The Maryland State Fire Commission has adopted the 2003 editions of NFPA 1, Uniform Fire Code™ (UFC) and NFPA 101®, Life Safety Code® as part of the revised State Fire Prevention Code. The new codes are effective as of August 1.

The codes will protect Maryland residents and their property in new and existing buildings. NFPA's Life Safety Code mandates building design construction, operation, and maintenance requirements to protect building occupants from the dangers caused by fire, smoke, and toxic fumes. NFPA 1, UFC integrates NFPA 1, Fire Prevention Code and the Uniform Fire Code. The latest edition of NFPA 1 provides requirements necessary to establish a reasonable level of fire safety and property protection from hazards created by fire and explosion.

According to State Fire Marshal William E. Barnard, Maryland officials decided to adopt NFPA codes because they were the only codes reviewed that offered such a high standard of safety. "The safety of our citizens is our highest priority, and we feel that these codes are the best choice to ensure that safety."

Maryland code enforcers have already participated in a training program developed by NFPA, which is offered to cities and states that have adopted NFPA 1, NFPA 101, and other key NFPA codes and standards. Taught by NFPA technical experts, the training covers all of the codes' requirements and the numerous ways the code can be utilized and enforced.

Publication date: 08/23/2004