SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6366

BYSenators Warnke, Matson, Smitherman and Vognild

Licensing fire protection sprinkler system contractors.

Senate Committee on Economic Development & Labor

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 23, 1990

Senate Staff:Traci Anderson (786-7452)

AS OF JANUARY 18, 1990

BACKGROUND:

There is increasing demand for the installation of fire protection sprinkler systems in residential and commercial buildings.  Current law does not require installers of these systems to prove expertise in the installation, maintenance or repair of such systems.  Individuals or organizations engaged in such activities are also not currently required to carry liability insurance or to post a surety bond, both of which would provide compensation for third party losses incurred as a result of system failure caused by improper installation, or faulty equipment, for example.

SUMMARY:

To assure the correct installation of properly functioning fire protection sprinkler systems and to establish clear legal responsibility for improperly installed or malfunctioning systems, individuals and organizations engaged in the installation, inspection, maintenance and servicing of fire protection sprinkler systems are required to be licensed annually by the state Director of Fire Protection. 

Individuals or organizations applying for such licensure must meet the following criteria: employ an individual who has received a certificate of competency, which shall be awarded by the state Director of Fire Protection upon proof that such individual is competent to design, install, and service fire protection sprinkler systems; file with the state Director of Fire Protection proof of liability insurance coverage, and workers' compensation insurance; secure a surety bond from a surety bond company authorized to do business in this state or upon the approval of the state Director of Fire Protection substitute property or cash in place of the surety bond. 

A fire protection sprinkler system technical advisory committee is established to assist in the development of rules necessary to implement this act, and to make recommendations concerning forms and procedures used for issuing certificates and licenses.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    yes

Fiscal Note:      requested January 17, 1990

Effective Date:May 1, 1991