News & code updates
Stay current with code changes, regulatory updates, and enforcement bulletins
NFPA 13 2025 Edition published — major changes for high ceilings, sloped roofs, and dry systems
The 2025 edition introduces supplemental sprinkler definitions, restricts sprinkler types for ceilings over 30 feet (no sidewalls for OH-1+), prohibits gridded pipe in dry systems, allows storage protection under sloped ceilings for the first time, and increases light-hazard wet system area limits by 50% to 78,000 sq ft. Vacuum dry pipe systems and vapor corrosion inhibitors are now recognized.
Read source →Georgia adopts 2024 ICC codes — effective January 1, 2026
The Georgia DCA Board adopted the 2024 editions of the IBC, IRC, IFC, IMC, IPC, IFGC, and ISPSC with Georgia amendments, plus 2026 amendments to the 2023 NEC. The 2024 IFC is adopted as issued by the Safety Fire Commissioner. All permit submissions from January 1, 2026 must comply with the new codes.
Read source →Georgia State Fire Marshal adopts 2024 NFPA 101 Life Safety Code — effective May 27, 2025
The Office of the Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire adopted the 2024 edition of the NFPA 101 Life Safety Code and related NFPA codes. All projects submitted for permit after May 27, 2025 must comply. This replaces the 2012 edition previously enforced by CMS.
Read source →CMS continues enforcement of 2012 LSC and HCFC for Medicare/Medicaid facilities
CMS adopted the 2012 editions of NFPA 101 and NFPA 99 by final rule on May 4, 2016 (effective July 5, 2016). These remain the enforced editions for all Medicare/Medicaid certified healthcare facilities. CMS has not yet adopted newer editions — surveyors continue to cite against the 2012 LSC.
Read source →NFPA 25 — understanding the 2023 edition changes for sprinkler ITM
The 2023 edition of NFPA 25 includes enhanced requirements for electronic monitoring, updated obstruction investigation criteria, and clarified impairment procedures. Fire protection professionals should review changes to Chapters 5, 13, and 14 for inspection frequency updates.
Read source →CLSS-HC certification — exam based on 2012 NFPA 101
The Certified Life Safety Specialist for Health Care (CLSS-HC) exam continues to be based on the 2012 edition of NFPA 101. This is a 100-item proctored exam covering 6 domains. The printed 2012 NFPA 101 is the only reference allowed during the exam. LifeSafetyWiki offers a free study tool.
Read on LifeSafetyWiki →Federal OSHA jurisdiction in Georgia — what private employers need to know
Georgia is a federal OSHA state for private-sector employers (29 CFR 1910 and 1926 apply directly). The state operates a public-employee-only plan through the GA Department of Labor. Free consultation available through Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) at 800-653-3629.
Read on LifeSafetyWiki →ASHE resources for LSRA and ILSM — templates and guidance documents
ASHE provides industry-standard templates for Life Safety Risk Assessments, Interim Life Safety Measures policies, and Pre-Construction Risk Assessments. These are frequently referenced during TJC surveys and CMS inspections.
Read on LifeSafetyWiki →