Free Fire Sprinkler Training You Can’t Miss This October

📰 From Shop to Site, We’ve Got News You Can Use

We hope September was productive for you. As fall projects pick up, Pittsburgh Winsupply is here to keep your installations running smoothly. This month, we’re spotlighting smarter deliveries, breaking down the latest NFPA 13 updates, and sharing new training opportunities.

🚚 Jobsite Spotlight: Delivering Smarter

Picture this: you’re on site, waiting for materials. Our truck rolls up, but instead of dropping everything at the curb, it unloads right where you need it — thanks to the truck-mounted forklift on our tractor trailer.

That means:

• No extra rentals: We bring the equipment for you.

• Faster starts: Your crew can get to work immediately.

• Less hassle: Just request the forklift when scheduling your delivery.

A quick note: the truck-mounted forklift is available by request on loads delivered by our tractor. Since we currently only have one and it’s in high demand, we recommend requesting early to secure it for your delivery.

It’s a game-changer for unloading pipe and equipment exactly where you need it.

📜 Code & Standards Updates: What’s New in NFPA 13 2025

The 2025 edition of NFPA 13 has several notable changes. Here’s a quick, reader-friendly overview:

• Sloped ceilings: Tests show ESFR and CMSA sprinklers can control fires on slopes up to 4 in 12 (≈18.5°). The new code lets you use these sprinklers and clarifies how to align deflectors in sloped spaces.

• Vacuum systems: Also called negative-pressure systems, they use a pump to pull air and residual water out of pipes, reducing corrosion. NFPA 13 now spells out how to design them.

• Supplemental sprinklers: There’s a new term for heads installed under obstructions. The code explains where to place them and how to calculate their hydraulics.

• Seismic bracing: Revised to align with ASCE/SEI 7, updating horizontal force calculations and pipe-restraint spacing.

• Other tweaks: Sprinklers aren’t required in elevator pits (only at the top of hoistways when needed). Sections on low-piled storage have been simplified. Guidance on evaluating existing systems now points you to the edition used at installation or the latest edition.

These changes are designed to make the standard more straightforward and reduce redundancy. Keep them in mind as you prep for upcoming bids and designs. Source: PFP Inc.

🏛️ Legislative & Policy Trends

Housing policy can affect sprinkler requirements, too. Several states are exploring whether triplexes and quadplexes should follow the International Residential Code (IRC) instead of the International Building Code (IBC). Memphis, for example, permits buildings up to six units under the IRC—but requires NFPA 13D systems if they’re under 5,000 sq ft and NFPA 13R systems if they’re between 5,000 and 8,000 sq ft. It’s a good reminder to check local amendments when you design multi-unit dwellings. Source: NFSA

🎓 Training & Professional Development

In mid-September, PENNBOC hosted a virtual Fire Sprinkler & Alarm Systems 101 course as part of their annual conference. The full-day session ran from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and offered six continuing education hours. Attendees learned sprinkler and alarm fundamentals, joined via personalized Zoom links, and could download seminar materials. Missed it? We’ll keep you posted on future classes — staying sharp with code and system knowledge benefits us all. Source: PENNBOC

Looking ahead, there are several free or virtual training opportunities in October for installers, designers and project managers:

• NFPA Codes & Standards Update – Free In‑Person Class (Exton, PA) – On Thursday, October 9, General Air Products and AGF University are hosting a full‑day class on updates to NFPA codes and standards at the National Fire Sprinkler Training Center in Exton. The session features presentations from multiple manufacturers and offers 5 NICET CPD credits. Space is limited and registration is free. Source: General Air Products

• NFSA MEME Webinar: “Everything You Need to Know About Antifreeze Systems” – Wednesday, October 8, 12:30–1:30 p.m. (ET). This virtual webinar reviews the latest changes to antifreeze systems, covering UL 2901 listings, design requirements for new and existing systems and inspection/testing considerations. Source: NFSA

• NFSA Tech Tuesday: Hydraulic Supplement – Tuesday, October 21, 12:30–1:30 p.m. (ET). Learn about hydraulic calculations for fire‑sprinkler systems and when to use Hazen‑Williams versus Darcy‑Weisbach, along with troubleshooting tips. Source: NFSA

• Fire Pump Basics – Virtual Training Event (Ryan Fire Protection) – Thursday, October 23, 12:30–1:00 p.m. A short, free session covering fire‑pump fundamentals, hosted by Ryan Fire Protection. Access is via Microsoft Teams. Source: Ryan Fire Protection

• SFPE Live Member Webinar: Commodity Classification – A Critical Consideration in Automatic Fire Sprinkler – Wednesday, October 29, 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. (ET). This webinar discusses how commodity classification affects sprinkler design and compliance. Note: SFPE membership may be required. Source: SFPE

These offerings give your team convenient ways to stay up to speed on codes, design, and system fundamentals. If you’re interested in any of the sessions, follow the corresponding links for full details and registration.

🌎 See You at AFSA44

We’re excited to share that Pittsburgh Winsupply will be at the American Fire Sprinkler Association 44 in Washington, D.C., October 15–18!

As part of the Winsupply family, we’re proud to stand alongside our corporate team as a Platinum Sponsor of this industry-leading event. AFSA44 brings together contractors, designers, suppliers and leaders shaping the future of fire protection — and we’re honored to be part of it. Learn more here.

If you’re heading to D.C., let us know. We’d love to connect in person!

🤝 Need a Quote or Consultation?

If you’re lining up a new project or need pricing for your next job, we’re here for you. The more details you provide (pipe schedule, length, material, end prep), the faster we can get you accurate quotes. To get started, simply reply to this email or call/text 412‑331‑2182. You can also reach our group inbox at [email protected].

Thanks for reading! We’ll be back next month with more stories and insights. Until then, stay safe, stay smart — and keep those projects flowing smoothly.

Cheers,
The Team at Pittsburgh Winsupply