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  • Thursday, February 22, 2024 09:24 | Ronald Lipps (Administrator)


    An important reminder for our conference attendees who will be needing a room at Embassy Suites:

    This coming Monday, February 26 is the cutoff date for the FIAI room rate with Embassy Suites. Please be sure to reserve your room before then, as prices could be higher after the cutoff. 

    Here is a direct link to the reservations page with our rate preselected: 

    EMBASSY SUITES RESERVATIONS PAGE

    There is also a reservation link at the bottom of the conference web page. 


  • Wednesday, August 30, 2023 09:55 | Ronald Lipps (Administrator)

    Instructor - Rodney Johnson

    Ret. Code Enforcement and Investigations Division Chief, Greenwood Fire Department Loss Control Manager Indiana University, IUPUI Campus

    Course Cost; $ 275.00 Class registration due by September 22, 2023 

    Class will be held at Seymour Fire Department, 318 East Street, Seymour IN

    CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL FLYER AND DETAILS

  • Tuesday, August 08, 2023 11:18 | Ronald Lipps (Administrator)

    Tracy Rumble from the Greenwood Fire Department is requesting information about what other fire departments are charging for false alarm fees. 

    If you can share, please email him by CLICKING HERE or emailing rumblet@greenwood.in.gov .

  • Thursday, July 20, 2023 13:32 | Ronald Lipps (Administrator)

    The responsibilities of the Fire Inspector / Investigator position include:

    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 Pike Township Fire Department 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:

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

    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:

    • Programs within schools, day cares, pre-schools, and senior citizen facilities.
    • Assisting local businesses with fire safety education and evacuation planning.

    FIRE INVESTIGATIONS:

    • ·         Conduct fire scene examinations, when required by department 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.

    RECORDKEEPING 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
    • 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 AND at least one of the following on the date of hire:

    Current certification as a State of Indiana IFSAC, ProBoard or ICC accredited
    Fire Inspector I/II or eligible for Indiana reciprocity OR ability to obtain
    certification within one (1) year of hire

    Current certification as a State of Indiana IFSAC or ProBoard Fire Investigator,
    Certified Fire and Explosion Investigator (NAFI-CFEI), or Certified Fire
    Investigator (IAAI-CFI) OR ability to obtain one or more of these certifications
    within one (1) year of hire

    Current certification as an IAAAI-FIT (Fire Investigation Technician OR ability to
    obtain certification within one (1) year of hire. NAFI Certified Fire and
    Explosion Investigator OR IAAI Certified Fire Investigator may substitute for
    this requirement.

    Current ILEA Tier I or II certification as a Basic Police Officer or completion of a
    LETB approved full-time or reserve officer academy OR ability to obtain and
    maintain certification or appointment as a sworn Indiana law enforcement
    officer with the department-approved law enforcement agency within three (3)
    years from hire date.

    • Ability to serve in an “on-call” capacity when required and able to respond to a fire scene within 30 minutes of notification. Must live in Marion county or a contiguous county within three (3) months of hire and maintain such residency during employment
    • 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 20 pounds

    PREFERRED:

    • Bachelor's degree in Fire Science or related field with two (2) years of fire service or law enforcement experience OR Associates degree in Fire Science with four (4) years of fire service or law enforcement experience
    • Current certification as an Indiana State Fire Inspector I.
    • Current certification as an Indiana State Fire Investigator, a NAFI Certified Fire and Explosion Investigator, or an IAAI Certified Fire Investigator.

    Job Type: Full-time

    Pay: Up to $63,948.00 per year

    Benefits:

    • Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
    • High Deductible Health Plan or PPO plans
    • HSA or FSA accounts available with department contributions
    • Public Employees Retirement Fund (PERF) contributions covered 100% by the department
    • Deferred Comp available with department matching
    • $100K department provided life insurance
    • Generous PTO
    • Overtime, Comp time and special event oppurtunities
    • Training, education and travel opportunities
    • Take home vehicle
    • All uniforms and equipment provided and replaced by the department

    Schedule:

    • 8-hour shift
    • Monday to Friday
    • On call

    Work Location: In person

    If you require alternative methods of application or screening, you must approach the employer directly to request this as Indeed is not responsible for the employer's application process.

