The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) and the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) Fire and Life Safety Section (FLSS) are exploring new ways to work together to enhance fire safety and advance standards for energy storage systems. Two key initiatives are currently underway that highlight this commitment to collaboration and public safety.
New Guidance for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
NEMA recently published a comprehensive new guide, Plan Review and Inspections of Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Installations. This document provides critical insights for authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs), fire officials, and industry professionals. To amplify the reach of this important guidance, NEMA is exploring a partnership with the IAFC.
One potential collaboration is a NEMA-hosted webinar featuring expert speakers from its Energy Storage Section. This would allow NEMA to share insights directly with the fire and emergency services community, ensuring that fire officials have the latest information on BESS installations.
Promoting Free Fire and Life Safety Resources
NEMA's Fire and Life Safety Section is also working to promote its library of free documents, which includes valuable resources on fire prevention, emergency response, and building safety. While these materials are already being shared on social media, NEMA is eager to expand their reach and is actively looking for opportunities to collaborate with the IAFC to get these resources into the hands of more fire professionals.
These initiatives present meaningful opportunities for NEMA and the FLSS to strengthen their collaboration and work together to improve public and firefighter safety. Plan Review and Inspections of Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Installations.
It's essential for fire chiefs to understand the information from NEMA and FLSS to effectively lead, serve, and educate their departments. The collaboration between these two organizations directly addresses the evolving challenges presented by new technologies like Battery Energy Storage Systems. Preplanning is a critical function to Lead, serve, and educate their departments effectively for the fire service, and NEMAs' guide can help with firefighter safety.
Leading with Knowledge
Fire chiefs are responsible for the safety of their crews and the communities they serve. This means staying ahead of the curve on emerging risks. Accessing resources from NEMA, such as the BESS Installations guide, allows chiefs to develop informed strategies for responding to new incidents. They can find additional resources at library of free documents.
- Create informed policies and procedures based on the latest industry standards.
- Make data-driven decisions to mitigate risks and improve operational efficiency.
- Champion the adoption of new, safe technologies within the department.