CCAAAASSCAASCanada’s Fire Sprinkler Industry Magazine 2010 3rd Issue

P. 8 Codes & Technical Report

P. 10 National Marketing Report

P. 18 Saving lives and property with sprinklers

P. 24 NFPA Safety Alert RegardingAntifreeze in Residential Fire Sprinkler Systems

I N D E X

Casanotes 33rd Issue 2010

BOARD OF DIRECTORS - 2010/2011OntarioRick Berwick, Chairman, Classic Fire Protection Inc.

AtlanticClaude Melanson, Viking Fire Protection Inc.

QuebecRene Belanger, Viking Fire Protection Inc.

OntarioGary Irving, Superior Sprinkler Co. Ltd.

Manitoba/SaskatchewanBill Skromeda, B.D.R. Services Ltd.

AlbertaMike Farren, Vipond Fire Protection,Div. of Vipond Inc.

British ColumbiaJamie McKenzie, SimplexGrinnell

Associate Manufacturer/SupplierBryan Callaghan, Treasurer, Tyco Fire Suppression &Building Products

Director at LargeDavid Killey, Fire Busters Inc.

National RepresentativesGrant Neal, Past-Chair, Vipond Fire Protection,Div. of Vipond Inc.

Tim Voronoff, Past-Chair, Troy Sprinkler Limited

Rick Allan, SimplexGrinnell

STAFFPresident, John Galt

Codes & Technical Services Manager, Matt Osburn

Training and Apprenticeship, Dan Solonynko

National Marketing Manager, Sean Pearce

Atlantic Regional Manager, Joe Young

Ontario Regional Manager, Sean Pearce

Western Regional Manager, Dan Solonynko

Event Planner / Casanotes Editor, Nadina Caplice

Receptionist / Administrator, Debbie Tomasic

Accounting, Lynda Allman

The Canadian Automatic Sprinkler Association is anational Trade Contractor’s Association. It has existed inone form or another since the 1920’s, and wasincorporated under a Dominion Charter in 1961. In itsinception it recognized the Sprinkler Industry as aContracting Industry separate from any other trade.Voting membership, manufacturers, suppliers andsubscribers are brought into the Association. C.A.S.A.promotes, defends, enhances and improves thebusiness of installing and manufacturing the sprinklerdevices and systems. In doing so, the Association worksclosely with Fire and Building Officials, Architects andothers for the advancement of the automatic sprinklerart as applied to the conservation of life and propertyfrom fire. Casanotes is published quarterly by theCanadian Automatic Sprinkler Association, 335 RenfrewDrive, Suite 302, Markham, ON, L3R 9S9, Tel: (905)477-2270, Fax: (905) 477-3611, Website: www.casa-firesprinkler.org, Email: info@casa-firesprinkler.org.,Editor: Nadina Caplice.

This publication is free to all members of theAssociation. Subscriptions to Casanotes and otherindustry publications are available by contacting theC.A.S.A. office. The opinions expressed herein are thoseof the authors and do not necessarily represent thoseof the Canadian Automatic Sprinkler Association

Inside This Issue...T H I R D I S S U E 2 0 1 0

R E PORTS / ART I C L E S

5 President’s Reportby John Galt

6 Training and Apprenticeshipby Dan Solonynko

8 Codes and Technical Reportby Matthew Osburn

10 National Marketing Reportby Sean Pearce

12 Western Regional Reportby Dan Solonynko

14 Ontario Regional Reportby Sean Pearce

17 Atlantic Regional Reportby Joe Young

18 Saving Lives and Property with Sprinklers

20 What’s New

24 NFPA Safety Alert RegardingAntifreeze in Residential Fire Sprinkler Systems

Designed and printed by

Installation-ready, no loose partsAquaFlex® flexible fittings connect sprinklers to the branch line up to 10x faster than rigid pipe and up to 5xfaster than competitive flexible products. Stainless steel, corrosion-resistant systems allow for pressure test atrough-in and instant center-of-tile sprinkler positioning.

One-piece, patent-pending 1-BEE2 bracket installs in seconds without tools.

Optional pre-installed, factory leak-tested sprinkler assemblies save up to60% installation time and reduce risk – eliminating sprinkler thread leaks.

www.victaulic.com/aquaflex

COMMERCIAL SUSPENDED CEILINGS

INSTITUTIONAL SPACES CLEAN ROOMS

INDUSTRIAL DUCT SYSTEMS PRE-INSTALLED SPRINKLER ASSEMBLIES

V I C T A U L I C • A Q U A F L E X S P R I N K L E R F I T T I N G S

The shortest distancebetween two points isnow a curved line.

UATCIV UQA•CILU PSXELFAU FRELKNIR SGNITTI

itallatsnIfl i®A Fl

olon,yy,daer-noii ktfittibl

strapesoolib hthtkl i idthf t10t 5tdi

inandrough-incomthanfaster

flexi®AquaFlex

victaulic comwww

installation60%pre-instaOptional

patentOne-piece,

sprink-of-tilecenternstantproductsflexiblempetitive

sprinkconnectfittingsble

m/aquaflex

e–riskreduceandtimesleak-tested factoryalled,

bracket21-BEEE2t-pending

positioning.klercorrosion-resistant steel,Stainlesss.

uplinebranchthetoklers

threasprinklereliminating saveassembliessprinkler

withosecondsininstallst

allowsystemsn-resistantrigidthanfaster10xtop

leaks.dtoup

tools.ut

attestpressurefor5x toupandpipe

.victaulic.comwww m/aquaflex

Having come through the first two quarters of 2010, our Nationalmanhours are - 4.93 per cent ytd. That is - 13.17 per cent from ourpeak year of 2008. Our budget and forecast was for -8 per cent byDecember of this year, and that puts CASA well within our target forthe start of 2011.

What can we expect? While there are lots of positives for 2011, wecould see a slow start. As regional reports reflect, the outlook forCanada and the Canadian Sprinkler Market varies greatlydepending on where you are. Recently Alberta is claiming the worstmight be over. Saskatchewan continues to improve, not having seenany real decline in recent years, and Manitoba is flat from what wasa very high plateau of hours. Quebec and the Atlantic Region arelooking better with Newfoundland growing very significantlythrough this recessionary period.

That leaves Ontario and British Columbia which both have verydifferent stories. British Columbia realized over 50 per centdecrease in manhours and is - 48.53 per cent at Q2 with more tobe concerned about for the second half of the year. Ontario hourswere -3.94 per cent in Q1 and - 3.04 per cent at the end of Q2.That however reflects the total for the province. Across Ontario itvaries too, as OSC reports the following in ICI permits: Northern+80.8 per cent, Eastern -24.1 per cent, GTA -16.8 per cent, Central+4.2 per cent and South Western +42.6 per cent.

So again, what about 2011? From a National perspective, I see itbeing a flat year through 2010 to the end of 2011, but it will startslow. That is barring a double dip in the U.S. economy, which couldpull us down too.

What is for sure is that Code changes across the country will meanthe slice of pie is bigger for us even if the pie does not get too muchbigger overall. We will visit this issue in the next few issues ofCASAnotes and the CASA Finance Committee will be reviewing allthe data we can find.

Perhaps the biggest surprise to confront Sprinkler Contractors insome time, has hit us this summer. It is that of "Dwelling UnitAntifreeze Systems". The industry has been moved to action by the

Safety Alert issued by NFPA in June. While reports were issued byboth UL May 26, 2010, and the NFPA "Fire Protection ResearchFoundation" in June 2010. The alert was issued as a veryconservative approach. NFSA, AFSA and CASA all made theirmembers aware of this potential concern in July also. CASA calledan emergency conference call of the Tech Committee on July 15th,but at the time of writing, the recommendations following yet somefurther research by the NFPA foundation are not available. We areconfident that the industry has responded and the solution will beimplemented immediately, that will allow us to maintain theenviable Record of Life Safety across all of North America andcertainly for Canada.

