The International Fire Suppression Alliance (IFSA)
The International Fire Suppression Alliance (IFSA) is a not-for-profit association created in 1999. IFSA mission objectives are: (1) to promote the enhancement of fire codes, standards and safety legislation throughout the world, (2) to develop relevant information systems to protect product and industry identity, (3) to provide ongoing training and education, and (4) globally promote the use of effective water-based fire protection systems to preserve and protect life, property and the environment.
THE NEED FOR PRODUCT CERTIFICATION
Because the health, safety, and welfare of the public is at risk, the IFSA created a video explaining why fire protection industry professionals and regulators should mandate that only those products certified by reputable testing laboratories be employed in automatic sprinkler systems. The 6-minute video focuses on the shortcomings of noncertified fire sprinklers, some of which were removed from service in buildings where they were being trusted to provide fire protection to the public. When these same sprinklers were subjected to recognized product testing protocols, they routinely fail to demonstrate adequate performance. Certain types of failure seem to predominate, but all failures indicate a danger to public safety.