tireless efforts to ensure that the fire sprinkler industry continues to grow while maintaining the highest standards of quality and integrity."
    It was also announced that Gary Johnson, Noveon, Inc., Robert Bussiere, Allied Tube and Conduit, Randy Greenslate, Fire Protection Products Inc.were elected to the Suppliers and Manufacturers Council. 
    Members of the Board of Directors are elected for three year terms of office.  There are representives of the Sprinkler Manufacturers Council, the Contractors Council and Suppliers and Manufacturers Council.  The new Directors will take office at the beginning of the February, 2003 Board of Directors meeting; the terms of all other Directors were not scheduled to expire at this time.
Northern Illinois Board Meets 
Jan. 13, 2003 - The members of the Northern Illinois Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board met this afternoon with NFSA President John Viniello to discuss a broad range of issues facing the industry.  Present from the Board were: Rich Ray, Cybor Fire Protection; Don Smith, Chicago Backflow Prevention Systems; Barry Waterman, Acme Sprinkler Service Company; Gregg Huennekens, United States Fire Protection;Fred Kroll, Alliance Fire Protection, Steve Dattilo, Vesta Distributors; Tom Lia, NIFSAB Director; and Dave Danley, Consultant to the Board.  Both Lia and Danley presented comprehensive reports on their activities and the Board heard additional reports from NFSA Regional Manager Dan Gengler and Peg Paul from Peg Paul and Associates.
     In commenting on the meeting, the NFSA President said, "The sprinkler industry in Chicago, indeed throughout the Midwest, should feel very gratified that so many capable individuals are giving of their time and resources to work on industry initiatives. This is a very proactive and committed group with terrific management skills and talent which gets things done. It's not surprising the recession affecting our industry has been blunted to some degree throughout the Midwest and I believe it's largely due to their efforts".
Endthoff Honored by Illinois Chapter
Jan. 14, 2003 - The Northern Illinois Chapter of the NFSA honored retiring Director of Codes Gene Endthoff at a luncheon meeting held at Carlucci's Restaurant in Chicago. More than seventy representatives from contracting, manufacturing and supply companies were in attendance. 
     Chapter Chairman Don Smith of Chicago Backflow and Tom Lia, Executive Director of the Northern Illinois Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board presented Gene with a check in recognition of his significant contributions to the sprinkler industry's Code efforts. NFSA President John A. Viniello also attended the luncheon. Gene will continue working for the NFSA as a consultant focusing his activity on the training of Architects and Engineers using NFSA's Sprinkler Advantage Program.
Associated Press Article to be Published
Jan. 15, 2003 - During National Fire Prevention Week this past October, the National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA) arranged for the interview of Donna Henson by Don Imus of the popular nationally syndicated radio show, “Imus in the Morning”. Donna Henson lost her son Dominic in a fraternity house fire in May of 1999 at the University of Missouri-Columbia.
     As a result of that program, a reporter from the Associated Press contacted NFSA President John Viniello for in-depth information on the fire sprinkler industry and dormitory protection.  We are advised that an article will be published on the news wire later this week that will focus on the important role fire sprinklers can play in the protection of students living in campus housing and you should watch your local papers for coverage.
Stop the Presses
Jan. 24, 2003 - Firefighters arriving at the Scottsbluff, NE Star Herald found that their hoses weren't necessary.  A fire in the newspaper plant had already been extinguished by the building's fire sprinkler system.  The printing operation was shut down for much of the day to allow for cleanup and smoke removal.
Publisher, Joe Craig, said the fire started during repair work igniting insulation in the ceiling.  He said, "The good news is that the sprinkler system worked very effectively, and no one was hurt."
MSNBC Covers Fire Sprinkler Story
Jan. 17, 2003 - As reported to you earlier this week, the Associated Press put a story on the wire reporting on the progress of the installation of fire sprinklers on college campuses across the country.  The story was prompted by the NFSA sponsored appearance of Donna Henson on the Don Imus radio program during National Fire Prevention Week.  We were pleased to note that the national website of MSNBC News picked up the story and ran it as a lead article today.
     NFSA President John Viniello issued a statement saying, "The protection of the lives of our children, America's leaders of tomorrow, is critical and it is important that we do not pause for a moment in our efforts to see that every building at an educational facility housing students is fully sprinklered.  Having met and spent time with Donna Henson, I am honored to have such a dedicated ally in this fight to save lives."
Read the Story
Associated Press Article to be Published
Jan. 15, 2003 - During National Fire Prevention Week this past October, the National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA) arranged for the interview of Donna Henson by Don Imus of the popular nationally syndicated radio show, “Imus in the Morning”. Donna Henson lost her son Dominic in a fraternity house fire in May of 1999 at the University of Missouri-Columbia.
     As a result of that program, a reporter from the Associated Press contacted NFSA President John Viniello for in-depth information on the fire sprinkler industry and dormitory protection.  We are advised that an article will be published on the news wire later this week that will focus on the important role fire sprinklers can play in the protection of students living in campus housing and you should watch your local papers for coverage.
Sprinklers Save the "West Wing"
Jan. 9, 2003 - No, it wasn't the White House in Washington, but when a halogen lamp on the set of the TV drama West Wing burst today, sparks ignited muslin draping.  Burbank Fire Marshal David Starr said that fire sprinklers doused the flames as about 100 people fled the building.  There were no injuries.

