SELACACI Announces “FIRE & FUMES” Public Training

SELACACI Announces “FIRE & FUMES” Public Training -- March 3, 2015
In Response to Deaths & Property Loss due to House Fires this Winter

When:   Tuesday, March 3, 6-8 p.m.
Where:  Local 60 Plumber’s Hall, 2541 North Arnoult Rd., Metairie.
What:    Panel Discussion of local Fire & Building Experts – for Public Education on Fire Hazards
Cost:    $20 in advance; $30 day-of, at the door [incl. food/beverage].  Registration/Info:  SELACACI.org               

The Southeast Louisiana Coalition of the AC Industry announces its first public training for 2015:  “Fire and Fumes -- Home Safety Training for Homeowners and Contractors”:   a panel discussion of experts on fire safety & building inspection designed to help prevent local house fires like those this winter.  Although not related to those cases, the purpose is to educate homeowners so they can check for themselves to see if certain code violations or other problems could threaten loss of investment or loss of life.  The topics at hand involve improper installation of HVAC & water heating equipment and certain building materials.  The object is to stimulate attention & raise the priority for property owners of addressing (or avoiding) the most common & inexpensive health & safety fixes.  While many of the issues relate primarily to older, existing homes, such considerations are also relevant in new construction. 

The panel will consist of:

-- Sidney Chaisson -- Professional Engineer & Home Inspector (22 years), Baton Rouge;

-- Paul LaGrange -- Building Science professional, LaGrange Consulting, Mandeville;

-- Trent Naquin -- A/C contractor (26 years), longtime VFD member & EMR, Labadieville; &

-- Walter Oliveaux -- Fire Investigator, St. Francisville.

These experts will discuss: 

-  The fire hazard (particularly due to lightning) from flexible gas lines (CSST) and the all-too-common code violation of such flex lines running through furnaces;

-  Combustion gas exposure issues generally, and particularly as a result of the air-sealing of existing homes & construction of tighter homes;

-  Electrical or other fire hazards for contractors & homeowners to look for, avoid, & correct.

A volunteer A/C coalition, SELACACI strives to provide opportunities for various parts of the industry to work together to solve problems.  SELACACI primarily serves contractors in the Greater New Orleans area, while recognizing the need for broader public education on related issues. 

 

This announcement is from the SE La. Coalition of the A/C Industry (SELACACI.org), a volunteer organization of HVAC professionals dedicated to better appreciation & implementation of the building codes governing the industry & toward improvement of the industry generally.  This is in the context of the growing "home performance" industry, & the need for broader understanding of Building Science issues in the Hot Humid Climate Zone.  SELACACI provides education for citizens and building professionals in a “whole building” context, with the aim of encouraging a more rational industry generally.

Media Contact:        Tony Laska PhD         504.579.3633      [email protected]