Sprinkler Age Jan/Feb 2020

16 WHAT’S ON TARGET FOR 2020

JAN / FEB 2020

SPRINKLER AGE

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN FIRE SPRINKLER ASSOCIATION

HEADRICK WINS FIRST

VOL 39/01

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SPRINKLER AGE

JAN / FEB 2020 VOL 39/01

FEATURES 12 | HEADRICK WINS NATIONAL APPRENTICE COMPETITION

Top Talent Competes During AFSA38

16 | INDUSTRY FORECAST LOOKS GOOD FOR 2020

Avoiding Recession... for Now

20 | THE BATTLE OF INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS AND RESULTS

Sensible vs. Senseless: Part 1

22 | ABC FORECAST: MOMENTUM PERSISTS

Chief Economist Advises Overall “Wait-and-See” Approach

24 | CONSTRUCTION STARTS TO SLIP IN 2020

Dodge Data & Analytics Releases Outlook

26 | CONTRACTORS PLAN FOR STRONG DEMAND IN 2020

AGC Survey Shows Firms Concerned About Worker Shortages and Quality

28 | HONORING ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

Congratulate AFSA’s 2019 Sprinkler Fitter National Honor Society Inductees

30 | EXPLORING CAREER PATHS FOR YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

The Fire Sprinkler Industry Offers Many Opportunities

34 | COLOR TAGGING AND NFPA 25

What is the Contractor’s Role?

37 | ASK THE ACCOUNTANT

Important Reminder for the New Tax Year

38 | HONOR THOSE WHO HAVE MADE A DIFFERENCE

Nominations Accepted Online for Top Fire Sprinkler Industry Awards

40 | LEIGH KELLY WINS 2019 WALLER SCHOLARSHIP

Donations Fund the Future of Fire Protection

42 | IS A RECESSION COMING?

Five Ways to Prepare Your Business

44 | HAVE ISSUES WITH ITM?

Florida Tops Rankings for Second Year in a Row

48 | BUILDERS, BUYERS OPTIMISTIC ABOUT HOUSING

Brighter Outlook Than Originally Forecast

49 | PCA FORECAST IS MODERATE FOR NEXT TWO YEARS

6 CHAIR’S MESSAGE 8 PRESIDENT’S REPORT 10 FLASHPOINT 50 AFSA NEWS 50 CALENDAR OF EVENTS 52 CHAPTER NEWS 54 AFSA CHAPTERS 55 NEW MEMBERS 55 U.S. CONSTRUCTION 56 PEOPLE IN THE NEWS 58 PRODUCT NEWS 60 INDUSTRY NEWS 62 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Members Save Time and Money With Informal Interpretations

47 | MERIT SHOP SCORES RELEASED

ON THE COVER: Joe Headrick, Rapid Fire Protection, Inc., Bismarck, North Dakota, was named AFSA’s top apprentice at the 2019 National Apprentice Competition. Also in this issue: NFPA 25.

Moderate Cement Consumption and GDP Growth Annually

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SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020 5

CHAIR’S MESSAGE

EDITORIAL: 214-349-5965

NICOLE DUVALL, Publisher,

Director of Communications & Social Media,ext. 126; nduvall@firesprinkler.org D’ARCY G. MONTALVO, Editor, ext. 115;

dmontalvo@firesprinkler.org

A

ADVERTISING: 214-349-5965

s I look forward to this new year, I want you to know that I bring you both good news and bad news: Our economy is booming, and our economy is booming. No, that’s not a typo.

The good news? We are still on a record-setting pace for the number of installs in the foreseeable future. 2019 was one of our strongest years economically, and that momentum will carry us well into 2020. As I talk with engineers and architects and learn about their planning cycles, there is no sense of any slowdown. Across regions, there is an increased backlog in the work faced by our building planners.

The bad news? But for all of the growth we are experiencing, we are not seeing that same growth with our pipeline of workers choosing to go into the building trades. How many times is the average high schooler asked, “Where are you going to college?” The question is seemingly innocent, but it presupposes college as the only path rather than one of many. Rather, why can we not change the question to, “Have you considered an apprenticeship in the trades? Sure, it’ll be hard work, but you get to work with your hands, meet interesting people, help run a small business, and a skilled craftsman will always be in demand.”

Our goal, in this association and in our society, ought to be helping our young people to find the right path in their lives. We could have excellent tradesmen and tradeswomen already in the pipeline helping with the increase in work, but as Mike Rowe is fond of saying, “We are lending money we don’t have to kids who can’t pay it back to train them for jobs that no longer exist.” College isn’t always the answer.

My challenge to each of you is to spend some time with your local high school, offer to talk to the students about your work, and why you pursued it. Show them the values and rewards you get from the work you do each day. Consider taking on students as interns during the summer to mentor and show students what is possible in the trades. We learn best through role models, and you can be one for our next generation.

Part of our unprecedented economic growth is due to the policies in place at our local, state, and national levels. 2020 will witness a new presidential election along with many at the state, city, and county levels. I urge you to do your research on all of the candidates on your ballots and keep in mind that growth-oriented policies have brought us the good news of our economy. Your voice matters at every level, and the success of your company and our industry depend on making the choices that will keep our economy and building industries growing strong.

Here’s to a happy and prosperous New Year. n

REBECCA HERRING, Communications Coordinator, ext. 134;

rherring@firesprinkler.org

CIRCULATION: 214-349-5965

REBECCA HERRING, Communications Coordinator, ext. 134;

rherring@firesprinkler.org

AFSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS TED WILLS, Chair, 610-754-7836 JACK A. MEDOVICH, First Vice Chair, 410-787-0639 LINDA M. BIERNACKI, Second Vice Chair, 318-841-0330 PAUL DELORIE, Treasurer, 603-432-8221 JEFF PHIFER, Secretary, 803-438-2994 WAYNE WEISZ, Immediate Past Chair, 209-334-9119 DWIGHT BATEMAN, 713-910-3242 ROD DIBONA, 605-348-2342 LYLE HALL, 858-513-4949 R. DONALD (DON) KAUFMAN, 505-884-2447 CHRIS JOHNSON, 727-581-9339 MICHAEL F. (MIKE) MEEHAN, 757-213-3660 JAY STRICKLAND, 301-474-1136

EX-OFFICIO BOARD MEMBERS DEBRA N. MCGUIRE, MBA, IOM, CAE, AFSA President & CEO DONALD D. (DON) BECKER JOSEPH A. (JOE) HEINRICH ROBERT W. (BOB) REES MANNING J. STRICKLAND, SR. WILLIE R. TEMPLIN LAWRENCE J. (LARRY) THIBODEAU JOHN F. (JACK) VIOLA

Sprinkler Age is devoted to the professional development of the fire sprinkler industry. Deadline is 1st of the month preceding publication.

Published by American Fire Sprinkler Association, 12750 Merit Drive, Suite 350, Dallas, Texas 75251.

Call (214) 349-5965, FAX (214) 343-8898, or email sprinklerage@firesprinkler.org for information.

Copyright © American Fire Sprinkler Association, Inc. All rights reserved. PRINTED IN USA. Unless expressly stated otherwise, all editorial and advertising material published is the opinion of the respective authors and/ or companies involved and should not be construed as official action by or approved by Publisher or the Association.

Sprinkler Age is a membership benefit, provided free of charge to AFSA members. For information on non-member and/or foreign subscription rates, call (214) 349-5965.

ABOUT AFSA MEMBERSHIP

BY TED WILLS AFSA BOARD CHAIR

6 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

AFSA annual membership dues are a sliding scale for Contractors and Associates and a flat fee for Authorities Having Jurisdiction. (Members receive a free subscription to Sprinkler Age.) Write or call AFSA for membership information. See AFSA’s website at firesprinkler.org.

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PRESIDENT’S REPORT CAUTION AHEAD? POLITICS CREATE ECONOMIC ‘MURKINESS’

I

f only the “Magic 8-Ball” could reveal the answer to what we all seek to make our best business decisions in 2020: • • Should our business expand its service line?

• • Is adding more staff and increasing payroll prudent at

this juncture?

• Is now the time to consider that acquisition option that’s been hanging out there for awhile?

• Is it best to just “hunker down” and go about business as usual? And what exactly is “business as usual” any more since the last recession?

In this first issue of Sprinkler Age in the new decade, it makes sense to take a look into the crystal ball to see if we can get a glimpse of what the future holds for the fire sprinkler industry and our members. While the past several years have been amongst the more robust for contractors, manufacturers, suppliers, and designers relative to demand and positive ROI, the crystal ball is a bit more murky going forward largely because of the instability in Washington, D.C., the uncertainty of tariffs (not only affecting the supply chain but also considering the cascade of other business effects, both intentional and unintentional), and the ongoing shortage of a skilled workforce. Mix in that it’s a Presidential election year, and most business leaders are exercising caution until that murkiness starts clearing up—which probably will not occur until 2021. This uncertainty could decrease capital expenditures and investments as 2020 evolves.

Despite the murkiness, some of our members were willing to share their insight with our readers in this issue of Sprinkler Age, and we welcome their observations and comments. In addition, our editorial team has included articles that take the pulse of what others are saying—all with the goal of helping you formulate your own conclusions as you endeavor to make the best decisions for your business over the next 12 months.

CREATING AWARENESS ABOUT FIRE & LIFE SAFETY ISSUES

the federal government can support the needs of local first responders. Representing fire sprinkler contractors, AFSA’s goal is to create a greater awareness of the many contributions being made by the fire sprinkler industry to reduce the threat of fire and minimize the loss of life and property in our communities.

At the CFSI National Advisory Committee Meeting on December 10, I had the opportunity to lend support to the work of this coalition on behalf of AFSA. CFSI Executive Director Bill Webb focused on the outreach to educate legislators about fire prevention and the critical need for ongoing funding. Issues to watch in the New Year include a potential fix for the Tax-Qualified Improvement Property (QIP), which could address an error affecting the depreciation schedule for improvements to building interiors, along with the High-Rise Sprinkler Incentive Act of 2019 (H.R. 4685), which was introduced in the House and would provide tax incentives for sprinklers for high-rise buildings.

With the retirement of Congressional Fire Services Caucus Co-chair Peter King (R-NY) at the conclusion of his term, CFSI is looking to identify another co-chair, along with initiating a recruitment campaign to build up a decade-long decline in Caucus members.

Senator Tom Carper (DE) will remain chair. Senator Lisa Murkowski (AK) was named CFSI 2019 Legislator of the Year for her work in advancing the work of the Caucus and support for first responders.

Three resolutions were approved for action in 2020 by the CFSI National Advisory Committee, including the first one, co-sponsored by AFSA, as part of our work through the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition: • Encouraging stronger federal support for home fire sprinkler education and advocacy, including within fire service community risk-reduction efforts.

• Encouraging federal authorities to review and modify federal policy requirements to permit the adoption of new smoke alarm technologies.

Recognizing the impact that politics has on the economy reinforces the need of having a voice in legislative and regulatory matters. While our resources are limited in terms of what our association is able to influence at the national level by ourselves, partnering with other entities that share a common purpose allows us to leverage our voice.

Being at political “ground zero” in Washington, D.C. is the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI), which educates members of Congress about fire and life safety issues. As a proud CFSI member, AFSA has taken an active role in this nonprofit, nonpartisan policy institute about the needs and challenges of our na- BY DEBRA N. MCGUIRE, MBA, IOM, CAE tion’s fire and emergency services to help legislators understand how AFSA PRESIDENT & CEO

8 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

Continued on Page 62

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FLASHPOINT

W

elcome to a new column designed to offer updates to AFSA’s technical activities and my opinions on various topics concerning our industry. Let me start the first column by introducing

and has taken its toll on me. While working at Strickland, I had the opportunity to volunteer for AFSA in many capacities.

I was able to meet and work with many of the great AFSA staff. I have taught and updated the NCCER/AFSA Sprinkler Apprenticeship programs, written numerous articles for Sprinkler Age, presented many times at AFSA’s annual convention, represented AFSA on various NFPA technical committees including my current assignment since 1998 on the NFPA 13 Sprinkler Discharge Committee, served on the AFSA Technical Advisory Council, and participated in the AFSA SprinklerFORUM for years. When the vice president job position was posted, I had many friends in the industry contact me about it. I was told numerous times “This position was designed for you.” I thought hard about it, and after discussions with Jay Strickland and my family, I applied. Jay was supportive of my decision and understood my reasons.

So, I am a sprinkler contractor who also happens to be a Professional Engineer, holds NFPA and NICET certifications, and knows how to get things done. I started this position with the New Year, so I am trying to get up-to-speed as quickly as I can. Jason Williams, CET, and Tom Noble, CET, CFPS, CWBSP, have been doing a great job keeping AFSA’s Technical Services Department moving forward while the vice president position was vacant. My goal through this column and other communication avenues is to update the membership periodically on current technical activities and available resources to the members. The Technical Services Department is here to assist the members. Feel free to use us.

I look forward to meeting AFSA’s members. I am an easily approachable person, so feel free to introduce yourself to me. I will be around as I plan on attending many national and local events. If you have a need that the Technical Services Department is currently not meeting, let me know My email is jdenhardt@firesprinkler.org. I will see if we can assist. n

myself to you.

For those who do not know me, my name is John Denhardt.

I was hired to fill the vacant vice president of Engineering & Technical Services position that Roland Huggins held for many years. Like my predecessor, I am a registered Professional Engineer with a Bachelor of Science degree in Fire Protection Engineering from the University of Maryland. I know that many sprinkler contractors do not have high opinions of many engineers as the work they sometimes produce does not comply with applicable installation standards. What makes me different from your typical engineer is that I am one of you. What do I mean?

Well, let me explain. I have always been a hard-working individual pushed by my parents from my early years. I landed at the University of Maryland by life events and found the Fire Protection Engineering program accidentally. Once I started the program, I could not get enough. I enjoyed the math and science classes, and I excelled at hydraulics. After graduating, I worked in the construction field for several years, designing and installing clean-agent and fire-alarm systems. I then moved into the consulting engineer part of my career. I learned that side of the industry and what not to do at the same time. In 1994, again, by chance, my career path changed for the best ride of my life.

I knew Strickland Fire Protection from my work as a consulting engineer as we did numerous projects together. At a 2:00-a.m. inspection in December 1993, I met Manning “Strick” Strickland in person for the first time. After talking with him for 10 minutes or so while I was witnessing a 350-psi hydrostatic test, he said, “You are not the typical engineer. You know this material, and you understand the real-world applications. Would you consider working for me?” Well, I accepted his offer, and I thought I would move back to the consulting engineer field after five years. That never happened.

Twenty-five years later, I have enjoyed the role I had at Strickland Fire Protection. I have seen, lived, and breathed the sprinkler contractor’s life and struggles in the good and the not-so-good times. I had to handle difficult Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)s, consulting engineers, general contractors, and owners. I had to meet impossible schedules and ensure our invoices were paid in a timely matter. It’s the life of a sprinkler contractor!

So, what brings me to AFSA? Working for Strickland was

BY JOHN AUGUST DENHARDT, PE, FSFPE unbelievably great. However, the commute to and from the AFSA VICE PRESIDENT OF ENGINEERING & TECHNICAL SERVICES office with traffic in the D.C.-metropolitan area is a disaster

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HEADRICK WINS NATIONAL APPRENTICE COMPETITION TOP TALENT COMPETES DURING AFSA38

T

REBECCA HERRING | AMERICAN FIRE SPRINKLER ASSOCIATION he stage was set. It was October 4, 2019, and hundreds of onlookers flooded into the bustling exhibit hall at AFSA38: Convention, Exhibition & Apprentice Competition in San Diego, California, to witness the 26th Annual National Apprentice Competition hosted by the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA). This annual competition gives seven hopefuls the chance at winning $5,000, tools, and bragging rights!

After a written test outscoring over 100 other apprentices to secure a spot as one of the seven apprentice finalists, Joe Headrick, Rapid Fire Protection, Bismarck, North Dakota, advanced to the competition finals in San Diego as one of those hopefuls. From there, Headrick surmounted his toughest task yet—outscoring the six other top contenders to take home first prize in AFSA’s 2019 National Apprentice Competition.

WORKING TO NATIONALS Joe Headrick is no stranger to the fire sprinkler industry; however, he is the first in his family to pursue a trade. After graduating high school, Headrick originally pursued a career in drywall, but quickly looked to fire sprinklers, recognizing the trade’s status as an industry with career advancement opportunities—among numerous other benefits.

Headrick recalls that he first heard about the competition in 2018 from his regional manager, Randy Ables, in 2018. Ables, a former National Apprentice Competition finalist himself, encouraged Headrick to participate in the 2018 competition. While Headrick did not qualify for the 2018 competition in Washington, D.C., he didn’t let that discourage him. Instead, he used that opportunity as motivation to test again in 2019. Headrick recalls, “I was a little further along in my training this year, so I did a bit better, but everyone in the company was really encouraging about it­­—both tries.”

Headrick began to diligently study in the months leading up to the first written qualifying test in 2019. “I studied all the review questions in the books, and answered them to the best of my ability,” he said. “I kept studying them until I knew how to get them right, and just made sure to pay close attention to the parts of the modules that felt important.”

He added, “It was lots of reading, double reading, triple reading.”

However, all of this hard work paid off in a big way when he landed himself a spot as one of the top seven apprentices in the nation, securing his place in the live competition at AFSA38 in San Diego.

12 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

JOE HAS ALWAYS BROUGHT A GREAT ATTITUDE AND AMAZING WORK ETHIC TO THE RAPID FIRE TEAM. However, with the arrival of AFSA38, came a whole new set of challenges for the apprentice hopefuls. All competitors advancing to the national competition participate in another written exam as well as the live competition during their stay in San Diego. Headrick mentioned that he was, “excited to go to San Diego because I’d never been to California! I was more pleased than anything at the opportunity to represent the company I work for, but I was still nervous because I hoped to represent them well.”

SAN DIEGO SHOWDOWN The National Apprentice Competition at AFSA38 consisted of two portions: a written test, based on all four levels of AFSA/NCCER Contren® Learning Series Sprinkler Fitter curriculum, followed by a live competition practical in the AFSA exhibition hall.

For four hours on Friday, October 4, the seven apprentice finalists participated in the live competition by constructing and pressure-testing a miniature sprinkler system in front of a bustling exhibition hall.

Each finalist was given a drawing of the system and all of the required materials to install it. Finalists then constructed the system, comprised of five sprinklers, onto a 9-ft tall metal frame structure. Competitors had to measure, cut, thread, and use fabricated materials for the installations per the drawing they were provided. This exercise required pipe threading, math, and pipe make-up skills to complete the mini-system within the four-hour time limit.

Headrick noted with a laugh, “It’s a unique experience, that’s for sure. It’s only six guys you’re working with, but to have 30 to 40 people staring at you while you try not to make a mistake is pretty nerve-wracking.”

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Ricky Sutter, JDI Development Group, Inc., placed second during the competition.

2019 competition were Dwight Bateman, Southeast Fire Protection, LP, Houston, Texas; Don Kaufman, Kaufman Fire Protection Systems, Inc., Albuquerque, New Mexico; Dave Karrick, Aegis Fire Systems, Inc., Pleasanton, California; Brett Heinrich, Bamford, Inc., Kearney, Nebraska; Jack Viola, P.E., JFV Engineering, LLC, South Hadley, Massachusetts; and Jeff Phifer of Crawford Sprinkler Co. in Lugoff, South Carolina.

NATIONAL APPRENTICE COMPETITION DONORS $10,000

AllSouth Sprinkler Company

In-Kind

BlazeMaster® Fire Protection Systems Kaufman Fire Protection Rapid Fire Protection, Inc. Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Co. RIDGID Southeast Fire Protection Viper Tradeshow Services

$1,000

Foothill Fire Protection, Inc.

$500

900 Industries Incorporated Alwest Fire Protection Metro Fire & Safety Equipment Co. United Fire and Safety Vanport Mechanical & Fire Sprinklers, Inc.

