Building Consensus for a Safer World
NFPA’s Consensus Codeä
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NFPA began more than 100 years ago when a small group of citizens met to develop standards that were designed to reduce inconsistencies in the installation of fire sprinklers. Since it’s beginnings, NFPA has remained committed to developing codes and standards through a process that allows all interested parties to have a voice. Today, NFPA publishes more than 300 codes and standards included in the National Fire Codesâ which are in use throughout the America and internationally.Ø
NFPA is now using its time-tested, consensus-based code development process to round out its full set of codes and standards for the built environment by developing the NFPA Building Codeä. The complete set of codes is known as the NFPA Consensus Codesä set.Ø
The completion of a full set of codes, based on true consensus, is the next step in NFPA’s continuing commitment to reducing the worldwide burden of fire and other hazards on the quality of life by developing and advocating scientifically based codes and standards, research, training, and education.
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NFPA’s unique code and standard development process is based on input from all interested parties. The development or revision of any NFPA code or standard is designed to maximize input from groups representing the public. NFPA codes are developed by technical committees representing enforcing authorities, insurance, installation and maintenance, labor, research and testing as well as special experts, consumers, and other users. The two-year long process allows all interested parties and members of the public ample time to review and comment on codes. And, all NFPA members can vote on the proposed code before it is published.Ø
NFPA is committed to utilizing the same true consensus process in the development of NFPA’s Building Code. NFPA has established key partnerships to aid in the development of the Consensus Codes set. We will pursue additional partnerships with organizations that share our commitment to true consensus. The combined resources of new and existing partnerships create unprecedented opportunities to achieve a complete and harmonized set of codes.Ø
Any interested members of the public may choose to comment as part of the code development process. Input from all relevant parties is welcome, however no one group may dominate the NFPA code development process. All together, more than 6,000 volunteers serve on more than 200 technical committees. These dedicated individuals and unique factors set NFPA’s code process apart.Ø
The first draft of the Consensus Codes will be available for review in June 2000. The relevant technical committees will begin meeting in late summer 2000, with the public proposal period open through November 9, 2000. Opportunities for input will continue until the code’s final publication in 2002. To join a technical committee, NFPA has set up a Web site for applying on-line at www.buildingcode.nfpa.org.
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NFPA provides training and ongoing technical support to federal., state and local authorities that have adopted NFPA codes.Ø
NFPA provides members of state and local fire service with technical training and training materials to support NFPA’s codes. As part of the Consensus Code initiative, NFPA will also develop certification programs for state and local officials.Ø
NFPA seeks to improve the nation’s fire safety through a comprehensive research program and public safety education programs including Learn Not to Burn and Remembering When.