All commercial and industrial buildings must comply with NFPA 72. The code is called the National Fire Alarm and Signalling Code, and it establishes the minimum standards for fire alarm systems in US buildings. The standard outlines the requirements for design, installation, and performance. It also specifies the required steps for maintenance. Understanding the particulars of NFPA 72 can help your facility comply with emergency safety standards from the outset and throughout the lifespan of the building. Learn more about NFPA requirements and what compliance with fire codes entails.

Key System Components Covered by NFPA 72

NFPA 72 covers the three main elements of a fire alarm system: detection, notification, and control.

  • Detection devices. These identify when a fire is present, either through automated detection technology like smoke and heat detectors, or with manual pull stations that people can use when they determine fire is present.
  • Notification appliances. Detection devices actuate notification appliances, such as horns, bells, strobe lights, and other multi-sensory alarm systems that alert occupants of a fire. Fully compliant systems use multiple notification systems to ensure all individuals receive notice, even in a noisy or crowded environment.
  • Control panel. The Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP) controls the entire system by monitoring the detection devices, translating incoming signals to trigger notifications, and communicating with external monitoring systems or services.

All three aspects of a fire alarm system must comply with NFPA 72’s specifications and processes.

Key Fire Alarm Inspection & Testing Rules

Fire alarms require routine alarm testing and inspections to guarantee they’ll perform properly in the event of a fire. Under NFPA 72, facilities must maintain a strict schedule for Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance (ITM) protocols to meet legal safety mandates.

Inspection & Testing Frequency

You can build your facility’s ITM schedule by referring to NFPA 72, Chapter 14, which outlines the specific requirements. To properly maintain your fire alarm system components, you must complete the following actions, at minimum:

  • Annual professional inspection. A licensed inspector must test the performance of the entire fire alarm system. They must verify the functionality of the heat detectors, ensure the smoke detectors respond, and guarantee that the system activates all the audible and visual notification hardware properly.
  • Quarterly checks. Some equipment, such as batteries, sprinkler system water flow devices, and other sensitive hardware, needs to undergo functionality testing every quarter or, in some applications, semi-annually.

The Importance of Documentation

Every inspection, test, and maintenance task requires thorough documentation to prove compliance, and facilities must maintain the records in an on-site logbook. The Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) in your region, generally the fire marshal, will review the documentation during building inspections. NFPA 72 outlines what types of documentation and the degree of detail required for each record.

The High Cost of Non-Compliance

Complying with NFPA 72 keeps your facility and on-site visitors or occupants safer from fires. Properly working detection and alarm equipment can help people exit the premises quickly and minimize the scope of the damage. But beyond safety, compliance is a legal necessity, and failing to meet NFPA 72 requirements comes at a high cost. You can incur:

  • Significant financial penalties from the AHJ or fire marshal, who can issue fines for violations uncovered during the course of an inspection. While some fees may be one-time or minor, others can be daily fines or compound quickly.
  • Legal liability for injuries or damage that occurs if a property’s fire alarm system is non-compliant, which may be considered negligence. Not only can insurance providers deny associated claims, but companies may face lawsuits from injured parties.
  • Business shutdowns, because the AHJ can order a fire watch at your company’s expense and shut down operations until severe instances of non-compliance are corrected.

Recovering from out-of-control fires can also cost companies greatly in terms of downtime, lost inventory, and lost employee confidence.

Ensure That Your Fire Alarm System Meets NFPA Standards Today

The costs of failing to maintain NFPA compliance can be high, but becoming and staying NFPA compliant is easy when you have the right resources. Jorgensen specializes in fire safety solutions and services ranging from system design to installation. Since 1932, Jorgensen Company has grown to become the trusted fire protection and safety source for businesses throughout the San Joaquin Valley. Contact us today to talk about what you need for your facilities, or request a quote to start your order for products and services.