$300

Anvil International Crawford Sprinkler Co. of S.C., Inc. Etna Supply Hampshire Fire Protection Co.

14 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

$200

Eastern Fire & Safety, LLC

$150

Armstrong Fluid Technology Brendle Sprinkler Co. Central Connecticut Fire Protection, Inc. Kaufman Fire Protection Jimco Fire Protection, Inc. Milwaukee Valve Co., Inc. Modern Sprinkler Inc. Noble Company Parsley Consulting Permabond Engineering Adhesives Southeast Fire Protection Telgian Corporation United Brass Works, Inc. Victaulic

$100

Western Fire Protection, Inc.

$50

Deep Blue Integration, Inc.

Federico Martinez, Jr. with Western Fire Protection secured third place in the competition.

During the mini-installation, the apprentices were judged in three areas—accuracy, craftsmanship, and safety— to form their practical score, which was then combined with their written test score to determine the winner.

APPRENTICE CROWNED AT AWARDS PARTY At the exhilarating Awards Party at SeaWorld San Diego later in the evening of October 4, the hard work of the seven national apprentice competitors was recognized and Joe Headrick was named as the 2019 National Apprentice Competition winner.

Headrick said when he heard his name it was “surprising.” He recalls, “It was a really cool moment. My heart actually kind of dropped, initially and I think I said ‘What?’ out loud.” Though the competition was over, and the winner crowned, Headrick acknowledges that it was a big surprise because he felt like all the competitors were strong and held a good chance of winning. Headrick continues, “I definitely got butterflies after the announcement.”

In addition to joining an exclusive group of past winners, Headrick received a $5,000 grand prize. Looking to the future Headrick said, “I will continue to work hard toward my goal of furthering the industry.” Headrick also mentioned that he wanted “to thank my family and my parents and my immediate employers for helping me to have this opportunity.”

Ables was thrilled with Headrick’s win. “Joe has always brought a great attitude and amazing work ethic to the Rapid Fire team. I have been in his shoes as a competitor in this event, but to me, it is more fulfilling being on the supervisor side of it and seeing his progression and growth from laborer, to apprentice, to being a handful of tests away from completing the AFSA apprenticeship program. And then—he not only competes but wins the AFSA competition!” Ables continued, “I am very proud and happy to see him succeed in the fire sprinkler trade, and that his hard work is paying off.”

Ricky Sutter of JPI Development Group, Inc., Murrieta, California won second place and a $3,000 cash prize, and Federico Martinez, Jr. with Western Fire Protection, Inc., Poway, California

took third place and the $2,000 prize. Honorable mentions received $1,000 prizes: Fernando Arias, A & D Fire Sprinklers, Inc., Anaheim, California; Brian Feeney, Piper Fire Protection, Clearwater, Florida; Kevin Trella, Central Connecticut Fire Protection, Meriden, Connecticut; and Jared Whitten, Sunland Fire Protection, Jamestown, North Carolina.

In addition to the cash prizes and an expense-paid trip to San Diego to compete at AFSA38, each of the national finalists received a commemorative plaque, tools, and a complimentary convention registration for their employer to attend the convention to cheer them on.

BACK TO THE BEGINNING Started in 1994 by the late Robert L. (Bob) McCullough, then chairman of the Apprenticeship & Education Committee, AFSA’s

Annual National Apprentice Competition was created to promote apprentice training and give recognition to the apprentices who are actively enrolled in the AFSA Apprenticeship Program. Over 20 years later, the competition continues to bring fire sprinkler apprentices from AFSA local chapter and member training programs from all corners of the United States together in the association’s foremost showcase of excellence in training among future industry leaders.

Enrolling in AFSA’s apprentice training program not only offers an excellent education and a fulfilling career, but it is also the gateway to competing in the AFSA National Apprentice Competition. Entry forms for next year’s event at AFSA39: Convention, Exhibition & Apprentice Competition at the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek in Florida, September 13–16 will be available spring of 2020. For more details visit firesprinkler.org/competition. To view additional photos of the action, visit AFSA’s Flickr photo page at flickr.com/afsa. n

Honorable mentions received $1,000 prizes (from top left, clockwise): Fernando Arias, A & D Fire Sprinklers, Inc., Anaheim, California; Brian Feeney, Piper Fire Protection, Clearwater, Florida; Kevin Trella, Central Connecticut Fire Protection, Meriden, Connecticut; and Jared Whitten, Sunland Fire Protection, Jamestown, North Carolina.

SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020 15

INDUSTRY FORECAST LOOKS GOOD FOR 2020 AVOIDING RECESSION... FOR NOW

I

D’ARCY MONTALVO | AMERICAN FIRE SPRINKLER ASSOCIATION t seems rumors about a pending recession were swirling as 2019 drew to a close and as forecasters gazed into their crystal balls for 2020. Those fears seem to have been held off for at least another year, according to construction industry experts and the contractor and associate members of the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA).

Dodge Data & Analytics is forecasting a 4 percent decrease in 2020, with total construction starts at $776.4 billion. The Portland Cement Association (PCA) expects overall public spending to rise 1.7 percent in 2020 and total construction put-in-place to increase 1.1 percent in 2020. It is also predicting a small 0.9 percent growth for the residential sector and a slight 0.3 percent growth for the non-residential sector in 2020.

According to the annual construction report published by Engineering NewsRecord’s (ENR), the Dodge Construction Outlook expects construction starts in most sectors will decline some in 2020. Housing is expected to fall 6 percent overall, with a 13 percent decrease in multi-family housing starts. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) has a more optimistic prediction of single-family housing starts increasing 2.2 percent in 2020 followed by a 2.3 percent climb in 2021. The NAHB expects starts in multi-family housing will stay flat in 2020. In 2021, a 3.6 percent increase is expected.

ENR also reports that FMI Corp. forecasts total construction put-in-place will increase 2.4 percent to $1.34 trillion. Total non-residential work will rise 2.7 percent by the end of 2020. Residential put-in-place is expected to increase 0.8 percent in 2020.

16 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

“WE HAD A BANNER YEAR.“ “2019 WAS OUR BEST YEAR YET!” Read detailed reports from all sectors of the construction industry throughout this issue of Sprinkler Age, including Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), Dodge Data & Analytics, and Portland Cement Association (PCA). Sprinkler Age has also surveyed members throughout the country for a report on activity in 2019 and what’s expected for 2020.

REGION 1 The vast majority of members in Region 1 who responded to the 2020 outlook survey saw business the same or increased in 2019 versus 2018.

“It was our best year ever!” comments Chuck Boyance with Control Fire Protection Co., Inc. in Bakersfield, California. “It looks like another outstanding year in 2020 unless the economy tanks.”

Curtis Streeter, SET, Deep Blue Integration, Inc. in San Luis Obispo, California, agrees. “Business has been steady with a high tempo of new projects available.

The forecast appears to be bright with a record amount of building permits being applied/issued prior to calendar year-end.”

AFSA Region 1 Director Lyle Hall, Western Fire Protection, Poway, California also saw a good year in 2019 with “a small increase in projects.” He anticipates 2020 to

be a good year as well. “We are continuing on a managed growth period,” he states.

Steve Romp with S Fire, Inc., in Newhall, California, had a “very good year” but notes there was not enough labor force to do the work. He anticipates 2020 to be a better year. “I expect a slight decrease but not enough to call it ‘slow.’”

Terrance Wolf Fire-Matic Systems, Inc., in Fremont, California, said business in 2019 was similar to 2018 without much increase or decrease and expects 2020 to be the same.

Jimmy Lynch, SET with Pan Pacific Mechanical in Honolulu, Hawaii, reports 2019 was similar to 2018 but with delayed starts. He says 2020 is “very promising as we are busy on bidding end at the moment” and that “commercial work is up and looks to continue to rise.”

Ken Stuart at Paramount Fire Systems, Inc., El Cajon, California, did see a decrease in 2019. “This was our slowest year since we started in 2000.”

Francisco Oilva with IESO is in Calexico, California, situated on the MexicoUnited States. “The national goal in Mexico is to increase the economy by 1 or 2 percent,” Oilva notes. “Business in 2019 and 2018 were at the same levels. The non-approval of the NAFTA trade agreement can be a big problem to regional growing in 2020.”

REGION 2 Four of the seven survey respondents for Region 2 reported increased business in 2019. Gordon Mull with Dynamic Fire Protection Systems, Inc., Montrose, Colorado, reported that business volume increased, and he feels positive about 2020. “The forecast for 2020 among our contractors indicates a slight increase in volume in both custom homes and commercial projects.” Mull notes that retrofit work is always a part of their business and says both have stayed steady in 2019 and going into 2020.

He continues: “The one problem we see is maintaining and developing an experienced labor force. Our area is very limited as to available and trained personnel. There is not a very large labor pool within our general area of operation. The amount of travel time to and from work and the weather are issues.”

Gordon Marx with Ace Fire Systems in Las Vegas report business in 2019 was “brisk” and expects 2020 to be “equally brisk” with retrofit work increasing.

Russ Leavitt with Telgian Corporation is based in Mesa, Arizona, but works nationally with employees in 30 states. He reports that they experienced “significant growth, which was planned” in 2019, and Telgian’s revenues increased over 2018. Continued growth is expected for 2020. “We expect that the overall economy will slow some,” Leavitt notes, “but barring a significant unforeseen geopolitical event, we do not forecast hitting a wall such as that which occurred in 2008-2009.” Telgian mainly focuses on inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) and manages new and retrofit projects for customers.

Business “stayed steady” in 2019 for Ben Dominguez with Valley Fire Protection in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and he says business for 2020 looks to stay steady or possibly increase.

In Santa Fe, New Mexico, business decreased for Scott Chapman of Fire Safety Sales Co., Inc., and he expects 2020 to be similar.

Moving to the northern parts of Region 2, most of the year “seemed to be “sluggish” for Sprinx Fire Protection, Inc., in Gig Harbor, Washington, but Joseph Faulkner reports that they had a “slight increase in sales from 2018.” He also notes that they are

Members from all of AFSA’s seven regions responded to the 2019 industry review and 2020 outlook survey. booked solid for 2020. Regarding retrofit work, Faulkner says the company does perform this type of work in his area, but it has decreased from past years.

Maintaining and developing an experienced workforce, both in the installation and design fields, was the number one problem reported for the region. Mull notes, “With the forecast of an increase in work there will be a shortage of manpower. This generally occurs with all construction. The most important aspect related to the increase is the required training that goes along with this needed manpower. Training is a necessity.”

REGION 3 Rick Jackson, Jackson Associates, Inc., Walled Lake, Michigan, says 2019 was “fantastic” and he expects 2020 to be great.

“We have a large backlog and can be selective on what we bid.”

Doug Scott with Dependable Fire Protection in Cedar Springs, Michigan, has been busy as well. “2019 was busy, but also streaky. 2020 looks to be another busy year with construction in apartments, schools, medical, mixed group, hotels, and light manufacturing. The only thing questionable will be retail.”

In Kansas, Mark McKenzie with Bamford Fire Sprinkler Co., Inc., in Shawnee Mission, says business was good with plenty of work in 2019 and the 2020 outlook is good.

Ron Caplinger with Craynon Fire Protection, Inc., in Dayton, Ohio, says business in 2019 was very good with overall revenue equal to 2018. “We expect another good year in 2020,” he comments.

In Cincinnati, business was steady in 2019 for Dorn Fire Protection, LLC, but Christopher Dorn notes that it tailed off “right before Thanksgiving.” However, he didn’t see any effective change in business.

He also thinks 2020 will be slower with smaller projects dropping off and the market being “saturated with contractors.” He also notes that retrofit work is a “mainstay” of his company but it has “definitely dropped off.”

Adam Shaffer with Ozark Fire Sprinkler in Columbia, Missouri, reported 2019 was an “okay” year and 2020 looks to be “better.”

REGION 4 Overall, reports from Region 3 were positive. Contractors noted “record revenue,” “increase over 2018,” and “best year ever!”

Even contractors who saw a slow start in 2019 ended the year on a high note.

SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020 17

“WE EXPECT 2020 TO BE BUSY.” “WE SAW A HUGE INCREASE ...”

“The year started off slow for us; however, as the year progressed, we saw a marked uptick in projects,” reports David Rudd with Rudd Fire Protection, Inc., in Tyler, Texas. “Our service side has been brisk all year. We are working to grow that sector of our business. All in all, we had an increase in revenue in 2019 over 2018. We are optimistic about 2020. We are entering the New Year with a good backlog of work. We believe that if the economy continues to hold its own here in Texas we will see growth again in 2020.”

Most of the residential work Rudd does is more related to board and care facilities.

“The laws in our state do not encourage homebuilders to install systems in the houses that they build.”

Rudd also notes that local AHJs in Texas seem to be requiring larger permit fees.

“We are also seeing an increase in the enforcement of things like locking FDC caps and plugs and five-year obstruction investigations. We have had at least one inspector who has dedicated the better part of the year on five-year inspections. This was very good for us, as we witnessed an increase in inspection revenue,” Rudd states David Stone with American Fire Systems, Inc., in Houston, saw growth in 2019, compared to 2018, and thinks 2020 will be even busier.

Rex Schwendiman with The Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Co. in Dallas reports that “business, in general, was good in 2019 but more flat than strong.” He says 2020 is hard to call. “It’s an election year, the economy, the weather, they all are factors.

Right now I am confident there will not be a retraction but growth is a question mark.

The residential market will be a strong indicator of the year.”

In Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Bill Kroeger with Control Fire Systems had a “very good” 2019 with record revenue. He foresees 2020 to be good but down from 2019. Retrofit work in

18 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

his area has decreased and residential sprinkler activity has remained flat.

There was an increase in business for Norred Fire Systems in Monroe, Louisiana, in 2019 and 2020 looks to be “good and strong,” per Clayton Norred, Jr. Retrofit work and residential sprinkler activity have increased.

REGION 5 Georgia appeared to have a steady year but about the same as 2018, according to survey respondents. Jeffery Dennis with U.S. Sprinkler, Inc., in McDonough, Georgia, said 2019 business was similar to 2018 and that he expects business to be good in 2020. “We have a lower-thanaverage backlog but a lot of projects are being bid.” While his company doesn’t perform much retrofit work, Dennis has seen a “more-than-average amount to bid.”

He’s also seen a strong multi-family residential market but single-family staying about the same as in 2018.

Cal Bruce in Augusta, Georgia, says Fire Technology, LLC saw an “increase on the fire sprinkler side and a decrease on the fire alarm side” of their business in 2019. “I’m optimistic about 2020,” he notes. We are certain that the economy is headed in the right direction.” Bruce also reports a decrease in retrofit work and an increase in NFPA 13R apartments in his area.

In Clearwater, Florida, AFSA At-Large Director Chris Johnson reports Piper Fire Protection, Inc. was “up in construction sales” and notes that they “have a 2020 backlog that is up from 2019.”

“We are seeing more and more commercial and educational retrofits,” Johnson comments. “The high-rise retrofit in Florida has been delayed by another three years. The legislation that pushed back the date also put in penalties for failing to comply with these requirements. The Tampa Bay market is also very busy with dense residential starts.”

Moving on to South Carolina, overall business was up in 2019. Kari Miller with Alarm, Fire & Security, LLC on Hilton Head Island reports that “business was strong. We saw an increase in sales, inspections, and service.” She anticipates that “business will grow in 2020 with contract sales and inspections. The only thing lacking is growing the workforce and finding reliable employees who want to grow and build a career whether in the field or in the office.”

Retrofit work has increased, slowly being enforced bringing systems up to current code.

“The only areas affecting our business, in particular, is the lack of enforcement for fire protection in the state of South Carolina.

You do not have to have any training or certifications to inspect fire sprinkler systems. Also hiring long-term employees is always an issue,” says Miller.

In Spartanburg, South Carolina, Kevin Wilson with Johnson Controls saw a decrease in business in the beginning of 2019 with an increase toward the end of the year. “It looks like things will be picking up even more in 2020,” he comments.

AFSA Manufacturer & Suppler (M/S) Council Chairman Chris Stason with Victaulic in Lake Wylie, South Carolina, has seen a “very strong increase” in business in 2019 and he projects business in 2020 to be “fair.”

REGION 6 Most of the surveys received from Region 6 reported an increase in business for 2019 with high expectations for 2020.

Belinda Arthur with Hiller Systems, Chesapeake, Virginia, saw an “increase in projects, especially in the residential market” and says they are “entering 2020 with the highest sprinkler backlog that we have ever had and do not see it letting up.” Retrofit work has stayed the same yet residential activity has “increased dramatically.”

Local legislation included Virginia adopting a requirement for NICET Level II for all inspectors that will go into effect in 2021. “We see that as a positive sign,” Arthur comments.

Griffith Brinkley, also in Chesapeake with Fire Tech Services, Inc., saw similar

results in 2019. He reports an increase in 2019 with a healthy backlog for the first quarter of 2020.

Both surveys received for the Richmond, Virginia, were positive. Robert Dunn with Fire & Life Safety America reports an increase in business in 2019 with 2020 “slightly trending up.” Pat Sigmon with eTEc Fire Protection saw an “increase in projects to bid and revenue,” reporting that the market in Central Virginia is “strong.” They also have a good backlog heading into 2020. The company’s small contracts/tenant side is “exceeding forecast and turning down work.”

In Maryland, Richard Kozel with Livingston Fire Protection in Hyattsville says they finished 2019 with an increase in revenue and they have a “strong, hard backlog entering the first two quarters of 2020 with a good outlook for capturing a soft backlog moving forward. Our markets remain strong.” Kozel also notes that retrofit work hasn’t noticeably changed in the area, and that the residential market is strong but it’s difficult to pinpoint an increase.

Christopher Ribando with Approve Fire Prevention Corp. in Babylon, New York, says “new projects were at a 10-year high while maintenance and inspection/testing stalled” in 2019. The New Year looks to be “steady.” He also notes that “New York state is trying to enact legislation that is similar to California’s fitter licensing, and that could be a problem in 2020. Also, the New York City council is sponsoring a bill to retrofit residential buildings over 40 feet. It’s unclear if that will pass.”

Business in New Jersey stayed steady in 2019 and going into 2020, according to Gary Allemand with WJ Malone Associates, Inc. in Totowa, and Craig Chiarello with Mercer Fire Protection in Hamilton.

In Pennsylvania, Donald Rowe with Penn Fire Protection, Inc., in Selinsgrove saw an increase in 2019 and looks for the same in 2020.

REGION 7 Everyone in the region who responded to this year’s survey reported an increase in 2019. “We had a banner year,” reports Thomas Whalen with Fire Systems, Inc. in Dartmouth, Massachusetts. “We saw a

huge increase in sprinkler division sales.

2019 will be tough to beat, but we’re off to a decent start [in 2020].”

Michael Gannon with Massachusetts Fire Prevention, Inc. in Rockland also saw an increase in 2019 and looks for 2020 to be “very good.” Retrofit and residential work have slightly increased, with “a lot of retrofits in multi-family housing.”

In Connecticut, business was good in 2019 and is forecasted to stay the same in 2020, according to David Thompson with Encore Fire Protection in Middletown and Steve Colapietro with Absolute Fire Sprinklers, Inc. in Bristol.

“We increased business last year and should sustain that in 2020,” comments Thompson. “We’ve had a slight increase in retrofit projects and in large multi-family housing developments.”

Colapietro reports an increase in 2019 and he’s expecting business to stay the same in the New Year. “We’ve noticed an increase in new apartment buildings in the state.”

Chris McGadden with Xcel Fire Protection, Inc. in Salem, New Hampshire also saw an increase in 2019. “We expect another good year,” he comments.

“The last couple of years have been good.

We’re hoping it continues for the next few years.”

WORKFORCE WOES CONTINUE Almost every member from every region reported on one common problem: workforce. The lack of skilled workers and retaining a good workforce was a common thread among all contractors across the country.

