The Assault on Safety and NFPA Update
Model Codes are Under Attack
Location Details: San Marcos Activity Center, 501 E. Hopkins, San Marcos, TX
Program: Across the country, anti-regulatory sentiments and well-financed lobbying efforts are persuading lawmakers to weaken or erase the longstanding fire and life safety codes intended to protect the public. Learn how this is happening and what safety professionals can do to stop this assault on safety. Following the Assault on Safety presentation, there will be an update on current NFPA activities, including NFPA's codes and standards, that will impact code enforcers, consultants, designers, installers and others in the building and fire-safety profession.
Presenters: Ray Bizal, PE, FSFPE is Director of Regional Operations for the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). In this capacity, he oversees Canadian and U.S. Regional Directors, who provide outreach and advocacy to NFPA stakeholders regarding the many activities undertaken by the association. This includes supporting the use and enforcement of NFPA codes and standards, identifying tools and solutions for fire, electrical and related hazards, and public education outreach.
With over 35 years in the fire protection profession, Ray is a Fellow in the Society of Fire Protection Engineers. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Colorado at Boulder and is a registered Fire Protection Engineer in California.
Orlando Hernandez is Regional Director for NFPA assigned to Texas and neighboring states. He boasts a career spanning over 30 years in emergency management, law enforcement, and fire safety. He began his professional journey in 1992 with the Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office and has held roles such as Bexar County Fire Marshal and Emergency Management Coordinator. In 2018, Orlando was appointed Texas State Fire Marshal, a position he held with distinction until his retirement in June 2023. His leadership during this time was instrumental in enhancing fire safety standards across the state.
In August 2024, Mr. Hernandez transitioned to the role of South-Central Regional Director for the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). In this capacity, he works closely with state and local government agencies, as well as fire service organizations, to advocate for improved fire safety, the adoption of national codes and standards, and the promotion of community risk reduction. He also conducts educational presentations focused on leadership, emergency management, and fire safety best practices.
Schedule:
11:15 - 11:45 a.m. - Check-in and networking
11:45 - 12:30 p.m. - Lunch/Business meeting
12:30 - 1:30 p.m. - Presentation
BBQ will be served for lunch and is included.
REGISTRATION DEADLINE:
Nov. 2nd at 5:00 p.m.
(NO REFUNDS FOR CANCELLATIONS AFTER THE REGISTRATION DEADLINE)
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.