    Report job

    Apply at: https://visitpiketownship.dream.press/deputy-fire-marshal-hiring-submission/


  • Monday, July 10, 2023 07:47 | Ronald Lipps (Administrator)

    We need your help!

    We have all heard a lot about HEA 1575 that changed the makeup of the Fire Prevention & Building Safety Commission and the code adoption process.  There is a draft interpretation of HEA 1575 written by the staff attorney for the Commission that all local fire prevention and building safety ordinances are now null and void (“un-enforceable”) and no new ordinances would be approved.  This will have a devastating effect on fire prevention efforts all over the State.  It will hamper operations.  All the places where the code states “adopted by local ordinance”  would now be left without details that fit the resources of the AHJ.  The existing ordinances on radio/communications integrity, water looping and/or hydrant spacing, plan review and review fees, CO alarms, non-compliance and violation fees, etc. would no longer be enforceable.

    We need your help!  What we are asking is that you go through your local ordinance and detail the adverse effect it will have on your community and your department by using this interpretation.  Please send a copy of your ordinance and the narrative to the FIAI Board of Directors at board@fiai.us as soon as possible!  We are securing meetings with legislators and IDHS to put a stay on the rigid interpretation of the new law so that we do not rewind and undo the progress life safety partners have gained.  It is essential that we provide feedback from all over the State of Indiana that includes a diverse representation of departments.  We are working to secure the ability to adopt local ordinances and keep the statutory provisions of home rule to do what is best for our communities.  

    We must get traction on this now because we will have a new Commission the first week of August and we are up against a tight timeline to find legislative support going into the next session to modify changes and provide clarification to portions of HEA 1575 that are unclear.

    Please take a few minutes this week to detail how your community will be harmed by the loss of your local fire prevention ordinance.  Thanks!



  • Friday, July 07, 2023 07:46 | Ronald Lipps (Administrator)

    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. Will review construction documents. May supervise Fire Code inspectors as required. May be required to travel to other campuses to provide support to other Loss Control Inspectors.

    Required Qualifications

    Associate's 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/II or equivalent, at time of hire or within 6 months.

    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) Job Posting for IUPUI is up.

    Go to https://jobs.iu.edu/. Click on “All External Candidates”, and then search for 306959

  • Wednesday, June 14, 2023 11:19 | Ronald Lipps (Administrator)

    Wayne Township Fire Department, IN Announces the open position of Fire Inspector / Investigator.

    CLICK HERE TO SEE THE FLYER

  • Monday, May 15, 2023 07:52 | Ronald Lipps (Administrator)

    A week ago Friday (May 5), I attended the monthly meeting of the Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission (FP&BSC). I know no one likes more meetings, and certainly long meetings, but there is important information that is learned monthly at these meetings. I'd like to share some of that information this week, and encourage you to follow the actions of the commission - they have strong influence and input into our daily jobs. Here are some bullet points of relevant and important information for you:

