Code Corner

I attended the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI) Annual Conference this past week in Cherokee, North Carolina.  One of the things that stuck out to me this past week was how often they refer to NFPA 1033 - Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Investigators.  The IAAI does an outstanding job of ensuring that the training that they provide ties directly to the Job Performance Requirements (JPRs) in 1033, and that through in person and online training (through CFITrainer.net) that they provide training in all JPRs listed.  

How does this relate to FIAI, you ask?  If you have taken Fire Inspector 1 or II classes, or researched our field, you probably know that the equivalent NFPA Standard for inspections is NFPA 1031 - Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Inspector and Plan Examiner.  This document provides the basis for the state of Indiana Fire Inspector I and II certification, and lays out the JPRs for what we do on a daily basis.

In 2019, the NFPA Standards Council directed staff and technical committees to combine standards that overlap and cover similar material.  As a result, the following NFPA standards have been combined into a new standard - NFPA 1030 - Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Prevention Program Positions:

• NFPA 1031 - Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Inspector and Plan Examiner 
• NFPA 1035 - Standard on Fire and Life Safety Educator, Public Information Officer, Youth Firesetter Intervention Specialist and Youth Firesetter Program Manager Professional Qualifications
• NFPA 1037 - Standard on Fire Marshal Professional Qualifications

This new standard is NFPA 1030 - Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Prevention Program Positions, and the first edition is the 2024 edition.  It is currently available on the NFPA website, and through NFPA LiNK.  Although many fire prevention programs also cover investigations, the committee elected to keep 1033 as a separate standard.

In future Training Minutes, we will delve into more specifics in NFPA 1030 that relate to our job functions.  In the meantime, I would encourage you to take a look at the new NFPA 1030 (or the older 1031, for that matter).  Do you have the requisite knowledge and skills that are required to be an inspector?  If not, what do you need to do to obtain those skills?

As a final note (and this is not a paid advertisement), as the world is moving to more digital formats, NFPA is doing the same.  Although you can still purchase hard copies of the NFPA Standards, they have developed a new digital viewing platform called NFPA LiNK.  You can find more information here:  https://www.nfpa.org/link?icid=W459.

Conference Committee/ 2024 Conference Location We are holding our bi-monthly FIAI board meeting this Wednesday, May 3.  One of the primary topics will be the formation of a Conference Committee for next year's annual conference, which is slated to be held in the Central District.  If you are interested in serving on the Conference Committee, or have a possible location you would like to suggest, feel free to reply to this email to make the suggestion.

National Fire Sprinkler Association INDIANA TRAINING SEMINAR Sprinkler System Installation Requirements 7 hours CEU May 31, 2023 MADE- Plainfield There are hundreds of different types of sprinklers in use today, and determining the rules for use, location, spacing, and obstruction distances can be complex. This full day seminar brings clarity and understanding to the process. The NFSA Indiana Chapter is offering Indiana fire and building officials this training for FREE for those who contact me at ritchey@nfsa.org for one-time ACCESS CODE prior to registering.   Click HERE for registration.

National Fire Sprinkler Association INDIANA TRAINING SEMINAR Sprinkler System Installation Requirements 7 hours CEU May 31, 2023 MADE- Plainfield There are hundreds of different types of sprinklers in use today, and determining the rules for use, location, spacing, and obstruction distances can be complex. This full day seminar brings clarity and understanding to the process. The NFSA Indiana Chapter is offering Indiana fire and building officials this training for FREE for those who contact me at ritchey@nfsa.org for one-time ACCESS CODE prior to registering.   Click HERE for registration.

Training Minute Hydrostatic Testing of Dry Standpipe Systems Did you know that manual standpipe systems and semi-automatic dry standpipe systems require hydrostatic testing at no less than 200 PSI (or 50 PSI in excess of the max pressure) every 5 years? Standpipes are a critical component of firefighting operations - they act as the "fire hydrant" for firefighters on upper levels of buildings (required when the floor level of the top floor is more than 30 feet above the lowest level of fire truck access).  Fighting a fire above the 3rd floor is virtually impossible without a standpipe system, but standpipe systems are often neglected and poorly maintained.  For wet standpipe systems (with water in the standpipe at all times), one of the common ITM failures is to neglect exercising the valves on an annual basis.  For dry standpipes (with no water in the standpipe until either a valve is opened automatically, or the fire department introduces water into the FDC), hydrostatic testing every 5 years is critical to ensure the system will not leak when charged.  This is a critical test to ensure the standpipe will operate correctly when needed - in the heat of fire is the wrong time to discover a standpipe is compromised!  Dry standpipe systems in exterior parking garages are subject to harsh weather conditions, as well as vandalism.  Standpipes in buildings are often in stairwells that are not often frequented or inspected - these types of environments can lead to system failures if not inspected, tested, and maintained correctly. This hydrostatic testing also includes the piping in the FDC line, and any system that has been modified or repaired should be hydrostatically tested immediately upon completion of the modification or repair.  All of the above requirements come from Section 6.3.2 of the 2011 edition of NFPA 25. This week, take a minute to read the above section, think through the standpipes in your jurisdiction, and check inspection records if needed.  Have they been hydrostatically tested as required?  If not, maybe it's time to require they be tested to ensure the safety of our firefighters, and the general public!

