NFPA LiNK to support 20,000 IEC electrical apprentices across US

by Americas - Featured NewsAssociations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsTraining

NFPA LiNK integrated into IEC training

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has agreed a new collaboration with Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) in the US to provide NFPA LiNK access across IEC’s network of 53 educational campuses and affiliate chapters.

According to NFPA, the agreement will give more than 20,000 IEC electrical apprentices and their instructors digital access to current fire, electrical and life safety codes and standards.

NFPA stated that NFPA LiNK is its digital platform for codes and standards, including the National Electrical Code.

The organisation explained that the tool will be integrated into the IEC Content Management System and made available at no extra charge to apprentices.

NFPA added that the arrangement is supported by IEC’s training partner, American Technical Publishers.

Digital access to NFPA codes and standards

NFPA said NFPA LiNK will provide real-time access to a library of more than 300 NFPA codes and standards.

The platform also includes expert commentary, visual materials and interactive functions intended to support classroom training and practical application on site.

NFPA noted that combining codes, explanatory material and digital tools in one platform is aimed at helping users apply requirements in real-world situations.

Kyle Spencer, director of NFPA LiNK, said: “This is about giving the next generation of electrical professionals, and those who train them, the tools they need to learn and apply safety knowledge in real-world settings,

“We’re pleased to support IEC’s education programs by making essential safety information easier to access and use.”

IEC apprenticeship network and safety focus

NFPA described IEC as a nonprofit trade association federation representing more than 4,100 member businesses.

According to NFPA, IEC chapters and training programmes operate in communities across the US, with a remit to support a skilled electrical workforce with a focus on safety.

The organisation said the NFPA LiNK integration forms part of broader efforts by NFPA and IEC to improve safety outcomes through education.

NFPA added that the collaboration is also aimed at preparing apprentices and instructors for changing demands in the electrical and construction sectors.

Amy Biedenharn, executive director of IEC, said: “Providing our apprentices and instructors with direct access to NFPA LiNK strengthens the IEC training experience,

“This integration brings the most current safety information and code resources straight into the classroom and the field.”

How expanded NFPA LiNK access affects training and practice

Electrical contractors involved in IEC programmes will see NFPA LiNK embedded directly in training environments, which means access to codes and standards during both classroom sessions and practical activities.

Training officers and instructors can use the platform’s commentary, visual material and interactive tools to illustrate how requirements in the National Electrical Code and other NFPA documents apply to specific tasks.

System installers and electrical engineers taking part in IEC apprenticeships will be able to consult up-to-date NFPA documents on demand, reducing reliance on separate printed materials or older references.

Fire safety officers and standards bodies monitoring electrical training can expect IEC apprentices to work with current NFPA content, as the agreement covers access to more than 300 codes and standards.

Facility managers and building services engineers who work with IEC-trained apprentices may encounter personnel who are more familiar with digital code resources integrated into everyday workflows.

By providing NFPA LiNK at no extra charge to apprentices, the collaboration removes a cost barrier for new entrants to the trade who need consistent access to safety information.

How New Zealand became NFPA’s newest hub for fire safety innovation

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsSafety

NFPA and FPANZ sign MoU to strengthen fire safety collaboration

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Fire Protection Association New Zealand (FPANZ) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance fire and life safety across New Zealand.

According to the organisations, the agreement focuses on knowledge sharing, training and the exchange of resources between the two associations.

The MoU was signed during the FireNZ 2025 Conference in Auckland, which also marked FPANZ’s 50th anniversary.

Mike Brunzell, Vice President of Global Business Development at NFPA, attended as a keynote speaker and panelist.

This marks the first formal NFPA participation in the annual FireNZ conference.

Strengthening a growing partnership

Scott Lawson, Chief Executive Officer at FPANZ, said: “This agreement reflects a spirit of mutual respect and collaboration that has grown between our organisations in recent years.

“It formalises our ability to work more closely together to the benefit of our members and the communities they serve.

“We are deeply appreciative of NFPA’s support and look forward to a future of shared progress.”

The NFPA said the agreement continues its efforts to expand its global reach and strengthen fire safety initiatives throughout the Oceania region.

