Introduction to NFPA 915 Standard for Remote Inspections

Presented by:Terry Victor

Senior Manager of Industry RelationsJohnson Controls

Introduction to NFPA 915 Standard for Remote Inspections

2 Johnson Controls —

Presentation Objectives

Footer - Use 'Insert >Header & Footer' to modify this text and ‘Apply to all’

Explain the Scope, Purpose, and Application of the new Standard on Remote Inspections, NFPA 915.

Describe remote inspection methodologies, the types of systems and components proposed to be used, file formats, record collection, and record retention requirements.

Provide an update on the status of the new NFPA 915 standard.


NFPA 915 – Remote InspectionsComplete Document Title: NFPA 915 Standard for Remote InspectionsCommittee Scope (NFPA Document Info Page) This Committee shall be responsible for establishing requirements

for the performance and use of remote methodologies, systems and components (including digital video, digital images, digital audio, among others) whether live or submitted as an electronic file for subsequent review to conduct remote inspections of buildings, structures, systems (e.g. electrical, HVAC, fire protection, etc.) and premises including underground spaces and aerial areas. Requirements for collection, custody and maintenance of the data available from remote inspections shall also be the responsibility of this Technical Committee.

Fire protection systems are included


NFPA 915 – Technical CommitteeChairman – Jim Muir, Enforcing Authority, Clark County, WACommittee Members:

As of December 18, 2019 As of August 24, 2020

Principals Alternates Category Principals Alternates

6 1 Enforcer 8 5

7 4 Manufacturer 7 1

3 1 Special Expert 5 1

1 0 Installer/Maintainer 4 1

1 1 Applied Research/Test Lab 1 1

1 0 Labor 2

1 0 User 2

0 0 Insurance 2

20 7 Totals 31 9

A document for AHJs, with AHJ input


NFPA 915 – Remote InspectionsScope This standard shall provide the minimum requirements for the

procedures, methods, and documentation associated with remote inspections.

Purpose The purpose of this standard is to provide minimum requirements for

remote inspections to deliver an equivalent or improved result as that which would be obtained with other inspection methods.

…deliver … equivalent or improved result …


NFPA 915 – Remote InspectionsImportant Definitions

Inspection - For the purposes of this standard the examination or witnessing of a product, process, installation, or test to determine conformity with approved construction documents, and applicable codes, installation standards, and manufacturer's specifications.

Remote Inspection - The usage of audio/visual devices and/or other technologies to perform an inspection for the purpose of remote verification.

Both of these definitions are unique to NFPA 915


NFPA 915 – Types of InspectionsDifficult locations Towers Roof tops Water tanks Lake bottoms Service tunnels

Routine, Periodic & Re-inspection Distance/time Limited staff Weather COVID-19

COVID-19 has brought to light other applications for

remote inspections not previously realized.


NFPA 915 – Data DevicesCellular telephonesLive or recorded video camera Hand held Drone Robot Underwater drone Fixed (i.e. security)

Hand held device Tablet iPad Chromebook

Future


NFPA 915 – Remote InspectionsApplication

(Annex) This standard is written to be compatible with the requirements of any jurisdiction. Requirements can be modified by any jurisdiction based on the needs, technology and conditions.

The provisions of the standard shall apply to all types of inspections as allowed by the authority having jurisdiction. (Annex) It is the intent of this section to allow several types of inspections to be

conducted including but not limited to routine, scheduled, and special inspections. However, determining the types of inspections allowed should be at the discretion of the authority having jurisdiction.

The authority having jurisdiction shall determine applicability of the inspection categories and conditions that will be allowed. (Annex) The AHJ should take into consideration specific situations and/or

conditions that exist at the site when determining the feasibility of remote inspections.