FIAI Board Update!

As you may recall, we had several open positions on the FIAI Board.  I am pleased to announce the following additions to the FIAI Board:

• Chris Betzner has been appointed Treasurer.  This is a critically important position for any organization, and Chris has agreed to serve in this capacity for FIAI.  Chris has 37 years of experience in public safety, starting his career as a fire fighter for the City of Peru in 1985, moved up through the ranks and finally advanced to Fire Chief, retiring after 33 years of service. Chris then joined the Indiana Department of Homeland Security and worked as a Deputy State Fire Marshal for 2.5 years, then for Indiana University for the office of Loss Control as a Fire Inspector for 2 years. He now works for the Zionsville Fire Department as Fire Inspector/ Investigator.  Chris has owned 2 businesses and has been married to his wife Janet for 40 years.
• Josh Earl has moved up to Central District Chair. Josh is the current Fire Marshal for Vernon Township Fire Department. He has been in the fire service for 11 years (all of which has been in Code Enforcement), with an additional 4 years working in the private sector for a fire protection company. He has been with the Vernon Township Fire Department since October 2021. Prior to that, he was the Deputy Fire Marshal at Fishers Fire Department; the Commercial Building Inspector for the City of Fishers; a volunteer firefighter at Cicero Fire Department (where he still occasionally assist them with inspections or investigations); and as a Fire and Building Code Official for the Division of Fire and Building Safety for the Indiana State Fire Marshals Office.
• Steve Kropacek ins the new Central District Vice-Chair.  Steve is the Division Chief of Fire Prevention/Fire Marshal for the Greenfield Fire Department, a position he has held since 2020.  Prior to that, he was a Shift Fire Inspector since 2016, and a Shift Investigator since 2011.  He has led GFD's Juvenile Firesetter program since 2008.
• Scott Thomas has accepted the position of Vice-Chair of the North District.  Scott is currently the Chief Fire Inspector and Lead Investigator for the Goshen Fire Department, where he has served in these roles for 7 years, and been employed since 2006.  Prior to Goshen, Scott served with the Markle Fire Department.  Scott is a IAAI Certified Fire Investigator (CFI) and ICC Fire Inspector 2, among many other certifications.  

In my 11 years on the board of FIAI, this is the first time we have had every position filled - congratulations to all!  For quick reference, here is the complete board:

• Past President - Steve Rowland, Indianapolis Fire Department
• President - Darrel Cross, Noblesville Fire Department
• Vice-President - Ron Lipps, Zionsville Fire Department
• Secretary - Ryan Flora, Westfield Fire Department
• Treasurer - Chris Betzner, Zionsville Fire Department
• North District Chair - Gerard Ellis, South Bend Fire Department
• North District Vice-Chair - Scott Thomas, Goshen Fire Department
• Central District Chair - Josh Earl, Vernon Township Fire Department
• Central District Vice-Chair - Steve Kropacek, Greenfield Fire Department
• South District Chair - Gene Wever, Bartholomew County Code Enforcement

South District Vice-Chair - Todd Atherton, Indiana Department of Homeland Security

National Fire Sprinkler Association INDIANA TRAINING SEMINAR Sprinkler System Installation Requirements 7 hours CEU May 31, 2023 MADE- Plainfield There are hundreds of different types of sprinklers in use today, and determining the rules for use, location, spacing, and obstruction distances can be complex. This full day seminar brings clarity and understanding to the process. The NFSA Indiana Chapter is offering Indiana fire and building officials this training for FREE for those who contact me at ritchey@nfsa.org for one-time ACCESS CODE prior to registering.   Click HERE for registration.

