NFPA 72 Fire Alarm Training

FIRE ALARM SYSTEM
TRAINING
In accordance with NFPA 72
(Fire Alarm and Signaling Code)
Mehboob Shaikh
M. Tech | B. Eng. | AMIE | CFPS | CFI
NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
• Know the origin and evolution of codes and standards related to fire
alarm systems
• Be familiar with common definitions and terminology
• Acquire a basic understanding of the configuration and operation of
the various types of fire alarm systems
• Know the requirements of NFPA 72, the National Fire Alarm and
Signaling Code and NFPA 70, the National Electric Code or NEC.

TRAINING OUTLINE
• Understanding NFPA 72 Code Structure
• Understanding Basics of Fire Alarm Technology and Code Requirements
• Understanding Design and Installation Practices per Code Requirements
• Understanding Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Requirements of
Fire Alarm System and its Code Compliance

NFPA 72
CODE STRUCTURE

CHAPTERS & STRUCTURE
Chapter-1 :Administration
Chapter-2 : Referenced Publication
Chapter-3 : Definitions
Chapter-4 : Reserved Administrative Chapters
Chapter-5 : Reserved
Chapter-7: Documentation
NFPA 72 Training- Mehboob Shaikh(CFPS, CFI, AMIE) 5

Chapter-10 : Fundamentals
Chapter 11- Reserved
Chapter 12- Circuits and Pathways
Chapter 14- Inspection, Testing & Maintenance Support Chapters
Chapter 17- Initiating devices
Chapter 18- Notification Appliances

Chapter 21 – Emergency Control Function
System Chapters
Chapter 23 – Protected Premises Fire alarm System
Chapter 24- Emergency Communication System
Chapter 26 – Supervising Station Alarm

Chapter 27 – Public Emergency Alarm Reporting
System Chapters
Chapter 28 – Reserved
Chapter 29 – Single & multiple station alarms and household fire alarm
systems

Annexure-A Explanatory Materials- Not the part of Code
Annexure-B Engineering Guide
Annexure-C System Performance and Design Guide
Annexure-D Speech Intelligibility
Annexure-E Sample Ordinance
Wiring Diagram & Guide for testing fire alarm

Annexure-F
Ckt. 9
NFPA 72 Training- Mehboob Shaikh(CFPS, CFI, AMIE)
SECTION – 01
FUNDAMENTALS

EQUIPMENTS
What Exactly this listing means ?

What is Listing & Listing Requirements
• A Global Safety Consulting and
Certification Company.
• UL in one of the several companies
approved to perform safety testing by US
federal agency Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (OSHA)

What is Listing & Listing Requirements
• This means that equipment must be listed for
specific fire alarm system application for which
it is used.
• Furthermore, equipment must be installed &
used in accordance with the provisions of listing
and with the manufacturer’s published
instructions, which are usually included as the
basis of equipment listing.
• The manufacturer’s instructions should be
consulted as a starting point for any listing
issues that may arise.
• The listing agency and associated product
listing directories published by the listing
agency are the additional sources to be
consulted.
Role of FM Global
FM Global accepts equipment, Materials &
services for approvals testing based upon
two general principles :
1. They must be useful to the end of

property conservation by preventing,
limiting, or not causing damage under
the conditions of the approval.
2. They must be readily identifiable and
available in the market place.

Fire Protection Products in the OSHA list of Nationally
Recognized Testing Laboratories (August 2019)
Testing Laboratory Products
CSA Group Testing and Certification • Fire pumps and electrical accessories
• Control units, cables, and amplifiers for fire alarm
and protection system
FM Approvals • Automatic and ESFR fire sprinklers

• Plastic pipe and fittings for fire protection service
• Foam, dry chemical, and carbon dioxide fire
extinguishers
• Heat detectors
• Fire alarm control panels, signaling devices, and
detection product
https://www.osha.gov/nationally-recognized-testing-laboratory-program/current-list-of-nrtls
Intertek Testing Services NA, Inc. • Thermoplastic pipe and gasketed joints for fire
protection service
• Foam and carbon dioxide fire extinguishers
• Fire doors
• Alarm valves for fire protection
• Detectors, boxes, and accessories for fire alarm
systems
• Foam fire extinguishers
• Fire pumps and controllers
NSF International PVC and thermoplastic pipe and fittings for fire
protection service

QAI Laboratories, LTD • Fire door assemblies
Southwest Research Institute • Plastic pipe for fire protection service

• Fire doors and dampers
• Flame arrestors

Underwriters Laboratories Inc. • Fire sprinklers, including residential and ESFR
• Sprinkler system pipe (metal, thermoplastic, and
underground), flexible fittings, and adjustable
nipples
• Alarm, pressure-reducing, check, and fire pump
relief valves
• Fire alarm system signaling, power, amplification
• Dry chemical, foam, and carbon dioxide fire
extinguishers
• Fire doors
• Fire pumps and accessories
• Indicating pressure gauges for fire protection

Concept of Fire Detection

Concept of Fire Detection

Case Study
On March 14, 2018, a fire broke out in a Horn
Lake, Mississippi home, resulting in the death
of one person and injuries to five others

Case Study
Key Takeaways :
1. When fire fighters arrived, they encountered thick smoke and intense heat that required the use of
a thermal imaging camera to locate and rescue the other residents.
2. Upon investigation, an overloaded electrical circuit appeared to be the cause.
3. Significant to this event was the lack of any warning to the occupants from a smoke alarm. One
was located in the home, but it was stored in a box, disconnected, and without a battery.
4. The resident who attempted to fight the fire stated that the victim probably removed the detector
because of it activating every time a person took a shower
In the January 2019 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®) report Smoke Alarms in U.S. Home
Fires, 2016 data from the U.S. Fire Administration’s National Fire Incident Reporting System and
NFPA’s annual fire department survey stated that the risk of dying in a fire decreased by more than
half in homes that had working smoke alarms as opposed to those homes that did not have a smoke
alarm or had a smoke alarm that did not operate.

Components of Fire Alarm System
Detection Control Notification

FIRE ALARM CONTROL PANELS

Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP)
Controls for the system are located in the FACU The

FACU can also perform other functions, such as:
• Providing two-way firefighter communication

• Providing remote annunciator integration
• Controlling elevators, HVAC, fire doors, dampers,
locks, or other fire protection features

Fire Alarm Control Unit
• One of the most important parts of any fire alarm system is the fire
alarm control unit, or as it is more frequently called, the fire alarm
control panel, which is often described as the “brain” of the system.
• Over the past 45 or so years, fire alarm control panel technology has
evolved from simple, single zone, relay-type units that ring one or
more bells to logic circuit-type multiple zone units that provide
additional system information and capabilities to sophisticated
microprocessor-based software-driven panels that interface and
control other building and life safety systems

Earlier Generation FACPs
Used Conventional Technology
to link to manual fire alarm boxes
and bells to provide coded or non-
coded alarm signals for evacuation
Used two-wire circuits to establish

initiating device and notification
appliance zones
Depending on the arrangement of

the wiring and devices, a break in
a wire could render any device
beyond the break inoperative.
Later Generation FACP
Conventional technology panels featured
modular equipment with smaller electronic
components, logic or relay circuits, two- and
four-wire circuits to support initiating devices
and notification appliances, and expanded
performance and system monitoring capabilities
The four-wire systems provided a higher level

of reliability because the setup typically
allowed for two wires to power the device and
two to initiate the alarm, whereas in most
other wiring configurations, a break in the wire
or a device failure would disable other devices
from operating.