Regional engagement and future initiatives

Brunzell said: “In addition to this agreement with the Fire Protection Association of New Zealand, during our trip NFPA was pleased to foster our connections with colleagues from Fire Protection Association Australia, and the National Fire Authority of Fiji.

“These collaborations strengthen knowledge exchanges and reflect our commitment to working alongside national associations and the leaders they represent to build safer, more resilient communities.”

The organisations noted that the MoU builds on several years of cooperation between NFPA and FPANZ.

It also opens the door to new initiatives in training, research and advocacy aligned with the NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem, a framework that supports community safety through shared responsibility and clear standards.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The agreement between NFPA and FPANZ provides a new framework for collaboration that could influence standards development, professional training and fire-safety knowledge transfer within New Zealand.

For building safety professionals, fire engineers and training providers, the partnership creates potential access to NFPA technical resources and guidance, supporting local adaptation of international best practices.

For emergency services leaders and policy bodies, it offers a coordinated platform for sharing lessons learned and developing unified approaches to fire prevention, response and risk reduction across the wider Oceania region

The project redefining how Abu Dhabi tackles fire prevention

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsMiddle East - Breaking News

Abu Dhabi and NFPA Global Solutions launch integrated fire prevention project

Collaboration to align Abu Dhabi with NFPA ecosystem

NFPA Global Solutions and the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority (ADCDA) have announced a new project to create an integrated fire prevention system in Abu Dhabi.

The project, confirmed on Tuesday 7 October 2025, builds on years of collaboration between the organisations.

According to NFPA Global Solutions, the initiative will adopt a multi-phased approach to align Abu Dhabi’s safety infrastructure with the NFPA Fire and Life Safety Ecosystem model.

The partners said the project will establish a baseline for the ecosystem, develop processes to localise international codes and standards, and define a long-term vision for a sustainable system.

NFPA and ADCDA strengthen long-term safety partnership

Carlos Correia, President at NFPA Global Solutions, said: “We are proud to partner with ADCDA on this critical initiative.

“It underscores the commitment that the government of Abu Dhabi is making to safety in the region.

“Our longstanding relationship with ADCDA enables us to work closely together to bring the protection of life and property to new heights.”

NFPA explained that it created the Fire and Life Safety Ecosystem in 2018 as a framework for reducing fire losses through collective and coordinated action.

The model comprises eight interconnected elements, each representing a component that must function effectively to prevent loss of life and property.

Focus on holistic and scalable safety systems

Jim Pauley, President and CEO of NFPA and Board Chair for NFPA Global Solutions, said: “Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority has a forward-thinking leadership that is building a strategy around all elements of the Fire and Life Safety Ecosystem to achieve real-world results.”

NFPA Global Solutions said the collaboration with ADCDA sets a benchmark for integrated safety infrastructures in the Middle East and beyond.

By focusing on a unified and scalable approach, the organisations aim to strengthen local capability and align safety systems with international best practices.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

This project could influence professionals involved in regulatory compliance, fire engineering, and infrastructure design across the Middle East.

Engineers, building code consultants and safety authorities will be directly affected as the initiative seeks to adapt NFPA standards for local use.

Fire prevention officers and system designers may also benefit from a clearer framework for aligning local practice with international safety models.

The development reinforces the role of integrated systems and shared standards in advancing urban fire prevention.

Why NFPA and State Farm want you to check your chargers

by AmericasAssociations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsSafety

NFPA and State Farm launch 2025 Fire Prevention Week campaign

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and State Farm once again joined forces for the ninth consecutive year to support Fire Prevention Week, running from 5–11 October 2025.

The campaign, themed “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-ion Batteries in the Home,” aims to educate the public about the potential fire risks linked to lithium-ion batteries found in common household devices.

According to the NFPA, State Farm will distribute 4,782 Fire Prevention Week toolkits to local fire departments across 48 US states.

Each toolkit contains educational materials such as brochures, posters and magnets that departments will share at community events, schools and open houses.

Campaign focuses on household battery fire risks

NFPA Director of Public Education Kelly Ransdell said the collaboration helps extend vital safety information to more communities.

