What is a Manual Pull Station?
A manual pull station is a wall-mounted fire safety device that triggers an alarm in the event of an emergency. Pull stations are commonly found in many public buildings across the United States and Canada. Most people have seen them, and some have possibly even pulled one before, whether for a real emergency or a prank (which is punishable by law in most states). Technically referred to as a manually actuated alarm-initiated device, a manual pull station serves a vital role in public safety and remains a key element in the future of fire protection.
How do manual pull stations work?
Manual pull stations are a failsafe feature required by the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) to protect citizens in the case that a person discovers a fire before an automatic fire alarm, such as a smoke detector or heat sensor, can. NFPA 72, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code®, dictates all requirements related to manual pull stations and other fire alarm system elements. Two different types of pull stations are used today: single-action and dual-action.
Single-action pull stations are activated by pulling down a lever on the alarm. In contrast, dual-action pull stations require additional action, such as lifting or breaking a glass panel over the alarm. The premise behind both types is the same: pulling down the handle will complete the circuit and trigger the alarm. Once a manual pull station is triggered, a special tool is required to deactivate and silence the device, which is why pulling one is never considered a funny joke.
Do I need manual pull stations?
The answer to that question lies in the type of building. Manual pull stations are required in all commercial buildings and any multi-family or multistory buildings, such as apartment or condominium complexes. They are not required for single-family homes. The NFPA states that fire safety should not depend only on a single alerting method, so manual pull stations are required in addition to automatic alerting systems. Specifically, NFPA mandates one manual pull station per automatic alarm per building.
So how many do you need? The size of your building dictates that answer. NFPA’s fire code states that the travel distance to the nearest manual pull station from any point in the building can be no more than 200 feet on any given floor, and they must be within five feet of each individual exit. For example, any group of doors more than 40 feet apart must have a manual pull station on each side of the grouping. The pull stations must be easily seen, unobstructed, and accessible to everyone the building serves.
Do manual pull stations need to be inspected and tested?
When a manual pull station is first installed, the building owner or a designated representative must perform a visual inspection. These visual checks must also be performed every six months following installation. Manual pull stations must also be tested annually to ensure they work correctly. These tests and any other associated services performed on the pull stations must be completed by trained professionals, and these tests are typically rolled into more comprehensive annual inspections and testing that are conducted across the entire fire safety system.
If you have questions regarding the need for manual pull stations or the functionality of your current pull stations, our expert service techs at FSS Technologies are ready to guide you through the process. We offer full-service consultations, installations, and inspections for all alarm system brands, ensuring you get the help you need every step of the way. Contact us today to get started.
Explore Our Other Blogs
Tips to Prevent Your Security System from Being Hacked
The Risky Business of Ring’s Vulnerable Security and other DIY security systems can leave your home as a potential target for hackers or thieves. When you are investing in a security system, you are hoping for peace of mind, and you are trusting this technology with your safety and property. Have I Been Hacked? A hacker may…
What Are the 5 Classes of Fires?
While it can be hard to tell the difference at first glance, different types of fires occur based on the materials that fuel them. Just as you wouldn’t try to put out a grease fire with water, specific ways to extinguish each fire class exist and depend on what sustains it. Some atypical classes of…
How is a Fire Sprinkler System Designed?
While fire sprinkler systems seem the same at first glance, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for all commercial properties. Depending on a structure’s needs and circumstances, fire sprinkler systems use different combinations of various components. The ideal design should accommodate the unique features of each industry, layout, and operation. Whether you’re looking to install a fire…
How Much Data Does a Wifi Security Camera Use?
Internet Speed Bandwidth Internet bandwidth is a significant issue nowadays. Everything is tapping into the internet— from our phones to our refrigerators. If you’re installing internet protocol (IP) security cameras, they will inevitably use some of the bandwidth from your network. The question is, how much? When you purchase home internet service, you typically get…
Why Fire System Inspections Matter
At FSS Technologies, we believe that safety isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Our commercial fire protection services are designed to give your business peace of mind, knowing that your properties, people, and assets are secure and compliant with fire and life safety codes. We specialize in fire sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers, and backflow preventer inspections…
What Is a Central Station Alarm?
A central station alarm system is one that feeds directly into a central monitoring station. If a sensor on the central station alarm system is triggered, such as fire, smoke, C02, or burglar, the system does much more than just set off a loud siren or send an email alert telling you to log into…
Ins and Outs of Contract vs No Contract Security Systems
Many people see signing a long-term contract with a reputable alarm company as a stressful experience. In truth, contracts are in place to benefit both the alarm company and the homeowner. Developing a relationship and signing a long-term commitment to a security company allows you to get to know a team and benefit from the peace of mind that…
Security Cameras Are Not Created Equal
The Difference in Security Cameras Cameras are one of the most critical components in your security arsenal, and not all security cameras are the same. Why you ask? Consider these differences: Various types and sizes of cameras Indoor vs. outdoor cameras Cameras that are easy to camouflage Cameras that provide high-quality video footage Wired cameras vs. wireless…
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 Matters in a Fire Alarm Inspection?
At FSS Technologies, we understand that safety and reliability are paramount when it comes to fire alarm systems. While installing commercial fire safety systems is a critical first step in protecting your business, your efforts can’t stop there. Fire alarm inspections are just as necessary to ensure your building is prepared for emergencies. Learn about what…