How are NFPA standards generally viewed in court?

NFPA standards are recognized in court as common practices within the relevant field. This means that they are not merely optional suggestions but are considered to reflect the prevailing safety measures and practices that many professionals in the industry follow. Courts often look at these standards to determine what is reasonable and appropriate behavior, establishing a baseline for safety and operational procedures.

By being viewed as common practices, NFPA standards can help establish negligence or liability in cases where safety procedures are called into question. This perspective emphasizes adherence to these standards as indicative of an entity's responsibility to maintain a safe environment. While they are not legally binding regulations like laws or codes, they carry significant weight and can influence judicial decisions regarding safety and risk management.