Nebraska has adopted editions of two National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) safety codes. The 2003 edition of NFPA 1, Uniform Fire Code™ (UFC) and the 2000 edition of NFPA 101®, Life Safety Code® have been adopted by the State Fire Marshal's office, as part of the revised State Fire Code Regulations.

The codes will protect Nebraska 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 Doug Hohbein, manager of the plans division for the Nebraska State Fire Marshal's office, the state adopted the codes because they were the most effective available. "We have been using NFPA codes for over 30 years now, and they have always done a great job of protecting the people of Nebraska. We like to stick with what works."

Nebraska will participate in a training program developed by NFPA and 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 codes may be utilized and enforced.

Publication date: 08/23/2004