History of AFAA
History
What is the Automatic Fire Alarm Association (AFAA)?
The Automatic Fire Alarm Association (AFAA) is the only not-for-profit trade association exclusively focused on the fire alarm industry. Founded in 1953 in Chicago, IL by a mixed group of contractors, engineers and manufacturers. AFAA’s primary focus includes active participation in the codes and standards making process of both the International Code Council (ICC) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Consistent involvement in the codes and standards making process is vitally important to the sustainability of the fire alarm industry. Without this involvement, requirements for fire alarm systems would erode rapidly. AFAA initiated the Partners Council, now known as Club 72 Sponsors, to help fund involvement as well as fund development of new training material. AFAA has 30+ individuals representing the association on over 50 NFPA Technical Committees. In addition, AFAA has representatives on 3 UL Standards Technical Panels and the ICC Industry Advisory Committee.
History
Organization History
AFAA’s second focus is the development and presentation of quality fire alarm training programs for the industry. These consist of seminars on basics of fire alarms, testing and inspecting fire alarms and code requirements for fire alarm systems. In addition, AFAA also provides training to help individuals prepare for NICET fire alarm certification. AFAA was instrumental in the development of the NICET Fire Alarm Systems certification program back in 1988, and still remains a strong proponent of certification for our industry.
In addition to seminars, AFAA provides sponsored webinars multiple times per year. These webinars are all technical presentations, not sales pitches by the sponsor. All webinars are free of charge, but only AFAA members get access to recorded webinars-including the continuing education, at no charge. That is a huge cost saving benefit. It’s true-membership pays for itself immediately.
History
Affiliate Associations
AFAA grew to be a two-tiered organization (National and State) in 1987 when Larry Neibauer became Executive Director. AFAA previously had 19 Regional and State Member Associations representing 29 states nationwide. Member Associations are now known as Affiliate Associations. There are currently 9 Affiliate Associations representing 12 states. Please consider joining an Affiliate Association. They help improve the fire and life safety industry from a local standpoint and offer events that could be in your area.
Membership Myth
Joining an Affiliate Association automatically provides member benefits with AFAA. This is the biggest membership myth since we operate as separate entities but support one another. We encourage joining us and an Affiliate Association in your area if applicable.
History
AFAA Awards
Over the years, AFAA has given out several awards to folks dedicated to improving fire and life safety. Click the corresponding links below to see award recipients over the years.