In an industry renowned for creativity and an independent spirit, safety and risk management are unifying concerns shared by architects. A safety designation established by Congress in the wake of the tragic terrorist attacks of September 11 is now helping those who specify and manufacture materials for building enclosures protect occupants’ lives and professionals’ reputations.
In 2002, Congress enacted the Support Anti-Terrorism by Fostering Effective Technologies Act. The Act was driven by concerns surrounding the enormous liability risk involved in deploying security technologies and services in civilian settings. The SAFETY Act sets limits on claims resulting from an act of terrorism where Qualified Anti-Terrorism Technologies are deployed. The act covers a broad range of technologies inclusive of building products and services. It also provides powerful liability protection for commercial building professionals—including architects, engineers, contractors (both general and fire-stopping), smoke sealant manufacturers, curtain wall manufacturers and building owners—in the event of a foreign or domestic terrorist attack on a building.