PRBA, through its Fire Code Committee, is actively involved in the development of new requirements impacting the storage of lithium batteries. PRBA and its members also participate in the International Fire Code (IFC), International Building Code (IBC), and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 855 standard, and NFPA 1 fire code development process.
The International Code Council (ICC) is a global model code body that develops the IFC and IBC and other “I-Codes.” The IFC and IBC are adopted at the state level and enforced at the local level by Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). These Codes contain requirements aimed at safeguarding life and property from fire and explosion hazards. More information is available at: https://codes.iccsafe.org/
The ICC held its 2021 Annual Conference and Group A Public Comment Hearings (PCHH) September 19 – 28, 2021 in Pittsburg, PA. During the PCH, new lithium battery storage requirements were approved for incorporation into the 2024 IFC and IBC.
The NFPA is a worldwide organization focused on preventing death, injury, property and economic loss due to fire, electrical and related hazards. NFPA has developed over 300 consensus codes and standards, including its NFPA 1 fire code. The NFPA 1 fire code develops fire safety standards through an integrative approach to fire code regulation and hazard management. More information at: https://www.nfpa.org/
To join PRBA’s Fire Code Committee, or for an update on current fire code activity, please email Executive Director, George Kerchner.
PRBA Fire Code Committee
Update on Lithium Battery Proposals for International Fire Code
June 14, 2021