The AHJ determines how NFPA 915 applies


NFPA 915 - Chapters1 Administration2 Referenced Publications3 Definitions4 General Requirements5 Location and Time Stamp Requirements6 Data Collection/Transmission Devices7 Data Collection Formats8 Data and Content Protection, Retention, and OwnershipAnnex A Explanatory MaterialAnnex B Informational ReferencesIndex


Chapter 3 - Key Definitions

Data – Factual information acquired in digital or non-digital format that can be transmitted, stored, or used as a basis for reasoning, discussion, or calculations.

Data Device – Any device that collects and stores data and/or transmits data to and from a remote location.

Entity Performing Remote Inspection – An individual or company responsible for the collection and/or transmitting of the data acquired from the inspection.

These definitions are also unique to NFPA 915 …


Chapter 3 - Key DefinitionsInspection Area – That portion of a structure or site where an organized or formal evaluation will take place.

Property Owner – Any person, agent, firm, entity, or corporation having a legal or equitable interest in a property, building, or structure.

Qualified - A competent and capable person who has demonstrated the skills, knowledge, and/or training for a given field acceptable to the AHJ.

Remote Inspection Plan – A procedure that describes the remote inspection and outcomes and describes responsibilities to parties involved in the process.

… as are these definitions.


8.1 General.8.2 Submission of Data and Content.8.3 Transmission of Content.8.4 Custody of Content.8.5 Retention of Content.

Chapter 8 - Data and Content Protection, Retention, and Ownership


NFPA 915 – Unresolved IssuesQuestions as yet unresolved by the Technical Committee: How will standard be able to keep pace with developing technologies? Can and should the scope of NFPA 915 be expanded to include periodic

inspections and tests? Can the witnessing of a test be considered an inspection? Will the inspections and tests required by other NFPA documents such as

NFPA 4, NFPA 10, NFPA 25, and NFPA 72 be able to refer to NFPA 915?


NFPA 915 – NFPA TimelineMay 12-14, 2020 Final Technical Committee Draft Meeting (virtual)July 23, 2020 Final Results of Ballot to Release NFPA 915 DraftAugust 11-13, 2020 Draft Review by Standards Council (virtual)

Preliminary Minutes: The Council voted to approve the request of the Technical Committee on Remote Inspections to enter NFPA 915, Standard for Remote Inspections into its initial revision cycle for public review, with a Public Input closing date of June 1, 2021.

Annual 2023 Revision Cycle Public Input Closing Date June 1, 2021 Public Comment Closing Date May 31, 2022 Association Technical Meeting June 2023 Standards Council Issuance August 2023

Remote Virtual Inspections (RVI)Texas Fire Protection AssociationSeptember 16, 2020

Text hereRVI Resources

Text hereWhat is RVI?

• A form of visual inspection• Uses visual or electronic aids• Allows inspectors to observe

products and/or materials from a distance

Text hereWhy Use RVI?

• Products and materials are inaccessible or in dangerous environments

• Circumstances or conditions prevent an in-person inspection

Text hereWhy Use RVI?

• Today’s phones and tablets have powerful capabilities for real-time, online communication

• Allows construction projects continue forward without impediment

• Allows AHJs to continue providing essential services needed to ensure the safety of the built environment

Text hereKey Steps for RVI

Text hereRecommended Practices for Scheduling RVI

• Time is the critical path• Lead time, time slots, sufficient time

for inspection• Coordination and confirmation

• Inspection type• Platform (hardware and software)• Written confirmation to customer

Text here

• Jobsite and device operator safety• Device fully charged• High speed Wi-Fi or cellular service• Good lighting and visibility• Necessary tools (flashlight, tape measure)• Approved plans, permit card

Recommended Practices for Customer Preparation

Text here

• Minimize disruptions• Check video and microphone settings• Clean video camera lens• Start at street view looking at the building• Be prepared to follow the established

order of inspection

Recommended Practices for Customer Preparation

Text here

• All applicable features must be visible• Inspector may push inspection date if not

properly able to assess compliance• If no Wi-Fi or cell service in certain areas,

AHJ may allow video/photo documentation• RVIs may be conducted by AHJ or

approved third-party inspection agencies

Recommended Practices for Jobsite Identification

Text here

• Enter results into AHJ permit database as soon as practicable following RVI

• Coordinate approval tags for utility connections

• Post inspection comments on AHJ website• Outline a reinspection process

• Consider electronic documentation to address deficiencies

Recommended Practices for Inspection Results

Text here

Required inspection records, including, but not limited to, correction notices, electronicmedia, recordings or photo documentation, shall be maintained in accordance with theAHJ’s policy, laws, regulations, and applicable codes, and may be subject to disclosure.

