Changes to the city's bylaw legislating who is qualified to inspect and test fire protection equipment are too restrictive, according to a professional regulatory association.
Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC (ASTTBC) executive director John Leech will be in council chambers tonight with the hope of making his organization's concerns heard.
On Nov. 4 council approved third reading of a new fire protection and emergency response bylaw that includes the provision that fire protection technicians be certified and registered with ASTTBC as well as requiring them to have trade qualified credentials as electricians for sprinkler fitters.
Before council votes on final reading of the bylaw, Leech is hoping to have that provision for trade qualifications removed.
"The added restrictions goes against the whole concept of professional reliance where the professional association such as engineers, nurses, accountants, technologists and technicians and other professions set, maintain and regulate practice without added conditions by local government," said Leech in a press release.
Leech, who is based in Vancouver, said he did not have time to register as a delegation to address council at the beginning of the meeting, but is hoping to have an opportunity to speak.
At the Nov. 4 meeting, Coun. Albert Koehler attempted to provide a platform for Leech, who was in town as part of a local National Technology Week event.
However, it would have taken a unanimous vote of council to allow it, which Coun. Cameron Stolz - chairing the meeting as acting mayor - said he wouldn't support given there had already been consultation with ASTTBC.
The regulating body, representing 10,000 members, said it was content with the initial proposed bylaw, which didn't include the trade qualification requirement.
The extra step was added prior to third reading after input from the Prince George Construction Association.
"As the new proposed bylaw is currently written, it has the unintentional consequence of lowering the standards," said a letter from construction association president Rosalind Thorn.
In a letter to council, Majestic Management's Robert Hillhouse stood behind the change.
"From a life safety perspective, it is not ideal to have two different parties required to fix something because it will mean that fire alarm systems will be out of commission for much longer than would otherwise be necessary," he wrote.
But the BC Northern Real Estate Board also expressed concern over the amendment, agreeing with ASTTBC's charge that the change would have the unintended consequence of limiting the availability of those who can complete the work.
"The board requests that the proposed changes to the requirements for the fire inspection technicians be removed or that a decision on the issue be delayed until all affected community groups have had the chance to fully research the issue and consider their position," said letter to council from the board.
Prior to the amended bylaw receiving third reading Nov. 4, Coun. Garth Frizzell questioned whether or not the changes would reduce the availability of people certified to carry out inspections.
Public safety director Rob Whitwham didn't answer directly, but confirmed the standard has been increased for those inspecting fire alarm and automated sprinkler systems.
"There are other communities in the province that are certainly using the ASTTBC process and certifications," said Whitwham.
The transition process will in effect be a two-year phase in period where those who are currently doing the work can apply to the certification program and challenge the ASTTBC qualification exam.