Department:                        Bloomington City Fire
Job Status:	Full-Time
Shift:	8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Days:	Mon., Tue., Wed., Thu., Fri.
Details:	Posted on Wednesday, April 5, 2023 and closes on Thursday, April 20, 2023 at 5:00pm

Job Description

Performs inspections and re-inspections for Class I structures within the jurisdiction. Manages fire inspection program, which includes scheduling and prioritizing inspections as directed by the Fire Marshal. Advises contractors, architects, owners and other agencies regarding construction projects and activities. Interprets and enforces fire code and guidelines. Organizes and maintains records. Writes reports detailing findings of investigations and inspections. Conducts fire investigations to determine cause and origin and assists other investigators, when necessary. Addresses and resolves issues with other City departments and outside agencies, when necessary. Assists with coordinating activities with the Office of the State Fire Marshal and/or Building Safety Commission regarding fire arson investigations, inspection activities, or code variance requests. Participates in the adoption of local fire ordinances, and coordinates with the Office of the State Fire Marshal regarding code adoption, enactment and enforcement. Responds to complaints, concerns, and requests for educational programs, inspections or information. Takes all reasonable steps to maintain a safe work environment.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE - High school diploma or equivalent required. Associate or bachelor’s degree in Fire Science, Business Management, or other related subject preferred. Experience and/or training equivalent to two years as a full-time Fire or Building Inspector with a state, local, or federal organization.

KNOWLEDGE - Knowledgeable about department and division policies and procedures; pertinent federal, state and local laws, codes and regulations; and local planning and zoning procedures. Principles, practices, methods and techniques of modern fire and life safety and fire suppression activities. Geography of the city and surrounding area. Various building construction types as they relate to building and fire codes and how they may be affected by fire. Basic statistical and analytical methodologies.

ABILITIES - Abilities to operate an emergency response vehicle and specialized emergency communications equipment. Work irregular hours including evenings, weekends, holidays and extended hours in emergency, disaster or other situations influenced by workload or staffing difficulties. Required to be on-call when necessary. Tactfully and effectively communicates, both orally and in writing. Use modern office procedures, methods and equipment including computers and related software and equipment.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS - Must be certified as a firefighter and fire prevention/inspector. Hold a state certification for fire/arson investigation, or equivalent certifications, preferred.(Must obtain within 6 months of hire). Must have a valid driver’s license; Indiana State license required within 30 days of job acceptance. Must maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities.

Additional Information

Salary: $44,325.23 - $57,623.36

Schedule: 8:00am - 5:00pm, Monday-Friday; and other times, as necessary. Position may be eligible for some teleworking.

Benefits:

• Employees receive 13 paid holidays per year and may earn up to 4 weeks (160 hours) of Paid Time Off in their first year of employment and 5 weeks (200 hours) in their second calendar year of employment.
• The City contributes 14.2% of an employee's salary to their retirement fund through the Indiana Public Retirement System (INPRS).
• Employees may contribute pre-taxed dollars to a 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan account to supplement their retirement earnings. As a pilot program, the City will contribute double the amount of the employee's 457 (b) contribution to a 401(a) account up to $30 per pay.
• After 1 year of employment, six weeks of paid parental leave are available to eligible employees. This is a pilot program for 2023.
• Health, vision, and dental insurance premiums are subsidized by the City and are available on day one of employment. Employees may elect the High Deductible Insurance plan with the City providing an HSA contribution and if the employee has received the most recent COVID Bivalent Booster the employee only plan is at no cost to the employee.
• The City offers life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment, and long term disability insurance at no cost to employees. Employees may elect voluntary term life and short-term disability insurance. 
• Employees may receive over $2,400 per year in HSA contributions and wellness reimbursements, insurance discounts, and incentives.
• City Employees ride for free on Bloomington Transit.

Disclaimer

ANYONE WISHING TO APPLY FOR THIS POSITION WHO DOES NOT HAVE ACCESS TO A COMPUTER MAY APPLY AT CITY HALL, HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT (401 N MORTON STREET, SUITE 230). 

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
La Igualdad De Oportunidades De Empleo Es La Ley.
The City of Bloomington does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, veteran status, housing status or disability in employment or the provision of services.

The City of Bloomington validates authorization to work using eVerify. The City will provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security, with information from each new employee’s I-9 form to confirm work authorization.