For the latest on this issue, see pg. 24. Feel free to contact Managerof Codes and Standards, Matt Osburn, or your Regional Manager.

REPORT

Casanotes 53rd Issue 2010

President’s Report

John Galt, PresidentCanadian Automatic Sprinkler Association

REPORT

Casanotes6 3rd Issue 2010

There continues to be some underlying barriers within the tradesthat need to be overcome so that we can continue to see positiveresults from training and apprenticeship. A thorough assessmentof the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum paints a clear understandingof the current barriers surrounding the accessing, maintaining andcompleting of apprenticeships. The top three barriers that areconsidered the highest priority are; a lack of information andawareness of apprenticeship, concern about the lack of resourcesto support apprenticeship, and a negative attitude to apprenticeshipand poor image of trade. The optimism behind these barriers is thatnow more then ever governments, schools, and employers are in aposition to help minimize these barriers.

As we seek post recession growth across Canada, it is clear that ourcurrent knowledge and resources, coupled with strong publicityinitiatives can help to better facilitate a stronger understandingabout the trades. The direction is clear, and here is why.

For starters, our nation has moved into the post recession stage ofthe economic life cycle and there is hope on the horizon.We are ina better economic position to seek out new growth in training andapprenticeships. Secondly, thanks to the Canadian ApprenticeshipForum we better understand exactly what is creating a barrier fortraining and apprenticeship. Having these results top of mind canbetter help us frame our approach to increasing results across allapprenticeships. Thirdly, we have a large talent pool of resources(particularly in the Sprinkler industry) that have the capability to dosomething about any current stigma; this group includes intelligentparties such as employers, schools, mentors, councils andgovernments. These three elements help to better understand thatwe are in a positive position to start taking on initiatives to supportfurther training and apprenticeship growth.

Based on CAF survey here is a comprehensive analysis of whatactivities can be undertaken to better address barriers. Creating apositive awareness for the trades both in primary and secondaryschool, as well as out in the workforce is imperative. A dedicationto counseling students in the right direction is very important.Schools, and employment offices must be provided with well

structured information about the apprenticeship process so theycan better support and direct students. It is important that we asemployers continue to support and even help facilitate workshops,education programs, orientation sessions, and meetings. Thoseinterested in the trades should be able to receive a comprehensiveunderstanding of apprenticeship through multiple means; websites,employment agencies, school career centers, employers, andlibraries. As employers it is encouraged that we welcome an opendialogue network where those who are interested in, and or arepursuing apprenticeship can post some inquiries. All of thesechannels will better support breaking the barrier of lack ofinformation as well as make clearer the evidence that there is ahuge network of resources to support the training andapprenticeship process.

It is through increased information and awareness, as well as theutilization of all levels of resources; schools, employers, governmentbodies, and mentors that we can better improve the third barrier,negative attitude and image of the trades. Successful results willcontinue to come with the support of various media channels aswell. Conferences, media campaigns, online interactives, andincreased attendance at career days all send a positive image aboutthe trades industry. Lastly, by better understanding the CAF's rolein collecting research and survey information we can better putthese issues top of mind. We are in a perfect position to startutilizing our resources, and the network of resources around us topromote our passion for the Sprinkler industry.

It is my belief that the apprenticeship training in the Sprinklerindustry is one of the best in the trades. I strongly encourage allinvolved that they keep doing their best to ensure that we continueto be a front runner in the training of our apprentices.

Training and Apprenticeship

Dan Solonynko,Canadian Automatic Sprinkler Association

Building a Winner

In large installations like the new, state-of-the-art

professional sports stadium in Dallas, the need to protect thousands of

fans and staff from fire is a monumental challenge.

For a job of this magnitude — or any other size job — it’s important

to use what will work without fail. So for this project, the sprinkler

system contractor chose the most reliable, easy-to-install equipment

in the business to monitor the system: sprinkler

monitoring devices from System Sensor.

Find out why System Sensor devices are the best,

most trusted choice for jobs big and small. Call

800-SENSOR-2 or visit systemsensor.com/wf today.

I N D E X

Casanotes8 3rd Issue 2010

REPORT

What Backflow Preventer do I need for mySprinkler System?Currently all of the Canadian Provinces have adopted andimplemented the 2005 National Model Codes, with some Provincesopting to make their own revisions to the National Model Codes.One of the many changes in the 2005 National Model Codes wasthe requirement for mandatory backflow preventers on all new fireprotection systems. In the previous National Model Codes a listedalarm check valve was allowed to serve as the backflow device,and no additional backflow preventers were required so long thatthere were no additives in the fire protection system. This is nolonger accepted.

The 2005 Plumbing Code requires all new fire protection systemsthat are served by potable water supply to have a listed backflowpreventer installed. (Please see clause 2.6.2.4 of the NPC for moredetails). The National Plumbing Code has also defined six differentclasses of fire sprinkler/standpipe systems. The level and type ofbackflow preventer that you are required to install will bedetermined by which class your fire sprinkler/standpipe system fallsunder. Below are the definitions for the six classes of firesprinkler/standpipe systems:

• Class 1- fire sprinkler/standpipe system means an assembly ofpipes and fittings that conveys water from the water servicepipe to the sprinkler/standpipe system's outlets, is directlyconnected to the public water supply main only, has no pumpsor reservoirs, and in which the sprinkler drains discharge tothe atmosphere to dry wells or to other safe outlets.

• Class 2- fire sprinkler/standpipe system means a Class 1 firesprinkler/standpipe system that includes a booster pump in itsconnection to the public water supply main.

• Class 3- fire sprinkler/standpipe system means an assembly ofpipes and fittings that conveys water from the water servicepipe to the sprinkler/standpipe system's outlets and is directlyconnected to the public water supply main as well as to onemore of the following storage facilities, which are filled from

the public water supply main only: elevated water storage, firepumps supplying water from aboveground covered reservoirs,or pressure tanks. The water in this sprinkler/standpipesystem must be maintained in potable condition.

• Class 4- fire sprinkler/standpipe system means an assembly ofpipes and fittings that conveys water from the water servicepipe to the sprinkler/standpipe system's outlets and is directlyconnected to the public water supply main (similar to Class 1and Class 2 fire sprinkler/standpipe systems) and to anauxiliary water supply dedicated to fire department use that islocated within 520m of a pumper connection.

• Class 5- fire sprinkler/standpipe system means an assembly ofpipes and fittings that conveys water from the water servicepipe to the sprinkler/standpipe system's outlets and is directlyconnected to the public water supply main and alsointerconnected with an auxiliary water supply.

• Class 6- fire sprinkler/standpipe system means an assembly ofpipes and fittings that conveys water from the water servicepipe to the sprinkler/standpipe system's outlets and acts as acombined industrial water supply and fire protection systemsupplied from the public water supply main only, with orwithout gravity storage or pump suction tanks.

Now that we know what class our fire protection system falls under,we are now able to determine what level of backflow preventer isneeded.

A)Residential partial flow-through fire sprinkler/standpipesystems in which the pipes and fittings are constructed ofpotable water system materials shall be protected by a dualcheck valve backflow preventer conforming to CAN/CSA-B64.6.1 "Backflow Preventers, Dual Check Valve Type for FireSystems (DuCF)

B)Class 1 fire sprinkler/standpipe systems shall be protected bya single check valve backflow preventer conforming toCAN/CSA -B64.9 "Backflow Preventers, Single Check ValveType for Fire Systems (SCVAF)", provided that the systems donot use antifreeze or other additives of any kind and that allpipes and fittings are constructed of potable water systemmaterials. (Please note that as of today I am unaware of anymanufacture who has a single check valve backflow preventerthat is listed per the CAN/CSA -B64.9 requirements)

C)Class 1 fire sprinkler/standpipe systems not covered by clause(B) as well as Class 2 and Class 3 fire sprinkler/standpipesystems shall be protected by a double check valve backflowpreventer conforming to CAN/CSA-B64.5.1 "BackflowPreventers, Double Check Valve Type for Fire Systems(DCVAF)", provided that the systems do not use antifreeze orother additives of any kind.