Is replacement possible with new generation
Panels ?
The good news is that when a conventional panel requires replacing, in
some instances, many of the new-generation panels can be installed
with existing two- and four wire systems that utilize interface modules
and software to communicate with the field devices so entire systems
do not have to be replaced.

Latest Generation FACP
Utilize state-of-the-art electronics, microprocessors, and
intelligent software that provide specific information
concerning device identification and alarm location and
type.
It is commonly referred to as addressable technology,

intelligent technology, or multiplex technology
Addressable/intelligent technology is very versatile, able

to support all sizes of fire alarm systems, and extremely
valuable to first responders, inspectors, building
engineers, and service technicians because information
concerning the specific initiating device—such as the
exact location of the device and, in some instances, the
associated problem—is immediately available
Types of Fire Alarm Signals
Fire alarm systems may provide three types of signals:
(1) Alarm, Detect the
(2) Supervisory Presence of fire
(3) Trouble
Notify to
occupants
Notify to FD
Operate Other
Fire safety system

Alarm Signal
• When an alarm signal sounds in a building, it is alerting occupants
there is a fire emergency. The alarm signal should spur the occupants
to immediately leave the building, call the fire department, or take
other appropriate action to ensure life safety.
• Alarm signals must sound within 10 seconds of a manual or automatic
initiation device activation such as a manual fire alarm box, a fire
detector, or a water flow or pressure switch.
• Depending on the fire alarm system, this signal either will
automatically be transmitted offsite so the appropriate action can be
undertaken by the receiving party or might require that a person
make contact with the fire department to respond.

Supervisory Signals
• The supervisory signal sounds when there is a change in the normal ready
status of other fire protection systems or devices that are connected to or
integrated with the fire alarm control panel.
• The typical supervisory signal sounds a constant tone, beep, or buzz usually
accompanied by a visible indication (lamp, LED, or text information) on the
fire alarm control panel and, if installed, the annunciator.
• In many buildings, the fire alarm control panel electrically monitors
sprinkler system control valves; dry pipe sprinkler system air pressure; fire
pump status; air temperature of a sprinkler system valve room; water
temperature, level, and pressure in a water storage tank; and, in some
configurations, duct smoke detector operation.
Supervisory Signals
For example,
• A change in the normal status of a sprinkler system control valve
could indicate someone closed a valve, thus cutting off the water
supply to the sprinkler system. This act may have been accidental,
malicious, or necessary for service or maintenance activities.
• By electronically supervising the valve, those responsible can initiate
an immediate response and investigation to determine the nature of
the incident.

Trouble Signals
• It sounds when there is a problem with the system’s integrity, such as
a power or component failure, device removal, communication fault
or failure, ground fault, or break in the system wiring.
• It is common for the trouble signal to use the same audible signal and
visible indicator as the supervisory signal to notify that there is a
condition requiring attention.
• System problems that generate a trouble signal should be
investigated and resolved as soon as practical by building
maintenance or engineering personnel because trouble conditions
may prevent initiation or reception of alarm signals.

Trouble Signals
• Many times, a trouble signal is acknowledged and forgotten, but
newer fire alarm systems must sound the trouble signal every 24
hours until the problem is resolved.

Types of Fire Alarm Signals
Signal Type Possible Conditions Action Required
Alarm The following conditions may exist: Indicates an emergency that requires
• Automatic water flow device (i.e., flow switch) immediate action, such as a signal
• Manual fire alarm station (i.e., pull station) characteristic of a fire.
• Automatic fire detectors (i.e., smoke or heat detectors)
Supervisory The following conditions may exist: Indicates that action must be taken by an
• Control valve switch on-site supervising guard to inspect the
• High/low air pressure switch fire suppression systems or equipment, or
• Water tank level and temperature switches the maintenance of related systems
• Low water pressure for public water supplies
• Low building temperature switch
• Alarm line valve position
Trouble The following conditions may exist: Indicates a problem with the fire control
• Loss of primary power (120VAC) panel or associated wiring, which may
• Loss of secondary power (backup battery) cause faulty system operation.
• A break in the wiring to an initiating device, or an open or
shorted condition on a notification appliance (NAC) or release
circuit.
Events: ALARM or FIRE ALARM event
A Warning of Fire Danger :
A signal initiated by a fire

alarm‐initiating device such as a
manual fire alarm box, automatic fire
detector, water flow switch, or other
device in which activation is indicative
of the presence of a fire or fire
signature.

Events: Supervisory event
A Warning of Sprinkler or other

Fire System Impairment :
An initiating device such as a valve

switch, water level indicator, or low air
pressure switch on a dry pipe sprinkler
system in which the change of state
signals an off normal condition..

Events: Trouble event
A warning of fire alarm system

impairment :
A signal initiated by the fire alarm

system or device indicative of a fault in
a monitored circuit or component.

Events: Monitor event
A indication the system has a

monitor event active.

system when a device programmed for
monitor is active. A monitor message
exist in the display queue.

Events: Ground Fault event
A warning the system has a

ground fault active..

system when a ‘live’ conductor has a
low impedance connection to ground.
Trouble is also active

Events: Signal Silence
A user initiated action to

silence all the alarm signals
on the system.
• The signal silence LED turns on

steady when the signals are silenced.
• Signal silence puts the system in
trouble.

Acknowledge / Panel Silence

silence the panel’s internal
signal.

Reset
A user initiated action

intended to restore the
system to normal..
Pressing RESET starts the reset

sequence. During reset, the LED
flashes. To complete successfully, all
devices and circuits must be normal.

Drill

sound a fire drill signal.
• The drill LED turns on when drill is

active.
• Drill activates only the audible and
visible signals.

Remote Disconnect
A user initiated action to turn

off the connection to a
central monitoring station.
• The remote disconnect LED turns on

steady when the central station is
turned off.
• Remote Disconnect puts the system
in trouble..

