Special Hazards Suppression Systems
Test Development and Supporting Organizations

Development of the program was initiated in 1996 with technical guidance from the Fire Suppression Systems Association (FSSA). The program, with its focus on field activities and layout, replaced the Special Hazards Systems Layout program which began in 1984.

Through a practice analysis, a volunteer panel of experts identified engineering technicians' job tasks and responsibilities and categorized them into work elements. Volunteers then submitted and reviewed examination questions for each of the work elements.

This program became operational in 1998. A technical advisory committee whose membership consists of a broad cross-section of the industry from across the country provides continued technical guidance. The members represent a variety of stakeholder organizations including manufacturers, equipment distributors, independent contractors, engineering firms, authorities having jurisdiction, and trade associations including but not limited to the National Association of Fire Equipment Distributors, the National Association of State Fire Marshals, the National Fire Protection Association, the Fire Suppression Systems Association, and the Society of Fire Protection Engineers.