From the Chief’s Corner: The Present…

Chief Alan PerdueChief Alan Perdue (Ret.), CFO, FM,
Executive Director – Safer Buildings Coalition

Posted on December 21, 2021

When one hears the word “present” especially during the Christmas season it is often referring to something thoughtfully given from another as in a gift.  But this month, I want to take a moment to talk about a phrase that originated in ancient English in the 1400’s and that is “there’s no time like the present”. In this context, but the present is an opportunity to provide input to help shape a very important aspect of the in-building public safety communications industry. So, what is this opportunity you ask? 

It’s related to a very important research project titled “Evaluating Data and Voice Signals in Pathway Survivable Cables for Life Safety Systems” that is being conducted by the National Fire Protection Association Fire Protection Research Foundation. SBC worked with several other groups to help launch this important project and we need your input. The researchers were not able to receive material regarding manufacturer data or known failure incidents. In order to reach a broader audience, they have created a survey asking for those who may be aware of operational cable failure incidents for life safety systems. Please consider taking a two-minute survey to provide additional information for the project. For more information about this project please see the blog which provides additional background information. 

As many of you are “boots on the ground” either using or installing Emergency Responder Communication Enhancement Systems (ERCES), who better to provide valuable information about this issue. Remember, codes and standards requirements are typically based on technical substantiation and actual data is imperative for supporting or modifying requirements within the development process.  Additionally, you can share insights related to actual cable testing or test results outside the aspect of the survey, that would be extremely helpful for the project team to include in their research. If you need assistance in submitting that information, please let us know. 

I must say, 2021 has been a remarkable year for the Coalition with a lot of activity centered around the No-Noise Taskforce, NICET Certification, SBC Seminars, and many other critical issues important to you. As we enter the Christmas season and prepare for 2022, I hope each of you have the opportunity to relax and spend some quality time with your family and friends. I truly thank you for the giving of yourself and your resources to our Coalition and the work we all do to make a difference in the lives of others. 

For many of us, those special gatherings with our loved ones will involve food and drink (and more food…) presents, football, and a bit of travel. I hope you make many wonderful memories! As for my Christmas wish from the Coalition… remember that the Good Book teaches “It is more blessed to give than to receive”. My Christmas wish this year is to respectfully ask you to give just a little bit more of your time and expertise to complete the survey and also provide any additional data you may have for this important research project. By working together and sharing our collective knowledge we can continue to make a difference! 

Thank you for the difference you make and from my family to yours we Wish You a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

**Click Here To View the Evaluating Data and Voice Signals in Pathway Survivable Cables for Life Safety Systems Project Summary