Circuits and Wiring
❖Initiation Device Circuit Use with Conventional Technology
❖Signaling Line Circuit Use with Addressable Technology
❖Notification Appliances Circuit Use with Both

Circuits and Wiring
CONVENTIONAL SYSTEM
VS
ADDRESSABLE SYSTEM

Conventional System
• Conventional fire alarm systems are comprised of initiating and
notification zones. The number of initiating zones (initiating device
circuits) defines how large the system can be. The zones are generally
assigned to a specific function (i.e., pull station, water flow switch,
etc.) or cover a geographical area for smoke and heat detection. Most
conventional zones use a two-wire scheme with an end of line
resistor for supervision commonly referred to as an IDC (Initiating
Device Circuit). The IDC connects an automatic or manual initiating
device to a zone or a monitoring module.
CFPS Exam Preparation- Mehboob Shaikh(CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

Addressable Systems
Addressable Systems
Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector
FIRE FIRE
SILENTKNIGHT
FACP Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown)
NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR
Each SLC loop can contain a variety of addressable

devices. Non-addressable devices are connected via
addressable module.
SLC(Signaling Line Circuit) - Loop
Comparison
Circuits and Wiring
TWO WIRE VS FOUR WIRE
CLASS B CLASS A

INITIATING DEVICES

Initiating Devices
• An initiating device interfaces with the fire alarm control panel to
provide manual or automatic means of activating fire alarm and
supervisory signals. Manual activation requires a person to operate
the initiating device. Automatic activation occurs when the products
of combustion or an event associated with a fire automatically
activates the initiating device.
• There are a number of different operating principles for automatic
activation, including thermal sensitivity, aspirating, detection of
products of combustion or radiant energy, movement of water,
changes in air pressure, and signals from automatic extinguishing
systems.

Manual Initiating Devices
• The manual fire alarm box is the only
type of manual alarm initiating
device; it is known by a number of
different names, including manual
box, manual pull box, and manual pull
station.
• It is critical that these devices are
accessible, unobstructed, visible, and
consistently located so building
occupants and visitors are able to
recognize and use them.

Manual Initiating Devices
• The purpose is to provide a manual means
of activating the fire alarm system at the
first sign of a fire. Still, activation of a
manual fire alarm box does not guarantee a
fire department response, as the fire alarm
systems in many older buildings are not
monitored by an on- or offsite entity that
would call the fire department.
• Therefore, in many buildings, there are
cards, placards, or signs mounted above the
manual fire alarm box providing instruction
to notify the fire department after safely
exiting the building.
Manual Initiating Devices – Installation
requirements
• To provide for easy reach when exiting a building, NFPA 72® requires
manual fire alarm boxes to be located within 5 ft of an exit, mounted
between 42 and 48 in. above the floor, located on each side of an exit
opening greater than 40 ft wide, and located within every 200 ft of
travel distance measured horizontally on the same floor.
• If the travel distance exceeds 200 ft, additional boxes are required. In
addition, manual fire alarm boxes should be colored red unless the
environment precludes the use of othe color

Manual Initiating Devices – Installation
requirements
• In locations where manual fire
alarm boxes are subjected to moist,
damp, or wet environmental
conditions, they must be listed or
approved for the conditions as well
as appropriately protected to avoid
problems with corrosion, rust,
electrical shorting, and grounding.
• For these reasons, it is common to Protective covers also help to deter individuals
see some type of protective cover from pulling the box to create false and malicious
over these devices alarms. Many of these covers incorporate a built-
in mini-horn or siren device powered by a battery.
Once the cover is lifted, the mini-horn or siren
sounds a local alert rather than tying into a fire
NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAININGalarm system.
How to Operate MCP ?
• All manual fire alarm boxes operate on the same basic principle: you
must pull a lever on the box to initiate an alarm. However, some
boxes may have additional operational characteristics and, according
to these characteristics, may fall into one or more of the following
categories:
Coded Non-Coded
Pre-Signal General Alarm

Single Action Double Action
Break Glass Non Break

Glass

Non- Coded MCP
When activated, this type of box simply initiates an alarm until it is
reset.

Coded MCP
This type of box is assigned a code that sounds from an
audible notification device when a mechanical or electrical
driven motor turns a wheel. A person can determine which
box is operating by counting the code that is sounding.
For example, if a box is assigned the code

“415,” then an audible notification device
such as a bell will ring four times, pause,
ring one time, pause, ring five times, and Once the code is recognized, a person
then pause again.
can look at the annunciator or compare
the number to a code list to determine
the location of the box. In addition, the
system might record the event by
punching the code onto a paper tape
recorder, allowing responders or building
personnel to verify the code or review
the alarm information later
Other Types of MCPs

Other Types of MCPs

TIP
In order to deter malicious manual fire alarm box activation, some
boxes have a tamper liquid, gel, or powder applied or
incorporated that once touched, adheres to the person’s skin or
clothing. This deterrent is commonly used in schools and other
locations that are susceptible to malicious alarms and helps to
identify who activated the fire alarm box

Automatic Initiating Devices
Heat Detectors
Rate
Fixed Temperature Rate of Rise
compensation

Fixed Temperature
• A fixed-temperature heat detector
operates when a sensing element
within the detector reaches a
predetermined temperature. Some
fixed-temperature heat detectors
use a fusible link sensing element
that melts when the predetermined
temperature is met, therefore
requiring the detector or the
detection element to be replaced
after activation.
What is Thermal Lag in Heat Detectors ?
• Fixed temperature heat detectors are the simplest type of heat
detector and are designed to alarm when the sensing element
reaches a predetermined temperature. (Actually, a sprinkler head
operates upon this same principle.)
• Generally, the surrounding air temperature must be considerably
higher than the heat detector rating in order to raise the heat
detector element to the operating temperature. This condition is
known as thermal lag.

Fixed Temperature
• Other fixed-temperature heat
detectors use bimetal sensing
elements, which include different
bonded metals that expand at
different rates and, when exposed to
increasing temperatures, cause the
contacts to close, sending a signal to
the fire alarm panel. Once the
temperature returns to a normal level,
the bimetal sensing element returns
to its normal shape and, if not
damaged by fire, is ready for future
service.
Line Type Heat detector( LTHD)
• Line type heat detectors are frequently installed
in challenging locations and environments
because the detector, in the form of a cable, can
be laid to conform to the physical conditions.
Some line-type detectors are restorable but
others may need to be replaced or at least have
the part exposed to the fire replaced.
• There are different kinds of line-type heat
detectors, but they all basically consist of sensing
elements (e.g., conductors in a special cable)
surrounded by materials that change condition
when exposed to heat, causing the elements to
make contact or become conductive.

Line Type Heat detector( LTHD)
• Newer technology uses fiber-optic cable that sends a light source
through the cable. When there are changes in the light source
parameters due to the temperature change, the cable distorts, causing
an alarm.

