The 2006 editions of NFPA 730, Guide for Premises Security, and NFPA 731, Standard for the Installation of Electronic Security Systems, were developed to address contemporary security matters. Organizations represented on the NFPA technical committee include the Security Industry Association, American Society for Industrial Security, Central Station Alarm Association, National Electrical Contractors Association, and the American Institute of Architects. The documents were issued by the NFPA Standards Council on July 29, 2005, and took effect August 18, 2005. They have been accredited by the American National Standards Institute.
NFPA formed its technical committee on premises security before the events of September 11, 2001, according to the group. Following the attacks on the World Trade Center, NFPA realized there was a heightened demand for enhanced security for people in public access facilities. NFPA’s technical committee decided to develop two documents that address security as a result, the group said. NFPA 730 addresses the application of security principles based on occupancy and NFPA 731 addresses the installation of security systems equipment.
At the core of NFPA 730 is the security vulnerability assessment, which provides a systematic and methodical process that examines an organization’s vulnerabilities.
NFPA 731 is similar in structure to NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm Code. Also, the standard requires that the installation of all wiring, cable, and equipment be in accordance with NFPA 70, the National Electrical Code (NEC).
