FLAME-RESISTANT TENT MATERIALS; STANDARDS S.B. 632:
SUMMARY OF INTRODUCED BILL
IN COMMITTEE
Senate Bill 632 (as introduced 9-2-21)
CONTENT
The bill would amend the Fire Prevention Code to modify the standards that flame-resistant materials used for camping tentage must meet.
Section 7b of the Code requires the following items to meet the appropriate requirements for resistance to fire prescribed in the Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Flame Resistant Textiles, Films, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) No. 701-1969:
-- A tent that may be occupied or furnished for public assembly by 50 or more people.
-- A tent in which animals are stabled for public exhibition or sale.
-- A tent located within a building used by the public.
-- All tarpaulins and decorative material used in connection with any of the above.
A safety net or tent used for recreational camping is exempt from Section 7b.
All camping tentage of new manufacture sold in the State must comply with the provisions for resistance to fire as prescribed in the Specification for Flame Resistant Materials Used in Camping Tentage, Canvas Products Association International-84 (CPAI-84) (1974) or another nationally recognized standard that is acceptable to the Director of the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.
(Canvas Products Association International-84 is flammability standard written by the Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI) as a voluntary industry specification. According to its website, the IFAI is a not-for-profit trade association comprised of member companies representing the international specialty fabrics marketplace.)
The bill would delete references to NFPA No. 701-1969 and CPAI-84 (1974) and would refer to CPAI-84 (2021) and all revisions to that standard adopted in rules promulgated by the Director.
The bill would take effect 90 days after its enactment.
BACKGROUND
According to its website, the National Fire Protection Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating death, injury, and property and economic loss due to fire, electrical, and related hazards. It develops and maintains codes and safety standards related to fire, electrical, chemical, building, and life safety, and also offers several professional training and
certification programs. National Fire Protection Association No. 701-1969 prescribes standard methods of fire tests for flame resistant textiles and films.
Legislative Analyst: Stephen Jackson
FISCAL IMPACT
The bill would have no fiscal impact on State or local government.
Fiscal Analyst: Elizabeth Raczkowski
This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan Senate staff for use by the Senate in its deliberations and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.