Rate of Rise
• A rate-of-rise detector is a heat detector that uses
pneumatic or electronic methods to monitor how much
temperature change takes place over a fixed amount of
time.
• When the temperature rises at a rate exceeding the fixed
amount either 5°F in 20 seconds or between 12°F and
15°F per minute, regardless of the starting
temperature—a signal transmits to the fire alarm control
panel.
• The pneumatic rate-of-rise detectors can be linear or
spot-type detectors, both of which use rubber
diaphragms to initiate an alarm. Changes in temperature
are detected when heat expands the air in a tube that
exerts pressure on the diaphragm (line type) or when the
air in the diaphragm is heated (spot type)

Rate of Rise
• Once the diaphragm is heated, it enlarges to close
electrical contacts connected to the fire alarm
system.
• The electronic rate-of-rise detectors detect
temperature change through the use of a
semiconductor component (thermistor) that
responds to increased temperature by increasing
electrical resistance.
• Rate-of-rise detectors typically detect temperature
changes more rapidly than fixed-temperature
detectors and, therefore, may not be appropriate in
locations where normal ambient conditions dictate
rates of temperature change that could cause false
alarms. In addition, although rate-of-rise detectors
are usually restorable after a fire, they may need
some time to cool down before they can be reset.
Rate Compensation
• Rate-Compensation Heat Detectors. The rate
compensation detector is a type of heat detector
that responds to predetermined air temperatures
and is not dependent on rates of temperature
change. Rate-compensation detectors are typically
tubular and use a two-element sensing system.
• To compensate for slow or fast temperature
changes, the sensing elements are manufactured
with metals that are designed to expand at
different rates. During a slow rate of temperature
rise, there is more time needed to heat the inner
sensing element, thus giving the entire detector,
including the outer sensing element, time to reach
the rated temperature before an alarm is sounded
Rate Compensation
• During a fast rate of temperature rise, it
takes much less time for the outer sensing
element to heat than it does the inner
sensing element, resulting in the entire
device activating an alarm at a lower
temperature.
• This method of operation compensates for
thermal lag conditions associated with the
fixed-temperature detectors. In addition,
these types of detectors are restorable.

Automatic Initiating Devices
Smoke Detectors
Ionization Photoelectric Air Sampling Duct Video
“SMELLS” Light
Light Scattering
“SIGHTS” Obscuration

Ionization

Photoelectric – Light Obscuration
This beam detector provides the light source to the companion

receiver on the other side of the protected area
A typical projection range can exceed 300 ft long by 60 ft wide.

Cl. 17.7.3.7 – Projected Beam Detectors
• Beam detectors work on the following principles:

• Beam detector consists of sender and receiver
• The sender and receiver be mounted firmly to avoid movement
of the projected beam and possible unwanted alarms
• The projected beam remain unobstructed by storage, ceiling-
mounted equipment, or other objects that would result in a
trouble condition on the FACU and prohibit the detectors from
sensing smoke.
82
• Smoke obscures the projected beam and reduces transmission of the

infrared beam to the receiver
• Beam detectors are for indoor use, and are to be mounted to stable
surfaces
• Mirrors can be used with projected beams, per manufacturer’s
instructions, provided that mirrors are mounted to stable surfaces
83
Activation of Alarm Signal

• As smoke obscures the beam, the receiver senses a decrease in the

signal strength and measures that decrease. The receiver compares
the signal level with two preset thresholds:
– an alarm threshold that is set using the sensitivity switch and
– a trouble threshold that is preset at approximately 10%
• If the signal falls below the alarm threshold for the programmed
alarm period, the receiver signals an alarm.

Activation of Trouble Signal

• Where the light path of a projected beam–type detector is abruptly

interrupted or obscured, the unit should not initiate an alarm. It
should give a trouble signal after verification of blockage.
• If an object blocks the beam, the signal falls below the trouble
threshold. If this condition lasts for more than 20 seconds, the receiver
signals a trouble condition.

Installation of Beam Type Detectors SMOOTH CEILING
The effects of stratification shall be evaluated when locating the detectors.
88
Air Sampling

Cl. 17.7.3.6 – Air Sampling Type Smoke
Detector - VESDA

Cl. 17.7.3.6 – Air Sampling Type Smoke
Detector - VESDA
Maximum air sample transport time from the farthest sampling port
to the detector shall not exceed 120 seconds.

Duct
Duct detector air sampling tubes.

Video
Analyzes the digital images and senses changes in pixels
before there are enough smoke particles for visual
detection, making detection many times faster than would
be possible with a standard detector.

Radiant Energy Fire Detectors

Gas Sensing Detectors

Signal Processing/Alarm Verification
In an effort to reduce false alarms, most modern fire alarm systems and
smoke detectors have the capability to implement a protocol that
validates the smoke condition before a fire alarm signal sounds.
Checks the smoke within the detector at specified
intervals to ensure it continues to remain above a
Signal Processing threshold amount. If the smoke remains above the
threshold amount for the required time, alarm
initiation takes place.
fire alarm panel receives a signal from the smoke detector

and, in turn, either cuts the power to the detector or, in newer
systems, ignores the alarm signal for no longer than 1 minute
Alarm Verification to allow the condition to clear. If after this verification period
the smoke condition remains, the detector sends a signal back
to the panel to alarm.
Water Flow initiating Devices

Alarm Pressure Switch Initiating Devices

Detectors Selection Criteria
DESIGN CONSIDERATION
Type of Area Type of Activity Fire Risk False Alarm Risk

Protected area/ Predominant use Fire risk(s) False alarm Detector type Detector Certified Fire strategy Comments/
type of area of area risk(s) setting mode(s) met? action
chosen?
Choose from: Choose from: Choose Choose from: Choose from:
Hotel bedroom Sleeping from: None Optical
en-suite Cooking Smoldering Steam Heat (static)
Hotel bedroom Unoccupied white smoke Toaster Heat (RoR)
non en-suite Storage Smoldering Oven usage Ionisation
Hotel suite nonflammable dark smoke Cooking Multisensor:
Bedroom Storage flammable Smoldering Dust Optical/heat
dormitory style General office work changing to Smoking Heat/CO
Office cellular Meetings flaming Aerosol spray Optical/CO
Office open plan Circulation route Flaming (clean Hot works Optical/heat/
Kitchen (main) Escape route Other: please CO Details as
burn)
Kitchenette Manufacturing Specify Other: please Specify Specify Specify appropriate
Flaming (dirty)
Restaurant/ Manufacturing (hot Other: please specify
Canteen works) Specify Optical beam
Corridor Assembly Linear heat
Escape route Other: please ASD Class C
Reception area specify ASD Class B
Lobby ASD Class A
Workshop (clean) Flame
Workshop Video
(moderate) CO
Workshop (dirty) Other: please
Warehouse/ specify
storage
Other: please
specify
EXAMPLE FIRE RISKS
Fire risk detection key: very good = ★★★★★ good = ★★★★ moderate = ★★★ poor = ★★ very poor = ★
Fire risk Example Ionization Optical CO Heat Flame Typical Typical
fire(s) detection (scatter) detection detection detection Multi sensor Multi sensor
detection detection, detection,
Eg; optical e.g.;
heat optical-heat-
CO
Smoldering Electrical fire ★★ ★★★★★ ★ ★ ★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★

