From the Chief’s Corner: 2022: The time is NOW!
Posted on May 17, 2019 If you’re planning a family vacation, or thinking about getting tickets for Super Bowl LVI, the year 2022 probably seems far away. But if you’re a stakeholder in the in-building emergency responder communications system world, 2022 is actually a lot closer than you may think. Indeed, the first draft code proposals for the 2022 edition of NFPA 1221 – the Standard for the Installation, Maintenance, and Use of Emergency Services Communications Systems – are due on June 26, 2019 at 5:00 pm EDT. This is the very document that governs how many of you will be doing your work, every day. And if you want to get involved in the process, your input must be submitted next month! I know you’re probably thinking: I’ve barely got the 2019 edition of the standard figured out, and with technology already changing so fast; how in the world am I supposed to know what products and solutions will be available – much less determine which code requirements should be included within the 2022 edition of the NFPA 1221? No matter what your thoughts are, the time is NOW! Codes and standards are constantly evaluated because they are rarely perfect for our constantly-changing world. In fact, if we do nothing, history will literally repeat itself, because what will be adopted and enforced by the authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) will be the exact same as it is now – for the next three-six years. Now is the time for each of you to evaluate what is contained within the 2019 edition of NFPA 1221 and submit any proposed revisions to existing sections – or new sections to the requirements – to the Safer Buildings Coalition (SBC) Codes & Standards work group. We will include your input in the SBC submittal packet. I encourage you to use the limited time we have left to think about any issues you or your colleagues may have had with current requirements. Think about new or updated opportunities that will improve system capabilities or improve system operation for end users. Think about equipment or processes that will make systems more affordable for those that are footing the bill. Basically, use the time we have left to think about proposals to NFPA 1221 that will make communications capabilities better and improve the safety of everyone involved. As you can see there are many things to consider when developing proposals for the next edition of the NFPA 1221, but the most important factor in the codes and standards development processes is that you get engaged and involved. As I often say: “In a world full of problems, be a solution.” Well, now is your chance to help be a solution -- by participating in the process, by being at the table. |