Committee advances SB 1299 to require clearer certification, testing and supervision for fire sprinkler fitters

The Senate Emergency Management Committee moved SB 1299 forward to the Senate Committee on Labor, Public Employment and Retirement. The bill, sponsored by the Sprinkler Fitters Association of California, would create a clearer statutory framework for certifying and training fire sprinkler fitters.

Supporters told the committee that proper installation of fire sprinkler systems is critical to life safety and property protection. Scott Wetsch, representing the California State Pipe Trades Council, said the state historically has had high rates of structure‑fire deaths and that installation failures are a contributing factor. Wetsch told the committee there is an estimated nine percent failure rate in structure‑fire sprinkler system performance tied to faulty installation, citing improper pipe sizing, incorrect head placement and damaged components.

Randy Roczen, executive director of the Sprinkler Fitters Association of California, said rules adopted in 2017 established certification but that a 2019 lawsuit against the State Fire Marshal struck parts of those rules and now allows trainees and apprentices to install sprinklers without supervision. Roczen said SB 1299 would replace the existing language on supervision, qualifications and testing to restore consistent standards.

Support from labor: Mike Monaghan, on behalf of the State Building Trades, testified in support. Senator Perez indicated she would move the bill; after a roll call the committee left the motion on call and later reported a 9–0 tally advancing SB 1299 to the Labor Committee.

Procedure and next steps: With committee approval, SB 1299 advances to the Senate Labor Committee for further review, including any fiscal or implementation questions.