Kelly Ransdell, Director of Public Education at NFPA, said: “The proactive support we receive from State Farm each year strengthens our ability to reach the public with critical fire safety messages.

“It also allows us to focus on where risk is greatest – in homes, where the majority of US fire deaths occur each year.”

Ransdell explained that most household electronics, including smartphones, tablets, e-cigarettes, laptops and toys, use lithium-ion batteries that can present fire hazards if not handled properly.

She said the joint initiative with State Farm will help more residents understand how to buy, charge and recycle these batteries safely.

State Farm reinforces community fire safety mission

Rasheed Merritt, Assistant Vice President of Corporate Responsibility at State Farm, said: “Helping people manage the risks of everyday life is a fundamental part of our mission.

“Through our collaboration with NFPA and local fire departments, we are actively getting timely information to the public that can help reduce their risk to home fires.”

The NFPA has led Fire Prevention Week for more than a century, maintaining its role as the official sponsor of the campaign to reduce fire-related deaths and injuries.

Further details and resources for this year’s campaign are available at www.fpw.org.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The NFPA and State Farm partnership directly supports public education efforts that local fire departments depend on during Fire Prevention Week.

Fire safety officers, community risk reduction teams and training coordinators can use the distributed toolkits to improve outreach around lithium-ion battery risks.

Electrical safety specialists and residential fire investigators may also find the campaign’s focus on battery use and charging practices valuable for developing prevention messaging.

By emphasising home-based fire prevention, the campaign offers practical materials for departments seeking to engage residents and reduce domestic fire incidents linked to emerging battery technologies.

IAFF ends firefighter protective gear lawsuit against NFPA after two-year dispute

by Americas - Breaking NewsBreaking News

IAFF moves to dismiss firefighter protective gear lawsuit

The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) has asked the Superior Court in Boston to dismiss all remaining claims against the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in its lawsuit concerning firefighter protective gear standards.

The IAFF filed the original complaint in March 2023, challenging aspects of the NFPA’s standards development process.

In March 2024, the court dismissed the portion of the case relating to an alleged conspiracy.

The latest motion seeks dismissal with prejudice, meaning the IAFF cannot refile the same claims.

NFPA President and Chief Executive Officer Jim Pauley said the organisation welcomed the outcome.

IAFF says primary objective has been achieved

Edward Kelly, General President of the IAFF, said: “Our objective was to remove PFAS and other toxins from fire fighter protective gear.

“Ultimately, the IAFF and NFPA have worked together toward this outcome, and we value their shared commitment to ensuring the highest standards of protection for the fire service and for our communities across North America.

“The primary objective of the lawsuit has been realized, and the IAFF Executive Board has directed our lawyers to end the litigation.”

NFPA says dismissal confirms standards integrity

Jim Pauley, President and Chief Executive Officer at NFPA, said: “As NFPA stated from the very beginning, the IAFF’s legal strategy was misguided and not supported by the facts.

“It was clear from the discovery process that remaining claims had no basis.

“We are pleased that they have asked the court to dismiss all claims.”

He added that the dismissal supports the transparency and inclusivity of the NFPA’s standards process.

Pauley said: “This outcome underscores that NFPA’s consensus-based process is the right forum for discussions about standards – one where all voices can be heard and all material is carefully considered by technical committee members in a transparent, inclusive manner.”

He explained that the lawsuit had no impact on the NFPA standards process.

Pauley said: “NFPA is a neutral facilitator. We don’t create or dictate the provisions of a standard. That’s the job of our technical committees, which are comprised entirely of expert volunteers representing a balance of interests of groups from the firefighting community, government, industry and consumers.”

Standards committee process outlined

According to the NFPA, its technical committees evaluate every recommendation submitted for new or updated standards.

The organisation stated that all aspects of the process are public, including committee membership, voting records and actions taken.

Each committee includes no more than one-third of members from the same interest category.

NFPA confirmed it does not have any special agreements or relationships with companies or organisations involved in standards development.

It added that anyone in the world may propose changes to any NFPA standard.