March     Top of page
 
NFPA Creates Web Source for Nursing Home Fire Data
Mar. 4, 2003 - The NFPA has erected a web page containing information relevant to nursing homes and other health care occupancies.  It contains both historic references and facts on the NFPA codes which apply to such facilities.  The page is located at http://www.nfpa.org/Research/FireInvestigation/CTFire/CTFire.asp
New Jersey and Connecticut Sprinkler News
Mar. 20, 2003 - NJ Governor McGreevey intervened and convinced the NJ School Construction Commission of the need to protect NJ school children with automatic fire sprinkler systems.  The NJSCC recently issued Bulletin 23 which directs that all new schools and additions to existing schools must have full automatic fire suppression systems. 
     On the heals of the recent nursing home tragedy in Connecticut, a bill has been introduced to require all nursing homes to be equipped with automatic fire sprinkler systems by 2005.
Annual Seminar Update - Discounts, Florida CEU's, Added Personalities
Mar. 21, 2003 - The NFSA has announced extension of the "Early Bird" discount to April 15, 2003.  Those who have not attended a previous Annual Seminar/Exhibition or who have not attended since the 2000 event in Aruba can obtain a 50% discount off their registration.  If you need information, the brochure can be downloaded from the link to the right of this article or you may call Kathy at 845-878-4200, ext.118 or email morgan@nfsa.org.
     We were also greatly pleased this week to learn that the Florida Fire Safety Board has approved Seminar attendance for 16.5 hours of CEU credits.  That more than pays for your registration!!  The Board also approved the two video seminars that will be presented on the buses that will go from Florida locations to the Exhibit on Friday, May 2nd for a total of 3 hours credit.  NFSA educational offerings were certainly on a roll and the Board approved virtually all of our online seminars this year for Florida CEU's.  Contact Dawn on ext. 133 for further information.
     Last, but far from least, great news arrived this week when renowned political commentator Hal Bruno confirmed his availability for the panel at Saturday's plenary session covering Legislation and the Sprinkler Industry.  And, closing out the current list of fire protection industry luminaries who will be in attendance, we have a confirmation from Chief Floyd Jordan of the Miami Beach F.D.  Chief Jordan will be remembered for his appearance on the recent 60 Minutes II TV show where he strongly endorsed the need for fire sprinklers in public assemblies.
Rhode Island Commission Calls on NFSA for Expert Testimony


Mar. 28, 2003 - Two experts on fire sprinklers are among the first witnesses scheduled to testify before a state panel conducting a review of the state's fire-safety codes.
    The 17-member fire safety review commission will hear tonight at the State House from Richard A. Skinner, regional manager for the National Fire Sprinkler Association, and Vincent Calenda, senior investigator for the consulting firm Engineering and Fire Investigations.  Skinner will speak about "the role of sprinklers in fire safety," according to a statement from the legislative commission.  Calenda will offer "the investigator's view" on sprinklers and fire safety.
    The panel will also hear from William Howe, chief of inspections for the state fire marshal, who will offer an overview of fire-safety code; and Joe Goldblatt, dean of the Alan Shawn Feinstein Graduate School at Johnson & Wales University, and an expert in "event management," according to the commission.
    The General Assembly created the 17-member commission in the days after The Station nightclub in West Warwick burned down, killing 99 people. The Feb. 20 fire apparently started when pyrotechnics used to open a rock show ignited packing foam used as soundproofing around the stage.


April     Top of page

Security Fire Head "Steps Up"
Apr. 2, 2003 - NFSA Board member and past Chairman Claude Chafin announced today that David Dixon is taking over as President and CEO of Security Fire.  Claude said, "He is decidedly qualified and has certainly put in his time. I move on knowing that Security is in good hands and that David will receive the same support and assistance that I have been privileged to receive for my 37 years.  I wish him well and offer my own support and assistance at each and every opportunity."
    Claude will remain with Security as its Chairman of the Board and has indicated he is committed to serving out his term on the NFSA Board of Directors as Area 3 Director.