“The biggest issue I see is that our industry keeps progressing at an amazing rate technologically, but the workforce is not keeping up,” says Dorn in Cincinnati.

“It is difficult in our market area to find good, experienced foremen to lead a crew,” notes Sigmon in Richmond, Virginia.

Gannon says there is “a continuous labor shortage to keep up with the demand of the construction industry in Massachusetts.”

Streeter says that “the need for skilled workforce has been and continues to be

the number one hurdle that our industry needs to overcome.”

Once a workforce is hired and retained, training is always an important issue. “Safety training is an ongoing pursuit as is new product training,” comments Scott in Cedar Springs, Michigan.

CONCLUSION Overall, the New Year looks to be another good year for business, but past that, it’s not as clear. As Faulkner notes: “2020 looks to be great; however, beyond 2020 is questionable.”

Rudd notes that a presidential election year carries with it “a certain amount of angst on the part of business owners.”

“We do not want to see anything happen that would thwart the economic expansion that we have been blessed with this year. Finding good help is extremely difficult, so we are concentrating our efforts on training the next generation,” he states.

Preparation and planning are important to long-term success. AFSA has the training programs, education materials, and tools to help members prosper in the New Year and prepare for any uncertain times ahead. Embracing other revenue streams such as ITM could help when a downturn approaches. And no other industry provides the same “feel good” reaction as fire protection, assuring life safety!

Johnson notes that he is proud to be in “such an amazing industry” and Kozel sees good things ahead.

“Automatic fire sprinkler protection, in conjunction with the life-safety community, has provided tremendous opportunities and definitely has a bright outlook for the foreseeable future,” he concludes.

Experts and other members seem to agree. Embrace 2020 to grow your business, invest in your people, and plan for the future. AFSA has all the tools you need to succeed. For all the details on AFSA programs and services, visit firesprinkler.org or call (214) 349-5965. n

SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020 19

THE BATTLE OF INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS AND RESULTS SENSIBLE VS. SENSELESS: PART 1

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HOWARD CLAY | VSC FIRE & SECURITY, INC. was once about to perform the annual functional test and inspection for a long-time customer when he approached me with a question. Coincidentally, my annual was scheduled shortly after the service department had performed a five-year assessment and five-year internal check valve and gauge calibration/replacement inspection. As you can imagine, the customer questioned me as to why he needed the functional test and inspection. “I just had my five-year inspections done. I don’t need the annual until next year this time.”

Uh... hmm. I was a little caught by surprise. So I commenced to explain the difference between the annual functional test and inspection and the five-year requirements for inspections.

Needless to say, my explanations didn’t carry as much weight as did the cost of his five-year requirements. It was like trying to have a conversation on the flight deck of an aircraft carrier; he wasn’t hearing a thing! Well, we worked it out as time went on and were able to keep him on track for his functional testing and inspection requirements, but that conversation got me thinking about all the various frequency requirements in NFPA 25, Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems. As I pondered the different ones, I was trying to discern the committee’s purpose for each one’s origination and if it was achieving the desired efficacy.

Understanding that there is not enough room in this article to examine the merits of all frequency requirements, I want to take the time to discuss a few and let you decide if the requirement is meeting its intended purpose for being performed. Does the burden of the requirement to the owner outweigh the result it produces? Is it providing a reasonable degree of protection for the cost incurred? Is it sensible or senseless? Well, let’s get into a few of the requirements from NFPA 25, 2017 edition.

I might as well begin with a messy requirement right from the start: section 6.3.2.1. The committee has done yeoman’s work in cleaning up this section, but the last part of the reference reading, “…including piping in the fire department connection.” needs more detail. Let me state that there are some inspections that I think we could remove without jeopardizing protection of life and property; the hydrostatic testing requirement is not one of those. We know the purpose of the requirement is to try and discern if the fire department connection

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DOES THE BURDEN OF THE REQUIREMENT TO THE OWNER OUTWEIGH THE RESULT IT PRODUCES? IS IT SENSIBLE OR SENSELESS? (FDC) piping is in tack for use by the responding firefighters. So just how does this test get accomplished correctly without being cost prohibitive while still providing accurate results and ensuring the system is not left worse off after the test than it was prior to the test? Keep in mind, the requirement appears to only include manual standpipe and semi-automatic dry standpipe systems. Or does it? We’ll get to that puzzle later. Accepting this premise, let’s discuss the facility that has a remote yard FDC with a buried check valve and underground piping for a manual dry standpipe.

The manual dry standpipe is that which has atmospheric pressure on it and nothing else, solely relying on the fire department for its water. NFPA 25, section 6.3.2.2.1 says to conduct a hydrostatic test of the manual standpipe and “the inside standpipe piping shall show no leakage.” Conversely, any leaking that occurs anywhere else on the piping is... well, not mentioned. What exactly does “inside” mean here? What if the standpipe is on a hotel that has open floors and the standpipe runs up the outside of the building? Are we assuming anything encompassed inside the envelope of the building is what is meant by “inside”? That seems logical and safe, but still an assumption. Why is the outside piping not important? Doesn’t all of it need to be intact under use in a fire condition?

Additionally, when seeking better instruction for the purpose of the test, the annex muddies the water even further.

A.6.3.2.1 states that minimal leaking “only under test pressure” is not cause for repair. What? Where can this leaking take place—anywhere? I thought the inside standpipe piping shall show no leakage. Yes, I know, the annex cannot be enforced and is not a part of the body of the text. Right on, but if we are not interested in leaks under test pressure rather only under the

standby pressure, then what is the purpose of making us perform the test? Furthermore, manual dry standpipes have no standby pressure which is supposedly why we are checking the integrity of the pipe in the first place, only to find leaks that, ironically, we don’t need to repair because they are revealed “only under test pressure.” Why would we not be desirous to repair a leak that popped up doing a test that was supposed to reveal integrity problems? Are we trying to differentiate between leaks and pipe integrity; doesn’t the leak speak to the pipe integrity?

See what is happening here?

Interestingly enough, there is nothing in NFPA 25 that defines what minimal leaking would be even if we could enforce the annex. We could go to NFPA 24, Standard for the Installation of Private Fire Service Mains and Their Appurtenances, where minimal leakage is quantified to get some direction, but the piping we are using in the FDC underground run is not considered underground piping classified in NFPA 24. FDC piping is considered system piping and is governed by NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, which by the way, does not allow any leakage. Go figure.

NFPA 25 separates out the manual wet standpipe that is part of a combined sprinkler system from the simple manual wet. Reference 6.3.2.1.1 tells us that manual wets which are part of a combined system are not required to meet the hydrostatic requirement. So it begs the question, “Why?” The handbook explains the reason is because leaks in these types of systems are usually detected immediately since they have continuous pressure on them. Wouldn’t that be the same for a simple manual wet system that is not part of a combined sprinkler?

They have continuous pressure on them all the time, as well.

Those systems would also reveal leakage since the definition of “manual” has to do with meeting system demand and not with physically turning a valve to apply water to system piping.

Now, I realize I am overplaying some inconsistencies that are not necessarily meant to apply to the manual dry standpipe despite the fact that it is lumped in with the others. But in our world, we really need the standard to be clear if we are going to use it to support our arguments for why testing was performed in a certain manner. These types of inconsistencies and contradictions lead to confusion when field inspectors need a solid reference to support the performance of the requirement being enforced. We can see that the leniency on some manual systems is inconsistent with the desired effect of the required inspection.

A little more discussion within the committee and we can get this ironed out.

Finally, just to make this whole thing a little more confusing, remember the end of the second paragraph where I stated: “the requirement appears to only include manual standpipe and semi-automatic dry standpipe systems. Or does it?” Well, does the part of the requirement that says “…including piping in the fire department connection.” exclude the remaining types of standpipes or does that clause make them inclusive of the requirement? If they are intended to be included, nothing says that in the standard. In fact, section 6.3.2.1 specifically leaves

them out. On the other hand, it would be hard to believe that the committee members want some fire department piping checked, but not all of it. And, if all they are concerned about is the integrity of the piping “inside” the building then that begs the question of why the test is required if only a portion of the piping is going to be considered. And where did the 200 psi for 2 hours come from—NFPA 13? Since continuous operating pressure for standard pipe and fittings is 175 psi, I can see adding a contingency and getting to 200 psi as a requirement.

Where I get lost is the additional requirement of 50 psi above maximum pressure where maximum pressure is above 150 psi. If there is a system that has pressure above 175 psi, then that system should be installed with high-pressure fittings and one could reasonably argue that the pressure the system is continuously holding is sufficient to confirm the integrity of the piping, could we not? Certainly, there is a difference between a system holding 55 and needing to see 200 to meet the test and a system holding 175 and needing to see 225 to meet the test. At what point is pressure significant enough to show pipe integrity but not so significant as to jeopardize the system. Should we be pressurizing any existing system over its standard operating pressure? Who is responsible if the system fractures at pressures above the standard operating pressure?

Well, my intention with this article was to examine multiple five-year inspections and knead them out in the same manner as we did this hydrostatic test requirement. When I started, I intended to raise a few questions about the purpose of the requirements and if the testing procedures were meeting the intent of that purpose. Unfortunately, I only made it through one requirement in this article and was forced to retitle it “Part 1.” I had a lot of questions, but not all the answers. With any luck, I’ll get asked to write “Part 2” on some of the other requirements. I merely ask that as you read the standard, pause, deliberate over the words, and determine how the test can be performed to meet the specified requirements. If you have input let the committee know, but be sensible, not senseless! n ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Howard Clay is employed by VSC Fire & Security, Inc. in its Inspection Division. He received his B.A. in managerial economics from HampdenSydney College. Clay is NICET certified in water-based fire protection systems, fire alarm systems, and fire alarm inspections and testing. He holds state backflow prevention testing licenses in both Virginia and North Carolina and carries the FS-IT-C inspection and testing certification in North Carolina. Clay represents AFSA on the NFPA 25 committee. He has authored articles for magazines of local organizations, and has been asked to speak to local businesses, fire departments, and community associations to help them better understand fire protection. Clay is an instructor for AFSA’s ITM Inspector Development program, and is a member of the National Association of Fire Investigators (NAFI) and the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI). He can be reached at HGClay@vscfs.com.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: The article and its content is not a Formal Interpretation issued pursuant to NFPA Regulations. Any opinion expressed is the personal opinion of the author and presenter and does not necessarily present the official position of the NFPA and its Technical Committee.

SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020 21

ABC FORECAST: MOMENTUM PERSISTS CHIEF ECONOMIST ADVISES OVERALL “WAIT-AND-SEE” APPROACH

A

ssociated Builders and Contractors’ (ABC) Chief Economist Anirban Basu forecasts continued momentum for the construction sector next year but advised an overall “wait-and-see” approach based on leading and lagging indicators and economic uncertainties, according to a 2020 economic outlook published in Construction Executive magazine.

Although ABC’s Construction Backlog Indicator—a leading indicator that reflects projects under contract yet to

be executed—climbed to nine months in August 2019, construction spending and employment—lagging indicators—have started to soften. Yet, while spending in private nonresidential categories such as office and logging has decreased, public spending categories remain a bright spot.

“Indeed, one of the sources of strength for the U.S. economy over the last year has been a pickup in infrastructure spending,” said Basu. “While the federal government has yet to fashion a full-fledged infrastructure plan for the nation and the Highway Trust Fund is set

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for insolvency by 2021 absent congressional action, infrastructure-related outlays remain a good news story. So far, state and local governments have come to the rescue, supported by rising collections of income, sales and property taxes. Several key construction segments have benefitted as a result, including water/sewer, transportation and highway/street.”

These outlays pushed the infrastructure segment of CBI to 10.4 months of backlog as of August 2019, significantly higher than the commercial and institutional and heavy industrial segments.

Basu also flagged the ongoing workforce shortage as a significant factor that will continue to affect the construction sector next year, even as job growth slows. According to ABC’s August Construction Confidence Index, 59.3 percent of contractors intended to expand their staffing levels in the second half of 2019, which necessitates additional education for new hires and rising wages for experienced workers that can drive up the costs for overall construction services.

“Ultimately, the heightened level of uncertainty could induce many economic actors to adopt a wait-and-see attitude, further reducing economic activity in the context of an already rapidly softening global economic environment,” said Basu.

But, that said, construction momentum persists. To read the full economic outlook, visit ConstructionExec.com. n ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Anirban Basu is chief economist for ABC and chairman and CEO of the Sage Policy Group. For more information, visit abc.org/economics.

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CONSTRUCTION STARTS TO SLIP IN 2020 DODGE DATA & ANALYTICS RELEASES OUTLOOK

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odge Data & Analytics has released its 2020 Dodge Construction Outlook, a mainstay in construction industry forecasting and business planning. The report predicts that total U.S. construction starts will slip to $776 billion in 2020, a decline of 4 percent from the 2019 estimated level of activity.

“The recovery in construction starts that began during 2010 in the aftermath of the Great Recession is coming to an end,” stated Richard Branch, chief economist for Dodge Data & Analytics.

“Easing economic growth driven by mounting trade tensions and lack of skilled labor will lead to a broad based, but orderly pullback in construction starts in 2020. After increasing 3 percent in 2018 construction starts dipped an estimated 1 percent in 2019 and will fall 4 percent in 2020.”

“Next year, however, will not be a repeat of what the construction industry endured during the Great Recession.

Economic growth is slowing but is not anticipated to contract next year.

Construction starts, therefore, will decline but the level of activity will remain close to recent highs. By major construction sector, the dollar value of starts for residential buildings will be down 6 percent, while starts for both nonresidential buildings and nonbuilding construction will drop 3 percent.”

The pattern of construction starts for more specific segments is as follows: • The dollar value of single family housing starts will be down 3 percent in 2020 and the number of units will also lose 5 percent to 765,000 (Dodge

24 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

•

•

•

•

basis). Affordability issues and the tight supply of entry-level homes have kept demand for homes muted and buyers on the sidelines.

Multi-family construction was an early leader in the recovery, stringing together eight years of growth since 2009. However, multi-family vacancy rates have moved sideways over the past year, suggesting that slower economic growth will weigh on the market in 2020. Multi-family starts are slated to drop 13 percent in dollars and 15 percent in units to 410,000 (Dodge basis).

The dollar value of commercial building starts will retreat 6 percent in 2020. The steepest declines will occur in commercial warehouses and hotels, while the decline in office construction will be cushioned by high value data center construction. Retail activity will also fall in 2020, a continuation of a trend brought about by systemic changes in the industry.

In 2020, institutional construction starts will essentially remain even with the 2019 level as the influence of public dollars adds stability to the outlook. Education building and health facility starts should continue to see modest growth next year, offset by declines in recreation and transportation buildings.

The dollar value of manufacturing plant construction will slip 2 percent in 2020 following an estimated decline of 29 percent in 2019. Rising trade tensions has tilted this sector to the downside with recent data, both domestic and

globally, suggesting the manufacturing sector is in contraction.

• Public works construction starts will move 4 percent higher in 2020 with growth continuing across all project types. By and large, recent federal appropriations have kept funding for public works construction either steady or slightly higher—translating into continued growth in environmental and transportation infrastructure starts.

• Electric utilities/gas plants will drop 27 percent in 2020 following growth of 83 percent in 2019 as several large LNG export facilities and new wind projects broke ground.

The 2020 Dodge Construction Outlook was presented at the 81st annual Outlook Executive Conference held by Dodge Data & Analytics at the Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel in Chicago, Illinois. Copies of the report with additional details by building sector can be ordered at construction.com or by calling (800) 591-4462. n EDITOR’S NOTE: Dodge Data & Analytics is North America’s leading provider of analytics and softwarebased workflow integration solutions for the construction industry. Building product manufacturers, architects, engineers, contractors, and service providers leverage Dodge to identify and pursue unseen growth opportunities and execute on those opportunities for enhanced business performance. Whether it’s on a local, regional or national level, Dodge makes the hidden obvious, empowering its clients to better understand their markets, uncover key relationships, size growth opportunities, and pursue those opportunities with success. The company’s construction project information is the most comprehensive and verified in the industry. Dodge is leveraging its 100-year-old legacy of continuous innovation to help the industry meet the building challenges of the future. To learn more, visit construction.com.

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CONTRACTORS PLAN FOR STRONG DEMAND IN 2020 AGC SURVEY SHOWS FIRMS CONCERNED ABOUT WORKER SHORTAGES AND QUALITY

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espite signs the overall economy may be slowing, most construction firms expect demand for their services and hiring will expand in 2020, yet even more firms are worried about their ability to find qualified workers to hire, according to survey results released by the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and Sage Construction and Real Estate. The findings are detailed in “Strong Demand for Work Amid Stronger Demand for Workers: The 2020 Construction Hiring and Business Outlook” report.

“Contractors are very optimistic about demand for construction in 2020,” said Stephen E. Sandherr, the association’s chief executive officer. “At the same time, many construction executives are troubled by labor shortages and the impacts those shortages are having on operations, training and safety programs, and bottom lines.”

The percentage of respondents who expect a market segment to expand exceeds the percentage who expect it to contract for all 13 categories of projects included in the survey.

For every segment, between 27 and 36 percent of respondents expect an increase compared to 2019 in the dollar value of projects they compete for. Meanwhile, between 11 and 21 percent of respondents foresee less work available in 2020. The difference between the positive and negative responses—the net reading—was between 8 and 25 percent for every category.

Water and sewer construction scored the highest net positive reading of 25 percent. Four other segments had a 20 percent net positive: bridge & highway, K-12 school, hospital construction, and transportation (transit, rail and airport).

Power projects and federal construction projects had a net positive reading of 17 percent. Higher education construction had a net positive reading of 16 percent.

Five categories had slightly less positive net readings: multifamily residential construction (11 percent); manufacturing construction (11 percent); public building construction (10 percent); retail, warehouse and lodging construction (10 percent).

The lowest net positive reading was for private office construction, at 8 percent. Overall, respondents were more optimistic than a year ago regarding institutional and most public categories but less optimistic about private sector nonresidential segments.

26 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

Figure 1. Contractors’ biggest concerns for 2020, according to a new report

by AGC and Sage Construction and Real Estate. Table prepared by AGC.

Most contractors plan to add staff in 2020 to keep pace with growing demand. Seventy-five percent of firms plan to increase headcount this year, similar to the 77 percent with this expectation at the start of 2019 and 75 percent at the start of 2018.

However, just over half of firms (52 percent) report their expansion plans will only increase the size of their firm by 10 percent or less. About one-fifth (19 percent) of respondents plan to increase headcount by 11 to 25 percent. Only 5 percent of respondents plan to increase employment by more than 25 percent.

Despite firms’ plans to expand headcount, 81 percent report they are having a hard time filling salaried and hourly craft positions. That share is up slightly from 78 percent at the start of 2019. In addition, 43 percent expect it will continue to be hard to hire in the next 12 months and 22 percent expect that it will become harder to hire in 2020.

Labor shortages are having an impact on construction costs and project schedules, association officials noted. Forty-four

percent of respondents report that staffing challenges drove costs higher than anticipated. In reaction, 41 percent of firms are putting higher prices into new bids and contracts. Similarly, 40 percent report projects have taken longer than they anticipated and 23 percent report putting longer completion times into their bids or contracts.

Firms continue to raise pay and provide bonuses and benefits in response to labor shortages. Fifty-four percent of firms report they increased base pay rates more in 2019 than in 2018. Twenty-three percent provided incentives and/or bonuses. Fourteen percent of firms increased contributions or improved employee benefits to cope with workforce shortages.

Construction firms are also investing more in training programs for current and new workers, association officials added.

Two out of five (42 percent) of firms report they revamped initiatives to recruit labor last year. Thirty-two percent of firms report they have increased funding for technical education programs and 29 percent have restructured or changed programming for current skilled labor recruits.

“Firms are adopting a variety of approaches to replace workers or allow for use of workers with less experience or training than before,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. He noted that 32 percent of respondents report their firms are investing in labor-saving equipment, including drones, robots and 3D printers. Twenty-eight percent of respondents are using methods to reduce onsite worktime, including lean construction, building information modeling or offsite pre-fabrication.

