NFPA 1620, titled “Standard for Pre-Incident Planning”, is a critical safety standard developed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). It provides comprehensive guidelines for creating pre-incident plans that assist emergency responders in effectively managing incidents to protect occupants, responding personnel, property, and the environment.
Purpose and Scope
The primary goal of NFPA 1620 is to establish a structured approach for developing pre-incident plans that enhance situational awareness and operational efficiency during emergencies. The standard applies to various facilities and occupancies, including:
Commercial and industrial buildings
High-rise structures
Healthcare facilities
Educational institutions
Mass gathering venues
Key Requirements
NFPA 1620 outlines several critical components for effective pre-incident planning:
Site and Occupancy Considerations
Assess building construction, occupancy type, and use.
Identify potential hazards and special features.
Fire Protection Systems
Document fire detection, alarm, and suppression systems.
Include locations of fire protection equipment and shut-off valves.
Water Supply
Identify available water sources for firefighting operations.
Assess hydrant locations and water flow rates.
Emergency Operations
Develop strategies for occupant evacuation and rescue.
Establish incident command procedures and communication protocols.
Plan Maintenance
Regularly update pre-incident plans to reflect changes in building layout, occupancy, or hazards.
Conduct periodic drills and training exercises.
Special Considerations
Address unique hazards such as hazardous materials, buildings under construction, and mass gathering events.
Recent Updates
The 2020 edition of NFPA 1620 introduced significant revisions to enhance clarity and incorporate the latest best practices. Key updates include:
Consolidation of Specialized Requirements: Relocated specific requirements for hazardous materials, buildings under construction, and mass gatherings to a revised Chapter 8, improving the flow of the standard.
Enhanced Guidance: Updated Chapters 9 and 10 to provide clearer direction on incident operations and plan maintenance.
Clarification of Roles: Defined the responsibilities of on-site emergency representatives to eliminate confusion with site liaisons.
Integration with Other Standards: Incorporated references to applicable NFPA standards for specialized preplanning information.
Importance
Adhering to NFPA 1620 ensures that emergency responders are equipped with accurate and comprehensive information, enabling them to:
Enhance situational awareness during emergencies.
Improve response times and coordination among agencies.
Reduce risks to personnel and occupants.
Minimize property damage and environmental impact.