Background on firefighter gear standard

NFPA said the first standard for firefighter protective clothing was issued in 1975 to improve safety for frontline responders.

There have since been ten editions, each developed through new research, testing and field experience.

The current standard, NFPA 1970, came into effect in September 2024 and combines four previous standards into a single document.

The NFPA said the 1970 edition includes new measures on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), ultraviolet light testing and chemical content labelling.

Among these are a Restricted Substances list, updated light resistance tests for full garment composites, and an optional test for low total fluorine content.

NFPA clarified that the preceding standard, NFPA 1971, never required the use of any particular chemicals or materials, leaving compliance methods to manufacturers.

Commitment to firefighter health and safety

Pauley said: “The full dismissal of the lawsuit affirms the hard work our organisation and our valued volunteers do every day to make the world a safer place and to help protect first responders.

“The IAFF has long been an important and diligent participant in the NFPA code development process bringing the essential voice of the fire service.

“We look forward to remaining focused on the mutual goal that matters most: protecting firefighter health and safety through strong, evidence-based standards.”

He added that NFPA remains committed to addressing occupational health risks in the fire service.

Pauley said: “NFPA understands the complex health risks that come with firefighting, and we’re deeply sympathetic to the terrible toll that cancer takes on firefighters and their families.

“We’re proud of our efforts to educate the fire service about occupational cancer risks, to advance research through the NFPA Fire Protection Research Foundation, and to advocate for federal legislation around this important public health issue.

“For more than a century, we’ve worked with the fire service to protect life and property in our communities, and that important work will continue.”

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The IAFF’s decision to end its lawsuit against the NFPA confirms that firefighter protective gear standards will continue to be governed by NFPA’s established consensus-based process.

For fire chiefs, safety officers and procurement managers, this maintains stability and clarity in the specification of turnout gear under NFPA 1970.

The statement from the IAFF clarifies that the primary goal of removing PFAS and other toxic substances from firefighter protective clothing has now been achieved, signalling progress for occupational health protection.

Manufacturers, testing laboratories and certification bodies can continue working within a transparent system that balances environmental, health and performance requirements.

The outcome also reinforces that NFPA standards remain a trusted reference point for both regulatory compliance and product design.

Fire Prevention Week 2025 puts lithium ion battery safety in focus

by Americas - Breaking NewsAssociations and OrganisationsBreaking News

Fire Prevention Week 2025: what to know and how to act

Overview

Fire Prevention Week runs from 5 to 11 October 2025.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)’s theme is “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium Ion Batteries in Your Home.”

The core public message is simple: buy safely, charge safely, recycle safely.

See NFPA’s campaign hub for dates, materials, and downloads: NFPA Fire Prevention Week.

What Fire Prevention Week is and why it falls in October

Fire Prevention Week is observed each year during the week of 9 October to mark the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.

NFPA is the international sponsor and curates resources used by authorities, schools, and businesses worldwide.

A concise overview appears in NFPA Journal’s coverage.

2025 theme at a glance

The 2025 theme addresses lithium ion batteries used in everyday home devices, from phones and laptops to e bikes and power tools.

NFPA’s press announcement confirms the focus and dates: NFPA press release.

The supporters page shows the breadth of participating organisations: FPW supporters.

“Lithium ion batteries are powerful, convenient, and they’re just about everywhere.”

Lorraine Carli, NFPA vice president of outreach and advocacy, stressed the need for clear public guidance.

“Making sure the public knows how to use them safely is critical to minimizing the potential risks they pose.”

Both quotes appear in industry coverage of the NFPA announcement: Security Sales & Integration.

Three key actions for 2025

Buy safely, charge safely, recycle safely.

The campaign frames household behaviour around these three actions, supported by tip sheets and visuals.

NFPA provides ready to use materials on selection, charging, storage, and disposal: lithium ion safety hub and consumer tip sheet PDF.

Quick guide for households: how to buy

Choose devices and replacement batteries that are certified by a recognised testing laboratory such as UL, ETL, or CSA.

Avoid unbranded chargers and aftermarket batteries without proof of listing, even if the price is lower.

