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NFPA overview

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is a global nonprofit organization, established in 1896, devoted to eliminating death, injury, property and economic loss due to fire, electrical and related hazards.

Codes and Standards

NFPA is widely known as a codes and standards organization – that’s the backbone of what we do, and it always will be. Our mission is to provide you with the information and knowledge you need to do your job well in today’s ever-changing environment. Our 300 codes and standards are designed to minimize the risk and effects of fire by establishing criteria for building, processing, design, service, and installation around the world. Its more than 200 technical code- and standard- development committees comprise more than 6,000 volunteers who vote on proposals and revisions in a process that is accredited by the American National Standards Institute. NFPA provides free online access to its codes and standards.

Public education

As part of NFPA’s mission to eliminate death, injury, property and economic loss from fire, electrical and other hazards, NFPA develops easy-to-use educational programs, tools, and resources for all ages and audiences. 

Outreach and Advocacy

  • Our Fire Sprinkler Initiative encourages the use of home fire sprinklers through increased awareness and adoption of local ordinances or model codes. 
  • Our Firewise Communities program encourages local solutions for wildfire safety by involving homeowners, community leaders, planners, developers, firefighters, and others in the effort to protect people and property from wildfire risks.

Training

NFPA training includes a variety of convenient ways to access codes and standards training and earn CEUs. Choose from classroom training, online training, on-site training, conferences and certification.

  • Our seminars provide insight into the meaning, intent, and proper application of fire and electrical safety codes.
  • NFPA administers professional certification programs including Certified Fire Protection Specialist, Certified Fire Inspector, and Certified Fire Plans Examiner.
  • The annual NFPA Conference & Expo fosters the exchange of ideas among Association members. New and revised NFPA codes and standards are also discussed and voted upon at these meetings.
  • NFPA develops dozens of texts, guides, and other materials that target firefighter and other first responder safety and health.

Research

NFPA is the premier resource for fire data analysis, research, and analysis. This helps guide educational outreach, supports the work of NFPA Technical Committees, and frames the fire-loss picture for organizations, the media, and the general public.

  • The Fire Analysis and Research division produces a wide range of annual reports and special studies on all aspects of the nation's fire problem.
  • NFPA conducts investigations of fire incidents of technical interest to its constituents, including its Technical Committees and the broader fire community.
  • The Fire Protection Research Foundation plans, manages, and communicates research in support of the development of NFPA's codes and standards and educational and public-awareness efforts.
  • The Charles S. Morgan Library supports research and maintains the NFPA archives. It is one of the largest fire science libraries in the world.

Membership

NFPA membership is the easiest way to stay up-to-date. Membership helps you make the right decisions on the job by giving you the latest news and information, professional connections, and access to NFPA staff who can answer your technical standards questions. Members are invited to maximize their benefits by joining one or more of our 12 industry-specific Member Sections. Section membership is free and included with your NFPA membership.

Publications

Catalog

NFPA's online catalog provides a direct way for customers to purchase NFPA codes and standards, companion products, and public education materials.

In This Section
Featured Product
National Fire Codes Subscription Service All Access - New or Renew
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NFPA 70: National Electrical Code (NEC) Softbound, 2014 Edition
The NEC is adopted in all 50 states, and covers electrical wiring and installations. Buy the 2014 NFPA 70®: National Electrical Code® now and keep up-to-code!
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NFPA 13: Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, 2016 Edition
Get updated requirements on automatic sprinkler system design, installation, and acceptance testing; hanging and bracing systems; underground piping, and more with the 2016 NFPA 13.
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NFPA 1: Fire Code, 2015 Edition
Apply the 2015 NFPA 1: Fire Code to be confident buildings and facilities make the grade for fire protection and life safety.
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