Testing Fire Alarm Call Points
Most large commercial-grade fire alarm systems today are an addressable fire alarm system. Addressable fire alarm systems, also known as addressable fire panels, give every smoke detector or sprinkler head on the system its own uniquely identifiable address or call point.
When any sensor on the system is triggered, the main control panel shows exactly which device or point was triggered to pinpoint the location of the possibly emergency situation.
Fire panels like these come in handy when you need to protect a large area, such as a sporting venue or office building, which might have 10,000 to 20,000 points throughout the facility., A point is anything that detects fire, smoke, or heat, such as a smoke detector or sprinkler head.
Fire Alarm Testing Requirements
Fire alarm testing ensures that all the components of your system are functioning correctly; meaning every point on your alarm is tested:
-
Pull stations will be activated
-
Horns and strobes will be sounded
-
Smoke detectors and sprinkler heads will be checked
Pull stations will be activated
Horns and strobes will be sounded
Smoke detectors and sprinkler heads will be checked
-
Doors will be checked to ensure they close properly
-
People will have to evacuate the building
Doors will be checked to ensure they close properly
People will have to evacuate the building
The National Fire Protection Association’s standard for fire detection, signaling, and emergency communication demands are NFPA 72: National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code®. While local municipalities base their codes and standards on NFPA 72, there can be many differences depending on where your building is located.
Fire Code Enforcement
The Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) is the organization, office, or individual responsible for enforcing fire codes. The AHJ where you are located may be your county, city, or a local engineer. The specifics on what codes are enforced and how vary widely so testing requirements for your fire alarm call points must be set and verified by your local AHJ. Your AHJ also determines your testing schedule so refer to them regarding test frequency.
Who Can Test a Fire Alarm?
A tester for fire alarm call points must be certified by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) or licensed by your state.
At FSS Technologies, all our fire alarm system designers and installers are NICET certified. We understand the nuances of installing, testing, and inspecting fire alarms in most jurisdictions. Contact us for a free consultation, and ensure your business is properly protected.
Explore Our Other Blogs
Who Owns ADT Alarm Systems After Install?
You’ve paid to have an alarm system installed in your home. Do you own the equipment? Most likely, but not yet if you contracted with a big-box home security company like ADT. Payment Plans for Equipment Most people sign up on special offers in which they will pay an installation fee for the equipment, but…
4 Questions & Answers about Smart Home Devices
Smart Home Technology Let’s face it; we are in love with our smartphones. According to Pew Research Center, more than 81% of Americans now own one; that is up from just 35% in 2011. With so much power in the palm of our hand, it’s not surprising that we want to use our smartphone for…
Can You Get a Discount on Home Insurance if You Have a Security System?
Home invasions or burglaries are a threat to any household, regardless of where they are located. One of the biggest deterrents for burglars is a home security system that could record evidence of their actions or could notify the authorities at the time of a break-in. This is a huge motivator for homeowners when deciding…
When Is Automatic Fire Detection Required?
A fire detection system is a good idea for your property, and many insurance companies offer discounts based on your level of protection. While not required in your private residence, the law does require automatic fire detection in a wide array of other facilities. Local Building Code Requirements Your state’s building code will spell out…
Winter Commercial Fire Safety Tips
While fire safety and prevention are crucial year-round, unique fire hazards accompany winter’s freezing temperatures. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that many holiday-related factors contribute to an increased fire risk during the winter months, and commercial settings are just as vulnerable. Besides creating and reviewing company-wide fire safety procedures, here are 4 tips…
What is an Emergency Action Plan?
The purpose of an Emergency Action Plan is to inform employees of what actions they should take if an emergency occurs at work. It’s required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and it can be critical in preventing the loss of property, or lives, in a crisis. If an emergency alarm went off…
How Often Should You Inspect Your Fire Alarm System?
Everyone dreads the day when fire alarm systems are being tested because they are often loud and annoying. However, the importance of making sure your fire alarms are working properly outweighs the small distraction of lights and noise. Putting off a fire alarm inspection can be both risky and negligent for business owners as it…
What Are The Different Types of CCTV Cameras?
Your company’s security camera is part of a closed-circuit television system (CCTV). CCTV uses one or more cameras, through either wireless or wired transmission, to send the broadcast from the camera directly to a monitor, set of monitors, or a recording device—providing you peace of mind in the case of crime, fire, theft, or accidents…
Fire Systems for the Restaurant Industry
Companies in varying industries face fire hazards in their standard operations to a certain degree. Businesses that operate commercial kitchens, however, are at significant risk for fire-related hazards because cooking equipment is a leading cause of commercial fires. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, an estimated 50% of non-residential fires were caused by cooking in…
5 Ways Your DIY Security System is Failing You
In the digital age, DIY projects are the rage in all things, including home security. People turn to DIY home security because it seems easy and can save you a few bucks. Unfortunately, you really do get what you pay for if you choose a DIY security system. Whether you are a homeowner, a business owner, or…