Recommended Practices for Maintaining Records

Text here

• Plumbing system repairs or fixture replacements• Construction trailer installations• Swimming pool excavations• Gas line repairs or gas utility clearance• Electric utility clearances• HVAC direct replacement or repair.• Minor residential electrical• Miscellaneous repair/exterior repair or upgrades• Re-roofing/roof covering replacement• Water heater or water softener direct replacement• New residential plumbing rough-in• New residential rough framing inspections• Residential rooftop-mounted PV panel systems• HUD manufactured home installation verification• Other inspections approved by the AHJ

Candidate RVI Inspection Types to Consider

Text hereRVI Inspection Benefits

• Health and safety benefits• Customer can schedule inspection time

• Able to plan around schedule• Pre-determined length of time for

inspection• Eliminates drive time for AHJ

• Saves time and resources• Reduces greenhouse gas emissions

Text hereRVI Inspection Challenges

• Connectivity/Technology• Video and/or Audio

• Ensuring correct site location• Ensuring correct location within the

building• Insufficient data to demonstrate

compliance• Complexity of the project• Inadequate tools onsite• Length of time for inspection

Text hereRVI Training and Education

Program Considerations for AHJs• The RVI process• Various video platforms/software• Communication skills

Program Considerations for Customers• Scheduling protocols• Jobsite expectations

Text hereFor More Information

For additional information on RVI• Go to www.iccsafe.org

• Search “RVI”• Or visit:

• www.iccsafe.org/advocacy/safety-toolkits/remote-virtual-inspections/

Text hereThank you!

International Code CouncilKarl Fippinger, CEM, PMPVice President, Government RelationsFire and Disaster Mitigation(202) 730-3946 Direct(571) 237-6237 [email protected]

Remote Video Inspections Update

▪ Through August 31st DSD has conducted 12,346 RVIs

▪ DSD Innovation at work for the community▪ DSD safely performing inspections▪ DSD providing more inspection options for builders

TO: Development Services Department Staff SUBJECT: INFORMATION BULLETIN #240

Remote Video Inspections DATE: 3/30/2020

PREPARED BY: Field Services Division

Purpose: As a customer service initiative, Development Services Department (DSD) has created Information Bulletin (IB) 240 in order to outline the procedures for conducting Remote Video Inspections (RVIs) for construction projects. RVIs are intended to provide an alternative and efficient method to ensure the permitted work complies with our City’s building-related safety codes. Further, the use of RVI’s allows DSD staff and our customers to use technology to promote social distancing while performing essential services during the COVID-19 crisis.

This IB outlines the RVI applicable inspections and overall process to ensure that they can be performed in a timeline manner which will enhance our services to the construction community.

Eligible Inspection:

Limited first time inspections for Building, Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing at the discretion of the Chief and/or Senior Inspectors and re-inspections of four (4) items or less. To discuss eligibility of a requested inspection please contact the Chief or Senior Inspector of your trade discipline.

Device Procedure: The inspector will reach out to the primary contact listed on the inspection to schedule a time for the inspection. At the time of the call, the inspector will ask what type of device will be utilized for the inspection. If necessary, the inspector will send a video chat invite. Video chat options are as listed below:

For Android™ phones – (Compatibility will need to be verified)

From a Home screen, tap on Phone. If unavailable, navigate: Apps > Phone. Tap Menu icon. (located in the upper right). Tap Call settings.

Tap video calling to turn on or off. Tap OK.

