Research + Tech

ICC-SRCC and NFPA release solar energy provisions publication

The International Code Council and the Solar Rating and Certification Corporation (ICC-SRCC) have released the 2018 International Solar Energy Provisions™ (ISEP) in collaboration with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

The 2018 ISEP compiles the solar energy provisions of the 2018 International Codes (I-Codes) and the 2017 National Electrical Code, as well as related ICC-SRCC standards, to create a comprehensive document regarding the design, installation and administration of solar thermal and photovoltaic systems. The publication has a similar format to the I-Codes, a collection of modern building safety codes, and can be adopted as a solar energy code by local, state and national jurisdictions.

The 2018 ISEP contains separate provisions for commercial and residential buildings, and two solar standards: ICC 900/SRCC 300-2015, "Solar Thermal System Standard," and ICC 901/SRCC 100-2015, "Solar Thermal Collector Standard." Resources such as the Checklist and Submittal Requirements for Expedited Permitting of Solar Photovoltaic Systems and the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Site Access also are included.

"We are excited to present this tool, the best and most comprehensive publication of its kind on solar thermal and photovoltaic systems," says Shawn Martin, ICC-SRCC's vice president of technical services. "As the leading provider of ratings, certifications, codes and standards for renewable energy, we are proud to partner with NFPA to help the solar industry, designers, contractors and administrators better implement safe and resilient solar energy projects."

The 2018 ISEP is available at shop.iccsafe.org.

ASTM International committee presents award

Dregger

ASTM International's Committee D08 on Roofing and Waterproofing has presented its William C. Cullen Award to Philip Dregger, president of Technical Roof Services Inc., Concord, Calif.

ASTM International's Committee D08 established the William C. Cullen Award to recognize members who demonstrate outstanding contributions and personal commitment to the field. An ASTM International member since 1991, Dregger was honored for his dedication and leadership within the industry, particularly for his numerous publications and presentations about condensation, wind damage and roof drainage problems. He also has served on the boards of directors of the Cool Roof Ratings Council, Roof Consultants Inc. and the Roofing Industry Committee on Weather Issues Inc.

Power Tool Institute launches battery safety campaign

The Power Tool Institute, an organization of power tool manufacturers that provides power tool safety resources and education, has launched an online "Take Charge of Your Battery" campaign, www.takechargeofyourbattery.com, to educate lithium-ion battery users about the proper selection, transport, storage and disposal of batteries.

The campaign describes ways to reduce the dangers of lithium-ion battery misuse. Users are encouraged to choose batteries from the original power tool manufacturer because those batteries are designed to share the same circuitry and operate best with matching power tools. The dangers of aftermarket and counterfeit lithium-ion batteries, which may not undergo proper safety testing, also are explained. In addition, the campaign highlights proper battery storage, transport and disposal, and how to recognize indicators that a battery no longer is operating properly.

"Lithium-ion batteries are quickly becoming more common in power tools and are revolutionary for their increased efficiency, energy storage capacity and durability," says Susan Orenga, a member of the Power Tool Institute. "But what many don't realize is that these batteries also come with some serious risks when used improperly. We hope to reach as many consumers, contractors and educators as possible with this campaign to significantly reduce the risks associated with improper use of lithium-ion batteries."