Codes & Technical Report

By Matthew OsburnCodes and Technical Services Manager

REPORT

Casanotes 93rd Issue 2010

D)Class 1, Class 2 and Class 3 fire sprinkler/standpipe systemsin which antifreeze or other additives are used shall beprotected by a reduced pressure principle backflow preventerconforming to CAN/CSA -B64.4.1 "Backflow Preventers,Reduced Pressure Principle Type for Fire Systems (RPF)",installed on the portion of the system that uses the additivesand the balance of the system shall be protected as requiredby clauses (B) or (C).

E)Class 4 and Class 5 fire sprinkler/standpipe systems shall beprotected by a reduced pressure principle backflow preventerconforming to CAN/CSA -B64.4.1 "Backflow Preveneters,Reduced Pressure Principle Type for Fire Systems (RPF).

F)Class 6 fire sprinkler/standpipe systems shall be protected

i) by a double check valve backflow preventer conforming toCAN/CSA -B64.5.1 "Backflow Preventers, Double CheckValve Type for Fire Systems (DCVAF)" or

ii)where a potentially severe health hazard may be caused bybackflow,by a reduced pressure principle backflow preventerconforming to CAN/CSA -B64.4.1 "Backflow Preventers,Reduced Pressure Principal Type Fire Systems (RPF)"

• It is important to note that a backflow preventer is not requiredon a residential full-flow through fire sprinkler/standpipesystems in which the pipes and fittings are constructed ofpotable water system materials.

• To see all definitions and clauses of section 2.6.2.4 please referto the 2005 National Plumbing Code.

With all this information of definitions and clauses it can beoverwhelming and confusing, so to try and simplify things I havemade some general guidelines that apply in most cases.

• fire protection system with steel piping and fittings and nowater additives and water supply is connected to the publicwater supply? Double Check Valve Backflow Preventer

• fire protection system with antifreeze or other additives andwater supply is connected to the public water supply?Reduced Pressure Principal Backflow Preventer

• fire protection system that is connected to public water supplyand connected to covered reservoir, elevated water storage orpressure tanks that are filled with public water supply?

Double Check Valve Backflow Preventer

• fire protection system that is connected to public water supplyand connected to uncovered reservoir, or pond? ReducedPressure Principal Backflow Preventer

While these basic guidelines do apply in most common instances,I would caution you that all water supplies and backflowrequirements will have to be reviewed on an individual basis.

With these new requirements for Backflow Prevention of FireProtection Systems, it is now more imperative that these systemsand valves are maintained by qualified and knowledgeable persons,and that these inspections are completed on a routine basis per

NFPA 25 "Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based FireProtection Systems". To help ensure that the persons are qualifiedto inspect and repair your system, request to see if they possess a"Certificate of Qualification" for Sprinkler and Fire ProtectionInstaller, and if they are licensed to perform inspections on BackflowPreventers. For more information or questions please contact meat 905-477-2270 or at mosburn@casa-firesprinkler.org.

Educational SeminarsLive Online Technical Seminars

August 10, 2010 - Air Venting and Relief Valves

August 31, 2010 - When to Use NFPA 13R

September 14, 2010 - Alarm System Interface

September 28, 2010 - Changes to Water Supply andHose Stream Requirements

October 12, 2010 - Dry Systems and Residential Occupancies

October 26, 2010 - High-Rise Buildings with Relationshipto NFPA 14 and NFPA 20

November 9, 2010 - Clearance to Storage

November 30, 2010 - Rules for Revamping Systems

December 14, 2010 - Pumps in Series

For more information on upcoming live online technical seminars,and to view a copy of the registration form please visithttp://www.casa-firesprinkler.org/education.html

2010 In Class Educational Seminars

Location Date Subject MatterCalgary, AB September 20, 2010 Fire Pumps for Fire

Protection

September 21, 2010 ITM for Water BasedFire Protection Systems

September 22, 2010 ** Standpipes for FireProtection

September 22, 2010 ** Sprinkler Protection forFlammable andCombustible LiquidsStorage

Halifax, NS October 25, 2010 Fire Pumps for FireProtection

October 26, 2010 ITM for Water BasedFire Protection Systems

October 27, 2010 Seismic Bracing forFire Sprinkler Systems

Winnipeg, MB November 15, 2010 Fire Pumps for FireProtection

Continued on Page 13

The 49th Annual C.A.S.A. Annual Conference was well attended by ourmembers and provided all with an opportunity to experience the sightsand sounds of Whistler, British Columbia. The meetings provided ourattendees with an opportunity to listen to financial forecasts from theBank of Canada, LEED presentations, sales presentations and muchmore. In 2011, C.A.S.A. will be hosting the 50th anniversaryConference at One King West Hotel in Toronto. Social activities willinclude a cocktail evening at the Hockey Hall of Fame, a social dinnerdance on board the Trillium, a 1910 authentic paddle steamer in theToronto Harbour. These events will accompany our other traditionalevents and a Black Tie Gala evening in the Grand Banking Hall. ThisConference will be the largest Annual Conference in the history ofC.A.S.A. and promises to be unforgettable. Watch your emails forregistration and event information to ensure you take advantage of ourearly registration discounts.

In this issue of CASA Notes you can find an article that was co-writtenby Paul Tomas from Victaulic and I, for the Mechanical BusinessMagazine. It is an overview of various sprinkler topics and providedinformation to the mechanical contracting industry. I am currentlywriting an article for the Canadian Homebuilder quarterly magazine

that will help to educate that industry on the importance of sprinklersas a life safety system in the homes they build. Watch for more articlesand features in the coming months as we aggressively expand ouroutreach to various markets.

We have been very fortunate to have enjoyed the support of a numberof our AMS members and increased our display capacity for tradeshows. Currently this year, we have attended three shows and arescheduled to attend three more. Each show provides us with anopportunity to reach out to the attendees and provide them with theeducational material that will help them better understand our industry.If you have a tradeshow in your area that you think our attendancewould be advantageous to the industry, please let me know.

Statistics Canada reported that the unemployment rate remained at8.1 per cent in May with an overall increase of 25,000 jobs - the fifthmonthly increase in a row. The gain was seen in full-time jobs(+67,000) offset by a drop in part-time jobs (+43,000). Most of thegains were in private sector jobs. This increase has come while theeconomy appears to have stalled slightly, while there has not been adrop, the Canadian GDP was unchanged for April below the estimateof a 0.2 increase. This is the first time in seven months that we havenot seen an increase. The cause for the pause appears to be a coupleof sectors: retail, manufacturing and utilities, all saw reductions whilethe remaining sectors experienced increases.

The Canadian Economy like the rest of the world's economies hasstarted to cool and balance off and in this marketplace marginsdecrease, and it is more and more difficult to stand out. While it is hardto justify, now may be the time to examine your marketing expensesand ensure that you are spending wisely in areas that will help you tomaintain your business and grow it as your customers come out of therecession. If you have not already done so, perhaps examine CRMsystems for your sales staff and consider social network marketing.Both of these are reasonably low cost investments that will help withcustomer service.

Casanotes10 3rd Issue 2010

National Marketing Report

Sean Pearce, National Marketing ManagerCanadian Automatic Sprinkler Association

REPORT

John Galt, C.A.S.A. President, and Rick Berwick, C.A.S.A. Chairman,present 2010 William Clark Achievement Award to Art Jurisson.

Where safety is concerned, you can’t afford to take chances with anything

but the best. BlazeMaster® is the #1 specified non-metallic fire sprinkler

system in the world thanks to its superior reliability, ease of installation, cost

effectiveness and overall safety performance. It offers superior hydraulics

when compared to alternative piping materials. Plus, BlazeMaster fire sprinkler

systems come with a national network of fire protection specialists to provide

on-the-job assistance, as well as installation and sales training. In the world of

fire protection, a BlazeMaster fire sprinkler system is the weapon of choice.