white smoke
Smoldering ★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★ ★ ★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★
wood
Smoldering Smoldering ★★ ★★★★ ★★★★★ ★ ★ ★★★★ ★★★★★
dark smoke furnishings
Smoldering Waste paper ★★★★ ★★★★ ★★ ★★ ★★★ ★★★★ ★★★★
changing to bin fire
flaming
Flaming Burning ★ ★ ★ ★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★ ★★★★
(clean burn) solvents
Flaming Burning oils ★★ ★★★ ★★ ★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★ ★★★★
(dirty)
EXAMPLE FALSE ALARM RISKS
Fire risk detection key: very good = ★★★★★ good = ★★★★ moderate = ★★★ poor = ★★ very poor = ★
False Alarm Example Ionization Optical CO Heat Flame Typical Typical
risk False detection (scatter) Rejection Rejection Rejection Multi sensor Multi sensor
Alarm Causes detection Rejection, Rejection,
Eg; optical e.g.;
heat optical-heat-
CO
Steam Shower or
bathroom
★★★★ ★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★ ★★★
Smoke Smoking,
kitchen/
★ ★★★ ★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★ ★★★★
cooking fumes
Dust Warehouse ★★★ ★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★ ★★★
Other particulate Aerosol
canister
★ ★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★ ★★★★
products,
artificial
smoke
Sparks/naked
Flames
Welding ★★ ★★ ★★★ ★★★ ★ ★★★★ ★★★★★
Substance Ingress Insects ★★★ ★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★ ★★★★★
High ambient
airflow
Air-conditioning,
open doors/
★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★
windows
Rapid
thermal
Opening of
ovens
★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★ ★★★★★ ★★★★ ★★★★★
change
NOTIFICATION APPLIANCES

Operating Modes
There are two operating modes for alarm notification appliances:
(1) public operating mode and
(2) private operating mode

Fire Alarm Audibility Design Goals
In either cases, if the area is used for sleeping, the minimum SPL
required is 75 dBA
What is Average Ambient sound Level ?
It is over
“Time that any person is present, or a 24-hour period, whichever time

period is the lesser.”

What is Max sound Level ?
Is it peak sound level …..?
NO !!
In acoustics, It is the maximum RMS value that lasts at least 60 seconds

Why RMS value and Not Peak ?
The root-mean-square pressure is most often used to

characterize a sound wave because it is directly related to the
energy carried by the sound wave, which is called the intensity.
The intensity of a sound wave is the average amount of energy
transmitted per unit time through a unit area in a specified
direction
Measurement of RMS Value
Steps for calculating rms pressure Sample calculation

1. Measure the pressure at points along the sound signal. 0, 2, 0, -2, 0, 2, 0, -2
2. Square the measured pressures. 0, 4, 0, 4, 0, 4, 0, 4

3. Average the squared pressures
(0+4+0+4+0+4+0+4)/8 = 2
4. Take the square root of the average of the squaredNFPA
pressures
72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING
√2 = 1.4
EXAMPLE

Annunciator Panels
When fire fighters arrive on a fire scene, the first

arriving units typically respond to the main entrance
or address side of the building to investigate and
initiate operational activities. Upon entry into the
building, fire fighters are likely to immediately look
for a piece of fire alarm system equipment known
as the annunciator panel.
The annunciator panel is a type of notification or

indicating device that provides valuable information
concerning the initiating device, system involved,
and area of the building where the fire is located.

Power Expander Panels
• When building renovation leads to fire alarm system changes,
fire system designers often discover existing fire alarm control
panels do not have the power capacity to support all of the
additional required audible and visual notification devices.
Modern-day notification appliances use considerable electrical
current to operate, so it is not always practical or cost-effective
to place all of the power and circuits in the fire alarm control
panel.
• In addition, if the original fire alarm system remains, additional

power to support expansion or power distribution to devices may
become a design issue owing to the requirements to comply with
or improve accessibility features, or the need to pursue an
alternative design approach because of space, location, and
access limitations or considerations. These issues can be
resolved with the installation of a power expander panel that
provides supplemental power to support the devices. These
panels are also called notification appliance circuit panels, NAC
panels, or NAC power supplies.

FIRE ALARM SYSTMS

Classifications

Single- and Multiple-Station, Combination, and
Household Signaling Systems

Central Station Service Alarm Systems

Communication with Central Monitoring System(CMS)
NFPA 72 in Fire Alarm
From Telephone
2013,26.6.3.2 Company
IP Radio
Communications System
Digital Alarm Communicator

Transmitter (DACT) Ring Signal
(located at Fire Alarm System site) Tip Signal
DACT In non Alarm

4 5 Condition
Transmitter In Alarm
Condition
Must be PSTN Communication 3 6
Pathways
RJ-31X 8 pin modular
Gets a dial tone 1 2 7

connector
Primary Secondary
1 8
Premises phones
The "off-hook" back to
"on-hook" time cannot Receiver 2
exceed 90 seconds per
attempt! DACR
"off-hook"
3 Dials DACR phone number
Releases phone line DACT seizes a phone line
Remote Supervising Station Alarm Systems

Proprietary Supervising Station Alarm Systems

Public Emergency Alarm Reporting Systems

Emergency Communications Systems


System Requirements
Equipment Installation Monitoring Other Requirements
Local System Listed Not Listed Not Required None
Proprietary Station Listed Not Listed Listed or Not Listed Runner Service
Remote Station Listed Not Listed Listed or Not Listed None
Central Station Listed Not Listed Listed Runner Service
Auxiliary Listed Not Listed Public Communication
Center Street Boxes


Interface with Other Systems
• Unlock Exit Door
• Close Doors
• Recall and Shutdown elevators
• Turn ON or shut down AHU
• Start up smoke Control and management equipment's
• Close Fire Dampers
• Monitor and Activate Fire suppression Systems

Interface with Other Systems

Elevator Nomenclature
Name Description Photo
Elevator An opening through a building or structure for the travel of

Hoistway elevators extending from the pit floor to the roof or floor
above.
Elevator Pit The portion of the hoistway extending from the sill level of the
lowest landing to the floor at the bottom of the hoistway.

Elevator Nomenclature
Name Description Photo
Shunt-Trip Shutdown of electric power to the elevator resulting from heat

detector activation in the hoistway or elevator machine room
prior to sprinkler operation.
Firefighter Function that allows firefighters to take control of elevators

Service through key access to use them as needed for firefighting and
rescue operations.

Elevator Construction
According to the,
▪ International Building Code (IBC)
▪ NFPA 101, the Life Safety Code
▪ ASME 17.1, Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators,
▪ Elevator hoistways, or shafts as they are sometimes called, are
required to be constructed of materials that provide a two-hour fire
resistance rating.