The Indiana District 1 Firefighter Training Council will be hosting a Public Fire and Life Safety Educator I/II Course. The details are as follows:

Location (Tenative):

MAAC Foundation - Emergency Services Training Campus

4203 Montdale Park Drive

Valparaiso, Indiana, 46383

Dates: 

Tuesday, April 18th, 25th, May 2nd, and 9th, 5pm CST - 9 pm CST

Thursday April 13th, 20th, 27th, May 4th 5pm CST-9 pm CST

Saturday, May 13th, 8am - 4 pm CST

It is important to remember that Community Risk Reduction should take priority to prevent tragedy in our region. 

Having someone on your staff, who is PFLSE certified, not only earns extra ISO points, but also provides your department with a catalyst for a CRR effort. 

Any questions, comments, or concerns, please let me know.

Flynn

Anthony C. Flynn

Firefighter/Paramedic

Fire and Life Safety Educator

Crown Point Fire-Rescue

126 N. East Street

Crown Point, IN, 46307

219-662-3248 (station)

219-670-1717 (cell)

FIRE INSPECTOR II

For IDHS State Certification INSP2-220023

$250.00 per student

FEBRUARY 27-MARCH 29TH

PITTSBORO FIRE DEPARTMENT

Register now through February 11th

Enroll by email

Rodney Johnson

d3rodney@earthlink.net

Location: North Vernon FD.

Dates: January 14, 2023 through March 18, 2023

Saturdays

8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

NFPA 1031 JPRS

IFSTA 8^th Edition manual

Indiana Fire Code

Indiana Building Code

Information contact Rodney Johnson@d3rodney@earthlink.net

Class enrollment Accadis Portal

Department

INSURANCE-LOSS CONTROL-CLAIMS (UA-RISK-IUINA)

Job Summary

Primary function will be performing building inspections. The position will also conduct training classes for students, faculty, and staff on fire prevention matters. Will be required to respond to fire emergencies on IUPUI campus to provide support to local emergency crews. May be required to travel to other campuses to provide support to other Loss Control Inspectors.

Associate degree in a fire/safety program or a related field and two years of experience in fire code inspection/enforcement and/or fire safety. Fire safety experience could include experience as a firefighter.  Combinations of education and related experience will be considered.

Indiana Certified Fire Inspector I or equivalent.

Possess a valid driver’s license with the ability to be insured by Indiana University.

Knowledge of and ability to clearly communicate the requirements of NFPA Codes and Standards, Factory Mutual Standards, applicable to the campus, state codes and local codes and ordinances. Ability to effectively present information to large groups and to a widely diverse population. Ability to project a positive, professional image of both the individual and the institution. Effective communication skills. Demonstrated interpersonal skills. Ability to proficiently use Windows-based programs. 

Work Location Indianapolis, Indiana (IUPUI)

Directions on how to apply:

1.  Non-IU employees should click on the first link below to access the careers site; current IU employees should click on the second link below. 

2.  Review the job description and then click on "Apply for Job" to begin your application.

3.  Non-IU employees will need to sign in to access your account.  If you do not already have an account, click on "Register Now" to create an account.  Current IU employees will be recognized through CAS Authorization.

4.  Complete the application process.

If you are NOT an IU employee currently, please use the following link:

https://hrms.indiana.edu/psp/PH1PRD_PUB/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST_FL&Action=U&FOCUS=Applicant&SiteId=1&JobOpeningId=303020&PostingSeq=1

Current IU employees should use this link:

https://hrms.iu.edu/psp/PH1PRD/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_EMP_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST_FL&Action=U&SiteId=1&FOCUS=Employee&JobOpeningId=303020&PostingSeq=1

DISCLAIMER:  Any views or opinions presented in this email are solely those of the sender and do not necessarily represent those of Indiana University.

CLICK HERE FOR INFORMATION or to apply

Deputy Fire Marshal / Fire Inspector / Investigator, 1321

Department: Administration

Reports to: Fire Marshal

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Prepared Date: August 18, 2022

SUMMARY

The purpose of this position is to conduct fire prevention and fire inspection activities to ensure compliance with local, state fire codes and ordinances along with conducting fire investigations. The Deputy Fire Marshal / Public Educator shall analyze community risk, design and manage programs, integrate prevention interventions to address community risk, create and teach community risk reduction programs, and work in collaboration with internal and external organizational members.