To learn more, call 888.234.2436 ext. 4477393 or visit www.blazemaster.com.

Would You Stake Your Reputation On A Second-Rate Fire Sprinkler System?

888.234.2436 ext. 4477393 www.blazemaster.com

© The Lubrizol Corporation 2010, all rights reserved. ® is a registered trademark of The Lubrizol Corporation. ™ is a trademark of The Lubrizol Corporation.

I N D E X

Casanotes12 3rd Issue 2010

British Columbia2010 has been a strong year for British Columbia and the provincehas seen some positive economic indicators which suggestcontinued growth throughout the rest of the fiscal year. The provincehas seen strong employment growth, as over 36,000 new jobs havebeen created since the start of 2010. This increase has allowed theemployment rate to stabilize to an estimated 7.5 per cent. Thesestatistics put B.C in a strong position of contention for leading thecountry in job creation for 2010.

Another positive indicator of the provinces stability is itsunprecedented project growth of over 896 major constructionprojects as of January 2010. Projections estimate upwards of 547more projects to come throughout the last two quarters of the year.These increases are in alignment with BC's 2010 forecast andbudget objectives to renew economic opportunity through increasedinfrastructural development, job creation and future investmentplans.

According to Statistics Canada, the value of building permits issuedin British Columbia during April 2010 was $676 million, a 77 percent increase compared with April 2009. Residential permits areup by 91 per cent over last year.

Although B.C has seen prospective growth post recession, somesectors have yet to see the results that were expected. Economicindicators point to positive growth in the province; however, thesprinkler industry is one such sector that has seen very littleimproved development within the 2010 fiscal year. The C.A.S.A.manhours report ending April 30, 2010 demonstrates a steadydecline in man hours for the trade in the province of B.C, downroughly 49 per cent from last April 2009.

AlbertaAs Alberta's economic stability levels out, the province lookstowards strategies for regaining a successful pace of growth.However, Alberta is not in the clear yet; the first two quarters of thefiscal year have seen a decline in employment at a loss of over

3,400 jobs and slower than anticipated recovery in many primaryand secondary industries. The employment rate in Alberta iscurrently sitting around approximately 7.5 per cent, the highestincrease since 1996 for the province. Provincial growth remainsbehind the overall Canadian average of 3.4 per cent sitting at 2.9per cent for this fiscal year.

Alberta has reviewed four key industries that they see as drivers foran improved economy; Agriculture (grains and oil seeds), FinancialServices, Manufacturing and Petrochemicals & Chemicals.Provincial planning includes the introduction of the AlbertaCompetiveness Act. The purposes of such initiatives are to continueto make Alberta an attractive place to invest and do business, andsuch acts are vital to Alberta's long term stable growth.

It is estimated that although 2010 prospects are moderate, 2011will bring more growth and stability in within the province. It is alsoestimated that Alberta will top the pack with an approximately 4.2per cent growth rate by 2011, compared to that of the nationalaverage which will sit at around 3.6 per cent. Oil demands willremain a driving force behind the Alberta economy.

For the construction industry true stability is set to come onwardsof 2011. There are a lot of industrial, commercial, and residentialprojects on the horizon.

SaskatchewanLike the rising summer heat wave Saskatchewan's economicposition has continued to rise. The province has maintained itssteadfast hold on the economy because of its ability to create abalanced and forward looking budget. As a result, Saskatchewancontinues to lead as one of the strongest provinces in the country.Its estimated growth is posted at 3.5 percent for the 2010 fiscalyear, up from the 4 per cent decline of 2009.

As of June 2010, Saskatchewan's unemployment rate remainsstable at 4.9 per cent. Additionally, Saskatchewan has welcomedover 3,711 people since January 2010. Migration to the province ison a positive upward trend, since 2009 the population has grownfrom 1,025,638 to 1,041,729. It is estimated that over 7000 newpositions will open up within the 2010 fiscal year, and again in2011. Most of these prospective opportunities will reside in theprimary and service sectors.

The province has transitioned from a predominately agrarian andresource based economy into a well rounded, and servicespropelled region. In regards to budget forecasts the provincecontinues to remain conservative in estimation.With the recessiononly just past, there still remains a high degree of uncertaintysurrounding today's provincial, national and global economies, aswell as uncertainty with commodity price forecasts. One thing thatremains clear, however, is that Saskatchewan is in a position thatis prepared to face some of these uncertainties.

Western Regional Report

Dan Solonynko, Western Regional ManagerCanadian Automatic Sprinkler Association

REPORT

Casanotes 133rd Issue 2010

ManitobaManitoba has positioned its five year plan in such a way as to help theprovince to continue to weather post recession pressures. Its currentbudgetary plan hopes to provide room for Manitoba to see muchpositive growth and prosperity, not just in the short term but for yearsto come.The centerfold for this five year plan is the goal of eliminatingall provincial deficits by 2014. Independent research forecasts suggestan approximately 2.5 per cent growth realization this year, followed byan approximately 3 per cent shift upwards for 2011.

The unemployment rate is sitting steadily at 5.3 per cent. Within thefirst five months of the 2010 fiscal year the province has seen jobgrowth of 1.6 per cent or approximately 9,600 jobs. There are atpresent 13,700 more people working in Manitoba in June than therewere in June, 2009.

As predicted, the forecast has seen an increase in spending in supportof over 1,500 new projects, and the province is well on its way tomatch its estimated target of 12,000 direct and 10,000 indirect jobs.The construction industry has seen most of its growth from majorinfrastructural projects, however it is still predicted that overall theindustry will see a slight decline by the end of 2010.

I N D E XR E PORT

www.zcl.com • (780) 466-6648 phone • (780) 466-6126 fax

Fire-ProtectionWater Storage Tanks

Features of Water and Wastewater Tanks:

• 3,000 to 190,000 litre sizes• Rustproof, long-lasting fibreglass• Watertight• NSF design for use in potable-water applications• Testable for watertightness• Lightweight, easy to install• H-20 load rated• Wide range of accessories available

Fibreglass underground tanks, listed in NFPA 22, are ideally suited forstorage of standby water as part of your fire protection system. More than150,000 ZCL Composites Inc. tanks are safely storing petroleum productsat thousands of locations across North America. Consider the many featuresthat make them a popular choice for water storage applications as well.

November 16, 2010 ITM for Water BasedFire Protection Systems

November 17, 2010 ** Standpipes for FireProtection

November 17, 2010 ** Sprinkler Protection forFlammable andCombustible LiquidsStorage

Vancouver, BC December 13, 2010 Fire Pumps for FireProtection

December 14, 2010 ITM for Water BasedFire Protection Systems

December 15, 2010 Seismic Bracing forFire Sprinkler Systems

**Half Day Program**To view the registration form and review the educational seminardescriptions please visit the following link http://www.casa-firesprinkler.org/education.html

Continued from Page 9

Casanotes14 3rd Issue 2010

Over the last few months Ontario has experienced a number ofchallenges and changes. HST has arrived we have, and are still,working with the government to try and make changes to this taxlaw that make sense. To date we have had positive dialogue, but nocommitments for change have occurred as of yet. HST wasimplemented in Ontario and British Columbia on July 1st, 2010. Thetax replaces the current GST and PST. The tax increase to us all,comes on items that were PST exempt and now HST will be chargedeffectively increasing the tax from eight percent to thirteen percenton these items. The most recognizable increase was the increasein the cost of fuel. It seemed like overnight the price of fuel went upsix cents per litre.

Earlier in the year, we were able to work with the Ontario Associationof Fire Chiefs and CBC Marketplace to have a story aired on firesprinklers in Care Facilities.This piece started a chain reaction withinthe government and resulted in the Ontario Fire Fighters Associationto speak out against fire sprinkler legislation in support of thegovernment. The Ontario Fire Chiefs Association then wrote everymember of government asking them to defeat a bill on seniors care.The result battle has not yet been settled as the government hastried to defend their position without success.

