STATEHOUSE (June 1, 2018) – A bill authored by State Sen. Doug Eckerty (R-Yorktown) requiring local fire departments to be made aware of some buildings’ structural components was recently ceremonially signed into law by Gov. Eric Holcomb.
Senate Enrolled Act 393 requires individuals to disclose on their building permit application issued by a city, town or county for a Class 1 or Class 2 structure after June 30, 2018, if they are using advanced structural components. The law also requires the city, town or county building commissioner to notify the local fire department and 911 call center of the advanced structural components no later than 90 days after issuing a building permit.
Advanced structural components are more efficient, longer-lasting structural materials, but they can respond differently to fire than traditional lumber.
“Sometimes, advanced structural components can collapse when exposed to fire, putting firefighters in even more danger,” Eckerty said. “With this law in place, our firefighters will be better protected as local fire departments will know in advance if a building includes these components and will be able to take the right precautions when fighting a fire.”
The ceremonial signing took place at Renaissance Indianapolis North Hotel in Carmel. It was held in conjunction with the 42nd annual Indiana Professional Firefighters Union Convention.
For a full list of 2018 legislation signed into law by Gov. Holcomb, click here.
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A high-resolution photo of Eckerty can be found here.
