NFPA, the US National Fire Protection Association, writes the fire codes for buildings. NFPA 302 is its standard for boats, and it reaches into the same systems ABYC covers, from fuel and ventilation to electrics and detection, from the angle of fire and explosion.
What it covers
The publisher's description of the latest edition: NFPA 302 aims to reduce the risk of loss of life and property due to fires, explosions and carbon monoxide on boats less than 300 gross tons. J. J. Keller's summary lists fuel leakage, ventilation, use of combustible materials and the elimination of sources of vapour ignition.
The latest edition adds, per the publisher, requirements for permanently installed lithium ion battery systems and powered micromobility devices, revised requirements for smoke detection and alarms in sleeping areas, and new requirements for fire and heat detectors and smoke alarms in enclosed engine compartments.
When surveyors cite it
Most US recreational surveys cite ABYC: A-24 for CO detection, E-13 for lithium. NFPA 302 earns a place in the report for fire protection questions ABYC doesn't settle, such as detection in engine compartments and smoke alarms in sleeping areas, and in commercial and charter work where a client or authority names it.
Citing it in a finding
"Fit a smoke alarm in each sleeping cabin, as recommended in NFPA 302." Name the standard for what it adds, and keep ABYC as the main reference where it covers the same point.