Toronto will host the first HFSC meeting in Canada as we try todesign fire sprinkler promotional material for the Canadian market.We have had some success with Canadian builders in a fewmarketsthat have seen fire sprinklers as a tool to help sell houses. Thesebuilders are embracing the opportunity and hoping to be leaders intheir communities.

Ontario's employment was up 60,000 in June, the sixth consecutivemonthly gain. This brings employment increases in the province to187,000 (+2.9 per cent) since July 2009.With these gains, Ontario'semployment is slightly below its pre-recession level. In June, theunemployment rate fell 0.6 percentage points to 8.3 per cent, thelowest since January 2009.

Ontario is still seeing an increase in the Institutional constructionsector, while the Industrial and Commercial sectors are still down.This trend has remained somewhat the same throughout this

economic slowdown. In other markets retail sales were up 9.7 percent, manufacturing has posted a 20.6 per cent increase since May2009 and exports are also up 21.1 per cent since May 2009.

Residential Construction is down, but the decrease is beingattributed to a summer break and the introduction of HST. Thehousing industry is expecting to see a return to pre summernumbers in the fall.

On May 21, 2010 the Provincial Government sent out an update onthe College of Trades announcing that eight individuals had beenappointed to the Appointments Council. The Government hasreferred to these appointments as a "significant first step in buildingthe Ontario College of Trades". We are expecting to hear more fromthe college towards the fall of 2010.

The Ontario Regional Golf Tournament date has been changed toSeptember 27, 2010 from the 14th. This change is as a result ofsome scheduling conflicts that have occurred. The Location andtime remains the same, Royal Woodbine Golf Course 1pm shotgun.The Next Ontario Regional Group Meeting is scheduled forSeptember 2nd 2010 at the GTAA fire Training facility, 7:30 am.

I hope everyone has had, and continues to have a safe and happysummer.

Ontario Regional Report

Sean Pearce, Ontario Regional ManagerCanadian Automatic Sprinkler Association

REPORT

TESTING MONITORINGTREATMENT

NFPA 13, 2007, 23.1.5.2(3) Implement an approved plan for monitoring the interior of the pipe:Solution: Potter Corrosion Monitoring System (PCMS-RM)along with Corrosion Monitoring Probe Kit (PCMPK)

NFPA 13, 2007, 23.1.5.1Water supplies and environmental conditions shall be evaluated for the existence of microbes and conditions that contribute to MIC…Solution: Potter Water Test Kit (WTK)

NFPA 25, 2008, 14.2.1.2Tubercles or slime, if found, shall be tested for indications of microbiologically

Solution: 5-Year Deposit/Sludge Test Kit

NFPA 13, 2007, 8.16.4.2.3Where corrosive conditions exist or piping is exposed to the weather,

and hangers or protective corrosion-resistant coatings shall be used

NFPA 13, 2007, 23.1.5.2(2)Treat all water that enters the system

Solution: Potter Pipe-Shield™ Corrosion Inhibitor

sprinkler pipes requires diligent corrosion testing, treatment, and

complete suite of products and services that are completely NFPA

experience, Potter is the

For more information please visit

YOUR NFPA 13&25

Trusted above all.TM

fire protection expertise | innovative products | comprehensive solutions | precision fabrication | global reach

Before now, it was thought to be impossible. Viking introduces the world’s first and only

residential flat concealed sidewall sprinkler – the VK480. It will change your view of what’s possible.

800-968-9501 www.vikinggroupinc.com

Residential Series

Before. Now.

I N D E X

Casanotes 173rd Issue 2010

Unfortunately, I could not make the 2010 conference inWhistler due tosome health problems. I understand that I missed a great conference.I want to thank the Board,Atlantic Regional Group and many membersof C.A.S.A.and NFSA who made contact with me by way of cards andemails and expressed their good wishes. I am on the road to recovery,although I still have one hurdle to overcome and that is the healing ofthe sternum, which may be a couple of months yet.The Halifax Regional Water Commission has made application to theNova Scotia Utility Review Board for rate increases for stand by feesthat range from 562 per cent to 1967 per cent increases. They basethis charge on the size of the line coming into the building and nothingto do with the size of the sprinkler system. Below are the proposedincreases.Size Charge Now Proposed new Charge Increase4" $45 $605 + 1244 per cent6" $162 $1,075 + 562 per cent8" $208 $2,419 + 1063 per cent10" $208 $4,300 + 1967 per centThe Director of the Atlantic Regional Group has sent a memo to themembers requesting their input against these increases. The hearingdate has been rescheduled for Monday, September 13, 2010 fromJune. Let's hope that our input will make a difference.This fall there are educational seminars planned for the Atlantic Region.Watch the web site for information and registration.- October 25, 2010 Fire pumps for fire Protection.

Atlantic Regional GroupAtlantic Canada economy remains steady. Still some large projectsbeing talked about for the next year.New Brunswick is gearing up for a provincial election and talk about asecond nuclear generating facility.Newfoundland remains busy with man hours well up over last year.Off shore gas revenue is projected to be reduced with theannouncement that Exxon Mobil are not expanding the sable offshoreproject, which will affect the economy in Nova Scotia.

New 59 million dollar RCMP office to be built in Dartmouth. The fivestorey building will be developed over three years with the aim ofreceiving a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design rating.Next regional meeting will be held in Dartmouth, NS @ The NSConstruction Association on Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Atlantic Regional Report

Joe Young, Atlantic Regional ManagerCanadian Automatic Sprinkler Association

REPORT

On The Lighter SideAnd God Created Newfoundland .....

God was missing for six days. Eventually, Michael, the archangel,found him, resting on the seventh day.

He inquired, "Where have you been?"

God smiled deeply and proudly pointed downwards through theclouds "Look, Michael. Look what I've made."

Archangel Michael looked puzzled, and said, "What is it?"

"It's a planet," replied God and I've put life on it… I'm going tocall it Earth and it's going to be a place to test Balance."

"Balance?" inquired Michael, "I'm still confused."

God explained, pointing to different parts of Earth. "For example,northern Europe will be a place of great opportunity and wealth,while southern Europe is going to be poor. Balance in all things.

God continued pointing to different countries. "This one will beextremely hot, while this one will be very cold and covered in ice."

The Archangel, impressed by God's work, then pointed to anisland and said, "What's that one?"

"That's Newfoundland, the most glorious place on earth. Thereare beautiful mountains, rivers and streams, lakes, forests, hills,and plains. The people from Newfoundland are going to behandsome, modest, intelligent, and humorous, and they are goingto travel the world. They will be extremely sociable, hardworking,high achieving, carriers of peace, and producers of good things"

Michael gasped in wonder and admiration, but then asked, "Butwhat about balance, God? You said there would be balance..."

God smiled, "Close to Newfoundland is Ottawa ... Wait till yousee what I put there."

New sprinkler requirements in the province ofOntario are working to improve fire safety andfurther align the Ontario Building Code (OBC)

with the National Building Code of Canada. Untilrecently, fire sprinklers were required in most Ontariocommercial and institutional buildings, from schools toprisons to warehouses, but not in residential high-rises.

The 2010 sprinkler requirements apply to newconstruction, building additions, floors of existing

buildings that undergo a change of majoroccupancy, and floor areas that undergoextensive renovation. The new building coderequirements do not apply to single-family homes or retrofit projects yet.

In addition, four-story townhouses will be exempt from thecode because these types of buildings have specific firesafety features including independent exits and verticalfire separation between units.

While specifiers and contractors consider how this newsprinkler requirement will change the way they do business, itmay prove beneficial for contractors right across Canada toconsider the different types of sprinkler applications, andexisting requirements.