Reference: NFPA lithium ion safety hub.

Quick guide for households: how to charge

Use the charger and cable supplied with the device or a manufacturer approved equivalent.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and avoid prolonged unsupervised charging.

Charge on a hard, non combustible surface away from bedding, sofas, or piles of papers.

Keep devices out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources while charging.

Reference: NFPA tip sheet PDF.

If a battery is hot, swollen, leaking, or giving off odour, stop using it, move it away from anything that can burn if safe to do so, and seek advice from your local fire and rescue service.

NFPA’s consumer sheet explains warning signs and immediate steps: consumer tip sheet.

Quick guide for households: how to store and dispose

Do not put lithium ion batteries or devices in household rubbish or in standard kerbside recycling bins.

Use a dedicated battery recycling point or a manufacturer take back scheme.

NFPA points residents to certified recycling options and the reasons standard bins are unsafe: FPW tip sheet PDF.

Core NFPA resources to use and share

NFPA provides public education resources that fire services, schools, landlords, facility managers, and resident groups can distribute.

The materials include lithium ion battery safety, smoke alarms, home escape planning, cooking safety, and electrical safety.

Start with the main hub and downloads: Fire Prevention Week and lithium ion battery safety.

Suggested activities for organisations during FPW

Hold a short battery safety toolbox talk for staff, covering approved chargers, safe charging areas, and reporting of damaged devices.

Update workplace policies to set clear rules on personal device charging, storage, and disposal points.

Audit communal charging setups in offices and residential blocks, removing improvised extensions and multi adapters.

Promote the three NFPA actions on posters, intranet pages, tenant newsletters, and social media.

Coordinate with local retailers or repair shops to highlight certified products and authorised service.

Useful context for planning activities appears in NFPA’s updates and partner communications: NFPA Journal explainer and Capitol Hill briefing note.

Frequently asked questions

When is Fire Prevention Week in 2025

It runs from Sunday 5 October to Saturday 11 October 2025.

Source: NFPA Fire Prevention Week.

Why is it always in October

It is held during the week of 9 October to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.

Background: NFPA Journal explainer.

What is the official theme this year

“Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium Ion Batteries in Your Home.”

Announcement: NFPA press release.

Who runs Fire Prevention Week

NFPA leads the campaign and publishes public education tools that local agencies and organisations adapt.

See: FPW hub.

What are the three steps in the 2025 campaign

Buy only listed products, charge devices safely, and recycle batteries responsibly.

See: SSI summary of NFPA messaging and NFPA tip sheet.

What charging habits should households avoid

Do not charge on beds or sofas, do not cover devices while charging, and avoid long periods of unattended charging.

Reference: NFPA tip sheet PDF.

How do I recognise a listed battery or charger

Look for a safety mark from a nationally recognised testing lab such as UL, ETL, or CSA on the device or packaging.

Reference: NFPA lithium ion safety hub.

Can lithium ion batteries go in household recycling

No. Use a battery recycling point or manufacturer programme.

Guidance: FPW tip sheet PDF.

A short, ready-to-use message for public channels

Fire Prevention Week runs from 5 to 11 October, and NFPA’s theme is lithium ion safety in the home.

Households are asked to buy listed products, charge devices safely, and recycle batteries responsibly.

Community groups and employers can download free, ready made materials here: NFPA Fire Prevention Week and lithium ion battery safety resources.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

Lithium ion devices are now present across homes, workplaces, and public spaces, which shifts risk from a specialist hazard to an everyday one.

Fire Prevention Week provides a defined window to reinforce simple controls that reduce incident frequency and severity without new equipment spend.

The NFPA three step message is easy to brief, audit, and monitor across housing, education, healthcare, retail, and offices.

Resources are free, translate well into UK contexts, and support existing local campaigns on safe charging and responsible disposal.

For dates, assets, and more context, start with the FPW hub, the press release, and the lithium ion safety hub.

The two fire risks the NFPA says the world must face now

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsSafety

NFPA explores global fire safety lessons and EV fire risks at Intersec Saudi Arabia

Intersec Saudi Arabia 2025 hosted two major sessions led by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), addressing global fire safety lessons and emerging risks associated with electric vehicles (EVs).