Video Calling for Samsung Device Users

Call as you normally do. Now click on the Video Call option displayed after the call is connected. The other person will get a Pop-Up display to switch to Video. Ask the other person to click OK button.

Skype Video Calling For Most Devices

Download Skype Create an account Send invite via email to DSD Inspector or Accept an invite via email from the DSD

Inspector

Minimum Required Tools and Equipment Compatible Video Device Flashlight (verify with inspector) Measuring tape (verify with inspector)

Inspection Procedure:

Begin inspection at street view looking at the structure with the address in the initial view.

Follow the direction of the inspector. Inspection shall be in a clockwise direction horizontally then bottom to top vertically

(if more than one floor) or as instructed by the inspector. Make notes of any required corrections. The inspector shall inform the customer if the inspection receives a pass, partial or fail. The inspector shall input comments in the permitting system with the results at the

completion of the video inspection.Summary:

Our goal is to provide the most effective and efficient service possible, please be patient as we try to adjust and service the community during these challenging times. Should you have questions or if you require additional information feel free to contact Chief Combination Inspector Eloy Resendez at 210-207-0148 or the Senior Inspector of your trade discipline.

Prepared by: Eloy Resendez Jr, Chief Combination Inspector

Reviewed by: Jeremy McDonald, PE

Authorized by: Amin Tohmaz, PE, Deputy Assistant Director, Field Service

TO: Development Services Department Staff SUBJECT: INFORMATION BULLETIN #240

Remote Video Inspections DATE: 3/30/2020

PREPARED BY: Field Services Division

Purpose: As a customer service initiative, Development Services Department (DSD) has created Information Bulletin (IB) 240 in order to outline the procedures for conducting Remote Video Inspections (RVIs) for construction projects. RVIs are intended to provide an alternative and efficient method to ensure the permitted work complies with our City’s building-related safety codes. Further, the use of RVI’s allows DSD staff and our customers to use technology to promote social distancing while performing essential services during the COVID-19 crisis.

This IB outlines the RVI applicable inspections and overall process to ensure that they can be performed in a timeline manner which will enhance our services to the construction community.

Eligible Inspection:

Limited first time inspections for Building, Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing at the discretion of the Chief and/or Senior Inspectors and re-inspections of four (4) items or less. To discuss eligibility of a requested inspection please contact the Chief or Senior Inspector of your trade discipline.

Device Procedure: The inspector will reach out to the primary contact listed on the inspection to schedule a time for the inspection. At the time of the call, the inspector will ask what type of device will be utilized for the inspection. If necessary, the inspector will send a video chat invite. Video chat options are as listed below:

For Android™ phones – (Compatibility will need to be verified)

From a Home screen, tap on Phone. If unavailable, navigate: Apps > Phone. Tap Menu icon. (located in the upper right). Tap Call settings.

Tap video calling to turn on or off. Tap OK.

Video Calling for Samsung Device Users

Call as you normally do. Now click on the Video Call option displayed after the call is connected. The other person will get a Pop-Up display to switch to Video. Ask the other person to click OK button.

Skype Video Calling For Most Devices

Download Skype Create an account Send invite via email to DSD Inspector or Accept an invite via email from the DSD

Inspector

Minimum Required Tools and Equipment Compatible Video Device Flashlight (verify with inspector) Measuring tape (verify with inspector)

Inspection Procedure:

Begin inspection at street view looking at the structure with the address in the initial view.

Follow the direction of the inspector. Inspection shall be in a clockwise direction horizontally then bottom to top vertically

(if more than one floor) or as instructed by the inspector. Make notes of any required corrections. The inspector shall inform the customer if the inspection receives a pass, partial or fail. The inspector shall input comments in the permitting system with the results at the

completion of the video inspection.Summary:

Our goal is to provide the most effective and efficient service possible, please be patient as we try to adjust and service the community during these challenging times. Should you have questions or if you require additional information feel free to contact Chief Combination Inspector Eloy Resendez at 210-207-0148 or the Senior Inspector of your trade discipline.