FIRE PROTECTION by Paul Tomas and Sean Pearce •

INSPECTION NOTES

The Canadian AutomaticSprinkler Association(CASA) and stakeholderswithin the sprinklerindustry have beensuccessful in getting theOBC amended to requirefire sprinkler systems in allhigh-rise and multiple-unitresidential buildings, fourstories and higher, builtafter April 1 of this year.Previously, residentialbuilding codes onlyrequired fire sprinklers inunderground spaces, likeparking garages andcommon spaces,including party rooms oroffices on the first threestories.

S

A GREEN CHOICE

According to FM Globaland the Home FireSprinkler Coalition,sprinkler systems canreduce the impact to theenvironment. A recentstudy suggests sprinklersystems can reducegreenhouse gases by 98per cent, and reduce theamount of water used tofight a fire by 90 per cent.

Saving lives and property with

SPRINKLER ROUND UP

Outside of residential construction, all buildings over 5,000 square feetare required to have a sprinkler system installed by code. There are anumber of hazard categories when it comes to fire sprinklerapplications. Simply put, the greaterchance of a fire due to the materialsand equipment in the building, themore hazardous the categoryclassification.

LIGHT HAZARDS

This category includes occupancies or portions of otheroccupancies where the quantity or combustibility of contents islow, and fires with relatively low rates of heat release are expected.Examples of light hazards include institutions such as churches,offices, hospitals and schools or residential buildings. Even thoughthese types of buildings are classified under the same category, every project is unique, thereforeevery sprinkler system will be different, requiring a specific design. For example, in residential and

SPRINKLERS

Casanotes18 3rd Issue 2010

• Sprinkler round up • The r ight system

SUSSING OUT THE RIGHT SYSTEMIn addition to the different hazard applications, there aredifferent types of sprinkler systems to be aware of.

Wet sprinkler systems are the most common type and areplaced in typical commercial (and residential) buildings – any

building with a heated area, including offices and schools. In a wetsystem, an integrated network of underground and overheadpiping is filled with pressurized water. In the event of a fire, theautomatic sprinklers located on the wall or ceiling directly exposedto the heat will open at a pre-determined temperature and allowwater to spray onto the fire. As water empties out of the opensprinklers, pressure drops in the piping, activating the device andwater source, controlling the fire. A monitored sensor is activatedto set off the alarm and notify authorities that a fire exists.

Dry sprinkler systems are typically used where wet systems couldfreeze and fail. Structures that would use dry sprinkler systemsinclude parking garages, unheated warehouses and freezers. Thedry system employs automatic sprinklers attached to a pipingsystem pressurized with air or nitrogen instead of water.

Deluge and pre-action systems are variations of a dry system, butare more complex due to the electronic sensors and the speciallydesigned pre-action valves. Deluge systems are used where thehazard and risk is great and the fire must be extinguished asquickly as possible to prevent spreading or explosion.

A pre-action system contains extra precautions in the design and isintended to prevent accidental discharge of water onto asurrounding property. Pre-action systems are often specified whenvaluable or irreplaceable property such as fine art, expensiveelectronics or archival material, is present. Other common facilityexamples include computer rooms, libraries and museums.

ON THE WEBFor more information about sprinkler applications, or to accesseducational seminars and training programs for installers, visitwww.casa-firesprinkler.org/home.

A

Paul Tomas is the national fire protection sales manager at Victaulic.

Sean Pearce is the national marketing manager with the Canadian

Automatic Sprinkler Association (CASA). For more information about

sprinkler systems, contact Paul at ptomas@victaulic.com.

ORDINARY HAZARDS

This category includes two differentgroups. The first is occupancies orportions of occupancies wherecombustibility is low, quantity ofcombustibles is moderate, stockpilesof combustibles do not exceed eightfeet, and fires with moderate rates ofheat releases are expected. Examplesinclude parking garages, bakeries and laundromats.

The second group includes occupancies wherequantity and combustibility of contents is moderateto high, stockpiles of combustibles do not exceed 12feet, and fires with moderate to high rates of heatreleases are expected. This includes repair garages,post offices and tire manufacturing facilities.

EXTRA HAZARDS

This includesoccupancies wherequality andcombustibility ofcontents is very highand flammable andcombustible liquids,dust, lint or othermaterials are present,increasing theprobability of rapidly developing fires with high ratesof heat releases. This category includes aircrafthangars, metal extruding facilities, and solventcleaning and paint manufacturing facilities.

office construction, décor can become an issue. A system has to be designed aspecific way that will fit the needs of the occupants when related to the way it willlook, but at the same time be designed to do the job it is meant to do – controland/or suppress a fire.

Because these facilities often have people coming in and out all day long, quickresponse sprinklers are often required. Quick response sprinklers respond to fire atlower temperatures and react rapidly, within a minute of detecting smoke or fire,allowing people more time to escape.

Casanotes 193rd Issue 2010

This article orginally appeared in the May/June 2010 edition of Mechanical Business magazine.www.mechanicalbusiness.com

Casanotes20 3rd Issue 2010

Tyco Fire Suppression & Building ProductsIntroduces Dry-Type Residential SprinklersSprinklers Are Industry First for Residential Applications

Tyco Fire Suppression & Building Product, a world leader in firesuppression technology and manufacturer of the RAPID RESPONSEHome Fire Sprinkler System, introduces the new Series LFII Dry-Type Residential Sprinklers.

The Series LFII Dry-Type Residential Sprinklers include the 4.9 K-factor Recessed Pendent, 4.9 K-factor Domed Concealed Pendent,and 4.4 K-factor Horizontal Sidewall and Recessed HorizontalSidewall. The sprinklers are UL Listed and designed for use inresidential occupancies per NFPA 13D, 13R, and 13. Each sprinklerhas undergone special testing to meet UL1626 test criteria for drypipe and preaction systems. These sprinklers can be installed inbasements, garages, or on balconies of homes, apartments,dormitories, or hotels.

The dry-type sprinklers have a temperature rating of 155 F (68 C)and are available in natural brass, white polyester-coated, andchrome-plated finishes. The cover plate assembly, of the domedconcealed model, has a slightly lower temperature rating of 139 F(59 C) and is available in chrome, signal white, pure white, andcustom finishes.

To learn more about the Series LFII Dry-Type Residential Sprinklers,contact your local Tyco Fire Suppression & Building Productsterritory manager or visit www.tyco-fire.com.

About RAPID RESPONSERAPID RESPONSE is a regional brand of Tyco Fire Suppression &Building Products representing the most complete residential firesprinkler system on the market today. The RAPID RESPONSE HomeFire Sprinkler System consists of state-of-the-art fire sprinklers,BLAZEMASTER® CPVC pipe and fittings, and a full line of systemcomponents including riser assemblies, valves, water flowdetectors, alarms and hangers. The RAPID RESPONSE Home FireSprinkler System is backed by an industry-leading 10-year limitedwarranty. www.tyco-rapidresponse.com.

About TYCO FIRE SUPPRESSION& BUILDING PRODUCTSTyco Fire Suppression & Building Products is a strategically alignedbusiness unit with globally recognized products sold under leadingbrands including ANSUL, GRINNELL, HYGOOD, NEURUPPIN, PYRO-CHEM, RAPID RESPONSE, SKUM, and TYCO FIRE PRODUCTS. TycoFire Suppression & Building Products produces fire protection andmechanical building construction solutions for commercial,industrial, institutional, governmental, and residential customers.Heavy emphasis is placed on research and development resulting

in innovations and globalapprovals. Key products includemanual firefighting equipment,detection/suppression systems,extinguishing agents, sprinkler systems,valves, piping products, and fittings.www.tycofsbp.com

Kelly HinkleTyco Fire Suppression & BuildingProducts215-362-0700, Ext. 51111kelly.hinkle@tycofp.com

TOLCO Announces New Fig. 828 UniversalStructural Sway Brace AttachmentTOLCO introduces Fig. 828 Universal Sway Brace Attachment thatpermits a secure, non-friction connection without drilling or weldingto structural members.

