The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has released CodeFinder, a new interactive online tool that identifies the NFPA codes and standards that are in effect in U.S. municipalities or counties, as well as in regions of Canada, South America, Latin America and the Middle East.
Keeping up with new hazards, changing technologies and best practices is essential when it comes to optimising safety; but for busy building, design, electrical, emergency response, fire protection and industrial practitioners, it can be daunting to stay current on the codes being enforced in a given country, state or region. CodeFinder helps users around the globe identify the NFPA codes and standards in effect, including those referenced in other codes. The tool considers the data available at the state level, in cities with more than a quarter million in population and in counties with over one million in population (or the largest municipalities in the state). The tool also identifies the NFPA codes and standards being used in countries outside the United States.
NFPA Conference & Expo
At this week’s NFPA Conference & Expo in Las Vegas, President and CEO Jim Pauley highlighted the new tool, and emphasized the important role that codes, and standards play in the fire and life safety ecosystem. Pauley called for greater government responsibility; a commitment to using current codes and standards globally; safety prioritisation; a skilled workforce; code compliance and enforcement; well-resourced emergency preparedness and response support; and increased public education efforts.
| "CodeFinder was developed so that those charged with fire and life safety can easily access up-to-date safety benchmarks and help reduce risk in our world" |
“Codes and standards are developed by experts from around the globe to ensure a minimum level of safety. Current editions of codes incorporate learnings from new research, case studies, loss experience, and innovation. By applying the most recent codes and standards, we will ensure that people and property get the level of protection that they expect and deserve,” Pauley said. “CodeFinder was developed so that those charged with fire and life safety can easily access up-to-date safety benchmarks and help reduce risk in our world.”
CodeFinder online code-locator tool
CodeFinder utilises color-coded mapping, a convenient hovering feature, and filtering by jurisdiction. Users can also search by topic or by the most frequently used NFPA codes and standards. There is even a place for users to provide code information, if the information is not already included within CodeFinder.
The new digital code-finding tool includes International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) and International Code Council (ICC) information, as well as the NFPA codes and standards that are referenced within those IAPMO and ICC documents. The referenced NFPA documents are considered part of those codes – and, as such, should be enforced to ensure complete compliance and the ultimate level of safety. CodeFinder also references the NFPA documents that are in use in Canadian provinces and territories, as well as in Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Columbia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Saudi Arabia and the United American Emirates.
Color-coded mapping
Designed to be informational and educational, CodeFinder does not provide a comprehensive or exhaustive list of codes and standards usage, nor are amendments to those codes and standards reflected in the tool. The color-coding on the map reflects only the most up-to-date edition of a particular code or standard incorporated by any authority having jurisdiction. Prior to using the new NFPA resource, users will be prompted to review more details and disclaimers for CodeFinder.
