Sprinkler Age 0703 Draft

AFSA Chairman's Message

Sprinkler Age July 2003

by Robert W. Rees

What a year! And it's already half over. It seems like contractors have never worked so hard to accomplish so little. It's been a familiar story since 9/11 – a soft economy due in part to uncertainty and a general lack of confidence. If that weren't enough, here in the Southeast, unusually wet weather has pretty much brought new construction to a standstill.

So our focus has been on keeping everybody busy — something that we haven't had to worry about in several years. We remain optimistic, and we are seeing signs of life out there. Architects and engineers are busy. Optimism abounds due to the recently enacted tax legislation that should encourage more businesses to consider proceeding with expansion and other capital spending plans. Interest rates are expected to be reduced yet again. Just as important, there is a continued awareness of the importance of fire sprinkler systems and potential enactment of HB 1824, The Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act, which will have a positive impact on the level of activity for our industry.

Because of the AFSA, I have the opportunity to talk regularly with people in the industry from all over the country. It seems that few regions have not been impacted by the soft economy — and not just contractors. When contractors' level of business slows, so does that of our suppliers. We're all affected by economic conditions, especially downturns. It is during these times that the industry is tested. Those that remain focused on delivering quality will emerge from the slow down and prosper when the rebound finally arrives.

Economic impact aside, in recent years, the relationship between the supplier and the contractor has evolved into a complex arrangement. New product development has flourished due to ever more sophisticated technology and research. Gone is the widespread use of "standard spray" sprinklers. Gone are the data books requiring constant updating. Technical data comes to us via CD or is downloadable. It takes constant vigilance by both manufacturer and contractor to stay on top of the latest developments and how they can or should be applied.

Today, it seems there's a sprinkler head for every application. This is a good thing. But to make sure that the design fits the need, contractors and suppliers must work together, to marry the best product for the needs and means of the end user. This takes cooperation, experience and judgment.

A wise engineer turned savvy contractor once observed that a construction project is at once a series and a succession of challenges, and a stage upon which each participant has the opportunity to shine. It takes a team effort to meet today's construction challenges.

AFSA is proud that its associate members, the product developers and manufacturers, are committed to the same mission and purpose — to advance the role of fire sprinklers in all types of construction and to provide quality and durability in each installation.