NFSA Opens Contractor’s Forum Email List For Members
In response to numerous requests, the NFSA has established an email list for the exchange of information among contractor members.This feature of our website will allow contractors to quickly reach a broad cross-section of their peers to ask questions, share problems and solutions and stay up to date on the issues affecting the automatic fire sprinkler industry. Any employee of an NFSA contractor, manufacturer or supplier company who is interested in joining the list can go to the Members Only section and register for a password that will allow them to create an account.NFSA is working on additional enhancements to the Members Only section so check back for further announcements in the near future.
Fire Fighting in Sprinklered Buildings - CD Available
FM Global has developed a CD entitled "Fighting Fire in Sprinklered Buildings" which is free and only available to public fire service agencies.  It includes sections on system design, how fire departments can support fire sprinkler systems, prefire planning and both an instructor and student guide.  To obtain the CD, contact Jeff Mattern, FM Global, 101 Lindenwood Drive, Suite 200, Malvern, PA 19355.
NFPA Announces 2003 World Safety Conference & Exposition
The NFPA has announced the preliminary details for its 2003 Conference and Exposition to be held in Dallas, TX on May 18-22, 2003.  This meeting is a "can´t miss" industry meeting for fire and life safety professionals. The conference offers exciting professional development opportunities, education tracks that focus on timely issues, and an exposition that features hundreds of key industry suppliers. Check www.nfpa.org for details about the program and registration.
Consumer Product Safety Commission Settles Two Sprinkler Complaints
April 29, 2003 - The CPSC has settled two administrative complaints against manufacturers of the Star ME-1 dry fire sprinkler.  The first involved the Sprinkler Company of Milwaukee, Inc., formerly Star Sprinkler Corporation, which manufactured the device from 1983 to 1985.  In that proceeding, the parties agreed to utilize the NFSA as the leading industry association to distribute a Safety Warning Notice to organizations that may have purchased the product and to maintain the website containing the Notice.  Star ME-1 Safety Notice
  In the second case, American Household Inc. whose former subsidiary Chemetron Corporation manufactured the sprinklers from 1977 to 1982 has agreed to pay up to $1 Million to assist in the replacement of the sprinklers manufactured by Chemtron. Information on the voluntary recall of those sprinklers and proof of claim forms can be found at www.starme1recall.com.
May    Top of page
 
Postscript for A Sprinkler Advocate
May 7, 2003 - Only a few hours after Gail Minger spoke at the NFSA Annual Seminar and detailed her efforts to obtain passage of sprinkler legislation following the death of her son Michael in a dorm fire, there was proof that her dedicated work was not in vain.  Following the fire in which Michael Minger perished at Murray State University, Gail spearheaded efforts that led to the Kentucky legislature to require schools to inform the public about fires on their property.
     Early Sunday morning, a fire in a dorm room at Western Kentucky State University was contained to the room of origin and extinguished by a newly installed sprinkler system that activated only a single sprinkler head.  The system had just been completed this past summer.  University spokesman Bob Skipper said, "I think the sprinkler system proved its worth.  It had the fire extinguished by the time firefighters arrived, so it did what it had to do."  He also noted, "We had scheduled to install them.  The Murray situation escalated that timetable."
     The students in the WKU dorm will most likely never meet Gail Minger or know her name but it may be that they owe their lives to the tireless efforts of this woman who is committed to delivering the message that fire sprinklers save lives.
Annual Seminar & Exhibition Receives Rave Reviews
May 5, 2003 - Savannah proved to be an idyllic setting for the NFSA's 2003 Annual Seminar & Exhibition.  Headquartered at the recently built Westin Hotel on Hutchinson Island, the attendees had the pleasure of enjoying world-class amenities during the fire sprinkler industry's premier trade show and also the charm and history of one of the cities that was part of the foundation of the formation of the United States.  The opening day found an almost overflowing audience filling the Grand Ballroom to capacity to hear the Annual State of the Industry Address of NFSA President John Viniello and the thought provoking yet humorous presentation of the widely renowned motivational speaker Michael Broome (contact michaelbroome).
     One of the highlights of the Seminar was the presentation of the Golden Sprinkler Award to Ray Malek in honor of his many years or service and contributions to the sprinkler industry.  In addition, Barry Waterman presented the inductees into the NFSA Hall of Fame: John Carroll, Rolf H. Jensen, Thomas C. Nicastro, and Earl Page.
     Aus Marburger, Chairman of the Board, presided over the ribbon cutting ceremony that evening that marked the opening of the show and a gala reception for the attendees.  The show was filled with exhibitors from the leading companies in the industry displaying the latest products available.  The new Convention Center adjoining the Windham proved an ideal facility for the exhibitors and the many visitors to the trade show.


     A day of seminars was available on Friday with the sessions broken out so the registrants could attend as many as three different programs.  Many of the available sessions were repeated to allow a maximum selection of topics for those attending.  On Saturday, Russ Fleming, NFSA Executive Vice President, presented his always anticipated round-up of technical developments and issues within the industry.  Buddy Dewar, Director of Regional Operations, led a panel of five contractors who are active in NFSA Chapters around the country who shared their experiences on effective techniques to support the industry at that local level. 
     The closing day's meeting was led by the dynamic Jim Dalton, Director of Public Fire Protection, who recapped the efforts of the NFSA on HR 1824 before introducing national news commentator Hal Bruno who discussed the process and history of enacting sprinkler friendly legislation.  Finally, Jim introduced Gail Minger, the mother of a college student who lost his life in a dorm fire.  She recounted with deep emotion her fight to get the Kentucky legislature to enact sprinkler legislation.  It was a moment that no one present will soon forget. 
View the pictures below
Around Savannah Banquet Main Session Exhibition Workshops

NFSA President To Be Inducted Into High School Hall of Fame
     On Saturday, May 17, 2003, NFSA President John A. Viniello will be inducted into the St. Mary’s / John F. Kennedy Catholic High School Hall of Fame. The ceremony will be held at John F. Kennedy High School in Somers, New York.
     Following his graduation from Fordham University, John became a teacher and Director of Guidance at then St. Mary’s School, which later changed its name to John F. Kennedy High School. In recognition of exemplary performance by the cross-country teams he coached, which in 1967 rose through the ranks as the best in the East, the Westchester County Coaches and Officials named John “Coach of the Year”.
     In celebration of the event, a commemorative journal will be published that will include congratulatory advertisements. Information on the journal will be available in future NFSA publications.