Prepared by: Eloy Resendez Jr, Chief Combination Inspector

Reviewed by: Jeremy McDonald, PE

Authorized by: Amin Tohmaz, PE, Deputy Assistant Director, Field Service

Idea-to-Outcome Project:ACD Remote Inspections

TFPA Meeting: September 16, 2020Vicky Pridgen, Neighborhood LiaisonAustin Code Department (ACD)

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Setting the stage

Background

Austin Code Department (ACD) conducts tens of thousands of inspections annually to ensure that our community is safe and up-to-code.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, internal structure inspections are not as safe to conduct in-person, both for the health of the inspector and the resident requesting an inspection.

Stats

● Call volume from March-June has increased 15% since the same time last year

● Averaging 130 complaints daily since March 2020

● 5,600 COVID-19 related cases added to ACD’s caseload from March-July

What we’re aiming for

“How can ACD employees schedule and conduct remote code violation inspections and still fulfill the department’s goal of serving residents and keeping Austin safe?”

Discovery Scope - Code Virtual Inspections

User-Centered Design

The focus is the user.

User-Centered Design focuses around how users can, want, or need to use the product, rather than forcing them to change their behavior to accommodate the product.

Project timeline: Jun – Aug 2020

Identifyinguser needs

Conducting user testing

Pilotingsolution

Approach

4

Develop business requirements

Identify users and prioritize needs

Assess industry landscape

Conduct usability testing

Recommend technology vendor

Approach

5






Approach

6






Approach

7






Approach






8


9

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The technology solution must meet these criteria:

● Must enable scheduling of remote inspection● Must enable video call for remote inspection● Must integrate with inspection process flow● Must be rapidly deployable, presenting minimum

burden to public


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Stew | Homeowner“I'm a middle aged guy. I live in east Austin in an old house and work as an entrepreneur in startups.”

● Tech-savvy: Works as product guy● Empowered by virtual process: “I actually felt more confident that

you weren’t seeing my dirty laundry or something else.”● Recommends offering test link: “Every meeting in the world pays a

tax for the 5 minutes when people are trying to get their Zoom set up.”

“I like the idea of seeing the photos at the end in case that addresses any irrational spookiness of ‘well the big government's got my photos and they're taking down my house’ or something.”

User research: What we heard

Tech-savvy: 🔴🔴🔴🔴🔴

Code-savvy: 🔴🔴⭕⭕⭕

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Mariana | Tenant “Code is kind of like a last resort for tenants who don't have their needs met and go months without having any repairs done.”

● Tenant and educator: Lives at a Repeat Offender Program (ROP) property and volunteers her time helping her neighbor tenants

● Not tech-savvy: Picked FaceTime to connect but uses a flip phone ● Wants to be part of the process: Feels that bringing tenants into

the loop will ensure a better outcome ● “The tenant can better direct you in what we’re having issues with

to find the root of the problem.”

”I wouldn’t want to show a messy home! I have kids, so it would be good to know ahead of time.”


Tech-savvy: 🔴🔴⭕⭕⭕

Code-savvy: 🔴🔴🔴⭕⭕

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Parker | Property Manager Manager of an ROP property

● Values the ability to test a connection: Always logs onto virtual meetings early to make sure she is able to connect

● Thinks it’s important to offer tech tools that work for the resident: “Most property managers in onsite teams will have the technical ability to navigate any of those [Zoom, FaceTime, Google Duo, Teams], so you should cater to the resident, not the property manager.”

● Recognizes potential time savings with proper process: “I really think that, if done correctly, this could save your department so much time.”


Tech-savvy: 🔴🔴🔴⭕⭕

Code-savvy: 🔴🔴🔴⭕⭕

Tech-savvy: 🔴🔴🔴⭕⭕

Code-savvy: 🔴🔴🔴🔴⭕

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Residents are excited about remote inspections.

Scheduling is an important opportunity area.