Officials with Sage noted that nearly half (46 percent) of respondents will increase their information technology (IT) investments in 2020. The largest share of firms, 30 percent, plan to increase their investments in project management software. About a quarter of firms will increase their investments in document management software (25 percent) and fleet tracking/management software (23 percent). Yet even as firms embrace information technology, 43 percent report their biggest IT challenge is that they lack the time needed to implement and train on new systems.

“We’re seeing an increasing number of firms embrace technology, especially mobile technologies in the field, as a way to help increase efficiencies and achieve business objectives,” said Dustin Anderson, vice president of Sage Construction and Real Estate. “Technology will continue to play an important role in bridging the gap between growing industry demand, more complex projects, and a less experienced workforce.”

Association officials noted that the federal policy implications for the 2020 construction outlook are clear. They urged federal officials to promote pro-growth economic policies including new infrastructure investments and continue to make needed regulatory reforms. They also called on federal officials to double funding for career and technical education over the next five years, make it easier for people enrolled in short-term construction programs to qualify for federal Pell Grants and evaluate high schools based on career placement rates in addition to college placements.

“Washington officials must take steps to prepare and place more people into high-paying construction careers,” Sandherr said. “They also need to recognize the need to allow more people to lawfully enter the country to address workforce shortages while the domestic pipeline for preparing and recruiting workers is being restored.”

Sandherr urged Congress to pass a temporary visa program for construction workers, protect the legal status of workers in the country as part of the Temporary Protected Status program, and advance comprehensive immigration reform.

He also called for additional steps to secure the border to ensure undocumented workers aren’t exploited by unscrupulous firms who are then able to underbid more responsible employers.

“A thriving, successful and diverse construction industry is the essential foundation for America’s continued economic prosperity, security and well-being,” Sandherr said. “Investing in infrastructure, making needed investments in career and technical education and reforming the immigration system will ensure that contractors can keep pace with strong demand for their services.”

The Outlook was based on survey results from nearly 1,000 firms from 48 states. Varying numbers responded to each question. Contractors of every size answered over 20 questions about their hiring, workforce, business and information technology plans. Visit agc.org for more survey findings. n

SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020 27

HONORING ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE CONGRATULATE AFSA’S 2019 SPRINKLER FITTER NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY INDUCTEES

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he American Fire Sprinkler Association’s (AFSA) Fire Sprinkler Fitter National Honor Society was first established in 2012 to recognize those trainees, along with their sponsoring employers, who have completed all four levels of the AFSA Correspondence Course for Fire Sprinkler Fitters with a cumulative grade point average of 95 percent or above. Inductees into the 2019 class represent approximately the top 13 percent of the 199 four-level graduates for the year.Â

The following companies are the proud employers of inductees into the 2019 Fire Sprinkler Fitter National Honor Society: Aero Automatic Sprinkler, Phoenix, Arizona; AFP Systems, Tualatin, Oregon; Alliance Fire Protection, Albuquerque, New Mexico; Allied Fire Protection, Pearland, Texas; Burtell Fire Protection, Billings, Montana; Cintas Fire Protection, Conshohocken, Pennsylvania; Dependable Fire Protection, Inc., Cedar Springs, Michigan; Dave Jones Fire Protection, Madison, Wisconsin; Fire Equipment, Inc., Medford, Massachusetts; Hart Plumbing of Connecticut, Inc.,

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Glastonbury, Connecticut; Harvey & Price Co., Eugene, Oregon; JCI, Helena, Montana; Maine Fire Protection Systems, Bangor, Maine; Mammoth Fire Protection Systems, Lowell, Massachusetts; Platinum Fire Protection & Services, Marlborough, Massachusetts; Prairie Fire Protection, Sauk City, Wisconsin; Professional Fire Systems, Inc, Southborough, Massachusetts; RCI Systems, Inc., Tempe, Arizona; Sentry Automatic Sprinkler, Inc., Comstock Park, Michigan; Sunland Fire Protection, Inc., Jamestown, North Carolina; and Tiensvold Fire Protection, Park City, Montana.

Recognition plaques for the individual students are provided to the sponsoring employer so that the contractor company can present the plaque to the fire sprinkler fitter graduate at an appropriate time and location.

AFSA is also pleased to honor those contractors who participate in this training curriculum and encourage their fitter trainees to study and do well on their tests by recognizing their company in Sprinkler Age.

CALLING ALL APPRENTICES! Enter now for AFSA’s National Apprentice Competition, to be held during AFSA39 September 13-16, 2020, at the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek in Florida.

Many contractor employers of fire sprinkler fitter trainees who competed in the annual event state that it builds enthusiasm and encourages trainees to study the AFSA Fire Sprinkler Fitter Training Series more carefully and improve their performance.

See the entry form on page 53 of this issue or look for details online at firesprinkler. org/competition. n

EXPLORING CAREER PATHS FOR YOUNG PROFESSIONALS THE FIRE SPRINKLER INDUSTRY OFFERS MANY OPPORTUNITIES

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LAINEY LIOTTA | LUBRIZOL hen I was in second grade, I started a business creating and selling signs out of my basement. Granted, the only customers of my cleverly named “Sign Store” were my parents, baby sitter, and neighbors, but it was pretty legitimate for a company run by an eight-year-old­. I had an office (empty storage closet), a cash register (thank you, Santa!), employee ID badges (complete with head shots from my iZone Polaroid), and even a monthly newsletter.

I’m proud, and only a tad embarrassed, to say that I ran my little business until I got into the sixth grade.

Clearly, with my Sign Store as evidence, I have always had a passion for business. Then, much to my surprise, I grew to be equally as passionate about fire protection after a summer internship at Tyco. I feel fortunate that so early in my career I was able to find both a career path and an industry I absolutely love.

However, I would be lying if I said I feel like I have it all together or that I’m confident about what I want to do in five, 10, 15 years. And I know I am not alone. I’ve spoken with numerous young professionals in this industry that are incredibly passionate about fire protection, but still struggle with deciding “what’s next” in their career. A fitter may be interested in design but doesn’t know whether he’d like being in an office all day. A project manager may want to try her hand in sales but doesn’t have the confidence to make the switch. And, more likely, someone may be in a role that they are satisfied with for the time

30 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

being but are trying to figure out what they want to do long-term. They know they want to remain in fire protection but are unaware of the career tracks available, let alone if and how they should pursue them. It is for these people that I sought out four young professionals in different fields throughout the sprinkler industry to share their career progression and offer insight about their functions of work.

JONATHAN CREMEANS, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, CORE & MAIN Career Path: Apprentice, Fitter, Inspector, Designer, Construction Engineer, Sales, Business Development Advice: Always have strong mentors and a desire to learn.

Jonathan entered the work world as an apprentice for no reason other than the company at which his older brother worked was looking for apprentices. Little did he and his brother know at the time, that apprenticeship would be the catalyst for a diverse career in fire protection that has taken him around the world to places like Qatar, UAE, and Afghanistan. Right away Jonathan loved being in the field, but soon felt a need to better understand the background of his scope of work. Why was he installing certain products in specific arrangements? Why would a designer sometimes give him plans that had no chance of being physically possible in practice? This desire to understand all aspects of the industry drove him to become an inspector, then a designer, then a construction engineer. While each role was challenging in a different way, he found that his field experience accelerated

the learning curve and enabled him to do his job better. This held true when Jonathan’s career took him to “the other side of the fence” as a sales person for a sprinkler manufacturer then a business development representative for a distributor. His diverse experience enables him to understand the needs of every segment of the value chain and lend expertise in customizing a portfolio of product offerings for his customers. While Jonathan has quite an impressive track record, he realizes he still has a lot of growing to do. He is grateful that he works for a company that values training and development as much as he does.

“You are personally responsible for your own growth and for taking advantage of every opportunity to challenge yourself.

However, you stand to grow a lot more by surrounding yourself with people who believe in you and want to help you succeed,” Jonathan says. “I’ve held a lot of roles throughout my career but there’s two things that have never changed: having strong mentors and a desire to learn.”

JAMIL SHAMOON, PRESIDENT, SYMONS FIRE PROTECTION, INC. Career Path: Helper, Fitter, Foreman, Project Manager/Superintendent, Vice President, President Advice: Gain as much experience as you can and take risks that push your own personal boundaries of success.

Years ago, Jamil mowed a foreman’s grass as a summer job. The foreman apparently liked how Jamil mowed the grass because he offered him a job as a helper at his company, and 20 years later Jamil is president of that same company.

When asked about how he made such a remarkable career progression, Jamil humbly said: “I never said no to anything.

I was always the first one to volunteer, but not selfishly. I never asked ‘What am I going to get out of this? What is this going to do for me?’ I just wanted to help get the job done right and gain as much experience as I could in the meantime.”

Jamil gained an absorbent amount of hands-on experience as he rose through the ranks in the field, becoming a fitter, foreman, then a project manager. As a project manager his responsibilities covered a wide variety of areas from estimating, managing the shop, overseeing the field crew, and scheduling installations. His job was challenging yet enjoyable and, like Jonathan, he strove to better understand the meaning behind his work and wanted to learn design. His business couldn’t afford to take him out of the field during the week to dabble in design, so Jamil decided to invest a couple months’ worth of Saturdays to go into the office and learn. This wasn’t in

his job description nor was he making money, but what he learned gave him a great foundation for the rest of his career.

Jamil’s eagerness to learn also drove him to start studying business at night school.

“My practical, real-world experience combined with an education created a lot of opportunity for me,” Jamil says.

“College taught me how to learn and absorb information and my real-world experience taught me how to do something productive with that information. I brought a lot of what I learned at school back to the company.”

Jamil believes his practical field knowledge paired with his education better prepared him to take on all the responsibilities that come with being vice president, then president, of a sprinkler company. Along with ensuring the success of his business, Jamil is now focused on becoming a better leader. “I always say that people are the most rewarding yet most challenging part about running my own business,” Jamil says. Every day he is learning how to better manage people and

maintain a good work environment while maximizing productivity.

“This journey has required a lot of personal development and self-reflection.”

Jamil says, “I always remind myself that as a leader, it is my responsibility to continuously develop myself to be the best leader I can be for my team. I can’t change everyone else, but I can change myself, and doing so hopefully inspires others to grow and develop as well.”

CHRIS AMORESE, FIRE SPRINKLER SUPERVISOR, JOHNSON CONTROLS FIRE PROTECTION Career Path: Helper, Fitter, Foreman, Inspection & Service Tech, Inspection & Service Supervisor Advice: It takes discomfort to expand your comfort zone.

After graduating high school, Chris got a job as a helper for a fire sprinkler contractor. Being completely unfamiliar with the industry, he didn’t know what to expect, but he immediately loved it. “I quickly determined that’s what I wanted

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FIRE SPRINKLER INDUSTRY CAREER PATH

Fire sprinkler industry career path.

to do as a career.” Chris says, “It’s a good, stable career with job security and it’s really rewarding. Even to this day, I feel a sense of pride putting in systems that save lives. It’s awesome when your job becomes your passion.”

Chris dedicated himself to his work; he always answered the phone, never turned down a job, and became someone management could always depend on. He recognizes that he could not have been so flexible without the support and understanding of his wife, and he’s very grateful for her. His family’s support along with his proven accountability enabled him to become a fitter, then a foreman and project manager, then an inspection and service technician, and is now in a management position. The increasing responsibility Chris gained as he progressed was somewhat scary to him and he sometimes questioned his decisions and his future. He was a shy guy who preferred to stick to himself and stay out of the spotlight. But years ago, he was finishing off a meal at his favorite Chinese restaurant and opened a fortune cookie that read “Comfort zones are most often expanded through discomfort.” While he admits it sounds cliché, that was a defining moment of clarity for Chris and the saying became something he lived by. It takes courage and lots of self-reflection to learn how to become more comfortable with increased duties along with managing a team, but he views the discomfort as an opportunity to grow.

32 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

Along with continuously challenging yourself, Chris believes that in order to be successful and good at any trade, you need to stay ahead of the industry and learn as much as you can about new technologies, labor practices, and regulations.

KARL WIEGAND, P.E., SENIOR TECHNICAL EDUCATION INSTRUCTOR/ APPLICATIONS ENGINEER, GLOBE/ VICTAULIC Career Path: Fire Protection Consultant, Fire Protection Engineer, Tech Support/Trainer Advice: Take advantage of every opportunity to learn and network.

Growing up, Karl was pretty good at math and his teachers suggested that he study engineering in college. He started researching engineering schools but wasn’t too enthused about the types of engineering degrees offered until he discovered “fire protection engineering” on Worcester Polytechnic Institute’s website. To him, fire seemed more exciting than any other engineering field, so he applied. Five years and a couple of internships later he happily graduated with a degree in fire protection engineering and started work as a consultant.

After gaining some experience, he got a job as an engineer with the National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA).

Starting a new job with a trade association was a bit scary for Karl, especially since fire sprinklers had not

been his primary focus as a consultant, but he was up for the challenge and excited to broaden his experience. Karl jumped right in to his new role and took advantage of every opportunity to learn and network. His “all-in” attitude paired with the support of great mentors enabled him to quickly come up to speed.

Before he knew it, he was teaching classes of which he was a student not long before. To this day, although now working for a manufacturer, Karl teaches classes and provides tech support to those all over North America.

Ironically enough, he says he learned the most about the industry from teaching, as it awarded him different perspectives and made him aware of the various issues the industry faces. Karl also attributes his learning and development to becoming involved in the development of NFPA standards and building codes. “I always thought of the NFPA standards as the Bible of fire protection,” Karl says, “But after getting involved and seeing the process behind it, I realized that it’s just normal people developing them and literally anyone has the opportunity to make an impact, which is partly why I enjoy it so much.”

Karl encourages any young professional in the industry, regardless of his or her current role, to become involved in the standard development process, which is open to everyone. He says it’s not only a great learning and networking experience, but it also provides insight and expertise that you can’t get elsewhere, all of which ultimately helps to facilitate a prosperous career in fire protection. n ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Lainey Liotta is the fire protection market manager for Lubrizol where she is responsible for setting the strategy for BlazeMaster CPVC Piping systems. She is a graduate of Pennsylvania State University where she received bachelor of science degrees in marketing and Spanish and a minor in international relations.

She is a member of AFSA’s National NextGen Initiative Group.

COLOR TAGGING AND NFPA 25 WHAT IS THE CONTRACTOR’S ROLE?

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JASON WILLIAMS, CET | AMERICAN FIRE SPRINKLER ASSOCIATION

ell, folks, we dodged a bit of a bullet this last go around with the color-coded tagging program or Annex G. What I mean is this: there was a strong push to move this sample tagging program into the body of NFPA 25, Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems, 2020 edition, thus making it mandatory requirement. Believe me, I understand the desire to make deficiencies more visible and more easily identifiable by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). But that isn’t our job and that isn’t the way things are playing out. Stated another way, a fire sprinkler contractor is not defined as an AHJ anywhere in the standard. Do we really want to assume that role?

First, let me be clear before you start questioning my intentions. As a previous inspector, lead technician, trainer and responsible managing employee (RME), my duty and obligations were to conduct myself in a professional and ethical manner when representing my company, while protecting the interests of the building owner/customer. I made mistakes and did things wrong a time or two, but never did I compromise my responsibilities or leave my integrity at the door. As a contracted service provider, we should be conducting ourselves ethically, just as we expect from our employees. Our contracted services should be geared towards doing the best for the customer. We must ask ourselves, “Who is providing the income for our company?” Therefore, who are we first obligated to? And let’s not pretend that privatizing enforcement is concerned only about life safety and is not motivated by revenue. Let’s examine our industry for a moment and recognize that there are some trunk slammers or pencil whippers out there just looking to make a quick buck and are not in it for anything else. Inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) services are not easy to provide, with the specialized labor involved and ever-decreasing margins, due to our services being shopped around. So, we have to ask ourselves the question, “Are we selling ITM services or are we selling a tag?”

From its very inception, NFPA 25 has maintained that the deliverable from an inspection and testing visit is a

34 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

Is the color-coded tagging system a one-size-fits-all approach for everyone? technical report written by a qualified inspector. A fire sprinkler system is composed of many different parts and is complex. An ITM visit can involve testing and inspecting hundreds of devices with dozens of data points collected to determine the operational status of the system. Do we really want to reduce hours or even days worth of work to a single tag that sums up all of that effort?

Prior to the Color-Coded Tagging Program being introduced into the 2017 edition of NFPA 25, a handful of states had utilized tagging programs for a number of years. In fact, existing tagging programs were the model for the program developed by the NFPA 25 task group. The purpose of tagging is to assist in the enforcement and application of NFPA 25,

and that is where it should have ended for contractors.

Unfortunately, Annex G went a bit further and includes under G.1 that a typical goal is to determine if the inspections and tests were completed at their designated frequency. This is a bit conflicting with the included Table A.3.3.8 that is provided for defining what each color tag should signify. For instance, where in Table A.3.3.8 (previously A.3.3.7) does it point out that a lack of an inspection or test is a classified deficiency? For time-saving proposes, it does not. The technical committee realizes that this is a slippery slope to go down. How many properties are there where all the required ITM tasks per NFPA 25 are actually completed? From my experience, the annual ITM tasks are met pretty regularly, where ITM functions are conducted. The focus of most AHJs for compliancy seems to focus on five-year frequency tasks or better yet a “five-year inspection” or other similar vague terminology. Why the focus on five-year frequencies? What about the quarterly tests like the quick-opening device (QOD) test or the weekly pump runs on diesel engines? I would argue that many of these tasks are seldom performed and failure to do so can certainly be detrimental to the performance of the system. For instance, a particular location that only contracts tasks at annual frequencies and greater. Are we going to start hanging or administering yellow or orange tags when we cannot confirm the completion of those more frequent tasks? Where does it end and how do we confirm an inspection or test has been performed? Compliance with the requirement of NFPA 25 is the responsibility of the enforcing AHJ and building owner, not the contractor nor service provider. Otherwise, we will be spending our valuable time in searching for compliancy rather than conducting the work we were contracted to do. I hear the rumbles all time from contractors saying that they can’t find enough qualified individuals to conduct inspections, as it is. If we add enforcement to our scope of work, where do we find the additional resources?

NFPA 25 addresses this issue. Let’s take a step back for a moment and define “deficiency” per the standard. For the purposes of inspection, testing, and maintenance of waterbased fire protection systems, “deficiency” is a condition that will or has the potential to adversely impact the performance of a system or portion thereof but does not rise to the level of an impairment. The standard clearly defines a deficiency to the purpose of inspection, testing, and maintenance, and it does not include compliancy. During the last cycle of NFPA 25, a public input was submitted to include the term “noncompliance” and it was rejected by the committee. The committee’s statement for the rejection was that the lack of an inspection or test does not constitute as a deficiency or impairment. How can there be a deficiency when an inspection or test is not conducted? It’s like your doctor telling you that you look tired and pale, and that you are anemic because you’re iron deficient. How can he be certain that you have an iron deficiency without a blood test? As an industry, we need to keep our terms clear and concise, otherwise we will quickly lose sight of

FROM ITS VERY INCEPTION, NFPA 25 HAS MAINTAINED THAT THE DELIVERABLE FROM AN INSPECTION AND TESTING VISIT IS A TECHNICAL REPORT WRITTEN BY A QUALIFIED INSPECTOR. the purpose of the standards. As an inspecting contractor it is not our responsibility to verify compliance. It’s our responsibility to complete the contracted inspections and tests in concurrence with NFPA 25.

