At which stage of the NFPA code development process does the council ensure that procedures were properly followed?

The correct answer relates to the council's role in overseeing the integrity of the entire code development process. During the Council Appeals and Issuance of Standard stage, the council is responsible for ensuring that all procedures and guidelines established by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) have been strictly adhered to throughout the previous stages of development. This includes confirming that public comments were considered, responses were adequately addressed, and that the overall process was transparent and compliant with NFPA regulations.

This stage is crucial because it represents the final step before the code is officially issued, allowing the council to review and confirm that the entirety of the development process met the necessary protocols and standards. Any issues or inconsistencies identified at this point can lead to further review or adjustments before the code is finalized.