Communication and expectation-setting will be key.

Design for the tech novice and you’ll meet all needs.

Partner with stakeholders to increase efficiency.

User research: Takeaways


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Industry landscape

● Offer several white papers and guidelines for remote virtual inspection process

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Selection: ”We chose those inspections as the proposed virtual inspections because they are pretty much the simplest forms of our inspections.”

Flexibility: “You never want to put a policy in place where all of the inspections are conducted virtually, because contractors could advantage of that.”

Results: Staff want to continue to remote inspections post-COVID: “We are seeing the benefits of it and we know that the contractor is seeing the benefits as well.”

Industry landscape: What we heard

● Use Microsoft Teams and offer other video call options as needed

● Selected “simplest” inspections to pilot remotely

● Assigned virtual inspections to high-risk for COVID-19 teleworking inspectors

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Emotions get tangled into tech-savvy: “I can tell my customers are embarrassed if they can't connect virtually the first time.”

Generational gap + team effort to connect: “If it's an older gentleman, they're like ‘No, I don’t want to do any of that.’ and it tends to get handed down to the younger guy on the general contractor's team.”

Recognizes challenges of remote inspections for the more complex inspections: “There's no substitute for our eyes, right? It's just the truth of it. Being out there and seeing.”


● Majority via FaceTime and a few calls via Skype

● Assign appointment time for contractor in advance

● Recommend contractor do a test video call with a friend before their scheduled virtual visit

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Designed a fully remote + user-centered process:

1. Informed customer of new inspection option via public outreach campaign and program webpage

2. “Eligible” NOVs have QR code with Calendly link3. Resident schedules inspection via Calendly that is

connected to a resource Outlook calendar4. Inspector is assigned/invited to conduct the

inspection on the resident’s preferred date/time

Measuring impact: Using a spreadsheet to track success metrics (time saved, mileage/fuel saved, etc.) to justify value of remote inspections post-pandemic


● Schedule via Calendly and inspect via “User’s Choice” video tool (FaceTime, Duo, Zoom, Messenger, etc.)

● Piloted with small team of “early adopter” inspectors

● Adapting their process to be more efficient along the way

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How might we improve the experience of customers and staff alike by seamlessly integrating scheduling into the inspection process?

How might we best set customer expectations to ensure the remote inspection process is as smooth and frictionless as possible?

How might we best design our remote inspection process to integrate lessons learned from partner departments and other cities?

Industry landscape: Design principles

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https://app.mural.co/t/austincode9159/m/austincode9159/1595334014264/d2db3bfde2728275714eed706f611d1c66feffee?wid=0-1595609071485

User + industry research: Who shared insights

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Residents

Homeowners

Tenants

Property managers

Staff

Austin Code

Development Services

Austin Energy

Muni Court

City Legal

City of Anaheim

Vendors

Inspected

Zoom

Calendly

User + industry research: Who shared insights

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Residents

Homeowners

Tenants

Property managers

Staff

Austin Code

Development Services

Austin Energy

Muni Court

City Legal

City of Anaheim

Vendors

Inspected

Zoom

Calendly64


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Usability Assessment

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● “Think aloud” feedback technique for conducting usability testing

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1. Customer Scheduling Interface + Zoom Video Platform

2. Customer Scheduling Interface + User-Choice Video Platform

3. All-in-One Vendor Solution

Usability Assessment (cont.)

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● Users were comfortable with well-known video platforms

● Users found Calendly “sleek”, “really easy”, and “simple to use” for scheduling an inspection

● Vendor solution required more manual entry and extra Outlook setup (e.g. customized API)

Recommend a technology vendor

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Recommended Solution

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Customer Scheduling Interface + User’s Choice Video Platform

● Scheduling / Calendly ● Inspection / Zoom, FaceTime,

Google Duo, or Microsoft Teams● Cost / $0-$25 per month

Thank you

Vicky [email protected]

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Introduction to NFPA 915 Standard for Remote Inspections

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