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House approves bill requiring certification for fire-alarm system inspectors after sharp debate (38–30)
Summary
Representative Joseph Murray's HB266 requires certification and training for fire-alarm inspectors and places oversight with the State Fire Marshal's Office; the bill passed the House 38–30 after members debated the need for a new certification regime.
The Utah House narrowly approved House Bill 266 on Feb. 9, 2006, a measure requiring certification and training for individuals who inspect fire-alarm systems.
Representative Joseph Murray, sponsor of the bill, told the chamber that modern fire-alarm systems have become "pretty complicated in the last 25 years and need people who are certified and know what they're doing," and said HB266 would place certification and testing responsibilities with the State Fire Marshal's Office. Murray emphasized the bill is focused on life-safety inspections and would not change requirements for electrical contractors or engineers who design systems.
During floor debate an opposing member observed that jurisdictions already perform inspections and there is currently no national certification program for the type of work described, urging caution about creating a new statewide requirement. The opponent argued the state and local inspectors already test systems and that a new licensing mandate would need further study.
After summation by the sponsor the House vote closed at 38 in favor and 30 opposed. The bill passed and will be referred to the Senate for further consideration.
The sponsor and opponents also discussed grandfathering and how the certification would be implemented; the sponsor said the State Fire Marshal's Office would administer certification and testing for those charged with inspecting alarm systems.
