Adding strength to numbers, AFSA members in the state of Louisiana voted unanimously to become a chapter of the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA), therefore disbanding the Louisiana Fire Sprinkler Association. The decision to join the national trade group as its 22nd official chapter was made at an April 24 meeting in Baton Rouge, La.
The newly elected chapter officers include: Chairman Linda Biernacki, Fire Tech Systems, Inc., Shreveport, La.; Vice Chairman Eugene Dunavant, Mid-South Fire Protection, Shreveport, La.; Secretary Judi Gardner, Jefferson Sprinkler Inc., Gretna, La.; and Treasurer Richard Booth, S&S Sprinkler Co., Baton Rouge, La.
Meetings will be held as called by the chair, but already the new chapter is buzzing with activity. During April 24 meeting, the chapter held a Blazemaster Training session in the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office training room, with over 30 installers receiving certification in plastic piping installation. The chapter also welcomed the new State Fire Marshal Paul Smith to its April meeting and offered its assistance in advancing the fire sprinkler industry in the state. Chapter members are working with State Fire Marshal’s office to mandate the 2007 NFPA 13 “Owner’s Information Certificate” to be submitted to the State Fire Marshal along with the Architectural submittal. Without missing a beat, chapter members also began planning a golf tournament to be held in October to benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation.
The Louisiana chapter offers members interaction with other industry professionals, training in matters pertaining to the fire sprinkler business, and the opportunity to learn more about the business and others in it. Contractors, Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs), manufacturers, suppliers, or any other AFSA members in the state of Louisiana are eligible for membership. Those interested in joining the Louisiana chapter can contact chapter chair Linda Biernacki at (318) 688-8800.
About AFSA
Established in 1981, the American Fire Sprinkler Association is an international association representing fire sprinkler contractors. AFSA is dedicated to the educational and professional advancement of the automatic fire sprinkler industry.
More AFSA: http://www.sprinklernet.org/