The discussions took place during the Fire Protection & Technology Summit at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center (RICEC), part of the three-day exhibition.

Jim Pauley, NFPA President and Chief Executive Officer, led a dedicated NFPA Day exploring how lessons from international fire incidents such as the 2017 Grenfell Tower tragedy continue to shape safety frameworks.

Mike Brunzell, NFPA Vice President of Global Business Development, presented research on EV fire dynamics and outlined the association’s work to advance standards and training around battery and infrastructure safety.

The sessions formed part of the event’s goal to connect international expertise with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which emphasises safety, sustainability and resilience across large-scale development projects.

NFPA Day addresses lessons from global fire events

NFPA Day, held during day two of the Fire Protection & Technology Summit, opened with a reflection by Jim Pauley on the continuing impact of the Grenfell Tower fire in London.

The session also examined the Ghost Ship warehouse fire in Oakland, California, and the Marco Polo high-rise fire in Honolulu, Hawaii, highlighting the importance of coordinated global fire safety frameworks.

Jim Pauley, NFPA President and Chief Executive Officer, said: “The ecosystem is a framework that defines the elements necessary to create and maintain an effective safety environment.

“The interconnected components mean that the failure of a single element can compromise the entire system, resulting in deaths, injuries, and property loss.”

He explained that the NFPA’s Fire and Life Safety Ecosystem provides a model for shared responsibility across key areas including government accountability, code development, safety investment and emergency preparedness.

Pauley links global safety progress to Saudi Vision 2030

Pauley said: “We live in an era of innovation, but innovation without safety is a risk we cannot afford.

“To do this work, and to do it well, we have to see what’s coming, and we have to remember what came before.”

He added: “Saudi Vision 2030 is a bold and ambitious plan to transform the Kingdom’s economy and to elevate its global stature.

“It envisions a diversified economy that’s driven by innovation and sustainability.

“Central to that vision is a world-class infrastructure that meets high safety standards.

“Leadership will ensure that all of the cogs of the ecosystem operate in a manner that protects people and property from current and emerging fire, electrical, and life safety risks.”

Pauley’s comments reflected NFPA’s support for Saudi Arabia’s efforts to align development goals with international safety frameworks.

NFPA Day was curated by NFPA and chaired by Zahi Daher, the association’s Country Manager in Saudi Arabia, and featured contributions from government and industry representatives.

Intersec Saudi Arabia brings global and regional stakeholders together

Riham Sedik, Exhibition Director at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: “At Intersec Saudi Arabia, we aim to provide a platform where global expertise meets local ambition.

“The sessions on day two at the Fire Protection and Technology Summit have outlined how the Kingdom and wider region can build a safer, stronger and more resilient built future.”

Throughout the event, exhibitors displayed fire protection innovations including containerised pump houses from Waterfall Pumps, drone and AI-based safety systems from Enterprise Aeronex, and fire suppression technologies from Rapidrop Global.

The event was organised by 1st Arabia and licensed by Messe Frankfurt, under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Minister of Interior, and in association with the General Directorate of Civil Defense.

Bilal Al Barmawi, CEO and Founder of 1st Arabia Trade Shows & Conferences, said: “Intersec Saudi Arabia is the only trade event in the Kingdom which enables attendees to make valuable connections, strike lucrative deals and stay at the forefront of the fire, safety and security industry.”

NFPA addresses EV growth and new fire risks in Riyadh

In a separate session, Mike Brunzell examined the relationship between EV adoption and evolving fire risks in high-density environments such as parking structures and mixed-use buildings.

Mike Brunzell, NFPA Vice President of Global Business Development, said: “One of the major concerns we face is the risk of thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries.

“While the data shows us that EV fires occur less frequently than fires in gas or diesel-powered vehicles, the research also shows that when they do occur, they can present unique and difficult challenges including longer burn durations, high heat release, toxic gases, re-ignition risks and significant water demand for suppression.”

