West Virginia has adopted the 2003 editions of NFPA 1, Uniform Fire Code, and NFPA 101, Life Safety Code. The codes will take effect May 15 and be enforced statewide.

NFPA 101, used in all 50 states and adopted statewide in 39 states, mandates building design, construction, operation and maintenance requirements to protect building occupants from the dangers caused by fire, smoke and toxic fumes. It is one of the nation's oldest safety documents and is considered the most comprehensive code addressing life safety in new and existing buildings.

“NFPA codes have been used in West Virginia for years, and we have found them to be effective for protecting life and property in new and existing buildings within our state,” said Sterling Lewis, the state’s fire marshal. "Our assistant state fire marshals and local code officials have benefited from the training and services provided by the NFPA which has improved their ability to apply the codes properly.”

The West Virginia bill adopting the NFPA codes also requires building code officials to obtain certification through the state fire commission and meet mandatory continuing education requirements. In addition, the bill requires home inspectors to be licensed by the state fire commission, and meet similar continuing education requirements.