I recently participated in an open-forum meeting attended by a representative from a State Fire Marshal’s office. During the meeting, he explained that when a technician is conducting an NFPA 25 inspection and finds a design issue and notifies the building owner verbally or in writing, the state statute requires the technician to attach a yellow tag on the riser indicating the design “flaw.” Even if the system passed all inspections and tests, the inspecting technician would have to attach a yellow tag on the riser. So, the intent of a yellow tag at the riser, per this state, is to identify any noncompliant issues, the presence of a deficiency, and if any system component was not tested or maintained in accordance with the adopted standard. Although I

SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020 35

have much respect for this office and the individuals who serve in this department, I wholeheartedly disagree with this approach. First, this is an open invitation for less-than-ethical contractors to hold a building owner hostage for that compliance tag. Never mind the technician’s qualifications, or lack thereof, administering the tag. The identification of design issues is outside the scope of NFPA 25 and not the intent of the color-coded tagging program. That said, by moving Annex G to the body of the standard and making it legally enforceable, it limits states like this in administering the program as they see fit and possibly complicates or hinders the adoption of the standard. Not to mention this also places a strain on the relationship between contractor and building owner, forcing a whole new dynamic between contractor and customer.

I think it’s imperative that the NFPA 25 Technical Committee and our industry stay firm and not lose sight of the purpose and intent of the standard. To deviate from the purpose and overextend the scope of NFPA 25 will just further weaken it. We, as an industry, need to worry more about proper testing and concentrate on the deficiencies that are tangible versus chasing design issues, looking to upgrade existing systems, or placing ourselves as the enforcers. The focus should be on training to understand the standard and providing technical proficiency so that we have competent individuals in the field with our building owners, educating them rather than conducting enforcement. Trust me, a well-trained professional workforce will find plenty to keep you busy.

In closing, I am not opposed to the color-coded tagging program. In fact, I like it for transparency purposes, but the meat or technical aspects of ITM findings need to be on a report, not written in shorthand on a tag. Secondly, I urge contractors and AHJs to approach any tagging program with open eyes and maintain the current responsibilities of each shareholder. And, lastly, let’s ensure we keep this well-designed “sample” in the annex, so jurisdictions can amend as needed to fit their objectives and not introduce cumbersome requirements that might hinder the future adoption of this evolving standard. n ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Jason R. Williams, CET joined the American Fire Sprinkler Association’s (AFSA) Engineering & Technical Services Department in 2017 as manager of ITM Technical Training. He brings 20 years of extensive managing and hands-on industry experience in sprinkler install and ITM, fire alarm, and special hazards. Williams has held and maintained multiple state and municipal licenses in Arizona, Texas, Utah, Nevada, Colorado, and Montana, and is NICET III certified in ITM of Water-Based Systems and NICET II certified in Fire Alarms. He currently sits as a principal on the NFPA 25 Technical Committee.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: The article and its content is not a Formal Interpretation issued pursuant to NFPA Regulations. Any opinion expressed is the personal opinion of the author and presenter and does not necessarily present the official position of the NFPA and its Technical Committee.

AFSA Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School • 60% Study & review of NFPA 13, 2016 Ed. • 40% Prep of fire sprinkler system layout, shop drawings, manual hydraulic calculations, and preparing students for easier decision-making process when preparing drawings using CAD.

2020 SCHEDULE March 9 - 20 June 1 -12 July 20 - 31

Enrollment is now open

VISIT

firesprinkler.org/design 36 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

September 21 - October 2 November 9-30

ASK THE ACCOUNTANT IMPORTANT REMINDER FOR THE NEW TAX YEAR TONYA MERRICK, CPA | C.R. PARR & ASSOCIATES, P.C.

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orking as an employee it is easy to forget about paying Uncle Sam. Taxes are withheld from each paycheck before it ever even hits the bank account and not much thought is ever given to it. At least not until the coveted W-2 arrives. A mad dash is made to file taxes on February 1 with hopes of a large refund.

On the other side of the spectrum, there are the independent contractors and small business owners that operate pass-through entities. No monies are withheld and often taxes are not thought about until all the “Tax Day” ads and discounts start popping up on TV and social media or until your accountant leaves countless messages requesting information. The dreaded April 15 is here and it’s time to write that check to the not-so-favorite uncle. However, the large check and additional interest and penalties that may be associated with the underpayment can be avoided by making quarterly tax payments.

Quarterly (or estimated tax) payments are how self-employed individuals pay their taxes to the IRS throughout the year. These four payments, made every three months, cover your Income tax as well as the employee and employer portion of Social Security and Medicare, which is known as self-employment tax. The self-employment tax rate is 15.3 percent of your self-employed income. Your income tax is based on your individual tax rate. It is recommended that you pay in 25-30 percent of your self-employed income each quarter. The due dates for the 2020 tax year are shown in Figure 1.

First Quarter

April 15, 2020

Second Quarter

June 17, 2020

Third Quarter

September 16, 2020

Fourth Quarter

January 15, 2021

Figure 1. Due dates for the 2020 tax year.

If you are unsure of how to calculate these payments or if you need additional assistance in figuring your income, it may be a good idea to contact a tax professional in your area. n

New IRS 401(k) Limits for 2020* • • • • •

The elective deferral limit for 401(k), 403(b) and 457(b) plans increases to $19,500 in 2020 ($19,000 in 2019).

The limitation on catch up contributions for employees age 50 and over increases to $6,500 in 2020 ($6,000 in 2019).

The maximum “annual addition” limit for a defined contribution plan increases to $57,000 in 2020 ($56,000 in 2019).

The annual dollar limit on compensation that can be taken into account increases to $285,000 in 2020 ($280,000 in 2019).

Compensation for determining highly compensated employee (“HCE”) status increases to $130,000 in 2020 ($125,000 in 2019). *Source: irs.gov/pub/irs- drop/n-19-59.pdf

SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020 37

HONOR THOSE WHO HAVE MADE A DIFFERENCE NOMINATIONS ACCEPTED ONLINE FOR TOP FIRE SPRINKLER INDUSTRY AWARDS

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he American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) is accepting nominations for its top honors: the prestigious Henry S. Parmelee award, esteemed Fire Sprinkler Advocate of the Year award, and the new yet highly regarded Young Professional of the Year award. The awards will be presented during AFSA39: Convention, Exhibition & Apprentice Competition in Orlando, Florida, and the recipients will be featured in Sprinkler Age magazine. Nomination forms are now available online at firesprinkler.org/awards.

HENRY S. PARMELEE AWARD AFSA’s highest honor, the Henry S. Parmelee award is given in recognition of an outstanding individual who has dedicated himself or herself to the professional advancement of the fire sprinkler industry and to the goal of fire safety through automatic sprinklers. Members of AFSA may nominate someone who has demonstrated a long-term commitment to improving the fire sprinkler industry. The award was instituted by AFSA in 1983 to give recognition to distinguished industry professionals and to memorialize Henry S. Parmelee, an outstanding pioneer in the fire sprinkler industry who is recognized as the inventor of the first commercially successful closed sprinkler. The nomination deadline for the 2020 award is July 1, 2020.

FIRE SPRINKLER ADVOCATE OF THE YEAR AWARD This award was created to honor individuals not directly involved in the fire sprinkler industry whose efforts have had national impact in advancing the fire protection industry and automatic fire

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AFSA Chair of the Board Wayne Weisz (right) presented the 2019 Henry S. Parmelee Award to Manning Strickland. sprinklers. Previously known as the Fire Service Person of the Year, the award was renamed in 2001 to better reflect the diversity of backgrounds, including the fire service, as well as legislative, code, and standards-setting groups, in which individuals can have a major impact on the fire sprinkler industry. Previous recipients include Home Safety Council President Meri-K Appy; Fire- and Life-Safety Educator Jan Gratton; Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition Spokesman Ron Hazelton; California State Fire Marshal Tonya Hoover; Congressman Jim Langevin; and Senator Rick Santorum. The nomination deadline for the 2020 award is April 1, 2020.

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR AWARD Created in 2016, the Young Professional of the Year award and honors the

contributions of promising fire protection specialists and serves to: reaffirm the growing importance of fire sprinkler knowledge in the world of business and construction management among the next generation of industry leaders; promote the emergence of young talented professionals in the field of fire protection, thus fostering interest for the fire sprinkler profession and a future career in this field of expertise; and inspire fire protection companies and the fire protection community to invest even more in the development and excellence of the profession. Meaghen Wills of Anchor Fire Protection in Perkiomenville, Pennsylvania; Tiffany Moore with Moore Fire Protection in Issaquah, Washington; Kevin Mozak of Meridian Fire Protection in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada,; and Stuart Weeks with American Fire Protection, Inc.,

Greenville, South Carolina; are past recipients. Nominations for the 2020 YPY award are due by April 1, 2020. Nominees do not need to be a member of AFSA to be eligible. Nominations may be submitted to AFSA online at firesprinkler.org/awards.

FIRE SPRINKLERS SAVE LIVES AWARD In addition to the awards presented annually at convention, AFSA’s Fire Sprinklers Save Lives award is presented year-round to recognize individuals outside the fire sprinkler industry who help dispel the myths about fire sprinklers by generating public awareness about this life-saving technology. AFSA’s Public Education & Awareness Committee accepts and recommends nominees for this award and they are approved by

the AFSA Board of Directors. Nominations may be submitted to AFSA online at firesprinkler.org/awards. The nomination will be considered at the next meeting of the committee.

FOCUS ON FIRE SPRINKLERS IN FLORIDA AFSA is destined for the East Coast in 2020! Join us at the Hilton Bonnet Creek in Orlando, Florida, September 13-16 for AFSA39: Convention, Exhibition & Apprentice Competition. This year’s event will feature the industry’s largest fire sprinkler exhibit, technical and managerial seminars, and the 27th Annual National Apprentice Competition. Bookmark firesprinkler.org/afsa39 to keep up to date with details as they are announced. n

HENRY S. PARMELEE AWARD PAST RECIPIENTS 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019

John M. Rhodes, Factory Mutual Research William J. Meyer, Central Sprinkler Corp.

C. B. Hall, American Automatic Sprinkler Co. Harold L. Black, Central Fire Protection, Inc. Edward J. Reilly, Ed Reilly Associates Richard T. Groos, The Viking Corporation Ron Coleman, Chief, Fullerton Fire Dept., CA Frank J. Fee III, Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Dr. John M. Bryan, University of Maryland, School of Fire Protection Engineering W. D. (Dave) Hilton, Chief, Cobb County Fire Dept., GA J. Frank Riseden, AFSA President 1983-1991 Haden B. Brumbeloe, Publisher, FPC Magazine Edward H. Smith, H.F.P. Corp.

Tom Waller, Viking Fire Protection of the SouthEast Chester W. Schirmer, Schirmer Engineering Tom Siegfried, Retired Chief, Altamonte Springs, FL Donald D. Becker, Midland Automatic Sprinkler Co. Robert L. McCullough, AllSouth Sprinkler Co. (awarded posthumously) Buck Buchanan, Central Sprinkler Corporation Frank M. Winiecki, General Sprinkler Corp.

Jack Viola, H.F.P. Corp.

Lowell Gillett, Fire Engineering Co., Inc. (retired) Joe Hankins, FM Global (retired) Art Cote, NFPA (retired) Thomas T. Groos, Viking Corp.

Bill Corbin, Mutual Sprinklers, Inc. Lloyd Ivy, AFSA Director of Membership 1986-2009 Martin L. “Marty” Giles, VSC Fire & Security Willie Templin, American Automatic Sprinkler, Inc. Bob Rees, Sunland Fire Protection Russ Leavitt, Telgian Corporation James Golinveaux, Tyco Fire Protection Products George Wagner, Worsham Sprinkler Company Steve Muncy, AFSA President 1992-2016 Bob Caputo, Fire & Life Safety America Kraig Kirschner, AFCON Manning Strickland, Strickland Fire Protection, Inc.

SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020 39

LEIGH KELLY WINS 2019 WALLER SCHOLARSHIP DONATIONS FUND THE FUTURE OF FIRE PROTECTION

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D’ARCY MONTALVO | AMERICAN FIRE SPRINKLER ASSOCIATION ach year, the Center for Life Safety Education (CLSE) and the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) jointly award the Thomas S. Waller Memorial Scholarship to one junior or senior enrolled in the Fire Protection and Safety Engineering Technology (FPSET) program at Oklahoma State University (OSU). The Thomas S. Waller Memorial Scholarship provides $2,000 in scholarship funds, paid directly to the OSU student’s account. The winner for the 2019-2020 academic year is Leigh Kelly, a senior studying fire protection safety engineering technology.

Kelly grew up surround by the idea of public service and the message of fire safety.

His grandfather served as a fire chief, and his father taught at the fire academy. Continuing the tradition, Kelly has been a volunteer firefighter for the past five years.

“Firefighting has refined my character, my work ethic, and my passion for improving the world around me,” says Kelly. “I mentor younger, incoming firefighters—teaching the basics they need to start as a firefighter and as a professional, including how to use our tools and tactics, and how the command system and politics work in the fire service.”

He continues: “I cannot think of a better way to utilize my abilities than to design and test fire protection and life-safety components and systems for real-life applications and maintain the protection features that no one else thinks twice about,” Kelly says.

Kelly is an active student around the OSU campus. He currently serves as vice president of the Fire Protection Society and secretary of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE). He has been a recipient of

40 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

several scholarships, including the Jensen and Associates FPST Award and the R.J. Douglas Memorial Endowment Fund. This past year Kelly has served as the SFPE representative to the College of Engineering, Architecture, and Technology (CET) Student Council.

“My most enjoyable role is the secretary for OSU’s Firefighter Combat Challenge club. The team lifts and practices to compete as the only collegiate team in the ESPN worldwide sport, testing the physical demands of firefighting and promoting firefighter fitness,” comments Kelly.

Virginia Charter, P.E. is an assistant professor and the program coordinator for the OSU FPSET program. “While having Leigh in class, I saw the amount of dedication and effort he puts into his studies… he was always willing to ask questions to understand the material fully. Leigh is an emerging leader in the OSU FPSET program. He is a person that other students look up to for advice and mentorship. He is also always looking to continue his growth and knowledge in the field of fire protection and safety. I expect great things to come from him after graduation,” Charter says.

Kelly plans to begin working as a fire protection and environmental health and safety consultant in Pennsylvania upon graduation. He wants to attain his Professional Engineer certification and stay active in the fire service, volunteering, and working with the fire academy. He is grateful for this scholarship.

“This particular award means so much to me because of ASFA’s pertinence and involvement in developing the fire protection industry,” Kelly says. “AFSA provides many learning opportunities and leads the industry

in professionalism.

Both qualities that match my aspirations as a student of fire protection.”

The Thomas S. Waller Memorial Scholarship was established in 2006 to honor the man who devoted more than 40 years to the fire protection industry. It has provided over $50,000 to FPSET students at OSU, the oldest fire/safety-related program in North America, and is the nation’s only ABET-accredited FPST program. All contributions made to this scholarship fund are tax-deductible. To make a donation to the Waller Scholarship fund, visit the CLSE website at clse.org and click on “Scholarships.”

“On behalf of both the CLSE and AFSA Board of Directors, as well as the generous donors to our CLSE fund, we are pleased to have the opportunity to offer this scholarship to a student who exemplifies the purpose for which this scholarship was created,” says AFSA President & CEO Debra McGuire, MBA, IOM, CAE. “Leigh’s hard work and commitment to serve—from being a volunteer firefighter to getting involved in leadership roles for several organizations and groups—represents that which Mr. Waller valued most. It is rewarding to support Leigh in his current studies, knowing that we are investing in a fire protection engineer dedicated to giving back to our industry over the long-haul. Leigh has seen first-hand how fire prevention saves lives and reduces property loss. We look forward to his future contributions.” n

WITH FIRE SPRINKLERS

Les and Diane Woods in their fire-sprinklered home in Tega Cay, SC. Les Woods is a Resident Fire Marshal and Division Chief with the Tega Cay Volunteer Fire Department. Lt. Diane Woods is Fire Prevention Officer for the department.

EVERYONE GOES HOME

®

“We’re firefighters, but we like having a firefighter in every room of the house.”

With home fire sprinklers, EVERYONE GOES HOME® Learn more: HomeFireSprinkler.org

®

Funded through a grant from State Farm ©2019 Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition

ROTECT SP E R E

ONE RY VE

Home fire sprinklers mean less exposure for firefighters and fire investigators.

Make them part of your community risk reduction plan.

SPRINK L

With 73 years in the fire service between them, Les and Diane Woods understand the dangers of home fires to both civilians and responders. In response, they’ve launched an ambitious educational strategy that already includes more than 60 public home fire sprinkler demonstrations across the southeast, and numerous fire service trainings. “We’re trying to educate as many people as possible,” Les says. They take their advocacy seriously and say they will never live in an unsprinklered home. In fact, they were the first in their county to install fire sprinklers in their own home. “We had to walk the walk and talk the talk,” Diane says. “It’s so much a part of our hearts and passion.”

IS A RECESSION COMING? FIVE WAYS TO PREPARE YOUR BUSINESS

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NICOLE DUVALL | AMERICAN FIRE SPRINKLER ASSOCIATION uch has been said about the state of the United States’ economy and its long-term forecast. Is it bullish or bearish? Trade wars. Inverted yield curves. Despite record employment, there are signs that the U.S. economy is weakening and that a market correction—perhaps not at the recession level—is nigh. While the Great Recession may have occurred a decade ago, many entrepreneurs still harbor painful memories and are understandably cautious about their spending.

Though economic downturns are part of the business cycle, there are steps leaders can take now to prepare their businesses to weather a storm and emerge stronger.

business by preparing your employees for NICET Level II in as little as 19 months!

“These professionals are the primary face of your company and have ten times or more the interaction with your customers than anyone else,” says Jason Williams, CET, AFSA’s manager of ITM technical training and lead instructor of the ITM program. “They can directly affect your sales, retention, and liability of your service. AFSA’s ITM program can help groom your professionals with real world training, information, and guidance.”

AFSA ITM program graduates achieved a 90 percent pass rate on NICET Level I & II Inspection and Testing exams, which well exceeds the 65 percent national average. More information can be found at firesprinkler.org/ITM.

1. INVEST NOW BY DIVERSIFYING YOUR OFFERINGS

2. SHORE UP YOUR SAFETY NET

The crash put many plans on hold, but a strategy now would be to dust off those expansion plans. Be careful, though.

Every successful business owner knows that they need to evaluate their revenue and cash-flow projections to make sure their future earnings warrant such a move.

Also, growth requires personnel and facilities sufficient to sustain increased demand. Consequently, now’s a great time for your business to invest in better equipment, facility upgrades, and specialized training—like AFSA’s ITM Inspector Development Program.

The steady workflow provided by adding an inspection, testing, and maintenance division kept many contractors afloat during the last recession, because when new construction halted, existing systems still needed to be inspected, tested, and maintained. Elevate your

42 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

When times are good, it is best to pay down debts starting with those with the highest interest rate—like credit cards, and if possible, to put excess funds into reserves. That said, business owners need to set realistic financial goals. Goals that feel like a bit of a stretch are usually the ones that keep us fired up and motivated.

Track your goal’s progress and then figure out how you can achieve them within a realistic time frame. Consider how your business might: • Maximize cash flow by narrowing the timing between sales and outlays for costs you incur in advance, such as inventory.

• Reduce your cash conversion cycle days (time it takes for money to come in from customers against the days when your supplier payments are due).

• Collect from customers faster.

Consider offering discounts for

paying promptly or require deposits from customers.

According to the McKinsey Institute, companies that were able to survive the last recession could finance internally through “high cash balances and a low dividend payout.” However, there is one way to keep a cash reserve and grow: secure some emergency financing.

Businesses can combine a flexible financing product (see tip #3) with a smaller cash reserve. This approach gives owners liquidity while allowing them to use more cash. Keep two things in mind: 1) use the line only for emergencies and 2) during severe recessions, lenders can cancel lines of credit.

3. BUILD YOUR CREDIT NOW Having financing during a recession can help your business survive—and grow.

However, getting financing during a recession can be difficult. Owners should explore bank loans, lines of credit, or other kinds of financing from different sources so they can find the most competitive terms available before they need them.