The Fig. 828’s unique patented design allows for attachment ofseismic bracing to wide flange beams, including I-beam, open web,welded steel trusses and other structures up to 7/8-inch thick, witha maximum design load of 2,015 lbs. both along and across thebeam. The one size, stable three-point attachment fits any beamwidth. TOLCO engineered break-off bolts allow for visual verificationof proper installation torque.

Fig. 828 Universal Sway Brace Attachment is constructed of carbonsteel and is available in a plain or electro-galvanized finish, andaccommodates all TOLCO® Fig. 900 Series seismic structuralbracing assemblies.

Complete requirement specifications and installation instructionsfor the new Fig. 828 Universal Sway Brace Attachment are nowincluded on TOLBrace™ Fire 7.0 software, available for downloadat www.tolbrace.com

TOLCO, a brand of NIBCOINC., manufactures acomplete line of pipehangers, fabricated pipesupports, seismic bracing,and strut fittings forcommercial, residential andindustrial applications. Forover 40 years, TOLCO hasbeen known for itsinnovative and patentedproduct designs; especiallyin seismic bracing. For more

What’s New

Continued on Page 23

TOLCO ® • SUPPORTING THE FLOW™ • 1.800.786.5266 • www.to lco .com

What’s newfrom TOLCO!

Fig.828

NEW Universal Structural Sway Brace Attachment*

• Use to attach seismic bracing to I-beams, steel truss, girders or anystructural member up to 7/8” thick.

• TOLCO engineered break-off head bolts for visual verification ofproper installation.

• 2015 lbs. load in any direction.

• One part fits any width of beam. No need to adjust for beam width.

• Now available on TOLBrace™ 7.0. Visit www.tolbrace.comfor more information.

*Patent Pending

TOLCO can certify compliance to the ARRA and Buy American Act for certain seismic bracingproducts for fire sprinkler systems upon request! Contact us for more information.

FlexHead FEATURES� Is seismically qualified for use,

eliminating the need for an oversizedring around the sprinkler head inseismic areas

� Has the same product design that isdual listed by both UL and FM

� Can be produced domestically to meet all your project requirements

� Has serial identification with completeaudit tracking of finished goods

� Has a comprehensive limited warrantybacked by an A++ insurance company

The FlexHead Advantage

U.S. and international patents pending: #6,123,154, #6,119,784, #6,752,218, #7,032,680,#6,488,097.The FlexHead name and logo are trademarks of FlexHead Industries.FGG/BM and Blazemaster are registered trademarks of Noveen IP Holding Corp.USGBC and LEED are registered trademarks of the U.S. Green Building Council.

800-829-6975 www.flexhead.com

FlexHead QUALITY� Best corrosion resistance

Made from 100% 304 stainless steel

� Excellent friction loss valuesOne-inch true-bore ID reducing the need toupsize mains and branch lines

� Pressure surge protectionFully braided connection improves pressure capability and prevents hose damage

� Highest maximum working pressureRated up to 300 psig

�� No o-rings or gaskets Welded connections reduce potential leakpoints at the inlet and outlet fitting

� Tightest thread tolerancesOutlet fitting threads are machined from solid bar stock reducing potential leaks at the sprinkler head fit-up

�� Extra stabilityBracket has a full 6 inch base to stabilize the sprinkler head during installation, pressurization or activation

1 9 8 7

YEARS OFEXCELLENCE2 0 1 0

20+

233rd Issue 2010

information, contact TOLCO's Customer Service Department at 1-800-786-5266. Additional product information and literature areavailable for download at www.tolco.com

Founded in 1904, NIBCO INC. is a worldwide provider of flow controlsolutions to the residential and commercial construction, industrial,fire protection and irrigation markets. NIBCO'sWorld Headquarters islocated in Elkhart, Ind., and has 11 manufacturing plants locatedthroughout the United States, Mexico and Poland. Visitwww.nibco.com for information on NIBCO's complete line of products.

Media Contact: Sally Boyer, Manager - Marketing Communications574.295.3381 or boyers@nibco.com

Viking Announces National Partnershipwith Toll BrothersViking Group, a global leader in fire protection and life safetysystems, is proud to announce that Toll Brothers has selected Vikingas its partner to provide fire suppression materials through out theUSA. The new agreement, which is effective immediately, includesVIKING sprinklers, CPVC pipe, and related products for residentialfire sprinkler systems.

With this new partnership, Viking SupplyNet will supply TollBrothers' network of preferred installers with fire protectionproducts from the company's integrated distribution network, whichincludes over 30 U.S. locations. In addition to supporting TollBrothers' product needs, Viking will provide technical information,training programs, marketing initiatives, and model home support.

Viking Corporation President Mike Bosma states, "We are excitedto be partnering with an industry leader like Toll Brothers, whoshares our commitment to the highest level of innovation andquality." Phil Kenyon, Viking National Sales Manager-Residential,adds, "With the recent adoption of residential sprinklerrequirements in states such as California, New Jersey, andPennsylvania, it is more important than ever to form strategicpartnerships within our respective industries."

Viking is a global leader in the manufacture and distribution ofinnovative fire protection products and life safety systems. Since 1921,the Company's products and services have protected lives and propertyworldwide from the devastating effects of fire. For more information,please visit www.vikinggroupinc.com or call 800-968-9501.

Toll Brothers, Inc. is the nation's leading builder of luxury homes.The Company began business in 1967 and became a publiccompany in 1986. Its common stock is listed on the New York StockExchange under the symbol "TOL". The Company serves move-up,empty-nester, active-adult and second-home home buyers andoperates in 20 states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut,Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts,Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, NorthCarolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas and Virginia.

CONTACT:Jeff NortonP: 269-945-8312jnorton@vikingcorp.com

Potter Announces the ONLY UL-listed Air Ventfor Fire Sprinkler SystemsPotter is proud to introduce the only UL-listed air vent for firesprinkler systems in the industry. The Potter Air Vent (PAV) is listedfor Fire Sprinkler Branch line applications per UL subject 2573 -"Automatic Air Release Valves for Fire Protection Service".

The PAV is an automatic float type air vent used to reduce theamount of air trapped in a pressurized fire sprinkler system.Reducing the amount of air in a fire sprinkler system is essential tohelp protect the system piping from the effects of corrosion that isoften found at the air/water interface in the fire sprinkler systempiping.

The newly updated Potter Automatic Air Release (PAAR-B) utilizesthe PAV and automatically eliminates air trapped inpressurized sprinkler systems. The low-profileretention pan catches any additional water that maybe discharged and allows for electronic supervision.

Additional information can be obtained bycontacting Potter Electric Signal Company by phoneat 866-572-3005, via email atsales@pottersignal.com or atwww.pottersignal.com

Contact:Potter Electric SignalCompanyPhone: 866-572-3005Fax: 314-595-6796sales@pottersignal.comwww.pottersignal.com

Jim Smyrl - Tyco to ElkhartJim Smyrl has resigned from Tyco FireSuppression & Building Products, totake up a new and exciting challengewith Elkhart Products Corporation, anAalberts Industries Company,headquartered in the Netherlands.

Jim has been in the global fireprotection industry for over 30 yearsand a member of C.A.S.A. for over 20years as an Associate Manufacturer/Supplier. Today, Jim is still asexcited about the industry, as when he first entered it as a youngsprinkler design engineer and estimator at Wormald (UK) Ltd. inManchester.

The new role Jim will fill, is as Business Unit Manager. He will beresponsible for the development and implementation of thecompany's entry into the fire protection business.

We look forward to welcoming Jim back as a member of C.A.S.A.,welcoming Elkhart Products Corp. as a new member company andwelcoming Jim back to the Canadian market!

