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International Fire Code

2024 International Fire Code | Free Access

Crosswalk: NFPA Fire Code and ICC International Fire Code

2024 GROUP A PROPOSED CHANGES TO THE I-CODES based on Committee Action Hearings October 2024

2024 GROUP A PROPOSED CHANGES TO THE I-CODES

2024/2025/2026 ICC CODE DEVELOPMENT SCHEDULE

ICC BCAC | Comments to be presented at October Hearings

Noteworthy Proposals:

IFC 1010.27 Locking arrangements, PDF page 252

IFC 1020.2 Corridor Fire Resistance Ratings. PDF page 356

IFC 915 More Carbon Monoxide Detection Systems, PDF page 1156

IBC 917 Mass notification for Group E occupancies, PDF page 1176

IFC 5701 More Process Hazard Analysis, PDF page 1571

The transcript (Complete Monograph) of Committee Actions should be available by September 5th.

Committee Action Hearings on Proposed Changes: October 23-31 Long Beach, California

“A Square with Imaginary Buildings” | Hendrik van Steenwijck (1614)

LIVE: I-Code Group B Public Comment Hearings

Higher Education Laboratories

“Waking Effectiveness of Alarms for Adults Who Are Hard of Hearing” 2007  Victoria University, Australia

Health Facilities: Navigating IBC and NFPA differences

Posted February 14, 2023

Free access to the latest edition of the IFC is linked below:

2021 International Fire Code

Following the ICC Group A revision cycle public consultation on the 2024 International Fire Code will begin.  The ICC will announce the development schedule sometime in 2022.

We limit our resources simply tracking the proposals that run through Group E (Educational) and Group I (Institutional) occupancies in the Group A suite with closer attention to the state they are adopted whole cloth or with local exceptions.  In many cases, IFC adoption by state and local authorities is delayed by one or more previous code revisions.  This delay in adoption may be necessary in order for jurisdictions to evaluate the impact of changes upon the region under their authority.

Public safety budgets historically support the local and state fire marshal and his or her staff.   The revenue stream of many trade associations originates from membership, conference attendance, training and certification enterprises that service the public sector stakeholder.   Manufacturer sponsorship of trade association conferences is noteworthy.

Unless there is an idea, or proposed regulation that has run off the rails (either in terms of rigor or cost increase) — we place fire safety in the middle of our ranking of priorities.  With gathering pace, we find many fires safety goals being met with electrotechnologies where we place our highest priority.

Click on image for more information. The map is updated by expert agencies frequently so we recommend a web search for an update.

Significant code changes rarely happen within a 3-year cycle so it is wise to follow ideas as they travel through the agendas of technical committees through several cycles as administered by the Fire Code Action Committee.

The ICC posts the transcripts of public proposals, technical committee responses to public proposals, public response to the technical committee response and the final balloting in a fair and reasonable fashion as can be seen in the transcripts linked below:

2021 International Fire Code Proposed Changes

2021 International Fire Code Public Comment Agenda 

A search on the terms “classroom” or “school” in any of the documents above offers granular insight into the trend of current thinking.   We find fire extinguishers placement a perennial concern across several standards suites.   You will note the careful consideration of proposals for use of the mass notification systems, now integrated into fire alarm systems and their deployment in active shooter situations.

The transcripts reveal detailed understanding and subtlety.

“The Country School” | Winslow Homer

There are many issues affecting the safety and sustainability of the education facility industry.  We add value to the industry because of our cross-cutting perspective on the hundreds of “silos”created by the competition (and sometimes cooperation) among accredited, consortia and open-source standards developers.  We have the door open every day at 11 AM Eastern time to enlighten understanding of them all.  We also host a breakout teleconference every month to drill into the specifics of standards action on fire safety for the real assets of school districts, colleges and universities.  See our CALENDAR for the next online meeting.

Finally, we persist in encouraging education industry facility managers (especially those with operations and maintenance data) to participate in the ICC code development process.  You may do so by CLICKING HERE.

The ICC Group B Code Meetings will be hosted soon and open to the public:   

International Code Council 2022 Group B Public Comment Agenda (September 14-21 Kentucky International Convention Center)

The Group B tranche is largely focused on energy, structural, residential and existing building concepts but all of the titles cross-reference the IFC in some way so it is wise to follow how the concepts re-arrange and cross-reference themselves with each cycle.