That way you can have funds at your fingertips exactly when­—or if—you need it. Acquiring a business line of credit also allows entrepreneurs to build credit and their credit score—which is never a bad thing during down times.

4. MAINTAIN—­AND GROW—YOUR CUSTOMER BASE Business owners will identify the strengths that have enabled your success to date, and those that will be important in the future. Identify your best or highestmargin customers and understand what you are doing right for them. Develop a game plan, in the event of a downturn, to protect and build on the strengths that

have allowed you to be indispensable to them. In the event of a dip in business, rather than cutting costs across the board, be ready to shift resources to retain these high-margin customers.

According to a Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) study, nearly one in six well-established businesses had encountered financial difficulty because of losing a single client. Marketing is one of the top line items companies consider decreasing during challenging economic times. It’s also the one most companies regret cutting when times are lean as it costs them market share in the long run. If you can’t afford an extensive marketing campaign, there are still lots of digital, low-cost alternatives to turn to such as Google AdWords, email, blogging, and social media, specifically LinkedIn.

• Conduct regular checkups: Instead of going full “crisis mode” once a downtown occurs, access the health of your business. Use data to guide how you build efficient teams, foster new leadership, and support your employees’ well-being. Those that are proactive—rather than reactive—to get better results.

Business owners who understand that recessions are normal and should be expected can prepare for them. Those who plan for all possible outcomes are best poised to survive. n

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Nicole Duvall is the director of communications & social media at the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) where she focuses on publishing the Association’s official communications. She has also assists with promotion of events and membership. Duvall currently serves as the AFSA staff liaison to the Public Education & Awareness Committee; Manufacturers & Suppliers Council; and the NextGen Initiative. She is also a member of the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition Board of Directors. Duvall is a graduate from Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas, with a degree in Journalism and is currently an MBA student at The College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia.

5. RETAIN TOP TALENT In the Great Recession, construction was one of the hardest hit industries with 2.3 million jobs lost, according to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics. Linked to the housing crash that started the recession, those jobs came back slowly. Many of the top skilled workers had long since moved on to another industry by the time construction came back to life. Employers win top talent when they can connect the company’s mission and values to top talent’s desire to make a difference in the world. More specifically employers must answer what the company does, why they do it, and how individuals fit in. In the fire sprinkler industry, we are literally in the business of saving lives. It doesn’t get much better than that!

FINAL THOUGHTS By the time anyone declares we’re in a recession, it’s too late to prepare for one.

That’s one reason it’s good to get ready now. Before a recession becomes official, there are warning signs. Actions to take: • Think long-term: The Boy Scouts’ famous motto “Be prepared” has many applications. Preparation can take much of the unknown out of the equation.

Give leaders tools for training, productivity, communication, and mitigation long before they need it.

SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020 43

HAVE ISSUES WITH ITM? MEMBERS SAVE TIME AND MONEY WITH INFORMAL INTERPRETATIONS

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he informal interpretations featured in this issue of Sprinkler Age address inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) issues. Informal interpretations are prepared by the American Fire Sprinkler Association’s (AFSA) Technical Services Department— John August Denhardt, PE, FSFPE, vice president of Engineering & Technical Services; Jason Williams, CET, manager of ITM Technical Training; and Tom Noble, CET, CFPS, CWBSP, technical programs specialist. This is provided with the understanding that the AFSA assumes no liability for this opinion or actions taken on it and they are not to be considered the official position of the NFPA or its technical committees.

SUBJECT: HYDROTESTING OF FDCS QUESTION: In NFPA 25, 2014 edition, it states in section 6.3.2.1 that the fire department connection (FDC) shall be hydrostatically tested every five years. I would like to know the proper way to test the FDC. If the FDC and its piping are above ground and inside the building, this is not a problem.

If the FDC is over a vault and has a wafer check installed, this creates a safety concern for testing. Being in a pit and cutting the bolts off a wafer check valve is a destructive means of testing the system and potential water engulfment in the pit. We also have FDCs that the check valve has been buried. What are your recommendations; would using a camera with a scope work to meet this code?

ANSWER: In response to your question, we have reviewed NFPA 25, Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems, 2014 edition as the applicable standard. Our informal interpretation is that an internal visual with a camera of the FDC

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and piping would not meet the requirement of the standard.

That said, I want to point out and discuss two different requirements for the FDC and its associated components. If we are discussing an FDC that is tied to an automatic sprinkler system, then we have to refer to section 13.7.4. Here we are told that every five years we must hydrostatically test from the fire department connection to the FDC check valve. This test requires that the piping and components be tested at 150 psi for two hours. This requirement does not place any additional pressure on the components that they are not listed for. Also, you could isolate the system controls valves to limit your test from the FDC to the manifold. The hurdle here is to get access to the automatic drain to plug for the duration of the test. It’s worth noting here that there is no guidance in the standard, annex, or the handbook for that matter, on how much pressure loss is allowable. In section A.6.3.2.1 for a very similar hydrostatic test for standpipe system FDCs that allows pressures over 175 psi, we’re told that even minimum leakage does not warrant repair. So, we have to ask what is our purpose? Are we looking to pressurize with water a normally dry portion of piping and hope to get all the water out once we have completed our test? Our history with dry systems tells us that a little bit of water and a lot of air can cause catastrophic damage to metallic system piping. With the approval of the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) or fire department, would a simple air test of 40 psi for two hours suffice testing the integrity of the piping? This test is acceptable for a dry system, to reasonably ensure that the dry piping is of good integrity. Now for section 6.3.2.1, I would argue the same as far as introducing water into normally dry piping. The concerns for safety in a confined area (pits) are warranted and all safety procedures shall be

followed when entering. But these areas are not exempt and if water is a concern, then procedures should be taken to sump out the water during the process. Again, isolating the piping prior to draining and preparing for the test should minimize the amount of water.

Other factors that should be considered are the frequencies for the forward flow test of the underground found in section 7.3.1 and the five-year internal inspection of check valves.

These additional inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) functions may be the driver on how you approach these type of system configurations.

You should also note that this is a relatively new requirement and we don’t believe the committee adequately reviewed the challenges associated with this simple sounding test nor did they provide adequate guidance regarding allowed leakage. As such, we will be bringing it up at the next NFPA 25 committee meeting.

SUBJECT: SPRINKLER TESTING SAMPLE AREAS QUESTION: The questions are in reference to NFPA 25, 2014 edition in section 5.3 for testing of sprinklers. (1) In the case of a multi-building apartment complex built concurrently in a single phase, is it appropriate to consider the entire complex as the sample area? (2) If the sample area is determined to be a single building, and not the entire complex, and any sample fails would this necessitate replacement of the heads only in the building with the failed sample and not the entire complex? Our concern is that we are treating multi-system warehouses differently than we are treating apartment complexes and are looking to develop standard procedures for all our inspectors and offices. Relative references are: section 5.3.1.1.1 – Where sprinklers have been in service for 50 years, they shall be

replaced or representative samples from one or more sample areas shall be tested. Section 5.3.1.1.1.6 – Dry sprinklers that have been in service for 10 years shall be replaced or representative samples shall be tested and then retested at 10-year intervals. Section 5.3.1.2 – A representative sample of sprinklers for testing per 5.3.1.1.1 shall consist of a minimum of not less than four sprinklers or 1 percent of the number of sprinklers per individual sprinkler sample, whichever is greater. Section 5.3.1.3 – Where one sprinkler within a representative sample fails to meet the test requirement, all sprinklers within the area represented by that sample shall be replaced.”

ANSWER: In response to your questions, we have reviewed NFPA 25, 2014 edition as the applicable standard. Our informal interpretation is as follows. To answer your first question as to if it is appropriate to consider the entire complex as your sample area, the answer is that it is allowed, but I would not say it is appropriate.

If just one of those sprinklers were to fail, then all sprinklers throughout the complex would need to be replaced. That approach would create a lot of risk whereby one sprinkler in a localized harsher environment could force the replacement of sprinklers in other areas that may not have failed. Since we have the option of defining the area covered by a single sample, the method to minimize that risk would be to obtain your samples from as many different exposing environments that exists throughout the complex. This would avoid allowing a single area to dictate the overall outcome. This methodology would certainly increase your sample areas (upfront cost), but in return minimize the impact of any failures and better reflect the influence of the localized environment on the activation of the sprinkler. It really boils down to involving the customer and explaining the cost and potential outcomes by increasing your sample area versus minimizing your sample area.

To answer your second question in regard to whether a single building if defined as your sample area could require replacement of all the sprinklers within a complex with multiple buildings, the answer is no. The only sprinklers that are required to be replaced are those within the area represented by that individual sample. To expand this further,

when you have multiple sample areas within a single building, a failure in only one sample does not require the replacement of sprinklers for the entire building.

It is worth mentioning that there are some cost-saving measures that can be applied to limit the number of sprinklers in your samples. For instance, if the same manufactured sprinklers are of the same family, for example a 155°F GBQR sidewall installed within a living area could represent also a 155°F GBQR pendent also installed within living areas. The same could apply for an industrial plant that might have the same manufacture and family of sprinklers with like characteristics but with different orientation.

SUBJECT: PRIVATE FIRE SERVICE FLOW TESTS QUESTION: We have done a test of the underground per section 7.3.1 of NFPA 25 (2014 edition). We performed the flow test by using a single fire hydrant to obtain the residual pressure, static pressure, and flow. The code official states that the test must be done per NFPA 291, Recommended Practice for Fire Flow Testing and Marking of Hydrants, (using separate hydrants for reading the gauges and flowing water). I feel our process is adequate since NFPA 291 is not referenced in the standard but only mentioned in the annex. It also shows doing the test from the main drain or the fire department connection without the check valve.

ANSWER: In response to your question, we have reviewed NFPA 25, 2014 edition as the applicable standard. Our informal interpretation is that the flow test is not required to be conducted per NFPA 291.

Chapter 7.3.1 states that a flow test shall be conducted of the underground and exposed piping serving hydrants.

Section A.7.3.1 of NFPA 25 references acceptable methods other than just through yard hydrants to verify supply flow and pressure. The intent of the test is to ensure that there is still adequate flow and pressure to meet the demand for fire protection, including but not limited to the fire sprinkler system, that the private mains serve. NFPA 25, 2014 edition expands on the requirement in sections 7.3.1.1 and 7.3.1.2, where it states if there are no means to conduct a full flow test,

then the maximum available flow shall be permitted. The reason for the multiple options in testing is because the NFPA 25 committee understood that a vast amount of private fire service undergrounds would not have hydrants. What this tells us is that the committee had no intent for the test to be a real high level of accuracy (such as that required for flow tests used for system design). By allowing test methods through main drains, FDCs, and hose connections, where there is only a single means of measuring flow and the static and residual pressures, tells us that the acceptable level of accuracy is lower than a flow test conducted per NFPA 291.

Furthermore, in the 2011 and 2017 editions the verbiage “serving hydrants” is not present, with the intent to include all underground and exposed piping servicing fire protection. Few, if any, of the individual supply mains have hydrants and the intent is to provide a reasonable degree of assurance that the system demand can be met. As such, extending a higher degree of accuracy to a minuscule portion of the underground piping is not warranted.

SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020 45

SUBJECT: TESTING OF DIFFERENT SPRINKLERS QUESTION: In NFPA 25, 2017 edition section A.5.3.1.2, it suggests adding additional sprinklers to test if the samples are of different manufacturers with the use of “would” and not “will.” Is this similar to the use of “should” and “shall” in NFPA standards? For my fast response pendent samples, there are both Reliable and Tyco sprinklers installed. Do I take the minimum four or 1 percent of each? The language suggests to me to take samples in addition to the minimum. What would be an acceptable number of additional sample sprinklers from a different manufacturer? For example; Reliable sprinklers were originally installed, but the replacement sprinklers installed were Tyco. Now, the majority are Reliable sprinklers 20 or more years old. Do I take four Reliable sprinkler samples and two Tyco sprinklers samples or equal numbers of each to meet the minimum? Furthermore, what if I have more than two manufacturers of similar characteristic sprinklers? How would I base the numbers of additional sample sprinklers?

ANSWER: In response to your question, we have reviewed NFPA 25, 2017 edition as the applicable standard.

Our informal interpretation is as follows.

Section 5.3.1.2 tells us to take a representative sample of the sprinklers within an area. Typically, areas are divided by environmental conditions. For example, a loading dock/storage area is different area compared to the office space of a highrise, or the office area of a warehouse from the storage area due to a likely difference in corrosion potential. This avoids having sample sprinklers from harsher locations dictating replacement of sprinklers in a more environmentally controlled area. In determining the makeup of the sample within an area, we have to represent all sprinklers within that area. To answer your first question about “would” versus “will,” the entire annex is explanatory material, and should only be considered as such. It is not considered a part of the body nor the enforceable portion of the standard.

Having said that, the annex provides guidance of what is intended and typically

46 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

enforced. Section A.5.3.1.2 tells us that multiple sprinklers with different orientations (by the same manufacturer) but have similar frames, response, etc. and installed in the same environment could be considered representative of those sprinklers. If all the sprinklers were effectively one model, then you take the assigned minimum number of samples (1 percent or four whichever is greater). If you have multiple models (that are effectively different types or families of components) by the same manufacturer, those must be included in the sample.

There is no minimum number per model and said family can be represented by a single sprinkler, though logic tells us a proportional relationship makes sense. If you have multiple manufacturers with multiple models of each, you have to have at least one from each family. This can create a sample that is larger than the minimum-defined size.

That why the section says not less than and the annex says additional sprinklers would be included within the sample.

As for different installation dates, as long as the newer replacement sprinklers are included in the sample, they become a part of the whole and their clock becomes aligned with the older sprinklers. Attempting to make them a separate sample would quickly become a logistical nightmare.

The bottom line is in defining the size of the sample. If you try to minimize the cost for testing by having just one sample, you run the risk of having to replace all the sprinklers throughout the facility. It really boils down to including the customer in the process and allowing them to be a part of the decision making and understanding the cost to benefit.

SUBJECT: SPRINKLER POSITION AND MISSING ESCUTCHEON QUESTION: We’ve been notified by an AHJ that the missing recessed escutcheon(s) within our customer’s building is considered an impairment and should be “red tagged.” We are in disagreement based on table A.3.3.7 due to the correct positioning of the sprinkler and the definition of impairment. Are we as the inspecting contractor missing something here with regard to the intent of NFPA 25?

ANSWER: In response to your question, we have reviewed NFPA 25, 2014 edition as the applicable standard. Our informal interpretation is that there can be a difference in classification of the deficiency based on the ability to control the fire.

We can all agree per section 5.2.1.1.6, if the escutcheon is missing from a recessed or flush sprinkler it shall be replaced and is a deficiency. Equally, if the coverplate is missing from a concealed sprinkler, it too must be replaced. The reason is that the coverplates and escutcheons are considered an integral part of the listing for the sprinkler(s) of concern. As far as defining the type of deficiency, a missing escutcheon or coverplate is. The wording on this issue is split up in table A.3.3.7 and was done for good reason. It is a little muddled, so it can be easily misinterpreted. One finding, and I’m paraphrasing, is “deflector and operating element in correct position.” If the deflector and element look to be in the correct position, then the deficiency is noncritical.

The other finding below that, in regard to “escutcheons and coverplates” states “deflector and operating element not in correct position.” Note the addition of “not” within the stated finding. What does it mean by the deflector and operating element not in correct position? For instance, if the deflector is far enough above the lower plane of the ceiling, whereby the water will not likely discharge into the room, then it would be an impairment. There’s also a related concern regarding the ability to activate (thus the reference to the operating element), but it’s a lot easier to focus on the location of the deflector. That is what the annex is attempting to address—the positioning of the deflector and the capability to operate.

To be classified as an impairment per section 3.3.21, the deficiency would have to be a condition where the fire protection system or unit or portion would be out of order and not function in the event of a fire.

A pendent sprinkler(s) in position, merely missing the outer ring of the escutcheon could in no way be deemed out of order. n EDITOR’S NOTE: AFSA members can access past informal interpretations online at firesprinkler.org. Click on “Technical Services” and then “Informal Interpretations.” (Member username and password required to gain entry.)

MERIT SHOP SCORES RELEASED FLORIDA TOPS RANKINGS FOR SECOND YEAR IN A ROW

A

ssociated Builders and Contractors (ABC) has released its 2019 Merit Shop Scorecard, an annual ranking based on state policies and programs that encourage workforce development, career and technical education, job growth, and promote fair and open competition for taxpayer-funded construction projects.

Florida topped the list for the second year in a row based on the state’s continued commitment to pro free-enterprise policies and workforce development initiatives impacting the construction industry. Kentucky saw the biggest improvement in its ranking, jumping from 23rd in 2018 to seventh this year after passing the Fair and Open Competition Act in March, which ensures all of the

state’s skilled construction workforce and qualified businesses can compete on a level playing field for contracts to build state and local public works projects.

“Policymakers from Florida and other top ranked states have created the conditions for merit shop construction contractors to thrive, which ultimately benefits taxpayers,” said Ben Brubeck, ABC’s vice president of Regulatory, Labor and State Affairs. “By prioritizing workforce development and policies that allows for fair and open competition, these top-ranking states have created an environment that leads to good-paying jobs, increased opportunities for small businesses and overall economic growth across the state.”

Comparatively, Alaska dropped from 44th to last place this year due to a lack of funding for initiatives promoting workforce

development, which remains a top priority for ABC and its members. Illinois, in second to last place, received an F rating in project labor agreements, prevailing wage, right-to-work and workforce development incentives for the third year in a row. In addition, Nevada fell from 22nd to 29th due to the repeal of the state’s pro-taxpayer fair and open competition law and rollback of sensible prevailing wage reforms.

Now in its fifth year, “Building America: The Merit Shop Scorecard” rates state laws, programs, policies and statistics in seven categories: project labor agreements, prevailing wage and right-towork laws, public-private partnerships; workforce development, career and technical education; and job growth rate.

Criteria and definitions are available on meritshopscorecard.org. n

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www.firesprinkler.org/fittertraining SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020 47

BUILDERS, BUYERS OPTIMISTIC ABOUT HOUSING BRIGHTER OUTLOOK THAN ORIGINALLY FORECAST

R

enewed activity in home sales along with low interest rates and a more positive forecast for the economy in the year ahead have boosted builder and buyer confidence in the housing market.

While price increases and a shortage of inventory have hamstrung purchases of existing homes, sales of new homes have been increasing. That trend is likely to continue into 2020 as builders continue to respond to pressures to build more affordable homes.

At the time of writing, housing data from November were not available. However, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) announced its Housing Market Index (HMI) for December jumped five points from the previous month to its highest level since June 1999, signaling growing demand for new construction in November.

Index gains were especially strong for current market conditions, up seven points from the month before. The measure of prospective buyer traffic increased four points.

The outlook for sales of existing homes was less certain. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reported that pending home sales declined in October after two months of positive growth.

NAR chief economist Lawrence Yun attributed the drop to a slight sudden uptick in mortgage rates during the month as well as the ongoing insufficient supply of available homes, especially those at entry-level price points. Markets where listing prices

48 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

were around $250,000 drew some of the most significant buyer attention, noted Yun. On the buyer side, Fannie Mae stated its Home Purchase Sentiment Index (HPSI), which has remained fairly strong in the second half of the year, rebounded in November to 91.5 after a slight decline in October, reapproaching the survey high reached of 93.8 in August of this year.

Gains were especially strong among respondents who said now is a good time to buy (up 11 points), in part because more anticipate that housing prices will increase in the coming 12 months (up seven points) but that mortgage rates will hold steady.

Respondents also indicated some improvement in household income (up two points) while expressing confidence that their employment was secure.

Looking past November, industry analysts are already weighing in on what market conditions will look like in 2020. The general consensus is for modest growth, with sluggish existing home sales and slight improvement in new home construction and sales.