June    Top of page

Rhode Island Commission Issues Recommendations Mandating Fire Sprinkler Protection
     June 6, 2003-The special commission formed by the Rhode Island legislature after the tragic Station Club fire has issued its recommendations that will be brought to both chambers of the General Assembly next week.  Speedy passage of legislation is expected and the Governor has announced he will sign the legislation.
     NFSA Regional Manager Richard Skinner worked tirelessly with the commission in providing data to assist them in their study.  The recommendations include reclassifying nightclubs as "special amusement buildings," a designation that would bring a number of new safety requirements, including sprinklers. Nightclubs with maximum occupancies from 150 to 300 would have to install sprinklers by July 1, 2006. Larger establishments would have to install them by July 1, 2005.  In addition, the State would adopt NFPA 1 and 101 effective February 20, 2004, the anniversary date of the fire. 
Read the Story

Endthoff Named "Person of the Year"
     It has been announced by Fire Protection Contractor that former NFSA Director of Codes Gene Endthoff has been named the trade magazine's Person of the Year.  Gene recently retired and while still performing consulting assignments for the NFSA, he is reportedly enjoying his new lifestyle with his wife Betty. Here at the NFSA, we always knew Gene was "the man" when it came to building codes.
     Gene worked tirelessly throughout his career for the passage of building codes that supported the installation of fire sprinkler systems and for the past several years has focused on delivering the message to the architectural community of the importance and value of fire sprinklers.  His programs at numerous colleges for architectural students have received the highest accolades.

July    Top of page
 
Rhode Island Governor Signs Fire Sprinkler Legislation
July 7, 2003 - Governor Donald Carcieri today signed into law a new fire code that was adopted by the legislature in the wake of the horrible tragedy that took 100 lives at the Station Club in February.  The new law requires the installation of automatic fire sprinklers by July, 2006 in all nightclubs with occupancies of 150 people.  Businesses with occupancies of 300 or more will have to install sprinklers by July, 2005.
Fire Sprinkler Industry Honors Capitol Architect and Staff
July 8, 2003 - The Congressional Fire Service Institute, NFSA and AFSA today presented a plaque to Alan Hantman, Architect of the Capitol, and his staff praising their "leadership and continuing contributions to the safety and preservation of the U.S. Capitol Complex, its staff, emergency personnel and the public".  NFSA President John Viniello and AFSA President Steve Muncie joined CFSI Executive Director Bill Webb in making the presentation.
     Congressman Curt Weldon (PA), founder of the CFSI, was introduced by Bill Webb and made a statement applauding the tremendous progress that has been made in providing fire protection to the nation's Capitol buildings and their occupants.
NFPA Committee Recommends Stronger Sprinkler Requirements
July 9, 2003 - The NFPA's Technical Committee for Assembly Occupancies today recommended a major change in the requirements for fire sprinklers in new and existing nightclubs, bars, dancehalls, discotheques or assembly occupancy with festival style seating.  The recommendation sets a threshold of 100 people for sprinklers to be required and also requires crowd managers for any indoor public assembly of 50 or more and safety evaluations for entertainment events that allow 250 or more to stand in front of a stage.
     The recommendations will have to be approved and adopted by the NFPA Standards Council at its meeting next week in Portland, OR to become part of the organizations fire safety code which is the basis for the codes in 35 states.
HGTV's "How's That Work" To Feature Fire Sprinkler Segment
July 11, 2003 - Home and Garden TV is introducing a new program titled "How's That Work".  Two of its initial presentations will include a segment on the history of fire sprinklers, how they work and how sprinklers are now being installed in homes to protect the occupants and property.  George Warren, Deputy FM of the Emeryville, CA Fire Department was interviewed for the program.
     The showings are scheduled for July 20th at 10:30 p.m. EST and July 21st at 1:30 a.m. EST.  Check your local listing for the time and channel in your area.
FREE - Contractor Online Sprinkler Bulb Integrity Seminar !
     At the 2003 NFSA Annual Seminar the most lauded program featured a presentation by Eduard Job of JOB GmbH and James Golinveaux, Sr. Vice President of R&D for Tyco Fire and Building Products on the efforts needed to prevent sprinkler "pre-ops" involving fast response glass bulb sprinklers. They covered the topic in detail from the manufacturing of the bulbs and sprinklers through proper storage, handling and installation procedures. Based on the overwhelming response to this program, the NFSA is pleased to announce that on August 5, 2003 it will present a special live online seminar, "Ensuring Sprinkler Bulb Integrity" with NFSA Executive V.P. Russ Fleming and Jim Golinveaux joining together to deliver the program. Once again, technical support was provided by JOB GmbH in developing the course. As usual, the event will be live, real time and participants will be able to send questions that will be answered during the program that will commence at 10:30 EDT.
     We are also pleased to advise you that the NFSA Board approved the presentation FREE OF CHARGE for NFSA contractor member companies (regular non-member rates will apply). Any member signing up by July 18th will be guaranteed a "seat"; sign up now in the event that response requires us to impose limitations on reservations.
     Reservations can be made by clicking on the Seminars navigation button or by calling Dawn at 845.878.4200, ext.133. If you are not familiar with the online seminars, WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND that you visit the seminar demo area well in advance to be certain that there are no technical problems with your computer or network connection. Give us a chance to give you any necessary technical support well in advance and don't get caught being put on hold on the day of the seminar.
Central Sprinkler Announces Improvements to Recall Program
    Central Sprinkler Corporation and the Consumer Product Safety Commission have agreed upon modifications to the sprinkler recall program they established on July 19, 2001. Under the terms of the original settlement agreement, certain sprinkler types manufactured by Central would be replaced free of charge by Central employees or other approved contractors for building owners who completed the appropriate claim forms and timely filed them.
    Under the terms of the modified program, owners can now elect to have their own contractors replace the affected sprinklers and receive reimbursement for the costs from Central. Details of the amounts of reimbursement and the necessary forms that must be filed can be found on Central's recall site located at www.SprinklerReplacement.com.