    • Commission information, including agendas, meeting minutes, and other information discussed below can be found here: https://www.in.gov/dhs/boards-and-commissions/. ;
    • Beginning next month, Commission meetings will once again be held in downtown Indianapolis at the Indiana Government Center South (they have been help in Plainfield for the past several years). You can also join the meeting virtually each month, if you are unable to attend in person: from the link above, select Meeting Materials, then Public Notice for the month of the meeting. Because the meetings are also streamed virtually, they are now recorded, and you can view recordings of past meetings, beginning from the middle of 2022. On the link above, scroll down to "Minutes" and click on "View Meeting Recordings". 
    • Each month, the State Building Commissioner (Craig Burgess) presents interpretations on various complex code questions that have arisen. In May, for example, he presented in interpretation on the reuse of decommissioned elevator hoistways, and important to us, some clarification on the dwelling-garage fire separation in the 2020 Residential Code. You can find the monthly interpretations in the meeting agenda each month, or a complete list, organized by code, can be found here: https://www.in.gov/dhs/boards-and-commissions/non-rule-policy-documentsinterpretations-of-the-commissions-rules/. ; Did you know, for example, that an interpretation was issued that states that live fire training facilities are not Class 1 structures? 
    • A number of current rules are being re-adopted - the complete list can be found in the agenda of the May meeting at the link above. Administrative rules expire every 7 years, and therefore, must be re-adopted if they must remain effective. The re-adoption process does not allow the rule to be changed in any way. As mentioned last week, one of the rules that is currently being re-adopted is NFPA 1126. We have expressed our concern with the age of the referenced standard (2001 edition), and have recommended that it be updated. 
    • A long discussion was held regarding HEA 1575, and the impact to both the commission and local jurisdictions. Because we will devote a future email update to legislative changes in 2023, I will not cover the HEA 1575 changes here, other than to say that the current commission appointments will expire on July 31, and as of August 1 the governor must appoint 10 new members of the commission. Stay tuned for much more information regarding this in coming weeks and months. 
    • Of course, the commission also hears variance requests each month. I always learn new information each month in viewing the variance requests, and hearing the discussion, whether it be a code that I did not know existed, or a different way to interpret a code that I had not thought of. 

    I strongly encourage you to attend commission meetings when you can, and in person if at all possible. The information leaned, and the networking that occurs, is always valuable information. The next commission meeting will be Tuesday, June 6 at 0900.

    Until next week,

    Darrel Cross, President

  • Sunday, May 07, 2023 12:46 | Ronald Lipps (Administrator)

    This past Wednesday, May 3, the FIAI Board held it's bi-monthly meeting in Noblesville.  I fully recognize that I am probably one of the few deranged people that get excited about board meetings, but I walked away from this board meeting so excited about the future of FIAI that I wanted to take a few minutes to summarize some of our topics of conversation for you this week.

    Although our by-laws authorize and establish several committees, in the past 10+ years I have been on the board we have not appointed people to the committees and empowered them to perform their functions.  In an effort to allow the board itself to focus on the overall direction and oversight of the organization, we have filled several committees.  The Conference Committee will be headed by Ron Lipps and Steve Rowland, and focused on all of the many details surrounding the 2024 annual conference.  We intend to have the location and dates selected and announced by mid-July.  The Legislative/Code Committee will be focused on monitoring the legislative process, as well as the Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission, and the rule-making update process.  The By-law Committee will be focused on necessary updates to our by-laws.  Any by-law changes will be presented to the membership and voted on at the 2024 Annual Conference.

    We are working several avenues on increasing the amount of training offered to you as an FIAI member.  The next training opportunity will be an on-site training at Allegion (a door and door hardware company ) in Carmel in early June - I hope to announce a date this week.  Beyond that, we are working to increase our partnerships with ICC, NFPA, and IABO (Indiana Association of Building Officials) to offer training.

    We discussed, and sent, a letter to the Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission expressing concern about the outdated version (2001) of NFPA 1126, Pyrotechnics before a Proximate Audience, that the commission is re-adopting.  This will hopefully lead into further discussions in the coming months on updating codes in Indiana.  As you may have heard (and we will update you in the coming weeks), HEA 1575 remakes the members of the commission.  This also puts a stop to any rule-making currently in process.  The new commission (to be appointed by August 1) will have it's hands full to determine the order of updating codes, and how that will be handled.

    We concluded our board meeting by spending time performing a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats).  This will help us as we plan toward a 1 and 5 year strategic plan for the organization.  I can truly say I am excited about the future of FIAI.  As always, if you have feedback, ideas for training, or questions, don't hesitate to reply or seek out any of our board members.

    For the board, and a safer Indiana,

    Darrel Cross, President


  • Sunday, April 30, 2023 12:48 | Ronald Lipps (Administrator)

    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. 




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