 

Issue: [16-169]

Category: Architectural, Facility Asset Management, Space Planning

Colleagues: Mike Anthony,  Casey Grant, Joshua Evolve, Marcelo Hirschler

More

2021/2022 ICC CODE DEVELOPMENT SCHEDULE

FINAL ACTION RESULTS ON THE 2018 PROPOSED CHANGES TO THE INTERNATIONAL CODES – GROUP A

2018 GROUP A PROPOSED CHANGES TO THE I-CODES COLUMBUS COMMITTEE ACTION HEARINGS

2018 GROUP A PUBLIC COMMENT AGENDA | INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE

2018 GROUP A PUBLIC COMMENT AGENDA | INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE

2018 REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ACTION HEARINGS ON THE 2018 EDITIONS OF THE GROUP A INTERNATIONAL CODES

 

 

Reliability Analysis for Power to Fire Pumps

Reliability Analysis for Power to Fire Pump Using Fault Tree and RBD

Robert Schuerger | HP Critical Facilities (Project Lead, Corresponding Author) 

Robert Arno | ITT Excelis Information Systems

Neal Dowling | MTechnology

Michael  A. Anthony | University of Michigan

 

Abstract:  One of the most common questions in the early stages of designing a new facility is whether the normal utility supply to a fire pump is reliable enough to “tap ahead of the main” or whether the fire pump supply is so unreliable that it must have an emergency power source, typically an on-site generator. Apart from the obligation to meet life safety objectives, it is not uncommon that capital on the order of 100000to1 million is at stake for a fire pump backup source. Until now, that decision has only been answered with intuition – using a combination of utility outage history and anecdotes about what has worked before. There are processes for making the decision about whether a facility needs a second source of power using quantitative analysis. Fault tree analysis and reliability block diagram are two quantitative methods used in reliability engineering for assessing risk. This paper will use a simple one line for the power to a fire pump to show how each of these techniques can be used to calculate the reliability of electric power to a fire pump. This paper will also discuss the strengths and weakness of the two methods. The hope is that these methods will begin tracking in the National Fire Protection Association documents that deal with fire pump power sources and can be used as another tool to inform design engineers and authorities having jurisdiction about public safety and property protection. These methods will enlighten decisions about the relative cost of risk control with quantitative information about the incremental cost of additional 9’s of operational availability.

 

 

CLICK HERE to order complete paper

Mushroom Coffee

University of Miami Net position: 2023 $7.774B  | Map |  Facilities & Operations

Standards Florida

Mushroom coffee (Michigan State University), a blend of coffee and medicinal mushroom extracts like lion’s mane and chaga, has gained traction on college campuses due to its perceived health benefits and social media buzz. Students, often seeking alternatives to high-caffeine drinks, are drawn to its lower caffeine content—about 40-60 mg per cup compared to 95 mg in regular coffee—reducing jitters while maintaining focus.

Claims of enhanced cognition, immunity, and stress relief resonate with health-conscious Gen Z, fueled by ancient medicinal traditions and trendy marketing. Campus coffee shops and online retailers make it accessible, though its higher cost (often $20-$40 for 30 servings) is a drawback for budget-conscious students.

Despite limited scientific backing for health claims, the earthy taste and functional appeal align with the wellness culture, making mushroom coffee a niche but growing staple among students balancing academics and self-care

Are Mushrooms Magical?


 

Academia

ITU Home

“The Electromagnetic Spectrum: A Critical Natural Resource”,  Christian A. Herter Jr. | Natural Resources Journal, Summer 1985, Volume 25, Issue 3

US National Telecommunications and Information Administration | Federal Communications Commission

 

School of the Air

 

Iced Americano

University of Michigan Net Position 2024: $22.335 billion

Michigan Central | Michigan West | Michigan Upper Peninsula | Michigan East

Bert Askwith worked his way through college shuttling students to and from Detroit Metropolitan Airport until his graduation in 1931; when two semester tuition cost $300.  With no student debt he founded and grew Campus Coach Lines that still provides the same services at many other US campuses.  He donated part of his fortune to establish a cafe in the Undergraduate Library; which now serves an expanding and bewildering catalog of caffeine-based drinks found in educational settlements worldwide.

When new foreign national students arrive at U.S. colleges and universities, they often enter environments where a left-leaning worldview is prominent and pervasive. Many campuses today emphasize themes of social justice, equity, and systemic critique that align with a preference for larger, more interventionist government. Faculty and administrative messaging can reinforce these ideas, portraying government as the primary instrument for addressing inequality, redistributing resources, and regulating social behavior.

