Regulation of Lithium Ion Batteries
Applicable Codes and Standards & How to Apply Them

Location Details: San Marcos Activity Center, 501 E. Hopkins, San Marcos, TX

Program: 

Codes and standards are rapidly evolving to meet the growing use of lithium ion (LI) batteries in the built environment. With widespread uses ranging from energy storage systems to electric vehicles and micro-mobility devices, designers and inspectors are often challenged to understand processes and perform plan review and inspection involving locations where LI batteries are present.

This 6-hour program will offer a comprehensive look into key considerations involved in applying current code from both design and enforcement perspectives.  Coming changes to codes and standards will also be discussed. 

Highlights of the presentation include:

• Conveying a general understanding of battery chemistry
• Discussion of the various uses of batteries, including energy storage systems
• Dealing with indoor charging scenarios

• Review of current code provisions to help designers achieve code compliance

• Overview of key design and implementation features to help inspectors with plan review and inspection tasks

• Identifying and understanding resources that can assist with determining suitable fire sprinkler design criteria

Presenter: Michael O'Brian 

Michael O’Brian is the Fire Chief for the Brighton Area Fire Authority in Michigan, overseeing fire protection across 74 square miles with five stations. He also leads Code Concepts Group, a top consulting firm helping communities with technical projects.

Chief O’Brian serves on the board of the International Association of Fire Chiefs as the International Director of the Fire and Life Safety Section. He was President of the Michigan Association of Fire Chiefs from 2013-2017. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Safety Administration from Eastern Michigan University, where he also teaches as an adjunct instructor.

A dedicated member of multiple ICC and NFPA technical committees, Chief O’Brian is a past chair of the Fire Code Action Committee with the International Code Council. He is a national leader in fire service preparedness for lithium-ion batteries and a passionate advocate for firefighter health and wellness.

Schedule:

9:00 - 9:15 a.m. - Check-in

9:15 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. - Presentation Part 1

12:00 - 12:30 p.m. - Lunch/Business meeting

12:30 - 3:45 p.m. - Presentation Part 2

During the business meeting we will be voting to approve 2025-2026 leadership.

GET YOUR CEUs: TFPA members who participate in this program will receive ICC Preferred Provider and TCFP CEU credits. If you're not currently a member, TFPA membership is only $20/year to receive CEUs and other benefits.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE:
May 12th at 5:00 p.m.

(NO REFUNDS FOR CANCELLATIONS AFTER THE REGISTRATION DEADLINE)