Casanotes

Continued from Page 20

Casanotes24 3rd Issue 2010

Updated August 2010

NFPA Safety Alert Regarding Antifreeze in Residential Fire Sprinkler Systems

Background Automatic fire sprinkler systems with antifreeze solutions have more than 60 years of successful use in commercial applications and an equally successful experience since they have been in use in residential applications. Most fire fatalities occur in the home, and when home sprinklers are present, the risk of dying in a home fire decreases by 83%. NFPA supports and urges the expanded use of residential sprinkler systems as the most effective way to prevent fire injury and death in the home and other residential occupancies. While NFPA emphasizes that residential sprinkler systems are and remain reliable and effective, a recent fire incident involving a sprinkler system that contained a high concentration antifreeze solution has raised concerns about the combustibility of antifreeze solutions in residential sprinkler systems. The incident involved a grease fire in a kitchen where a sprinkler system with a reported 71.2% concentration of antifreeze deployed. The fire resulted in a single fatality and serious injury to another person. (Recently, NFPA received a report of another incident, this time in a living room, which may have been exacerbated by the presence of an antifreeze solution.) Following the first incident, NFPA initiated a research project with the Fire Protection Research Foundation (Foundation) and an initial set of fire tests was also conducted by Underwriters Laboratories. Based on information learned from these efforts, NFPA issued an interim safety alert and recommendations in July 2010 and began additional research to gain further information on antifreeze solution performance under various fire scenarios.

The Foundation has completed this additional research in a report entitled "Antifreeze Solutions in Home Fire Sprinkler Systems: Phase II Research Interim Report" (2010), and NFPA is providing updated safety information and guidance based on the test results (see the box below). Key findings of fire tests Antifreeze solutions with concentrations of propylene glycol exceeding 40% and concentrations of glycerin exceeding 50% have the potential to ignite when discharged through automatic sprinklers. Both the 40% propylene glycol and 50% glycerin solutions demonstrated similar performance to that of water alone for fire control throughout the series of tests. Based on the results of this research, antifreeze solutions of propylene glycol exceeding 40% and glycerin exceeding 50% are not appropriate for use in residential fire sprinkler systems. Consideration should be given to reducing the acceptable concentrations of these antifreeze solutions by an appropriate safety factor.

NFPA Standards Council Action Based on the Foundation report, the NFPA Standards Council, the body that oversees the NFPA standards development process, issued tentative interim amendments (TIA) to NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems; NFPA 13D, Standard for Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes; and NFPA 13R, Standard for Installation of Sprinkler Systems in Residential Occupancies Up To and Including Four Stories in Height banning the use of antifreeze in sprinkler systems in new construction of residences and in the dwelling unit portions of other occupancies. (8/16/10)

For more information on this, topic visit http://www.nfpa.org/antifreeze.

U

Important safety information and NFPA guidance regarding antifreeze in residential fire sprinkler systems

New Systems For now, and until any further action by NFPA consensus standards committees, NFPA sprinkler standards prohibit the use of antifreeze in new residential fire sprinkler systems.NFPA standards prohibit the use of antifreeze in residential fire sprinkler systems in new construction following the August 16, 2010, issuance of tentative interim amendments (TIA) to NFPA 13, NFPA 13D, and NFPA 13R. If you are putting in a new residential fire sprinkler system (including all NFPA 13D applications and the dwelling-unit portions of NFPA 13 and NFPA 13R systems), refer to the latest editions of NFPA 13, NFPA 13D and NFPA 13R, as amended by TIAs 1000, 995, and 994. Existing Systems NFPA sprinkler standards are installation standards and do not currently address the problem of antifreeze in existing systems. NFPA, in its role as a safety advocate, believes that owners and contractors should take immediate steps to review the status of their existing residential sprinkler systems and take appropriate action. A complete ban on antifreeze is appropriate for new systems during the period that the NFPA standards committees review the Fire Protection Research Foundation reports and determine whether limited use of antifreeze in these systems is appropriate. A more difficult problem presents itself, however, with existing systems, some of which cannot be easily retrofitted or redesigned so as to avoid the need for antifreeze. Because of the lifesaving benefit of these systems, simply shutting down these systems should not be an option. For owners and contractors who now must determine how to handle these systems, NFPA is offering the following guidance regarding existing systems:Residential fire sprinklers are extremely effective fire protection devices, significantly reducing deaths, injuries, and property loss from fire. These systems should not be disconnected. Existing residential fire sprinkler systems, whenever possible, should not contain an antifreeze solution. If you have, or are responsible for, an existing residential occupancy with a fire sprinkler system, contact a sprinkler contractor to check and see if there is antifreeze solution in the system. If there is antifreeze solution in the system, determine if other means, such as insulation, can be used to provide adequate freeze protection. If there is no viable alternative to antifreeze solutions, NFPA recommends the following:

o Use only propylene glycol or glycerin antifreeze solution. o The antifreeze solution should be the lowest possible concentration required for the needed freeze potential, but under no circumstance should the antifreeze solution exceed a maximum concentration of 40% of propylene glycol or a maximum concentration of 50% of glycerin. Consideration should be given to reducing these concentrations by an additional safety factor. o The antifreeze solution should only be a factory pre-mixed solution; use of factory pre-mixed solutions is essential to ensure the proper concentration level and solution integrity. o Antifreeze solutions should only be used with the approval of the local authority having jurisdiction. For more information, including copies of the Foundation reports and the TIAs, and to stay up to date on any further guidance or information that NFPA may provide on this issue, regularly consult www.nfpa.org/antifreeze.

August 2010 Casanotes 253rd Issue 2010

For more information on this, topic visit http://www.nfpa.org/antifreeze.

U

Casanotes26 3rd Issue 2010

Mission:To protect people and property from the ravagesof fire through the development, manufactureand distribution of quality, much needed productsfor fire protection and sprinkler contractors.

Making the world a safer place to work, sleep and play.

Fire Division 550 Applewood Crescent, Unit 1, Concord, ON L4K 4B4 905-532-9269donpark.com

FPC/Fire Protec t ion Contrac tor550 High Stree t , Su i te 220 , Auburn , CA 95603

(530) 823-0706 • Fax 530-823-6937 E-mai l : in fo@fpcmag .com • Webs i t e : www. fpcmag .com

SSSSeSeSSeerrrrrrvvvvvrrrrrrrr ininininninnnnggggggg ththththeee eggggggggggggggggggg eeeeeeee vvvvvvv tttttttSSSSSSSSSS hhhhhhhhhhhhhhhnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnniiiirrrrrrrrrSSS hhnnnnSSS ggggggggggggggg eerrrrvvSSSSS iiiiiiiSSSS ggggggggSSSSSSSS eeeeevvvveeeeee tttttttthhhhhhhhnnnnnnnniiiirr iiiiii SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS CCCENNNCNNNNNNNNNNINIINNIIINNNCCEEEEENNNIIIIIINNNNNNNNNNNNIIII EEENNNNNNNNCCEENNNCEEEECCCCNNNNIIIIII 7778889977977791199991 77777777888888888888111119999999 89999999 889999 8888888888888877777777999999111111

FFiFiFiiFiiFiFFiFFF ndnnndndnd ooooouttuu iiinnnnn thththhhthhththhhheeeeee pppppaaaapapapppaaapapp geggeegeggeg ssssss offofoffoffofFiFiiFindnd oo tut iiiin thththee apapagges ffof FFFFFPPPPPCCCCCFFFFPPPPCCCC mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmaaaaaaaaaaagggggggggaaaaaazzzzzziiiiiiiiiiiinnnnnnneeeeeeee...mmaaaagggggaazziiiiinnnee..CCCCCCC

W���� ���� ��� ��

S����� L������� � ��� ���� ������� ��� ���?

Fire Sprinkler Specialties NationwideMontreal QC Brampton ON Vancouver BC

Phone: (800) 263-7011 Fax: (800) 459-6227www.lyncar.com

Over 3000 of every day itemsThe updated LynCar Fire SprinklerSpecialties Catalogue...Get your Free Copy Today

How to Get your Free Catalogue:1 - Contact LynCar Products Toll Free

tel: (800) 263-7011 or fax: (800) 4-LYNCAR2 - Call your area LynCar Representative3 - Order Online @ www.lyncar.com

LynCar Products Ltd.