Nationwide’s Health of Housing Markets Report for the fourth quarter of 2019 concludes, “Demand for housing remains strong in response to above-trend household growth, solid job gains, and low mortgage rates— factors that drive a positive outlook for housing for 2020.”

Experts caution, though, that growth will not be equal in all regions or metro areas. Economists for real estate website Zillow point to strong demand in “the nation’s most broadly

affordable markets,” while buyers in high-priced markets will be forced “to fan out in search of areas they can better afford.”

Builders will continue to face many of the same challenges that have hampered production in recent years.

According to a poll conducted by Professional Builder magazine, “Seventyeight percent of builders anticipate prices of materials and overall bids will increase next year and they continue to face challenges for skilled labor and managing regulations and entitlement fees.”

Although final figures for 2019 will not be available until January or later, it appears the industry as whole will end the year in a growth positive position and may improve somewhat in 2020. That may not sound like much to celebrate, but it’s a brighter outlook than what was predicted just a quarter ago. n ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Michael J. Berens is a freelance researcher and writer with more than 30 years of experience in association communication and management. He can be reached at mjberensresearch@ gmail.com.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Reprinted with permission from Multiview’s MultiBriefs online.

PCA FORECAST IS MODERATE FOR NEXT TWO YEARS MODERATE CEMENT CONSUMPTION AND GDP GROWTH ANNUALLY

T

he Portland Cement Association (PCA) released its annual Fall Forecast which predicts moderate growth for cement consumption through 2019 and into 2020. PCA Market Intelligence expects cement consumption will grow by 2.4 percent in 2019, 1.7 percent in 2020, and 1.4 percent in 2021.

“Public construction continues to receive the benefit of the 2018 federal budget that allowed for $20 billion in spending on roads, bridges, water, and rail projects over 2018 and 2019,” said Ed Sullivan, PCA senior vice president and chief

economist. “These gains come in the context of increased challenges at the state level to manage deficits as entitlement spending growth continues at a strong pace.”

PCA’s analysis adds that the labor market continues to power the United States economy and on a monthly basis has generated 161,000 net new jobs since the start of the year. Coupled with mild inflation rates and the continued rise of home prices, it will take some time before the economy takes a significant downturn.

“The economy is now the longest economic expansion post-World War II history. Some of the pent-up demand zip that

invigorates the initial stages of economic recovery are long past. As such, the economy is now more vulnerable to economic shocks,” said Sullivan. “While PCA does not believe data revealed by the economy suggests a recession is near, it does point to a gradually weakening economy.”

PCA forecasts real GDP will grow 2.4 percent this year and weaken in subsequent years to 2.1 percent in 2020 and 1.7 percent in 2021. Visit cement.org/economics. n The Portland Cement Association (PCA), founded in 1916, serves America’s cement manufacturers. PCA members represent 91 percent of U.S. cement production capacity and have facilities in all 50 states. Visit cement.org.

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CALENDAR MARCH 2020

9-20 • AFSA Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School Dallas, TX firesprinkler.org/schools

APRIL 2020

15 • ITM Inspector Development Program Spring 2020 Cycle Live Webinar Kick-Off firesprinkler.org/ITM

JUNE

1-12 • AFSA Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School Dallas, TX firesprinkler.org/schools

JULY

20-31 • AFSA Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School Dallas, TX firesprinkler.org/schools

SEPTEMBER

13-16 • AFSA39: Convention, Exhibition, & Apprentice Competition Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek Orlando, FL firesprinkler.org/AFSA39 21 - October 2 • AFSA Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School Dallas, TX firesprinkler.org/schools

NOVEMBER

9-20 • AFSA Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School Dallas, TX firesprinkler.org/schools

Seminars subject to change.

Call (214) 349-5965 to confirm locations and times. For information on Chubb and/ or OSU programs, visit firesprinkler.org and click on “Training Calendar.”

50 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

AFSA NEWS DENHARDT JOINS AFSA

The American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) has selected John August Denhardt, P.E., FSFPE, as its new vice president DENHARDT of Engineering & Technical Services, effective January 6, 2020. Denhardt will be responsible for strengthening AFSA’s engineering and technical approaches to meeting member, industry and operational priorities, with an emphasis on service, quality, and integrity.

“It is a great privilege to have the opportunity to serve AFSA as the vice president for Engineering & Technical Services and to continue to improve the technical capabilities of AFSA’s members,” Denhardt said. “I am excited to join an organization that I have been involved with for over 25 years. I cannot wait to get to work doing what I love.”

Prior to accepting this position, Denhardt was employed by Strickland Fire Protection in Forestville, Maryland since 1994, overseeing large scale projects and assisting with design and install technical concerns. He has served as an AFSA instructor, volunteered as a subject matter expert assisting with AFSA training updates, represented the Association on various technical committees, and authored numerous articles in the Association’s flagship publication Sprinkler Age. In 2010, he was named a Fellow in the International Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE).

“John understands and values the unique mission and potential of AFSA, and he has a first-class background in the industry,” said AFSA President & CEO Debra McGuire, CAE, IOM, MBA. “Highly regarded by AFSA leadership, membership, and staff throughout his 35-plus years in the fire sprinkler industry, John has demonstrated extraordinary judgment and passion for technical training, standard and code development, and the industry as a whole. I look forward to working closely with him in this new capacity.”

Denhardt is a Professional Engineer

(P.E.) registered in the District of Columbia as well as the states of Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. In addition to his P.E., he is a NICET Level III in Automatic Sprinkler System Layout and Inspection & Testing of Water-Based Systems as well as NFPA Certified Water-Based Systems Professional (CWBSP). He previously held positions at E-B-L Fire Engineering in Timonium, Maryland, M.K. Ferguson Company in Annapolis Junction, Maryland, and Pyron, Inc. in Baltimore. A native of Maryland, Denhardt holds a bachelor’s degree in Fire Protection Engineering from the University of Maryland in College Park.

AFSA WELCOMES FOSTER

AFSA is pleased to announce and welcome Clint Foster as instructional designer in the Education Services Department. In this role, he will create and maintain e-learning courses FOSTER and assist with Learning Management System (LMS) administration. Foster’s work background and experience include serving as an instructional designer, customer service agent, Subject Matter Expert, account design representative, and LMS administrator. He is certified by the Association for Talent Development and a member of the North Texas Articulate User Group. Please join AFSA in welcoming Clint Foster to the team. He can be reached at cfoster@firesprinkler.org.

FAREWELL TO KORENTHAL

On January 7, 2020, Kevin Korenthal, chapter relations manager for AFSA, announced that he would leave the headquarter staff of AFSA to pursue another opportunity. We all wish him well on this new chapter of his career! During Korenthal’s service he has made an impact at AFSA and we thank him for his contributions. Several new chapters were started, the chapter grants process has been streamlined, and we are more aware of legislative activities.

Korenthal’s last day with AFSA is January 22. After that date, please direct inquiries to chapters@firesprinkler.org. Liz Messner, CAE, vice president of Membership and Communications will ensure that she and her team are responsive to your needs. Serving chapters will continue to be a top priority and business will carry on as usual.

ITM SPRING 2020 CLASS OPEN FOR ENROLLMENT

Registration for AFSA’s Spring 2020 ITM Inspector Development Program is open! In only its third year, the program continues to hit new milestones: The fourth class graduated in June 2019; over 120 students have enrolled in this industry-first ITM program; and AFSA delivered over 7,000 hours of ITM training in 2018 through blended methods including live webinars, live classroom, and hands-on learning.

AFSA ITM students lead the way and outperform national average exam scores on both NICET Level I and Level II I&T exams, and AFSA boasts an 90 percent NICET exam pass rate versus the national average of 65 percent! For more details or to register, visit firesprinkler.org/ITM.

LEARN THE ART OF DESIGN IN 2020

The American Fire Sprinkler Association’s (AFSA) Beginning Fire Sprinkler Design System Planning School is already preparing beginning designers to make a difference in 2020! This class presents a comprehensive, practical approach to preparing fire sprinkler system drawings. Students receive two full weeks of instruction, 60 percent of which is study and review of NFPA 13 (2016 edition).

The other 40 percent is preparation of fire sprinkler system layout, shop drawings and hydraulic calculations. Reserve your designer’s spot today for one of the remaining 2020 schools: March 9-20, June 1-12, July 20-31, September 21-October 2, and November 9-20. For more details and to register visit firesprinkler.org/schools.

AFSA HIGH SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINE IS APRIL 1

From now until April 1, 2020, eligible high school seniors can visit afsascholarship.org to apply for one of AFSA’s high school scholarships. Open to 2019-2020 high school seniors

who want to pursue a college degree or trade school education the scholarship offers the chance to win one of 10 scholarships. The best part? The AFSA scholarship contest has no essay-writing required, instead applicants simply visit the website, read a short passage on fire protection and fire sprinklers, and answer questions about the reading. Each correct answer offers one entry into the scholarship contest, with a total of eight entries possible per applicant!

Winners are randomly selected to receive a one-time $2,000 AFSA scholarship payable to their respective college, university, or trade

school. To learn more and apply for the scholarship, visit afsascholarship.org before April 1, 2020. For those who don’t win, AFSA offers a “second-chance” contest during the summer months on the same website. College undergraduate and graduate students are eligible for the “second-chance” contest and winners receive one of five $1,000 scholarships payable to their respective college, university, or trade school. Visit afsascholarship.org for details and to enter online.n

RELIEVE THE WINTER

FREEZE Auxiliary drains that freeze and break are the main cause of fire sprinkler failures in winter months. Stop replacing auxiliary drains that freeze and break with auxiliary drains that freeze and break.

Less than half an ounce of water can break valves on auxiliary drains. This may result in false activation and system failure. The COLLECTanDRAIN® Model 5400 provides a temperature controlled environment for problematic auxiliary drains. This increases their capacity to collect condensation in colder temperatures and helps prevent unnecessary freeze-ups. Don’t wait until an auxiliary drain breaks, install a Model 5400 now and be ready for winter.

www.collectandrain.com SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020 51

CHAPTER NEWS CONNECTICUT

The Connecticut Chapter of AFSA hosted their annual holiday party on December 5, 2019 at Dakota’s Restaurant in Rocky Hill, Connecticut. The members of the Chapter collected monetary donations and grocery store gift cards donations to provide to the Connecticut Food Share to support local residents in need during the holidays and beyond. Thank you to all members who participated through donations. Visit afsact.org.

SACRAMENTO VALLEY

On Thursday, November 14, the Sacramento Valley Chapter of AFSA hosted seminars on that offered CAL-Fire approved Fitter CE instruction.

The seminars covered “NFPA 13: Seismic Protection of Fire Sprinkler, 2016 Edition” as well as “NFPA 13: Technical Changes from the 2013 to 2016 Edition” The Sacramento Valley Chapter was pleased with a robust turn out of 90 participants.

Additionally on Thursday, December 10, the chapter held its year-end dinner and meeting where they presented the chapter’s donation of $10,000 to the FireFighters Burn Institute. This donation was made possible by all the teams and sponsors that participated in the softball tournament. Thank you for your participation!

Visit sacvalleyafsa.org.

1

SOUTH CAROLINA

On November 15, the AFSA South Carolina Chapter held a chapter meeting at which General Air Products presented on air supplies including the pros and cons of compressors, dry air generators, and nitrogen generators. Thank you to all who attended this presentation and made it a success. Visit scfsa.org.

2

SOUTHEASTERN AREA

Southeastern area members, join the AFSA Georgia, Virginia, Tennessee, South Carolina, and North Carolina Chapters in gathering together in May 20-22, 2020, for the first-ever AFSA Southeastern Convention in Asheville, North Carolina. A collaboration between chapters like no other, you won’t want to miss it! This year’s inaugural convention will take place at the Biltmore Estate, a historic house museum and tourist attraction in Asheville, North Carolina. Biltmore House, the main residence, is a Châteauesque-style mansion built for George Washington Vanderbilt II between 1889 and 1895 and is the largest privately owned house in the United States, at 178,926 ft2 (16,622.8 m2) of floor space. Still owned by George Vanderbilt’s descendants, it remains one of the most prominent examples of Gilded Age mansions. You can learn more about the convention and register at afsa-sec.com. n

3 PHOTOS: 1: Abby and Gil Paradis presenting the donations on behalf of the AFSA Connecticut Chapter at the Connecticut Food Share in Wallingford.

2: Sacramento Valley Chapter members donated $10,000 to the FireFighters Burn Institute.

3: Ray Fremont, Jr. with General Air Products was the featured presenter at the South Carolina Chapter’s November meeting.

52 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

E C I T N E APPR

S

N I W O T P I R A T

!

O d n a l Or E N T E R A F S A 's 2 7 t h A n n u a l

National Apprentice Competition!

Seven National Finalists Will Receive:

4 4 4 4

A trip to Orlando, FL to compete at AFSA39 Convention, Exhibition, and Apprentice Competition Sept. 13-16, 2020 A complimentary AFSA39 registration for their employer or guest Hand tools Cash prizes, up to $5,000

firesprinkler.org/competition

AFSA CHAPTERS AFSA CHAPTERS Alabama alfiresprinkler.org Hunter Brendle – Pres.

334-270-8571 Greg Willis – Exec. Dir. 334-567-4257

Colorado afsacoloradochapter.org Roger Wallace – Chair.

719-337-6550 Kim Cook – Exec. Dir. 704-213-4368

Alberta, Canada afsaalberta.org Kevin Mozak – Pres.

780-203-5263

Connecticut afsact.org Rick Russo – Chair.

203-877-7983

Arizona Bob Caputo – Chair.

864-222-1381 Makenna Leathers – Exec. Dir. 480-464-0509

Dallas-Fort Worth afsadfwchapter.org CJ Bonczyk – Chair.

817-529-1693

Arkansas Randy Gilliam– Chair.

479-646-8934 Coleman Farrar – Exec. Dir. 479-986-9090

Florida afsafl.org Chris Johnson – Chair.

800-327-7604 Jessica Cox – Exec. Dir. 813-784-3624

Carolinas afsacarolinaschapter.com Bernie Parsons – Chair.

704-782-3032 John Turnage – Exec. Dir. 919-624-3456

Georgia georgiafiresprinkler.org Allen Cagle – Chair.

770-554-5285 Bonnie Pinson – Exec. Dir. 770-310-2754

Chesapeake Bay afsachesapeakechapter.org Jay Zollars – Chair.

410-286-3314 Danielle Fowler – Exec. Dir. 410-960-3450

Greater Bay Area afsa-gba.org Dave Karrick – Chair.

925-417-5550 Alicia Karrick – Exec. Dir. 510-398-9185

Greater Kansas City Mark McKenzie – Chair.

913-432-6688 Brett Heinrich– Exec. Dir. 785-825-7710 Louisiana lafiresprinkler.org Linda Biernacki – Chair.

318-688-8800 Ellen Ballard– Exec. Dir. 318-688-8800 Michigan afsamichiganchapter.org Doug Irvine, Jr.- Chair 616-784-1644 Minnesota-Dakotas Marc Haug – Chair.

701-232-7008 New Jersey Thomas Bowlby Jr. – Chair.

908-226-5313 Victor Lugo – Exec. Dir. 201-635-0400 New Mexico Jason Carter – Chair.

505-255-4118 Dave Wilson – Exec. Dir. 505-573-6712

South Carolina scfsa.org Stuart Weeks – Chair.

843-442-3346 Taylor Young – Exec. Dir. 980-253-3241

Pacific Northwest afsanw.org Josh Massingale – Chair.

360-794-8621 Ron Greenman – Exec. Dir. 253-576-9700

Southern California socalafsa.com Terry Housholder– Chair.

714-632-8646 Amber Barrios - Exec. Dir. 562-833-9492

Patriot afsapatriot.org Chad Dubuc – Chair.

508-431-9938 Wendy Callahan – Exec. Dir. 978-855-6495

Tennessee afsatennesseechapter.org Casey Milhorn – Chair.

615-349-5278 Leslee Kiser – Exec. Dir. 615-865-5600

Sacramento Valley sacvalleyafsa.org Jordan Hopkins – Chair.

916-672-8415 Paulene Norwood – Exec. Dir. 916-296-0635

Upstate New York afsaupstatenychapter.org Justin Petcosky - Chair 607-296-7969 Utah Rocky Mountain afsautahchapter.org Mark Winder, Jr. – Chair.

385-630-8064 Brent Heiner – Exec. Dir. 801-544-0363

San Diego Ron Aday – Chair.

858-513-4949 ext. 307 Rhonda Hill – Exec. Dir. 951-326-4600

Northern New England Ryan Gadhue – Chair.

802-865-3600

Virginia afsavirginia.com Jack Medovich, PE – President 804-222-1381 Michael Christensen – Exec. Dir. 804-371-7456

Schuylkill afsasc.org Ben Young – Chair.

480-621-5074 Ilyse Shapiro – Exec. Dir. 610-642-7427

AFSA AFFILIATE MEMBERS Oklahoma Affiliate ofsa.info Gary Field – Chairman 918-266-2416

Ohio afsaoh.org Bill Hausman – Chair 937-859-6198 Scott Huber – Exec. Dir. 513-276-3076

Texas Affiliate fscatx.org David Stone – Pres.

713-466-9898 Sarah Kiefer – Exec. Dir.

Alberta, Canada

Pacific

Northw

est

Northern New England

Minnesota-Dakotas

Upstate New York

Sacramento Valley Greater Bay

Utah

Southern California

San Diego

Connecticut

Michigan

Arizona

Schuylkill

Ohio

Colorado

New Mexico

Virginia

Greater Kansas City Oklahoma (Affiliate)

Arkansas

Dallas Fort Worth

South Carolina Alabama

Louisiana

Georgia

a

id

or

Fl

Texas (Affiliate)

Carolinas

Tennessee

54 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

Patriot

New Jersey Chesapeake Bay

AFSA MEMBERSHIP NEW MEMBERS The following is a list of new contractor members that have joined as of January 8, 2020.

CONTRACTORS

ASSOCIATES

Allsafe Fire Protection Vacaville, CA

K. Bell Fire Sprinkler Protection Ogden, UT

Centennial Fire Systems, LLC Centennial, CO

S Fire Inc. Newhall, CA

InCom Mechanical, Inc. Petaluma, CA

Tri-State Fire Protection, Inc. Sewell, NJ

Chengdu Weeson Tech Co., Ltd. Suchuan, China

Jones Fire Protection, Inc. Haiku, HI

CONSTRUCTION REPORTS U.S. CONSTRUCTION...

October Construction Starts Fall 11 Percent New construction starts declined 11 percent in October to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $696.3 billion, according to Dodge Data & Analytics. This is the third consecutive monthly drop in construction starts activity. By major sector, nonresidential building starts fell 20 percent from September to October and nonbuilding starts dropped 14 percent, while residential starts moved 2 percent lower. The October statistics pushed the Dodge Index down to 147 (2000=100) compared to 166 in September.

Through the first 10 months of the year, total construction starts were 4 percent lower than in the same period of 2018. Both residential and nonresidential construction starts were down through 10 months, although nonbuilding starts remained on the plus side due to gains in electric utilities/gas plants and environmental public works.

Monthly Summary of Construction Contract Value Prepared by Dodge Data & Analytics

U.S. CONSTRUCTION...

Construction Starts Surge 37 Percent Higher in November Construction starts moved 37 percent higher from October to November, reaching a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $988.9 billion, according to Dodge Data & Analytics. The large percentage gain was not only a response to a particularly weak October, but also numerous massive projects that broke ground during the month. By major sector, nonresidential building starts gained 61 percent over the month, while nonbuilding starts moved 82 percent higher. Residential building starts were flat from October to November.

November’s gain pushed the Dodge Index to 209 (2000=100) compared to the 153 posted in October. The dichotomy between the weakness in October and strength in November is startling. However, the average of the two months is 181—not much higher than the 11-month average of 173.