Sprinkler Pre-Op Survey
The NFSA Quality Assurance Committee is seeking contractor input regarding problems with pre-operation of sprinklers, particularly fast response glass bulb sprinklers as found in listed quick response, residential, and ESFR sprinklers. Please take a few minutes to fill in the form below and transmit by fax to NFSA headquarters at (845) 878-4215.Please check all boxes that apply in your experience. Leave blank the ones that do not apply.
Sprinkler Survey.doc

New Training Programs Available Online 24 / 7
Don Donath, Director of Training and Education, announced an exciting addition to NFSA's training programs that will make seminars available online and allow individuals to gain the knowledge traditionally imparted in a classroom setting at any time, day or evening, without the expense of travel.  The first course available will be Inspection, Testing and Maintenance of Water Based Fire Protection Systems covering the responsibilities of the owner, contractor and AHJ in maintaining an automatic fire sprinkler system.The seminars will be delivered in modules of approximately two hours each with a self-scoring test for each module to allow participants to gauge their understanding of the material. A new module will be added weekly and students can access all of the posted material at any time; the ITM seminar will consist of six modules.Students will be able to pose questions through email and will have access to a Frequently Asked Questions section to assist them with the topics covered.  An examination will follow the completion of the final module.You can download the brochure in .pdf format from the following link or contact Dawn at 845-878-4200, ext. 133 to register or for more information. 
NFPA Adopts New Sprinkler Requirements for Nightclubs
July 28, 2003 - The NFPA Standards Council today announced its approval of the TIA for NFPA 101, and NFPA 5000 that was originally approved by the Technical Committee for Assembly Occupancies earlier this month.  Thanks to the efforts of the Committee members that included NFSA Manager of Codes Kevin Kelly and Regional Manager Bob Treiber, the new code provisions will require automatic fire sprinklers in all new bars, nightclubs, dancehalls, discotheques and assembly occupancies with festival style seating and they will be required in all such existing buildings where the occupancy exceeds 100.  The approved TIA also contains requirements for life safety evaluations, crowd management and exit inspections.
     The NFPA Codes are the basis for the fire safety codes in 35 states.
California Adopts NFPA Codes
July 30, 2003 – The National Fire Protection Association announced today that the state of California has adopted model building and fire codes of the nonprofit NFPA  to protect public safety in the nation's most populous state. The California Building Standards Commission voted last night to adopt NFPA 5000™, Building Construction and Safety Code™ and NFPA 1, Uniform Fire Code™ (NFPA 1, UFC). As a result of the Commission's action, the NFPA codes will provide the basis for the 2004 California Building Code and the 2004 California Fire Code.
     "We are pleased that NFPA's model building and fire codes will be an important part of public safety in California," said James M. Shannon, president and CEO of the NFPA. "In addition to the codes themselves, we are committed to providing quality support services that will aid the state in the transition to these updated model codes."
     The California state fire marshal recommended the adoption of NFPA 5000 and NFPA 1, UFC after determining that NFPA codes would provide California with "higher levels of safety" than would building and fire codes developed by the International Code Council (ICC). The state fire marshal's office had conducted a detailed and extensive review of the building and fire codes developed by NFPA and ICC. That review pointed to specific code provisions and NFPA's consensus-based code development process as key reasons that California should use NFPA's model codes.
     The fire marshal's report indicated that NFPA's process for developing the building and fire codes, "...has led to the promulgation of codes that our technical review has found to be superior with respect to the protection of public safety." NFPA's codes were also supported by the California Fire Chiefs Association, and the California Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association, along with numerous other groups.
September   Top of page

