Forum for the Future 2007.

THE IMPORTANT ACCOMPLISHMENT of having NFPA 80 Standard for Fire Doors and Other Protective Openings language requiring the annual inspection of fire doors has been achieved and the development and implementation of the DHI training and Annual Fire Door Assembly Inspection Certification Program is almost complete.

To help support these multiple efforts, the 2007 Forum for the Future will speak to the insurance, staffing, marketing and financial ramifications of becoming engaged in this initiative. At this year's forum event:

DHI staff will provide an overview of the inspection guidelines, checklists, reports, and model contractual agreements that will be used to support anyone performing these inspections.

Peter J. Elliott, President & CEO of the Telcom Insurance Group will discuss the risk management and insurance aspects of the inspection program.

Tim Wilson, COO of Mulhaupts will offer his first hand knowledge on long-term maintenance agreements.

Jeff Turcotte, Vice-President for Intertek Warnock Hersey and DHI staff will discuss the certifications and classes being offered through Intertek Warnock Hersey and DHI.

Bert Polk, a retired state fire marshal, will offer an important perspective from his years as the top fire official in the state of South Carolina.

"This inspection requirement means that functional testing must be performed by individuals with knowledge and understanding of the operating components of the fire rated openings." said Jerry Heppes, CAE, and Chief Executive Officer of DHI. "As of today, DHI members are the most qualified to perform these inspections--and will be even more so once they are certified and understand the business aspects of what this initiative brings."

Those attending this year's Forum will have a clear understanding of the leadership role this industry will play in carrying out these inspections and the business opportunities that will follow. "The architectural openings industry is strategically placed to take the lead on this important initiative," said Bill Johnson, Managing Director of the Foundation for the Advancement of Life Safety and Security. "It is truly an exciting time to be a part of this industry and see what important changes are taking place each and every day."

The Forum will be held on Thursday, October 18, 2007, from 12:30 pm to 4:15 pm in the Presidential Ballroom, Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center.

If you would like additional information regarding the Fire Door Assembly Inspection Program or details about the Forum for the Future event, please contact Bill Johnson at 703/766.7039 or visit us online at www.dhi.org/annual.

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY THE Foundation for the Advancement of Life Safety and Security