Monthly Summary of Construction Contract Value Prepared by Dodge Data & Analytics

MONTHLY CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT VALUE Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rates, In Millions

Oct. 2019 Sept. 2019 % Change Nonresidential Building $225,802 $281,575 20 Residential Building $311,306 $316,612 -2 Nonbuilding Construction $159,166 $185,820 14 Total Construction $696,274 $784,007 -11 THE DODGE INDEX (Year 2000=100, Seasonally Adjusted) October 2019..................147 September 2019... ..........166

MONTHLY CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT VALUE Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rates, In Millions

Nov. 2019 Oct. 2019 % Change Nonresidential Building $366,472 $227,625 61 Residential Building $299,857 $319,190 -0Nonbuilding Construction $288,481 $158,796 82 Total Construction $988,863 $721,999 +37 THE DODGE INDEX (Year 2000=100, Seasonally Adjusted) November 2019..................209 October 2019......................153

YEAR-TO-DATE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT VALUE Unadjusted Totals, In Millions

10 Mos. 2019 10 Mo. 2018 % Change Nonresidential Building $237,429 $255,736 -7 Residential Building $268,482 $284,247 -6 Nonbuilding Construction $165,478 $162,903 +2 Total Construction $671,389 $702,886 -4

YEAR-TO-DATE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT VALUE Unadjusted Totals, In Millions

11 Mos. 2019 11 Mos. 2018 % Change Nonresidential Building $270,557 $279,241 -3 Residential Building $296,003 $309,264 -4 Nonbuilding Construction $188,404 $177,178 +6 Total Construction $754,964 $765,683 -1

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PEOPLE NEWS IN MEMORIAM: JOHN W. HOGUND

AFSA members and staff were saddened to learn that John W. Hoglund, director emeritus, Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute (MFRI), passed away on January 2, 2020. Hoglund was dedicated to the fire service. In 1963 he was recruited to join the faculty of the Maryland Fire Service Extension Department, University of Maryland. In 1970 he became director and collaborated with University officials, fire service organizations, and Annapolis legislators to nurture the funding and growth of statewide emergency services training and education, leading to the 1975 legislative mandate that created the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute (MFRI). During his 22-year tenure as director, MFRI opened six statewide regional fire training centers and broadened its curriculum to include state of the art fire, safety, and rescue training programs. Today MFRI is a nationally recognized fire training and educational institute.

At the national level, Hoglund formed lasting bonds with multiple organizations to improve firefighting training and safety. He was inducted into the Maryland State Firemen’s Association’s Hall of Fame for his contributions to the Maryland fire service. His many other awards and recognitions included being the recipient of IFSTA’s Everett Hudiburg Trophy for significant contributions to the training of fire service personnel.

Survivors include his beloved wife Nancy; children Jackie Hoglund, Jeanne Velasco, John Hoglund IV, and Jennifer Henkens; and grandson Matthew Velasco.

Visitation and a Fire Prayer Service were held January 10 with a Mass of Christian Burial held January 11. Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery. Donations may be made to the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial (firehero.org) or the National Fire Heritage Center (fireheritageusa.org).

HAMILTON JOINS TELGIAN FIRE SAFETY AS DIRECTOR, SUPPLY CHAIN

Telgian Fire Safety has announced the appointment of Cory Hamilton as director, Supply Chain. In this position, Hamilton will be responsible for the management of the Dispatch Team, as well as the Vendor Services Team. Hamilton brings over 15 years of supply chain management experience to Telgian, including the monitoring of P&L’s, the use of capacity models to optimize facilities, the implementation of standard delivery applications,

56 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

and essential contract negotiations.

Prior to joining Telgian, Hamilton served as regional operations engineering manager, Western United States for BeavEx Incorporated, an HAMILTON on-demand logistics and delivery solutions firm.

There, he led the organization’s supply chain department, continuously improving all aspects of the business within his purview. He has also served in a number of leadership roles at OnTrac, a logistics company, and Adsun, a commercial glass and ceramic printing firm.

Hamilton is a U.S. Army veteran who earned his Bachelor of Science, Applied Mathematics from the University of Houston and a Master of Science, Industrial Engineering from Arizona State University.

Visit telgian.com.

CARLI NAMED TO NATIONAL FALLEN FIREFIGHTER FOUNDATION BOARD

The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) recently announced the appointment of new members to their Board of Directors including the addition of Lorraine Carli, National CARLI Fire Protection Association (NFPA) vice president of Outreach and Advocacy. In her role overseeing media, public affairs, and advocacy activities; the NFPA Journal magazine; and the Association’s wildfire, public education and U.S./Canada regional operations divisions, Carli has spent the last 14 years cultivating relationships and spearheading collaborative efforts in fire prevention that better protect the public and first responders. NFFF and NFPA undertake critical, challenging work to educate audiences about the impact of fire and help to spur action that reduces loss­—including the ultimate sacrifices made by first responders.

“Having worked very closely with NFFF on a number of initiatives, I’m excited to work in this new capacity. The objectives of NFFF directly correlate to NFPA’s mission and my own personal quest to ensure the highest levels of safety for members

of the fire service. It is a great opportunity to honor those that have lost their lives, and to work on strategies that will ensure all firefighters are better protected,” Carli said.

ABC ELECTS 2020 NATIONAL CHAIR, EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Board of Directors elected Tim Keating, owner and president, R. C. Stevens Construction Co., to serve as the 2020 ABC national chair during the association’s annual Leadership Institute in San Antonio. Steve Klessig, vice president of architecture and engineering, Keller Inc., was elected chair-elect and Stephanie Schmidt, president, Poole Anderson Construction, was elected secretary.

Members of ABC’s 2020 Executive Committee, who took office January 1, 2020, are: Chair Tim Keating, owner and president, R. C. Stevens Construction Co., Winter Garden, Florida; Chair-Elect Steve Klessig, vice president of architecture and engineering, Keller Inc., Kaukauna, Wisconsin; Secretary and Northeast Region Vice Chair Stephanie Schmidt, president, Poole Anderson Construction, State College, Pennsylvania; Treasurer Larry May, CPA, CVA, partner, Carr, Riggs & Ingram, Jackson, Mississippi; Immediate Past Chair Tony Rader, telecom vice president, National Roofing Partners, Coppell, Texas; South Central Region Vice Chair Milton Graugnard, executive vice president, Cajun Industries LLC, Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Mid-Atlantic Region Vice Chair Robert “Buddy” C. Henley, president, Henley Construction Co. Inc., Gaithersburg, Maryland; Pacific Region Vice Chair Diane KoesterByron, founder and owner, I.E.-Pacific Inc., Escondido, California; Mid-America Region Vice Chair Brendan McAndrews, chief operations officer and co-owner, Rivercity Glass, dba McAndrews Glass, Cincinnati; Southeast Region Vice Chair J. David Pugh, partner, Bradley, Birmingham, Alabama; Mountain West Region Vice Chair Sandra Roche, vice president and general counsel, Roche Constructors Inc., Las Vegas; Midwest Region Vice Chair Calvin Williams, president and chief executive officer, Construction Contracting Services Inc., Lansing, Illinois; Chapter Presidents’ Liaison Brian Sampson, president, ABC Empire State Chapter; President and CEO Michael Bellaman, ABC National. May, Pugh, Williams, and Sampson are new members of the ABC Executive Committee. Visit abc.org. n

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HILTON BONNET CREEK

2020

ORLANDO S

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CONVENTION EXHIBITION

PRODUCT NEWS NEW INSTITUTIONAL SPRINKLERS FROM VIKING OFFER INSTALLATION ADVANTAGES

The Viking Corporation has added four new institutional sprinkler models specifically designed for use in correctional facilities, mental health occupancies, or anywhere that tampering with fire sprinklers is a concern.

Available in both pendent and horizontal sidewall models, the quick response sprinklers are available in standard and extended coverage options. The sprinkler is designed to be installed with the protective cap attached, minimizing the risk of damage to the sprinkler during installation. When installed, markings clearly indicating the sprinkler’s model number and orientation are visible on the element’s face. The new sprinklers also fit flush to the ceiling or wall, with only ¼-in. protrusion from the finished face.

Each model is cULus Listed for light hazard occupancies, with an additional ordinary hazard occupancy listing for the VK426 pendent sprinkler. Viking’s new institutional sprinklers are available in chrome, painted white, or painted gray and escutcheons are available in 3- or 4-in. sizes in colors to match the sprinkler. With a thread size of ½-in. NPT or 15 mm BSPT, the 5.6 (81) K-factor sprinkler can be ordered with temperature ratings of 165°F (74 °C) or 205°F (96 °C). Visit vikinggroupinc.com.

ed Titus CEO Max Farley. “Titus has established their name as a premium provider in the high-pressure Industrial and Energy markets,” he continued, “and we’re looking forward to bringing our highquality battle-tested products to the Fire Protection industry. Reliable’s expansive distribution network, technical expertise, industry leading service, and customer relationships make them the perfect fit with Titus.”

As the Premier Partner, the full range of Titus fire protection pipe connection products will be available at each of Reliable’s 18 sales and distribution centers. Rigorously tested to Titus’ quality assurance program and backed by an industry-leading two-year warranty, Titus grooved couplings & fittings and threaded fittings are a natural complement to Reliable’s portfolio of fire protection products.

“Titus Industrial gives us a partner in the product development process,” noted Steven Wolin, Reliable’s vice president of product technology. “We have a unique relationship,” Wolin continued, “Reliable brings 100 years’ experience in an industry with an understanding of its specific requirements. Combined with Titus’s network of global manufacturing and unparalleled quality, we look forward to providing a competitive product to our customers today and bringing cutting edge products to market tomorrow.”

“Put simply, the Titus partnership is just one more way Reliable continues to improve the portfolio of products we provide to our contractor customers,” noted Reliable President Kevin T. Fee. “We are always looking for more ways to give Reliable customers a competitive advantage when bidding and installing jobs. This is a prime example.”

“Reliable is committed to serving our customers with the most complete line of fire protection products in the industry,” Schwendiman explained. “In doing so with partners like Titus, who will stand with us not only behind the products, but also behind our customers.” Visit reliablesprinkler.com.

FM APPROVAL FOR ITS K28 ESFR SPRINKLER

RELIABLE AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER CO., INC. AND TITUS GROUP INC. ANNOUNCE PREMIER PARTNERSHIP

Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Co., Inc. will begin rolling out Titus pipe connection products for fire protection customers in the Americas market in the first quarter of 2020. Please contact your local Sales and Distribution Center for details.

“This new partnership represents a key strategic opportunity for both organizations,” commented Reliable’s Vice President of System Components Rex Schwendiman. “We are thrilled to offer Reliable customers a new option in high-quality grooved couplings, grooved fittings, and threaded fittings.”

“We could not have aligned ourselves with a better national partner to distribute our fire products in the Americas market,” add-

58 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

The Viking Corporation has announced an enhanced FM Approval for its K28 ESFR sprinkler. This new FM Approval allows the Model VK514 sprinkler to protect 50-ft (15,2-m) high warehouses with significantly less water than other available protection methods.

A design of nine sprinklers in a 3x3 array at 40 psi (2,8 bar) is now possible, provided that a secondary calculation is satisfied for four sprinklers at 80 psi (5,5 bar) in a 2x2 array. In most applications, these new calculations will enable smaller pipe sizes and reduced pump sizing.

The new FM Approval is offered in addition to the sprinkler’s existing FM Approval for racked storage up to 50 ft (15,2 m) in facilities with 55-ft (16,7-m) high ceilings. The sprinkler is also UL Listed for ceiling-only sprinkler protection in warehouses up to 48 ft (13,1 m) in height.

The new FM Approval classifies the Model VK514 as a Quick Response Storage sprinkler, approved to protect Class 1-4 commodities and cartoned unexpanded plastics in racks with 6-ft (1,8m)

aisle widths. The K28 ESFR sprinkler is available in both ordinary and intermediate temperature ratings­—1­ 65°F (74°C) and 205°F (96°C)—and with a 1-in. NPT or 2-mm BSP thread size.

Viking offers the industry’s most complete line of storage sprinklers specifically designed to suppress challenging warehouse fires, without requiring in-rack sprinkler systems. In addition to the K28 ESFR pendent sprinkler, Viking also offers K14, K17, K22 and K25 ESFR sprinklers.

Viking’s leading line of storage sprinklers also includes dry-type ESFR pendent sprinklers (K14 and K17) as well as CMDA, CMSA, ELO, and EC storage sprinkler options. Visit vikinggroupinc.com.

INSTASEAL® CPVC SPRINKLER HEAD ADAPTER ELIMINATES THE NEED FOR THREAD TAPE OR SEALANT

tor of 5.8 or less. The product joins Viking’s industry-leading line of CPVC sprinkler pipe and fittings which now includes three different sprinkler head adapters.

Viking is vertically integrated to ensure CPVC material compatibility and product dependability at every step of the supply chain, from manufacture to jobsite delivery. Visit vikinggroupinc.com. n

The Viking Corporation has introduced a new CPVC sprinkler head adapter that allows for installation without the use of thread tape or sealant. Manufactured with BlazeMaster® CPVC compound at Viking’s plastics plant in Charlestown, Indiana, the InstaSeal® adapter allows for fast and easy sprinkler installation.

The InstaSeal® CPVC sprinkler head adapter features brass threads with an EPDM seat for efficient installation. To install, the contractor will hand tighten the sprinkler until it makes contact with the rubber seat. An additional ½ to 1-¼ turn by hand or with the appropriate wrench completes the installation. The final position of the sprinkler is adjustable, allowing the installer to properly align pendent or horizontal sidewall sprinklers with ease.

Available in 1-in. and ¾-in. slip x thread and spigot x thread models, the products can be used with sprinklers having a K-fac-

The Kennedy KVOS2 is the industry’s first factory installed gate valve tamper switch, available only on Kennedy Valve built OS&Y valves.

Save both time and money with the KVOS2.

Get the best, buy Kennedy.

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SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020 59

INDUSTRY NEWS CORE & MAIN COMPLETES ACQUISITION OF J & J MUNICIPAL SUPPLY AND EROSION RESOURCES SUPPLY

Core & Main LP has closed on its previously announced agreement to acquire substantially all of the assets of J & J Municipal Supply, Inc. and Erosion Resources Supply, Inc. With these two acquisitions, Core & Main has completed nine total since becoming an independent company in August 2017. Financial terms were undisclosed. J & J Municipal Supply and Erosion Resources Supply are based in southern Indiana.

“Core & Main is excited about combining with these two great teams to expand our presence in Indiana, Kentucky, and Southern Illinois,” said Jack Schaller, president of Waterworks for Core & Main. “The acquisitions will enable us to enhance our local expertise in the communities we serve through the addition of a full line of erosion control products to our mix.” Visit coreandmain.com.

WINSUPPLY ACQUIRES ROSEN SUPPLY

Winsupply, Inc. has purchased Rosen Supply, a plumbing and heating wholesale distributor in the greater Seattle-Tacoma metro area of Washington state. Details of the asset purchase were not disclosed. Rosen Supply has six locations serving the Greater Puget Sound region including five distributor branches, two of which have showrooms, and a standalone showroom known as Water Concepts. The company has been in business since 1946 and is the an independent, family-owned and operated plumbing and heating wholesale distributor in western Washington.

Third-generation members of the family include David Rosen as president and Adam Rosen as executive vice president. Winsupply is the majority owner, reflecting its shared-ownership business model in which local entrepreneurs have autonomy to decide how best to serve their customers, and to share in the financial risks and rewards of ownership.

“We are very excited to be joining forces with Winsupply,” said David Rosen. “Winsupply is one of the top plumbing wholesale distributors in the nation. This new partnership will allow us to significantly increase our presence in the market.”

Harvey Rosen decided to sell the company to Winsupply as an opportunity to keep some ownership in the family. The company’s legal name becomes Winsupply of Seattle WA Co., but will continue to do business as Rosen Supply. Visit winsupplyinc.com.

ZURN EXPANDS CALIFORNIA SERVICE CENTER OPERATION

Zurn Industries, LLC announces the relocation of its service center facility from Ontario, California, to Fontana, California. The service center operation move will expand the total space from 115,000 to 186,000 ft2 and position the company for future development. The new service center address is: 14650 Miller Ave, Fontana, CA 92336.

“With a continued commitment on providing the best level of service to our customers both in the region and across the world, we needed to find a facility that best suited our strategy,” said Michael Hartel, Zurn director of logistics. “We reviewed multiple options. Fontana checked all our boxes, including square footage, proximity, and opportunity. Even better, this new location is less than 10 miles from our previous location.”

“As a leader in water solutions, we continually assess our business and

60 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

Crawford Sprinkler Company is celebrating its centennial in 2020. keep pace with the industry and our customer base,” said Craig Wehr, Zurn president. “Investing in a larger facility allows us to preserve the high level of service customers expect from us.” Visit zurn.com.

CRAWFORD SPRINKLER TURNS 100

Crawford Sprinkler Company is celebrating its centennial in 2020.

Crawford Sprinkler is proud to be one of America’s oldest fire sprinkler companies, having been established in Atlanta, Georgia, on January 1, 1920. The South Carolina office, established in 1965, was a branch of the Crawford Sprinkler in Charlotte. In 1971, William. S. Phifer, Jr. (son-inlaw of D.B. Crawford) purchased the majority stock in the South Carolina branch after being a 25-year employee for the company. He ran the business for another 34 years until turning over control of the company to his children in 1999. Management and ownership still remains in the Phifer family (grandchildren of its founder D.B. Crawford) as Crawford Sprinkler continues to provide quality fire sprinkler systems, as we have for the past 95-plus years. Visit crawfordsprinkler-sc.com.

VIEGA ANNOUNCES WINTER TRAINING SCHEDULE

Viega, LLC has announced its Winter 2019-20 lineup of courses at its Broomfield, Colorado, and Nashua, New Hampshire, seminar centers.

The offerings include topics from commercial piping solution to radiant design and LoopCAD. With two fully equipped state-of-the-art seminar centers, Viega supports the trades and helps contractors become more versatile, skilled, and efficient. To date, more than 40,000 people, from self-employed contractors to employees of large firms, have taken courses at the centers. The classes are taught by experts with years of experience in the field and offer ample hands-on experience. Attendees leave with skills and knowledge that will show immediate benefits on the job.

Visit viega.us/en/service/training.html. n

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You’re a business leader who stays ahead of the curve. Now take that strategy even further with AFSA’s ITM Inspector Development Program. Our 19 month program guides you or your employees as they gain the knowledge and practical skills to conduct productive and compliant inspections, test and maintenance for waterbased fire protection. In fact, AFSA ITM program graduates achieve a 90% pass rate on NICET Level I & II exams, exceeding the 65% national average. Gain greater professionalism and profitability for your business, enroll today!

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*AFSA makes no implied or expressed warranty that studying these materials or passing the assessments or exams will ensure passage of the related NICET exams or certification by NICET.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT CONT. • Support for copyright protections for codes and standards, and concern over efforts to undermine such protections.

The CFSI National Advisory Committee will meet next during the National Fire and Emergency Services Symposium, April 29-30.

AFSA PLANNING EFFORTS In January, a new committee—the AFSA Long-Range Planning Commit-

tee—will convene for the first time to identify and discuss trends, including political, economic and social factors, in concert with changes occurring in the fire sprinkler industry. The Committee will make recommendations to the Board as to various elements that could impact our members, our Association, and the industry in the years ahead.

We look forward to sharing this work with you as we continue to find ways to

You don’t have to be a genius.

make being a part of AFSA more valuable.

Thank you for your support as we enter into the start of a new decade, and as always, please let us know what we can do to provide you and your company with even more value in 2020 and beyond. n

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The solution is obvious. Firesprinkler.org is where the Fire Sprinkler industry goes online. You will find the solutions to your education and training needs, technical support and industry news and updates. Membership in the American Fire Sprinkler Association gives you full access to real benefits and services that will fit perfectly in your business plan and increase your productivity and profitability.

Be a Member

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62 SPRINKLER AGE | JAN/FEB 2020

Join online at firesprinkler.org or call 214-349-5965.

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