For many international students, this can be both eye-opening and disorienting. They may come from countries with different political traditions, including skepticism of state power due to experiences with corruption or authoritarianism. Yet, in the university setting, they encounter curricula and campus cultures that valorize activist government solutions while often criticizing markets, traditional institutions, or individual responsibility. Programs in the humanities and social sciences in particular tend to frame policy questions through a progressive lens that sees expansive government action as not just beneficial but morally necessary.

This immersion—some might call it a “marination”—shapes perspectives over time. Students adopt the language of social justice, climate policy, and identity politics, often without exposure to robust counterarguments. While this experience can broaden horizons and foster empathy for marginalized groups, it also risks narrowing intellectual diversity and suppressing debate about the limits and costs of government power. For international students, it can mean graduating with a worldview significantly more aligned with the American academic left than with the diverse political traditions of their home countries.

Kitchenettes

Chilled Banana Pudding Overnight Oats

Banana Pudding Overnight Oats is a delicious and nutritious breakfast dish made by combining rolled oats, mashed bananas, milk, and other flavorings, and allowing them to sit and “soak” in the refrigerator overnight. This results in a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying bowl of oats that are ready to eat in the morning without any cooking required. It’s convenient make-ahead breakfast option that can be customized to suit individual tastes and dietary preferences.  Here’s a simple recipe for Banana Pudding Overnight Oats:

Ingredients:

1 ripe banana, mashed
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup milk (any type of milk, such as dairy milk, almond milk, or coconut milk)
1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sweetener of choice (such as honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar)
Additional banana slices, crushed cookies, or whipped cream for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

In a medium-sized bowl, mash the ripe banana with a fork until smooth.  Add the rolled oats, milk, chia seeds (if using), vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, and sweetener to the bowl with the mashed banana. Stir well to combine. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4-6 hours, to allow the oats to absorb the liquid and soften.

In the morning, give the oats a good stir and adjust the sweetness or consistency to taste by adding more sweetener or milk if desired.  Serve the Banana Pudding Overnight Oats in bowls or jars, and garnish with additional banana slices, crushed cookies, or whipped cream if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and creamy Banana Pudding Overnight Oats for a nutritious and convenient breakfast!

More:

Spoon University 

Texas A&M University: Banana Nut Overnight Oats

Harvard University: Oats the Nutrition Source

Colorado University: Overnight Oats

US Food & Drug Administration: Gluten-Free Labeling of Foods

Nourriture d’automne

Campus Electric Transit

University of Michigan | Washtenaw County

Widespread use of electric vehicles (EVs) on large university campuses offers significant possibilities but also presents challenges. Possibilities include reduced carbon emissions, aligning with sustainability goals, as EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions compared to gasoline-powered vehicles. Campuses could deploy electric shuttles, maintenance vehicles, or shared EV fleets, decreasing reliance on fossil fuels. EVs could integrate with campus microgrids, leveraging renewable energy sources like solar panels. They also promote quieter environments, reducing noise pollution in academic settings. Universities could foster innovation by integrating EV infrastructure into research, such as smart grid technology or battery development.

Pros include environmental benefits, lower operating costs (electricity is cheaper than fuel), and enhanced campus branding as eco-friendly. EVs require less maintenance, saving long-term costs. Students and staff benefit from cleaner air and modern transportation options.

Cons include high upfront costs for EVs and charging infrastructure, straining budgets. Limited range and charging times may disrupt campus operations, especially for time-sensitive tasks. Charging station availability could lead to congestion or inequitable access. Battery production raises ethical concerns about resource extraction. Retrofitting existing fleets and managing grid demand pose logistical hurdles.

Balancing these factors requires strategic planning, but EVs could transform campus mobility sustainably.

We have followed standards setting action in this domain since 1993.   During todays colloquium at 15:00 UTC we will answer questions about our involvement, guided by our Safer-Simpler-Lower Cost – Longer Lasting advocacy in all relevant standards.  Use the login credentials at the upper right of our home page. 

National Electrical Manufacturers Association

NECA Releases Revised Standard for Installing and Maintaining Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE)

Gallery: Campus Transportation and Parking

EV Charging Stations Integration into Public Lighting Infrastructure

Electric Vehicle Charging

Campus Micromobility

Fast & Ultra-Fast Charging for Battery Electric Vehicles

Gallery: Electric Vehicle Fire Risk

(C)onnected & (A)utomated (V)ehicle Code

Drivers and Barriers to Implementation of Connected, Automated, Shared, and Electric Vehicles

Electric Vehicle Charging

Et al.

