The relationship between the International Code Council (ICC) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) for the joint development of the ICC International Fire CodeT has been terminated by agreement of both parties. The main objective of the ICC is to produce a single complete set of model construction codes to be used by the nation's cities, counties and states.
"We were aware at the outset that the ICC relationship with the NFPA had several difficult issues to resolve," says George Walker, chairman of the board of directors of the ICC. "Unfortunately, as matters unfolded, we learned that an agreeable resolution could not be crafted."
The ICC has decided to continue developing-independently of the NFPA-a complete package of international codes, including the International Fire Code, Walker says.
As announced, the ICC will hold hearings on the code change proposals submitted to the First Draft of the International Fire Code beginning on April 14, 1998, at the Radisson Plaza Hotel in Alexandria, Va.
Meanwhile, the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) has announced that it has reached an agreement with the NFPA to jointly support the adoption of each other's codes and standards internationally. Both IAPMO and NFPA produce codes that focus on public safety and safe installation and operation of systems and equipment.
In addition to sharing information concerning the adoption, support and implementation of each organization's documents outside the United States, the agreement also involves reciprocal participation in each organization's code development and maintaining process.