Raymond J. Casey Deceased 

Sept. 6, 2003 - We are deeply saddened to report that Raymond J. Casey, former President and CEO of the NFSA from 1952 to 1978 passed away this afternoon in Gaffney, SC after a short illness.  He had celebrated his 90th birthday this past June 29th.
     In releasing the news, NFSA President John Viniello noted, "Ray Casey was an industry legend who had the foresight and creativity to establish a solid foundation for the industry and this Association from successful achievements in Labor Relations to Marketing the fire sprinkler concept in the Model Building Codes arena.  Because of his vision and leadership, much of the success that our industry enjoys today started with him.  He will be missed; anyone who knew him - from Management or Labor - will tell you that we were very fortunate that he came our way. May he Rest in Peace."
     A memorial service at 11 a.m. followed by a Mass at 12:00 p.m. will be held at the Sacred Heart Church, 407 Grace Street, Gaffney, SC 29341. Donations in his memory may be made to the Sacred Heart Church or to the Hospice Care of South Carolina, 407 North Limestone Street, Gaffney, SC 29341.
     The family has announced that it will also be holding a memorial service in the New York area in November.
NFSA to Host Free Central VRP Update
September 9, 2003,  – The National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA) is pleased to announce that it has been selected by Central Sprinkler Company to host the first teleconference providing updates on its Voluntary Replacement Program (VRP).
     On Monday, September 15, 2003 at 10:30 a.m. Eastern Time, Central Sprinkler and Tyco Fire and Building Products will hold a teleconference to update NFSA members on the status of the VRP and to provide an overview of the new VRP Enhancements. The conference is absolutely free to all NFSA members. The update will take approximately 45 minutes, after which participants will have the opportunity to ask questions about the VRP and the new enhancements.
     The Central Sprinkler Voluntary Replacement Program (VRP) for the replacement of O-ring seal sprinklers has been operational since its joint launch in July 2001 by Central Sprinkler and the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission. The fire protection community has received the VRP positively, and it continues to play a significant role in upholding the integrity and performance record of fire sprinkler systems. To date, building owners have filed claims in the VRP for over 14,000,000 O-ring seal sprinklers.
     Recently, Central Sprinkler, in association with the Building Owners and Management Association and others, introduced VRP Enhancements for owners of O-ring seal sprinklers. These Program Enhancements may be of interest to the fire sprinkler contractor's customers, as they provide more options for participating in the VRP.
     To register, NFSA members should call (888) 428-4471 within 10 – 15 minutes of the scheduled start time, 10:30 a.m. ET, on the day of the conference and ask the operator for the Voluntary Replacement Program.
NFSA Online Seminars Reach the Century Mark
  The next online seminar conducted by the NFSA which is scheduled for September 9th will be our 100th presentation. The Association was the first to bring this form of distance learning to the fire sprinkler industry and its successful, informative programs have always set the standard for staying current with all of the issues and trends in the industry. 
    Ken Isman, NFSA's Asst. V.P. of Engineering will be the instructor for this landmark event that will deal with the topic of Freezer Protection.  For details, check the Seminars section or call Dawn at 845-878-4200, ext. 133.

NFPA Responds to Tainted Statistics in New Column
Sept. 10, 2003 - Dr. John R. Hall, Jr., Asst. V.P. of Fire Analysis & Research for the National Fire Protection Association has issued a rebuttal to the flawed statistics appearing in a column being published in various newspapers under the byline of Dr. Gene Corley.  The text of his reply follows.    "Dr. Gene Corley's "Other Views" column in the September 10 edition may have conveyed some misimpressions, and one point in particular was sourced to National Fire Protection Association statistics, which are my responsibility.
  "Readers seeing the statistic that sprinklers do not operate 16% of the time may have assumed that these are all or mostly cases of sprinklers being overwhelmed, since that was the situation Dr. Corley cited in one building of the World Trade Center complex.  In fact, most of these cases involve other conditions, such as a partial sprinkler system faced with a fire originating outside its coverage area or a sprinkler system that has been turned off by the building managers.  Faulting the sprinkler performance in such cases would be like saying your home door locks failed to protect your property when you left locks off half the doors and left the other half unlocked when you went out.
   "There are some other points readers may miss in Dr. Corley"s column. (1) Nothing is fool-proof.  The so-called passive fire protection he champions is itself subject to interference through human error, from designs that don't meet any code to poor installation to poor maintenance to poking holes in walls and blocking doors open. (2) Everything has limits.  As you read through Dr. Corley's description of the fates of each of the World Trade Center buildings, the common factor is a structural and fire challenge well beyond anything contemplated by the designers of sprinklers or passive protection.  It is misleading to simplify the complex reality into a message that the right passive protection makes building collapse impossible and the wrong passive protection makes building collapse a real possibility".
   Readers of NFSA's Code Watch will recall that in the Summer 2003 edition Kevin Kelly, Manager of Codes, debunked the same distortion of the NFPA report being spread by the Alliance for Fire Safety which is supported by the passive fire protection industry.  While he was not shy about mentioning his experience in the investigation of the WTC , Gene Corley doesn't disclose what relationship or affiliation he may have with the Alliance for Fire Safety. Likewise, he does not mention that he shares an address with the Portland Cement Association, a trade association for whom he has worked.  One can only wonder how objective his views are.

