3M Company recently issued a release stating the company’s intention to exit per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) manufacturing and work to discontinue the use of PFAS across its product portfolio by the end of 2025.  This was a business decision by 3M and will include the manufacturing of its 3M™ Novec™ 1230 Fire Protection Fluid - which is 3M’s trademarked-version of the FK-5-1-12 fire suppression agent.

In the release, 3M states that “PFAS can be safely made and used” and its “products are safe for their intended use.” The company commits to facilitating an orderly transition for customers. The announcement does pledge 3M will fulfill its current contractual obligations.

Technical Committee Openings for 2023 - Are You the Right Fit?

To:  FSSA Installer and Manufacturer Division Members

Sign Up Today for a Friday Activity at the Annual Forum

FSSA has some exciting activities planned to kick off the Annual Forum on February 23-27, 2023 at the Royal Sonesta in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Attendees have the option to add fishing, golf, or a historical tour with shopping! All options are available on a first come, first-served basis, and are close to selling out. Pricing is per person. Secure your spot by selecting the optional activity while registering for the FSSA Annual Forum.

FSSA Ambassador Program

Early bird registration ends today! 

Are you planning on attending the 2023 Annual Forum? Register today, December 6, to take advantage of our lowest registration rate before pricing increases.

Early Bird registration deadline is one week away! 

Take advantage of our lowest registration rate and register before the deadline on Tuesday, December 6. Join us for FSSA's next Annual Forum on February 23-27, 2023 at the Royal Sonesta in San Juan, Puerto Rico. In addition to the educational sessions where you’ll be able to earn PDHs, the committee has some fun sprinkled in, including optional historic tours, beach Olympics, and a live auction. Connect with hundreds of leading professionals in the industry at the FSSA Annual Forum by registering today.

Take advantage of the opportunity to sponsor educational sessions, receptions, giveaways and more to support the FSSA at the 2023 Annual Forum. 

Each of the opportunities will include:

• Company logo and signage during the Annual Forum 
• Acknowledgment by FSSA Leadership and emcee 
• Sponsorship acknowledgment in the on-site program and on the FSSA website.

In order to secure an opportunity:

The Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (DOT PHMSA) is holding a virtual forum on November 15 and 16, 2022 to discuss future research and development activities related to LNG facilities. One of the task groups will consider fire protection system design. FSSA members who have an interest in protection of liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities may want to participate in this forum to supply information and guidance to the PHMSA. Information on the forum is below:

The Department of Transportation
Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration
Pipeline Safety Research Program

The FSSA Annual Forum will be held February 23 - 27, 2023 at the Royal Sonesta San Juan in Puerto Rico. Join top special hazard industry professionals for this premier event that offers educational sessions, a partner expo, networking opportunities, and updates on FSSA initiatives including the unveiling of the strategic plan for 2023-2025.

With breathtaking scenery, a tropical climate, and inviting culture, Puerto Rico offers the perfect setting for the FSSA 2023 Annual Forum.  Register today and save $100!  Click here to view information on registration.

The current landscape of the fire suppression industry seems to be changing rapidly with no sign of slowing down in the near future. With the rise of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), shifting guidelines for things like Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance (ITM), as well as new industries more closely adopting NFPA guidelines, it has become crucial to stay ahead of the curve in regards to education.

FSSA's Training Program is designed to make it simple and convenient to keep up to date on all-things fire protection at a reasonable cost. Custom courses are based on products, procedures, practices, and systems, and FSSA has teamed with MC LMS to offer training that adapts to your individual learning style. It is a collaborative model that offers:

The Fire Suppression Systems Association (FSSA) is a non-profit trade association that consists of an international community of thought leaders from all corners of the fire suppression industry. Our members include designer/installers, manufacturers, consultants, academics, and suppliers working together to share ideas and strategies to help the greater good.

Joining us as a FSSA member has its benefits:

Written by: Bill Polits, Director, Sales and Strategy, A-Gas

The AIM Act is landmark legislation curbing the production and consumption of HFCs in the US. The AIM Act also puts a focus on economic growth through job creation and American global leadership in technology and global trade. Despite lots of talk about the AIM Act, many in the fire protection industry have questions. While this article will outline the background behind this legislation, detail how the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will implement the AIM Act, describe the current situation for virgin HFCs in fire protection, and share what the future may hold for HFCs, the regulatory world is always evolving and changing. Thus, your company should always check with its own counsel to help with decision-making.