Citing International Energy Agency (IEA) data showing global EV sales exceeding 17 million in 2024, Brunzell outlined how the NFPA’s Fire Protection Research Foundation has been studying vehicle fire dynamics, suppression and ventilation to inform standards and best practice.

Fire codes evolve to meet emerging safety challenges

Brunzell emphasised that codes and standards must keep pace with technology advances.

He said: “It is through the development of our codes and standards, research initiatives and training programmes that NFPA is proactively working to provide the guidance and the resources needed by fire protection professionals, property owners and policymakers to ensure the integration of EV infrastructure safety strategies.”

During his presentation, Brunzell highlighted key NFPA standards including NFPA 88A (Standard for Parking Structures), which requires sprinkler protection, and NFPA 855 (Standard for the Installation of Stationary Energy Storage Systems).

He also referenced the NFPA 800 Battery Safety Code, currently in development, which aims to address safety challenges related to emerging battery technologies.

Intersec Saudi Arabia hosts over 400 exhibitors and 100 speakers

Riham Sedik said: “Intersec Saudi Arabia provides a critical platform for conversations like this.

“By connecting global expertise with regional ambition, the industry can ensure that as EV adoption grows, fire safety strategies can remain one step ahead.”

The 7th edition of Intersec Saudi Arabia featured more than 400 exhibitors and over 100 international speakers across two CPD-certified conference programmes – the Fire Protection & Technology Summit and the Future Security Summit.

Bilal Al Barmawi added: “By bringing together industry experts, regional leaders and innovative solutions across the show floor, Intersec Saudi Arabia helps to ensure that our communities are better prepared to meet both current and future safety challenges, which is particularly important as the Kingdom undertakes ambitious infrastructure development.”

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The sessions led by Jim Pauley and Mike Brunzell at Intersec Saudi Arabia provided practical insights for professionals involved in fire engineering, system installation, regulation and emergency response.

Fire protection engineers and building code specialists can draw on NFPA’s Fire and Life Safety Ecosystem to inform compliance strategies within the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 development framework.

Fire service leaders and incident commanders may find the emphasis on collaboration between authorities and organisations relevant to operational planning and post-incident analysis.

For engineers, risk assessors and safety officers working in infrastructure or transport, the discussions on EV fire behaviour and NFPA standards such as NFPA 88A and NFPA 855 highlight the technical considerations for designing and managing safe charging and storage environments.

NFPA and MODON partner to advance fire safety standards in Saudi Arabia

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsMiddle East - Breaking News

NFPA and MODON partner to advance fire safety standards in Saudi Arabia

NFPA and MODON formalise collaboration at Intersec Saudi 2025

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (MODON).

The agreement was signed at Intersec Saudi 2025 in Riyadh by Eng. Ali Al-Oliwah, Director of the Safety and Security Department at MODON, and Jim Pauley, President and CEO of NFPA.

According to NFPA, the collaboration aims to elevate fire safety standards in industrial facilities across Saudi Arabia through education, research and knowledge-sharing.

Both organisations confirmed that the partnership will support the implementation of NFPA’s Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem across the Kingdom.

Partnership focuses on education and knowledge exchange

Under the MoU, NFPA and MODON will jointly organise conferences, training sessions and certification programmes for MODON employees and other stakeholders.

They will also promote awareness of NFPA codes and standards, and share fire safety research relevant to industrial cities.

The two parties said these activities are intended to improve understanding of fire risks and strengthen prevention strategies across Saudi industrial zones.

They added that the collaboration will encourage the development of practical fire prevention guidelines for industrial facilities nationwide.

NFPA CEO outlines aims of the agreement

Jim Pauley, President and CEO of NFPA, said: “We are honored to join with MODON in elevating safety standards within industrial zones.

“It also allows us to develop comprehensive fire prevention guidelines, conduct thorough incident investigations and provide expert training to MODON’s workforce.

“By sharing NFPA standards, we aim to significantly reduce risks within industrial facilities of the Kingdom.”

NFPA stated that the partnership reflects a long-term commitment to improving fire safety outcomes across Saudi Arabia’s industrial and technological sectors.

The organisation added that combining expertise and resources through this collaboration will help create a safer and more resilient industrial environment.