Wireless EV Charging

Wireless electric vehicle charging on streets uses electromagnetic induction to transfer power without physical connectors. A primary coil, embedded in the road surface, generates an alternating magnetic field when energized by an external power source. A secondary coil, installed on the EV’s underside, captures this field, inducing an electric current that charges the vehicle’s battery. Efficient power transfer requires precise alignment between coils, often aided by sensors or magnetic guidance systems.

Operating typically at frequencies of 20–100 kHz, the system ensures safe, non-contact energy transfer with efficiencies up to 90%. Power levels vary from 3.3 kW for slow charging to 22 kW or higher for faster systems. Infrastructure includes power inverters, communication modules for vehicle-grid interaction, and safety mechanisms to prevent electromagnetic interference or hazards. Dynamic charging, where EVs charge while moving, extends this concept using sequential coil activation along roads.

Indiana

School of the Air

Academia

Technical foundations of the Information Society

Measuring 5G EMF levels

Electric Vehicle Power Transfer System

Updated July 15, 2025

 

2026 National Electrical Code Table of Contents

2026 NEC First Draft: How Did We Get Here?

2026 National Electrical Code

Public Input Transcript: First Draft | Public Comment Transcript: Second Draft

 

2023 National Electrical Code | Current Issues and Recent Research

 

2026 National Electrical Code Workspace

August 5, 2021

The 2020 National Electrical Code (NEC) contains significant revisions to Article 625 Electric Vehicle Power Transfer Systems.  Free access to this information is linked below:

2023 National Electrical Code

2020 National Electrical Code

You will need to set up a (free) account to view Article 625 or you may join our colloquium today.

Public input for the 2023 Edition of the NEC has already been received.  The work of the assigned committee — Code Making Panel 12 — is linked below:

NFPA 70_A2022_NEC_P12_FD_PIReport_rev

Mighty spirited debate.   Wireless charging from in-ground facilities employing magnetic resonance are noteworthy.  Other Relevant Articles:

  • Article 240: Overcurrent Protection: This article includes requirements for overcurrent protection devices that could be relevant for EV charging systems.
  • Article 210: Branch Circuits: General requirements for branch circuits, which can include circuits dedicated to EVSE.
  • Article 220: Load Calculations: Guidelines for calculating the electrical load for EVSE installations.
  • Article 230: Services: General requirements for electrical service installations, which can be relevant for EVSE.
  • Article 250: Grounding and Bonding: Requirements for grounding and bonding, which are critical for safety in EVSE installations.

 

Technical committees meet November – January to respond.   In the intervening time it is helpful  break down the ideas that were in play last cycle.  The links below provide the access point:

Public Input Report Panel 12

Public Comment Report Panel 12

Panel 12 Final Ballot

We find a fair amount of administrative and harmonization action; fairly common in any revision cycle.   We have taken an interest in a few specific concepts that track in academic research construction industry literature:

  • Correlation with Underwriters Laboratory product standards
  • Bi-Directional Charging & Demand Response
  • Connection to interactive power sources

As a wiring safety installation code — with a large installer and inspection constituency — the NEC is usually the starting point for designing the power chain to electric vehicles.   There is close coupling between the NEC and product conformance organizations identified by NIST as Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories; the subject of a separate post.

Edison electric vehicle | National Park Service, US Department of the Interior

After the First Draft is released June 28th public comment is receivable until August 19th.

We typically do not duplicate the work of the 10’s of thousands of National Electrical Code instructors who will be fanning out across the nation to host training sessions for electrical professionals whose license requires mandatory continuing education.  That space has been a crowded space for decades.   Instead we co-host “transcript reading” sessions with the IEEE Education & Healthcare Facilities Committee to sort through specifics of the 2020 NEC and to develop some of the ideas that ran through 2020 proposals but did not make it to final ballot and which we are likely to see on the docket of the 2023 NEC revision.   That committee meets online 4 times monthly.  We also include Article 625 on the standing agenda of our Mobility colloquium; open to everyone.   See our CALENDAR for the next online meeting

Issue: [16-102]

Category: Electrical, Transportation & Parking, Energy

Colleagues: Mike Anthony, Jim Harvey

Workspace / NFPA

More

U.S. NATIONAL ELECTRIC VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARDS SUMMIT | DETROIT, MICHIGAN 2010

Gallery: Electric Vehicle Fire Risk

 

 

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