Most manufacturing and warehouse facilities are already subject to sprinkler requirements. Therefore, existing retail stores would bear the brunt of the proposed mandate. Retail retrofits are typically more expensive than new construction, running around $6 a square foot.

The International Code Council (ICC) maintains and updates model building codes that are in turn adopted in whole or part by localities. The local code and fire officials who participate in ICC generally embrace more stringent codes if they are workable. However, they may be responsive to the concerns of local companies expressing apprehension about the impact of added costs and disruption of business during a deep economic slump. Local elected officials should also be sensitive to these burdens.

Under the existing ICC Code, new and renovated retail furniture stores must have sprinklers. This provision was adopted in 2008 in response to several destructive fires in furniture stores and was supported by AHFA, as well as the National Home Furnishings Association.

As stores are built and renovated over the next decade, additional protection will be provided to our employees and customers. This approach would be more efficient and cost-effective, as sprinklers in new construction cost about $2 per square foot.

Prospective Action
If you agree that the ICC should allow the existing provision time to work, rather than requiring expensive and disruptive retrofits, you may wish to use the attached talking points when contacting local code regulators, building authorities and elected officials. Request that your locality's representative to the ICC speak out at the upcoming meeting in Baltimore (October 24-31).

You may also wish to write a letter to your local newspaper to raise awareness of this issue. A sample letter and automated delivery to local newspapers is provided courtesy of the International Sleep Products Association, which is also leading opposition to this change. Click here for the ISPA letter.