Elevator Construction- Hoistway
Three stories or higher are required to
have smoke venting of the hoistway IBC, Section 3006,Cl.
for the removal of smoke and hot gases 3006.2
during a fire condition
Installation of SD shall as per

the below clause
NFPA 72,2013 cl. 21.3.6
When sprinklers are installed in hoistways, heat

detectors have to be installed to activate prior to the
sprinkler heads and activate the shunt-trip function of the
elevator controls

Elevator Construction- Pit
▪ Sprinkler coverage is required in
elevator pits for hydraulic
elevators that use flammable
hydraulic fluid
NFPA 72,2013 cl. 21.3.7
▪ If the elevator is not

hydraulic or nonflammable
fluid is used, then no
NFPA 72,2013 cl. 21.3.8 sprinkler heads and no
detection devices are
Smoke detector in pit shall not
be used for recall purpose unless required in the pit
listed for environment
Elevator Construction- Machine
Room
▪ Machine rooms must be constructed to the same or
greater rating as the elevator hoistway.
▪ Plumbing systems other than sprinkler piping cannot

be located in elevator machine rooms because of all
of the electrical equipment located there
▪ ASME A17.1 requires that an ABC-rated portable fire

extinguisher be located in all elevator machine
rooms.
▪ NFPA 101,2015,Cl.9.4.5 the Life Safety Code, requires

elevator machine rooms with a travel distance
exceeding fifty feet (15 m) above the level of exit
discharge or thirty feet (9.1 m) below the level of exit
discharge be provided with independent ventilation
or air conditioning systems to maintain temperatures
during firefighter emergency operations
Elevator Construction- Machine
Room
▪ Elevator machine rooms are usually
sprinkled (UAE FLSC, Table 9.30)
▪ Because of the electrical equipment in

the room, having water discharge from
the sprinkler system can be damaging to
the equipment.
▪ When installing sprinklers in the machine

room, it is a good idea to have a shutoff
valve in the sprinkler piping just outside
the machine room so that the water can
be shutoff as soon as the fire is
extinguished.

What is Elevator Recall ?
Purpose of this detector
• To prevent an elevator car from opening

into a potential fire condition.
• Make the elevator car available for fire
service use.

Phase -1 Elevator Service
NFPA 72
Requires system smoke detectors located in:
– Elevator lobbies.
– Elevator machine rooms.
– Hoist ways (Sometimes).
– Connected to building fire alarm system.

Elevator Recall for Fighters Services
NFPA 72, 2013,Cl. 21.3
WHY….?
▪ Building occupants should not use elevators during
a fire or when the building fire alarm is sounding.
▪ Elevators can be programmed to be recalled
automatically to designated floor or alternate floor
▪ when the fire alarm system in the building is
activated, which will keep building occupants from
using elevators during a fire.
▪ Elevators are generally not safe for civilians to use
under fire conditions. Firefighters, however, may be
able to use.
▪ elevators to transport personnel and equipment if it
is determined that it can be done safely.

Elevator Recall for Fighters Services
NFPA 72, 2013,Cl. 21.3
A single Detector can
cover Three Elevators
placed within the shaded
Initiation…? area….
Should be within
Fire alarm initiating devices (smoke or heat detectors) 21 ft. (Cl. 21.3.5)
are installed at each elevator floor.
OR
Smoke detectors, heat detectors, and sprinkler flow

switches in or associated with elevator hoistways and
elevator machine rooms will also activate elevator
recall
NFPA 72, 2013,Cl. Centerline of
21.3.14.1 & 21.3.14.2 Elevator
ELEVATOR FIRE SERVICE
FUNCTION
❑Phase-1 Fire Fighter Service

FUNCTION
In the “Bypass” position, normal elevator operations
are restored regardless of the status of elevator lobby
detectors.
In the “On” position, all elevator cars controlled

by the switch (usually only those in the elevator
bank) will return to the designated level non-stop
and doors will open and remain open
In the “Off” position, elevators will operate

normally and be controlled by the smoke or heat
A Three-position key detectors in the lobbies.
This switch or FA devices are allowed to
initiate elevator recall phase-1 operation NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING
FUNCTION
▪ Phase II firefighter service permits firefighters to manually take
control of the elevators with an override key Elevators with Phase
II operation also have Phase I elevator recall as well. Phase II
overrides all automatic controls, including the Phase I recall.
Phase II key switches are required to rotate clockwise from

“Off” to “Hold” to “On.”

FUNCTION-Phase II operational instructions
Item Description
When flashing, exit elevator
To operate car Insert fire key and turn to “ON”

Press desired floor button
To cancel Floor selection Press “CALL CANCEL” button
To open power operated Press and hold “DOOR CLOSE” button

Door
To close power operated Press and hold “DOOR OPEN” button

door
To hold car at floor With doors open, turn key to “HOLD”
To automatically send With doors open, turn key to “OFF”

car to recall floor

SECTION – 02
DESIGN AND INSTALLATIONS

OCCUPANCY BASED REQUIREMENTS
International Building Code (2018 Edition) Occupancy- Based Requirements
Occupancy Manual Fire Alarms Automatic Fire Detection or

Smoke Alarms
Assembly X
Business X
Educational X
Factory/Industrial X
Hazardous X X
Institutional X X
Mercantile X
Residential X X
Storage
NFPA 1, NFPA 101 & NFPA 5000 (2018 Edition) Occupancy- Based Requirements
NFPA 1 NFPA 101 NFPA 5000

Manual Alarm Automatic Manual Alarm Automatic Manual Alarm Automatic
Alarm Alarm Alarm
Assembly X X X X X
Business X X X
Day Care X X X X X X
Detention X X X X X X
Educational X X X
Health Care X X X X X X
Health Care- X X X
Ambulatory
Industrial X X X
Mercantile X X X
Residential X X X X X X
Apartments NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING
NFPA 1, NFPA 101 & NFPA 5000 (2018 Edition) Occupancy- Based Requirements
NFPA 1 NFPA 101 NFPA 5000

Manual Alarm Automatic Manual Alarm Automatic Manual Alarm Automatic
Alarm Alarm Alarm
Residential – X X X X X X
Board and Care
hotel and
Dormitory
lodging and
Rooming
Residential – X X X
One and Two
family dwelling
Storage X X X

• Written Narrative
• Layouts( RD, Plans etc)
• I/O Matrix
Min.
• Equipment details
Required
• Calculations
Documents
• Notification • Completion/ITM Records etc.
(MRD)
• Detection
• RAD
• Performance based Docs
• Emergency response plan docs • Shop Drawings with
• Evaluation Docs details etc.
• #7.2.3 – Drawing
Design Installationshall use symbol as
Documentation
documents documentsdescribed in NFPA
170
• As built drawings • Record of Testing

Completion T&C and Commissioning
• O & M manuals
Documents Documents
• Completion forms
146
System Documentations
• Documentation is one of the most important concepts of NFPA 72. It
is also the most frequently ignored requirement
• All fire alarm system installations shall have a written statement Record of
Completion
• Allows you to specify any deviations from the code
• Building owner shall be provided with documents
• A record of maintenance, inspection and tests shall be provided
• Date work was performed
• Test frequency from NFPA 72
• Status of problems identified during test stating owner was notified, problem
was corrected and successfully retested.

