What does NFPA stand for?

NFPA stands for the National Fire Protection Association. It is a trade association that is based in the United States, but has international members as well. This association creates standards and codes that are used by businesses, local governments, and other organizations to help improve fire safety. NFPA was first formed in 1896 by insurance firms who were looking to standardize fire sprinkler systems, which were an emerging technology at the time. Today, the NFPA has over 50,000 members, 9000 volunteers, and 250 technical committees.

Establishing Codes and Standards

The codes and standards that are established by the NFPA cover a variety of different subjects. All of them are related largely to how a facility can help to reduce the risk of fires, explosions, or other related hazards from occurring. Some of the most significant codes and standards are:

• NFPA 30 – NFPA 30 offers information on flammable and combustible liquids.
• NFPA 70 – NFPA 70 is the National Electric Code, which covers topics related to electrical systems.
• NFPA 70B – NFPA 70B specifically offers recommended practices for the maintenance for electrical equipment.
• NFPA 70E – NFPA 70E sets standards for electrical safety within the workplace.
• NFPA 72 – NFPA 72 covers all the national fire alarm and signaling codes.
• NFPA 77 – NFPA 77 outlines the recommended practices for issues related to static electricity.
• NFPA 704 – NFPA 704 is the standard for the identification of the hazards related to materials, and the relevant emergency responses.
• NFPA 921 – NFPA 921 is a guide designed for investigating fires and explosions.

There are many other codes and standards that have been developed by the NFPA. The association is always looking for new opportunities for ways that they can help companies improve their fire safety. The standards that the NFPA has created over the years have been so effective that many of them have become mandatory processes from organizations like OSHA.