Single Sprinkler Saves $1.2 Million Dollar Estate
Sept. 18, 2003 - A press release issued today by the Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District reports that a single fire sprinkler head extinguished a garage fire in the exclusive Crosby development in Rancho Santa Fe.  The home valued at $1.2 Million had not yet been occupied and if the sprinkler had not done its job, no one would have noticed until there was substantial involvement and damage.
     The fire was caused by spontaneous ignition of oily rags left by workers who were working on refinishing cabinets in the home. A neighbor heard the sprinkler system alarm and called 911.  The fire had been extinguished before firefighters arrived.
     Rancho Santa Fe Fire Chief Erwin Wills said, "The sprinkler system did what it was supposed to do. It confined the fire to a single room and caused a lot less water damage than our fire hoses would have". Damage was estimated at less than $1000.

Eight Dead in Nashville Nursing Home Fire
Friday, September 26, 2003, Patterson, New York – A fire overnight in a four-story nursing home in Nashville, Tennessee has claimed at least eight lives. Tragically, one of those killed is the 96-year old mother of a deputy chief on the fire department at the scene fighting the fire. Authorities reported that another 25 were injured, 20 critically. Almost all the residents of the home were bedridden and unable to escape on their own. As a result, firefighters had to carry out many of the 120 elderly occupants down stairs. Some on the upper floor had to be evacuated down ladders.
    A fire officer on the scene stated that fire sprinklers would have made a big difference in the outcome. A representative of the company that owns the facility said the area of the concrete building where the patients lived had no sprinkler system but that the fire alarm system had sounded. The building was built before fire sprinklers were required.
    In a letter to the editor of USA Today, NFSA President John Viniello asked the ultimate question, "When will the carnage stop?".  He noted, "While most new nursing homes are required to install automatic fire sprinkler systems there are hundreds that aren’t protected. They were built before Modern Building Codes were adopted.  What is needed is federal legislation to protect unsprinklered nursing homes… and we need it today."
    Earlier this year, a fire in a Hartford, Connecticut health-care facility killed 16. At that time the National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA) pointed to the need for these types of facilities to be required to be retrofit with fire sprinklers even though they may be considered “up to code” without them. Now it has happened again. These events are tragic examples of why existing codes need to be updated to include the life safety benefits provided by automatic fire sprinkler systems.
    In stark contrast to this most recent deadly blaze, a fire in a similar facility in Iowa last year went almost unnoticed by residents. Firefighters arriving on the scene at the Palmer Hills Retirement Residence found a single fire sprinkler had operated and controlled the fire. A fire official credited the fire sprinkler system with saving many lives. 
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NFSA Delivers the Message 
Sept. 28, 2003 - Following on the heals of the tragic nursing home fire in Nashville, TN Thursday night, NFSA President John Viniello was contacted by the local media. His message was clear - the hundreds, perhaps thousands of nursing homes in this country without fire sprinkler protection "are disasters waiting to happen". In Tennessee alone, it is reported that as many as 55 are unprotected.
    Many of these structures have been "grandfathered" because they were built before modern fire codes were adopted in the states where they exist. Viniello noted that the NFSA's efforts to obtain passage of Federal legislation that would provide tax relief in the form of accelerated depreciation for fire sprinkler installations would go a long way in providing an incentive for the owners of these facilitites to provide the occupants with the best fire protection available.
Read the Story
October   Top of page