Fire Alarm Symbols and Terminology

Fire Alarm Symbols and Terminology
The 1994 edition of NFPA 170 represented the completion of an effort
to combine four previously separate documents that covered fire safety
symbols for different purposes
• NFPA 171, Public Fire safety Symbols
• NFPA 172, Fire Protection Symbols for Architectural and Engineering
drawings
• NFPA 174, Fire Protection Symbols for Risk Analysis Diagrams
• NFPA 178, Symbols for Fire Fighting Operations Also refer to NFPA 72
Annex for fire alarm icons.

Symbols for Control
Panel- NFPA 170

Symbols for Manual
station - NFPA 170

Symbols for Smoke
Detectors- NFPA 170

Fire alarm Documents Cabinet(FAD) # 7.7.2.2
UL Standard: S2580

Cl. 7.5.6 – Record of Completion

Cl. 7.5.6.6 – Revision

Cl. 7.5.6.7 – Electronic Record of Completion

Cl. 7.7 – Record, Record Retention & Record
maintenance

Electrical Workmanship Standards
• Fire alarm systems are electrical in nature and the installation
methods are governed by the National Electric Code or NEC
• The NEC is distributed by the National Fire Protection Association
(NFPA) and is also referred to as NFPA 70
• The fire alarm code mandates how fire alarm devices and systems are
installed and commonly refers to the electrical code for installation
• All fire alarm technicians must be familiar with the installation
requirements and methods described in the NEC.

Electrical Workmanship Standards
NEC Requirements :
• Shall be grounded in accordance with Article 250

• Wiring shall be installed in a workmanship-like manner
• Comply with chapters 1-4 unless modified by chapters 5-8
• Fire alarm system wiring requirements are specifically listed in Article 760
• Electrical requirements for classified areas or those that contain a
hazardous atmosphere are listed in Article 500
• Requirements for fiber optic cabling and raceways are listed in Article 770.

Wiring Fundamentals

Wiring Fundamentals
• Electrical workmanship standards are a critical component to the proper
operation of any electrical system
• All electrical installations are only as good as the connections of wiring and
devices
• A loose wire or bad connection can create intermittent faults that are
difficult to locate and correct
• In some installations where workmanship is not a consideration, it is less
labor intensive to removed and replace the wiring than try to locate the
fault
• Special care should be taken to make proper electrical connections
associated with a fire alarm installation.

Wiring Fundamentals
Conduit Fill
• Electrical conduit, whether it be metal electrical metal tubing ( EMT),
plastic (PVC), or flexible conduit, each have their own maximum
number of electrical wires allowed in the conduit. Their fill capacities
are different, even though they may be the same sized conduit
• PVC is a plastic conduit that is often used for underground
installations and in wet areas
• EMT conduit is a metal thin walled that comes in ten foot lengths
• Flexible conduit is normally made of twisted metal and is flexible
• Chapter 9 of NEC contains tables to calculate conduit fill.

Wiring Fundamentals
Box Fill
• Box fill isn't just the number of wires in the box — it's the total
volume of the conductors, devices, and fittings in a box
• Box volume - amount of space for conductors, devices, and fittings
• Calculate box fill per NEC Table 314.16(B)
• Calculate box volume per NEC Table 314.16(A).

Role of NEC
The Fire Protective Signaling Systems portion of the code (NEC Article
760)details the specific requirements for wiring and equipment
installation for fire protection signaling systems. Specifications include
installation methods, connection types, circuit identification, and wire
types (including gauges and insulation).
The NEC®places restrictions on the number and types of circuit

combinations that can be installed in the same enclosure.

Scope of NEC 760
This article covers the installation of wiring and equipment of fire alarm
systems including all circuits controlled and powered by the fire alarm
system.

Power-Limited and Nonpower-Limited
Circuits
Power-Limited Fire Alarm (PLFA) Circuits. A power-limited fire alarm
circuit is one that is inherently unable to exceed maximum voltages, or
is equipped with a power-limiting source (transformer or battery) and a
circuit breaker. Generally, these operate in the 24-volt direct current
range, although they may employ higher voltages

Power-Limited and Nonpower-Limited
Circuits
Nonpower-Limited Fire Alarm (NPLFA) Circuits. Nonpower-limited fire
alarm circuits cannot operate at more than 600 volts, and there is no
other power or current limitation for these systems. Usually these are
used in 120-volt alternating current (AC) systems which have been
rendered generally obsolete by the advent of low-voltage, direct
current (DC) systems.

Types of Cable
▪ Power-limited fire alarm (FPL) cable : Power-limited non-plenum-
rated fire alarm cable is a general purpose cable that is not rated for
plenum spaces.
▪ Power-limited fire alarm riser (FPLR) cable : Power-limited riser-rated
fire alarm cable is installed where vertical cable runs are required.
This cable must have low flammability, but smoke generation
characteristics can be higher than those for a plenum-rated cable.
▪ Power-limited fire alarm plenum (FPLP) cable : Power-limited
plenum-rated fire alarm cable can be installed in plenums or other
similar spaces. This cable must meet strict flammability requirements
and must have low smoke generation characteristics

Types of Cable
▪ Nonpower-limited fire alarm (NPLF) circuit cable : Non-power-limited
fire alarm cable is for general use but not for plenum, riser, ducts, or
spaces where there is environmental air.
▪ Nonpower-limited fire alarm plenum (NPLFP) circuit cable : Non-
power-limited fire alarm plenum cable can be installed in plenums,
ducts, and other similar spaces that must be fire resistant and must
have low smoke generation characteristics.

Article 760.3
(A) Spread of Fire or Products of

Combustion. Installation of fire alarm
circuits must comply with 300.21.
Fire alarm circuits and equipment must comply with 760.3(A) through (0). Only those sections contained in Article 300
specifically referenced below apply to fire alarm systems.
Article 760.3
(B) Ducts and Plenum Spaces. Fire alarm cables

installed in ducts or plenum spaces must
comply with 300.22

Article 760.3
(J) Number and Size of Conductors in a Raceway.

Raceways must be large enough to permit the installation
and removal of conductors without damaging conductor
insulation [300.17] .

Question
How many 18 TFFN fixture wires can be installed in trade size ½
electrical metallic tubing?
(a) 16
(b) 18
(c) 22
(d) 38

Article 760.25

A plug-in power supply for a fire alarm control unit. The other half of the
Article 760.41 duplex receptacle shown is permitted only to supply other fire alarm–related
equipment.

Article 760.43

Article 760.45

Article 760.49

Article 760.127

Article 760.130

Article 760.130

Article 760.135
(B) Ducts Specifically Fabricated for Environmental
Air Spaces. Plenum rated power-limited fire alarm
(PLFA) cables are permitted to be installed within
ducts specifically fabricated for environmental air
spaces in accordance with 760.3(8)
Ex 1 if the cable is directly associated with the air
distribution system and complies with (1) or (2)

Article 760.135
(C) Plenum Spaces. Plenum-rated cables,
plenum-rated raceways containing plenum-rated
cables, and Types FPLP, FPLR, and FPL cables in
accordance with 300.22(C) are permitted in
plenum spaces.

