| Dramatic global growth in information technology has resulted in a proliferation of communication cables in buildings throughout the world. This ever-expanding volume of concealed cables creates serious, new fire risks -- particularly in ceilings, floors and vertical shafts of tall, commercial structures.
The Cable Fire Research Association (CFRA) was created to help address these risks. Established by a group of international manufacturers in 1999, CFRA is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and improving fire safety of communications cables through education, research and advocacy.
EDUCATION
CFRA promotes broad awareness of cable fire safety prevention by producing instructional videos and brochures, and by supporting educational activities worldwide.
RESEARCH
CFRA supports a wide range of R&D initiatives that include:
- Investing more than $10 million to establish a CFRA database of hundreds of fire tests on more than 100 different cable designs;
- Evaluating specific fire hazards in commercial, industrial and educational buildings in different countries; and
- Participating in major private sector and government sponsored research programs, such as “Partners in Technology” and “Partners in Innovations.”
ADVOCACY
CFRA works with regulatory, legislative and industrial organizations in:
- Providing policy guidance;
- Developing new codes and safety standards for the manufacture, installation and use of communication cables; and,
- Advocating cost-efficient alternatives to improve public safety, prevent property loss, and make the jobs of firefighters and other first responders less dangerous.
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