The position requires the understanding of fire behavior; organizational structure, function, and operation; human behavior during fire; injury causes/prevention strategies; community risk reduction, learning theory, educational methodology, standardized fire and life safety messages, natural hazard issues, current fire protection systems and devices; emergency reporting; firefighter personal protective equipment (PPE); liability issues; public relations; high-risk audiences and behaviors; accessibility; people-first language; social and cultural trends; community resources; personal image and professionalism.

The Deputy Fire Marshal must maintain knowledge and compliance of Brownsburg Fire Territory handbook, SOGs, structure and function of the Territory and local and county governments, administration, and management practices. This employee is required to be available for work for emergency responses and unanticipated difficulties outside of normal business hours. This position routinely requires a flexible work schedule to conduct necessary work activities and to be "on call" to respond to emergency incidents outside normal office hours. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY INSPECTIONS:

Complete fire and life safety inspections of educational, industrial, multi-family, residential, institutional, mercantile, assembly, business, and hazardous occupancies within the Brownsburg Fire Territory service district for the purpose of determining compliance with Indiana's fire and building safety laws. Review new construction drawings to ensure compliance with applicable fire codes. Inspections focus on verifying compliance in the following areas, including, but not limited to:

1. Means of egress (exiting) systems;
2. Operational readiness and proper inspection, testing and maintenance of automatic fire sprinkler, fire alarm, kitchen hood and other alternative fire suppression systems;
3. Operational readiness and proper inspection, testing and maintenance of standpipe systems and fire hydrants;
4. Emergency preparedness, evacuation procedures, and fire drills;
5. Proper storage and handling of hazardous materials and flammable/combustible liquids
6. Fire department access
7. Proper classification of occupancies
8. Proper classification of construction type
9. Occupant load calculations in assembly occupancies

FIRE INVESTIGATIONS:

Conduct fire scene examinations, when required by Territory policy, and in accordance with nationally recognized standards, for the purpose of determining the fire's origin and cause. This involves working in adverse weather conditions involving extreme hot or cold conditions and environments that may be hazardous because of deteriorated structural stability and/or materials burned. Included with the performance of fire investigation duties is the ability to operate department photography equipment, conduct interviews, draw diagrams/sketches, and write investigation reports that adequately document the fire investigation.

FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY EDUCATION:

Schedule and present programs pertaining to fire safe behaviors, fire prevention measures, and life safety education, based upon behavioral objectives, including, but not limited to the following:

1. Programs within schools, day cares, pre-schools, and senior citizen facilities.
2. Assisting local businesses with fire safety education and evacuation planning.
3. Public education activities for Territory events.

RECORD KEEPING AND ADMINISTRATIVE PLANNING:

Document all fire and life safety inspections, fire investigations and other activities completed. Provide periodic reports of completed activities to the Fire Marshal for review. Assist in overall department planning through proposal of long-term plans and budget needs.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Twenty-one (21) years of age at the time of hiring
• High School Diploma or GED
• Valid Indiana Driver's License
• Have not been convicted of a felony
• Current certification as a State of Indiana, IFSAC, ProBoard or ICC accredited Fire Inspector I or eligible for Indiana reciprocity.
• Current certification as a State of Indiana, IFSAC or ProBoard Fire Investigator I or eligible for Indiana reciprocity.
• Certified Fire and Explosion Investigator (NAFI-CFEI), Certified Fire Investigator (IAAI-CFI), Fire Investigation Technician (IAAI-FIT) OR eligible for Indiana reciprocity OR obtains one or more of these certifications within two (2) years of hire.
• Two (2) years of experience in one or more of the following: fire inspection, fire investigation, fire suppression, fire and life safety education, code enforcement, plans review, law enforcement.
• Ability to serve in an "on-call" capacity when required and able to respond to a fire scene within 45 minutes of notification. Must reside within twenty-five (25) miles of the Territory boundaries.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Excel, PowerPoint, and Windows operating system
• Ability to bend, stand, climb stairs & ladders, and lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment in excess of 30 pounds

Join us in the celebration of Fire Marshal Randy Gulley's retirement.  After 46 years in the fire service and 34 years diligently performing fire prevention and community risk reduction for the citizens of Wayne Township, Marshal Gulley is hanging up his helmet and putting down his iPad and clipboard.  

Thursday, July 28, 2022

2:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Grandhall at Westlake

400 N Highschool Road

Indianapolis

PSSST: It's his birthday too!  

Please RSVP to Beth Gulley by 

July 5, 2022 

eagulley2344@gmail.com