The residential sprinkler issue for Virginia inclusion our codes has begun. On April 9 at DHCD, the Work Group that will make recommendations to the Board of Housing on residential sprinklers will meet at 9:30 at the Department of Housing and Community Development. You can be part of the work group by being there and you are encouraged to attend.
Robbie Dawson continues leading the Virginia Residential Sprinkler Coalition. On April 14-15 in Richmond, Robbie has worked with Fire Team USA to bring their seminar to Richmond on the subject of residential sprinklers. From what we have heard, there are 60 slots available but the advertised free lodging has filled up based on the web site but they are still taking registrations. There will be a live burn demo also as part of this. The web site is www.fireteamusa.com. You are encouraged to register if you can attend. You might also ask for a room just in case of cancellations.
Please visit the video link below. The real video is after the 15 second commercial and demonstrates a significant problem with lightweight construction. Also, please visit UL University. They completed a much more comprehensive set of testing results of which are available as an educational program. I recommend you take the course. Lightweight construction is in not only homes but commercial properties also. This is another indicator that verifying maintenance of types of construction during our inspections is extremely important.
http://www.wisn.com/video/18963547/?taf=mil
The UL program and the link to UL University can be found below. You will need to create an account to enter the UL University and take courses but it is simple enough.
The course takes 2 hours with no charge and a certificate should be available to you. UL has said that they are not issuing CEUs for this at this time although a certificate is in the works. The courses name is Structural Stability of Engineered Lumber in Fire Conditions.
http://www.uluniversity.com