Nursing Home Fire Deaths Spur Action on Fire Sprinklers

October 9, 2003 - Amid conflicting reports as to whether the death toll has risen to 14, news continued to surface after the tragic nursing home fire in Nashville, TN.  The director of the company announced today that they would voluntarily undertake a project to retrofit the 16 other homes they run. In making the announcement, he also said that they would support any legislation that required fire sprinklers in such facilities throughout the State. 
    At the same time, it was disclosed that the Nashville City Council had received a resolution calling for mandatory sprinkler systems in all city nursing homes and that the Council had sent a request to the State Legislature asking them to pass legislation with the same requirements on a statewide basis.
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Fire Tragedy Strikes Chicago
October 17, 2003 - The NFSA has been working tirelessly for years to get Chicago officials to recognize the need for retrofit legislation for the city's high rise buildings.  As recently as October 2nd, NFSA President John Viniello wrote the following in a letter to the editor of the Chicago Sun Times, "The Chicago High-Rise Commission needs to recommend full sprinkler protection in all existing residential high-rises in the City of Chicago. They need to do this today before another fire tragedy occurs tomorrow."
     Well, today, "tomorrow" arrived in Chicago when a fire broke out in the unsprinklered Cook County Administration Building and claimed six lives and hospitalized 15 others, two in critical condition and two in serious condition.  The building is normally occupied by 2500 people and the tragedy could have been worse if the fire had not occurred around 5 p.m. so that many may have already left work.
     The NFSA will not rest until the officials of the nation's second largest city awaken and accept the fact that fire sprinklers must be mandated to protect the lives of its citizens working and living in high-rise buildings.
Read the Story
National Volunteer Fire Council Says Legislation is a Priority
     The National Volunteer Fire Council's recently published newsletter identifies the passage of HR 1824, the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act, as a top priority of that group and calls for its members to contact their legislative representatives to urge their support.
     The newsletter quoted Congressman Weldon, the Bill's author, following the nursing home fire in Nashville, TN.  He said, "This deadly fire was a horrific and preventable tragedy. It is disgraceful that in this day and age, a nursing home is not properly protected from fire. I only hope my colleagues will continue to work with me and pass legislation that I introduced earlier this year to help install this lifesaving technology".
Fire Prevention Week Closes With A Bang 
October 13, 2003 - The NFSA utilized the occasion of National Fire Prevention Week to bring the message that fire sprinklers save lives and property to the public in a number of forums. Throughout the week, the Association sponsored spot advertisements on the nationally syndicated morning radio show featuring host Don Imus as well as additional announcements throughout the day on WFAN radio in the New York market. 
   On Friday, October 10th, the promotion reached its peak with an almost 15 minute interview of Congressman Curt Weldon by Mr. Imus. Almost the entire interview focused on how the installation of automatic fire sprinklers could save as many as 3500 lives each year. Congressman Weldon discussed how the Capitol and its office buildings had been retrofitted with fire sprinklers without disturbing its historic beauty and debunked some of the myths about fire sprinklers noting that only the sprinkler head(s) at the point of a fire discharge water.
   The interview also included discussion of HR1824 that Congressman Weldon introduced. He noted that the Bill will allow building owners to recapture the cost of installing fire sprinklers through tax relief and he called upon all of the listeners to the broadcast to contact their legislative representatives and urge them to support this important legislation. 
   During the week, NFSA Regional Managers were successful in obtaining publication of newspaper supplements that focused on both the traditional messages of National Fire Prevention Week and educating the public on the benefits of protecting their lives and property with fire sprinklers. Utilizing the Newspapers in Education program, supplements appeared in Chicago, Kansas City, New York, and Philadelphia newspapers. The Regional Managers also supported many local events during the week held by fire service organizations.
Fire Sprinklers to be Featured on Home and Garden TV
The Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition (HFSC), an industry group supported by the NFSA, has scheduled advertising on the Home & Garden Television Network (HGTV) for the next few weeks. The two 30-second spots featuring Ron Hazelton will run 34 times with a guaranteed reach of 6.1 million adults 25 to 54 years old.
The spots are scheduled to be shown during various episdoes of "Dream House," "Dream Builders," "This Old House Classics," and "Room by Room.". Please check your local listings or the HGTV website to confirm program scheduling.
November   Top of page

NFSA Legislative Activity on Sprinkler Legislation
Nov. 7, 2003 - We have added an information link on the webpage dedicated to the legislation pending before both the House and Senate on tax incentives for installing fire sprinklers.  It provides you with updates on the activity of the NFSA and the progress of these Bills.  Click on the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act logo in the upper right corner of this page and check out all of the information on these Bills.


NFSA Spearheads Support for the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act
Sponsorship Reaches 96 in Response to Our Efforts
November 21, 2003 - In the aftermath of recent multiple life loss fires in Nashville, Tennessee and Chicago, Illinois, support for HR 1824, the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act of 2003, continues to grow. As a result of the concentrated efforts of Josh Dozor, Legislative Assistant to the bill sponsor, Congressman Curt Weldon of Pennsylvania, the lobbying firm of Fierce and Isakowitz, who has been retained by the NFSA/Fire Sprinkler Alliance to assist with passage of this landmark legislation, and the continuing efforts of the fire community and others, support for HR 1824 has grown significantly in recent weeks. As of this writing, ninety-six (96) representatives have signed on as cosponsors including twelve of the nineteen representatives from Illinois and five from the state of Tennessee. Six of the present cosponsors sit on the House Ways and Means Committee where the bill resides. As the current legislative session winds down, we are concentrating our efforts on several additional influential members of the House Ways and Means Committee.
The current session will wind down sometime over the next few days for the holiday recess, but it is critical that support efforts continue until the lawmakers return to Washington in early January of 2004. Also, many of you have been asking the question of, “what happens to the bill in the interim?” Be advised that nothing changes. All of the effort and energy that has been dedicated to achieving the support alluded to above will carry over into 2004. The bill will remain in House Ways and Means with all cosponsors intact. After the session closes, additional cosponsors will not be posted until January but the recess presents a great opportunity to work at the “grass roots” level to attract additional supporters. In fact, as noted above, we will be targeting several additional Ways and Means members during this period.
Finally, keep the support letters coming through use of the “Cap Wiz” set up on the NFSA web page. We have come a long way since last April, but we must continue our valiant efforts to attract additional supporters. Ask your constituencies of industry and fire service organizations and individuals to continue to send letters. If they have already done so, ask them to do it again! The goal continues to be additional cosponsors with special emphasis on Fire Caucus Members and the members of the House Ways and Means Committee.
When Will It Stop?
  That was the question raised to his staff as NFSA President John Viniello felt the frustration from having once more to compose a letter to the media as he has been compelled to do all too frequently in the past when fires in unsprinklered buildings have claimed innocent lives due to government officials and building owners failing to recognize the fact that fire sprinklers save lives.
    Following on the news that the death toll had risen to 11 as a result to the tragic nursing home fire in Nashville, TN, we learned that two lives were lost in a high-rise fire in low income housing in Chicago, IL where the NFSA has been working tirelessly for the enactment of ordinances that will require fire sprinklers in all high-rise buildings, new and existing.
Letter to Chicago Sun Times
Journal News Letter to the Editor