FARS Installation Maintenance Contractors specialize in the upkeep and optimization, ensuring compliance with safety standards and regulatory requirements.
Matthew Laase, Principal Jackson Main Architecture
A Firefighter Air Replenishment System (FARS) is a building-installed air standpipe that delivers air to firefighters inside large structures. Just as water standpipes replaced hand buckets as a delivery system for water, FARS replaces the slow, labor-intensive process of hand-delivering replacement air bottles to firefighters during a fire.
FARS codes are currently adopted in over 249 jurisdictions across 26 US states, with more being added every year. The FAC is here to both help with the code adoption and implementation process. We provide a Code Guide and other tools to help simplify the process, as well as direct advocate support. Additionally, we keep an up-to-date Code Tracker Map of all jurisdictions with FARS code adoptions.
Plans, specifications, product data sheets, and system engineered calculations for FARS must be reviewed and stamped by an engineer licensed in the state of the jurisdiction adopting the code. The engineer should be knowledgeable in high pressure breathing air replenishment systems, and able to demonstrate previous experience with such systems.
The system should be installed by a licensed fire protection contractor experienced in the installation of fire department high pressure breathing air systems. The installation contractor should be registered as a contractor with the state and any other appropriate jurisdiction required by code and hold all appropriate licenses and certifications.
NFPA fire codes states that no Certificate of Compliance shall be issued until all approved plans and specifications have been tested, certified, and approved to be in proper working condition to the satisfaction of the local fire department.
NFPA Annex D dictates Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Requirements for FARS. Inspection includes a visual examination of the system and its components as specified in the code. Local codes also require periodic testing for air pressure and quality (typically quarterly).
Firefighter Air: The Fireground, Our Mission and You - the FDIC 2024 supplement this year. Please take moment to download your copy to explore new science and research, new breathing techniques and training opportunities for air management, tactical operations for high rise and much more. Please share this information with your department.
Take a moment to check out...The Firefighter Air Coalition is a 501(c)4 non-profit organization dedicated to advancing firefighter safety through education and training on air management best practices. We promote new air management technologies that enhance firefighter safety and advocate for the implementation of codes requiring these innovative solutions.
Our vision is for all firefighters to have the tools and expertise they need to operate safely and effectively, protecting themselves and the communities they serve.
The air on your back is what enables you to do your work and survive. And like every other resource on the fireground, that air needs to be deliberately planned, practiced and managed.
Learn MoreWe follow the development of air management technologies and advocate for integration into firefighting best practices. These technologies include portable breathing air, gas detection, fireground and training tools, PPE and more.
Learn MoreSmoke is a killer. Understanding the enemy is crucial to reduce the chance of illness, disease and death.
Learn MoreFire science studies the causes and effects of fire, fire management, fire behavior, and firefighter health and safety. We will bring you the latest science and research related to firefighter health and safety.
Learn MoreThe Firefighter Air Coalition (FAC) focuses on the need for smart, responsible air management. It’s our passion and our privilege to advance firefighter safety through continued education and training programs and the advancement of important life-saving air supply technology.
The Firefighter Air Coalition advocates for codes requiring proven technologies that improve air management in the fire service and help reduce cancer risk. We support the efforts of code compliance professionals in their code review, adoption, and implementation process.
Codes requiring Firefighter Air Replenishment Systems (FARS) are a growing trend nationwide as cities look to keeping pace with infrastructure development, fire department manpower, reduce risk, and maintain the highest level of public safety.
A Firefighter Air Replenishment System (FARS) is a building installed standpipe system and distribution systems that delivers breathing air to firefighters inside large structures.
As with most building-installed fire safety systems, the cost of FARS and the on-going testing, certification and maintenance of the system is borne by the builder and the building owner.
Our team is here to answer your questions and help you get started on turning your vision into reality.
Our Board of Directors is comprised of leaders from the fire service and industry. Each brings a unique set of skills and experience to our organization.