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FIRE SYSTEMS, INC
:: FAQ > Fire Alarms & Monitoring
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
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Q. |
How often must I have my fire alarm
tested? |
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A. |
As
a general rule, most devices must be
tested on an annual basis with a visual
inspection required semi-annually.
The requirements for testing and
inspections are defined in
NFPA 72
(National Fire Alarm Code). Check
with your local AHJ (Authority Having
Jurisdiction) for local requirements.
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Q. |
What is the difference between a
Conventional fire alarm system and an
Addressable fire alarm system? |
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A. |
A
Conventional Fire Alarm System is
typically used in smaller applications.
They are usually less expensive than an
addressable system but have limitations
regarding reporting the location of
devices. A conventional system will let
you know which zone is in alarm, but not
necessarily which device. A zone may
contain several smoke detectors or pull
stations. You may know which area of the
building the smoke detector or pull
station is located in but you will not
know the location of the device that is
in alarm.
An
Addressable Fire Alarm System can be
programmed to indicate the exact device
that is in alarm. A display on the front
of the panel will indicate the device
type and location. For example, the
display will indicate photoelectric
smoke detector in alarm in first floor
corridor outside room 201. This
information can be extremely vital in
larger facilities. These panels can
usually be networked with other panels
on a campus or within a facility.
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Q. |
What is a Sensitivity Test on a Smoke
Detector and how often is it required? |
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A. |
Calibrated Sensitivity Testing - The
calibrated sensitivity test is designed
to verify that a detector is operating
within its’ listed and approved
sensitivity range.
Paragraph 10.4.3.2.4
of
NFPA 72 lists the various alternative
methods for testing sensitivity of a
detector. Some intelligent fire alarm
system manufacturers have listed their
fire alarm control panels (FACP) for
this purpose. Other panels may show the
original sensitivity setting of the
detector at the time of installation.
Sensitivity measurements may include
analog values, percent-per-foot and
percent-of-alarm, though, not all
sensitivity test devices will provide
measurement.
Please note that
sensitivity testing can also be
performed with a device that is
independent of the alarm system and, if
the sensitivity test is performed by
using a device that introduces smoke or
surrogate smoke to the detector, the
requirements for functional testing
would be met. (Also note that, unlike
functional tests, sensitivity tests may
not be required or performed every year)
Frequency for Sensitivity Testing
- In other than one- and two-family
dwellings, sensitivity of smoke
detectors and single- and
multiple-station smoke alarms shall be
tested in accordance with the
requirements of
NFPA 72 (The National
Fire Alarm Code).
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Sensitivity shall be checked within
1 Year After Installation.
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Sensitivity shall be checked Every
Alternate Year thereafter unless
otherwise permitted by compliance
with the appropriate section of
NFPA 72.
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After
the second required calibration
test, if sensitivity tests indicate
that the device has remained within
its’ listed and marked sensitivity
range (or 4 percent obscuration
light gray smoke, if not marked),
the length of time between
calibration tests shall be permitted
to be extended to a maximum of 5
years.
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Q. |
What is UL 864 and how does it affect my
existing fire alarm system? |
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A. |
As
long as a fire alarm system is
functioning properly there is no
requirement to replace it, even if it is a
pre UL 864 panel. Replacement parts for
these older panels are being phased out.
If you have a failure on your system you
will be required to replace the panel,
but in most cases the devices currently
installed will still be compatible with
the replacement panel. It would be wise
to budget for a replacement on some of
the older model panels.
Click here for more information on UL
864 > |
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contact
Fire Systems, Inc. for answers to any
questions you may have on our Fire Protection
products or services. We look forward to working
with you! |
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