Article 760.135
(H) Other Building Locations. The following power-limited fire alarm cables are permitted to be installed in
building locations:
(1) Types FPLP, FPLR, and FPL cables.
(2) Types FPLP, FPLR, and FPL cables installed in:
a. Plenum communications raceways.
b. Plenum cable routing assemblies.
c. Riser communications raceways.
d. Riser cable routing assemblies.
e. General-purpose communications raceways.
f. General-purpose cable routing assemblies.
(3) Types FPLP, FPLR, and FPL cables installed within a raceway of a type recognized in Chapter 3.

Article 760.136

Article 760.136

Article 760.143

Article 760.154

Article 760.154

Article 760.179

Other NEC articles
• NEC Sections 110.11 and 300.6(A),(B), and (C), Corrosive, Damp, or Wet Locations
• NEC Section 300.21, Spread of Fire or Products of Combustion
• NEC Section 300.22, Ducts, Plenums, and Other Air Handling Spaces
• NEC Articles 500 through 516 and 517, Part IV, Locations Classified as Hazardous
• NEC Article 695, Fire Pumps
• NEC Article 725, Remote-Control and Signaling Circuits (Building Control Circuits)
• NEC Article 770, Fiber Optics
• NEC Article 800, Communications Circuits
• NEC Article 810, Radio and Television Equipment

Personnel Qualification
1. Personnel who are registered, licensed, or certified by a state or
local authority
2. Personnel who are certified by a nationally recognized certification
organization acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction
3. Personnel who are factory trained and certified for fire alarm
system design and/or emergency communication system design of
the specific type and brand of system and who are acceptable to
the authority having jurisdiction.

Power Supply

Power Supply
Two independent and reliable sources of power
are required to supply a fire alarm system.
Typically, the main or primary source of power is
supplied by a power utility.
Primary power could be supplied by an engine-

driven generator or equivalent that is under the
constant attention of a trained operator.
Once the primary power enters the facility, it must

be protected from physical damage; it must be on
a dedicated circuit supplying the fire alarm control
panel; access to the circuit must be controlled;
and the circuit must be identified
Cl. 10.6.5 - Primary Power Supply

Cl. 10.6.6 – Continuity of Power Supply

Cl. 10.6.7 - Secondary Power Supply
Option 01

Option 02

Option 03
A UPS would have to be Type 0, Class 24, Level 1 as defined by NFPA 111.
Power Supply Secondary Power Source
Rechargeable Storage
Engine Driven Generator
Batteries
If storage batteries are used, they must have When a generator is used to
the capacity to sustain power for 24 hours in provide the power, the generator
normal ready mode and 5 minutes in full must have 4 hours of battery
alarm mode at the end of the 24-hour loss- capacity
of-power period.
These requirements differ for emergency voice No matter the secondary source, power transfer
alarm communications systems and mass must be automatic and seamless; not allow for loss
notification systems, for which 15 minutes of of system function, delay or interrupt signals; and
power in full alarm mode is required at the end take place within 10 seconds
of the 24-hour loss-of-power period
Cl. 10.6.10 – Storage Batteries
(1) Vented Lead-Acid, Gelled, or Starved (3) Sealed Lead-Acid

(2) Nickel-Cadmium Battery
Electrolyte Battery Battery
10.6.10.1 Marking– Storage Batteries

10.6.10.3 Battery Charging.

Trickle Charging vs Float Charging

Cl. 10.14 – Trouble Signal

Battery Capacity Calculation

Notable Changes in NFPA 72 2022 edition
from Chapter 7 & 10
Chapter 7: Documentation
How can a contractor know the performance level a circuit is intended to achieve? The 2022 edition
will help clarify any potential uncertainty by requiring the design documents to indicate the pathway
class and survivability level. Also, the record of completion and record of inspection and testing forms
will incorporate minor revisions to reflect the term revision of stored-energy emergency power supply
systems.

Notable Changes in NFPA 72 2022 edition
from Chapter 7 & 10
Chapter 10: Fundamentals
• For many editions of NFPA 72, an automatic detector has been required at the location of each
control unit, notification appliance circuit power extender and supervising station transmitting
equipment when the area is not continuously occupied. This has not changed; however, the next
edition adds language that permits the detector to be eliminated where a risk analysis shows it is
not required and where acceptable to the AHJ.
• Have you ever seen nonfunctional equipment installed in buildings? The 2022 edition will require
abandoned fire alarm equipment to be removed and be marked “not in service” while it remains
installed.
• Also new, the capacity of batteries will require an additional 5% capacity, changing from 20% safety
margin to 25% to account for battery degradation over the life of a battery. The installer will be
required to label the battery with a replacement date that does not exceed four years from the date
of installation. Effective Jan. 1, 2024, any rechargeable batteries used for secondary power will be
required to be listed or recognized by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.

Question 01
If a Fire alarm system requires Software, who should receive a copy of
the software ?
A. The System Owner

B. The AHJ
C. The Fire Department
D. The Monitoring Company

Question 02
After a Fire alarm system is installed, where should the record
documents be stored ?
A. At the Local Fire Department

B. Any Location as long as AHJ is notified
C. In a document cabinet at the protected premises.
D. At an offsite location owned by the building owner.

Question 03
When a modification is made to a fire alarm system after the initial
installation the modification shall be recorded on a revised version of
the original completion documents. The revised record of completion
document shall include.
A. The Revision date

B. The company information who made modification.
C. The contractor information who made modification.
D. The location of original documents.

Question 04
The Record of completion documents shall be completed by the _____
A. Contractor who installed the system.

B. The Owner of the system.
C. The AHJ
D. The Monitoring Company servicing the system.

Question 05
Secondary Power supply for an emergency voice/Alarm Communication
fire alarm system shall be capable of operating for minimum of _____
of standby followed by ___ of alarm
A. 48 hours/ 5 Min.
B. 48 hours / 15 Min.
C. 24 Hours/ 5 Min.
D. 24 Hours/15 Min.

Question 06
The fire alarm system primary power branch circuit disconnecting
means must be ___ in color.
A. Red
B. Blue
C. Green
D. Color is chosen by the manufacturer of the system

Question 07
The Secondary Power Supply for the protected premises shall
automatically power within ______ seconds when the primary power
fails.
A. 5
B. 10
C. 60
D. 90

Question 08
Service Personnel Must be Qualified and ______
A. Experienced
B. Certified
C. Licensed
D. Bonded

Question 09
Trouble signal and their restoration to normal shall be indicated withing
___ at the fire alarm control panel for protected premises alarm
systems.
A. 10 Sec
B. 60 Sec
C. 90 Sec
D. 200 Sec

Question 10
The fire Alarm Service provider shall report to the AHJ any fire alarm
system that is out of service for more than___
A. 1 Hour
B. 5 Hour
C. 8 Hour
D. 24 Hour

Question 11
The Secondary Power supply for supervising station shall be capable of
supporting operations for min. of _____
A.24 Hour
B. 12 Hour
C. 2 days
D. 4 days

Question 12
The Batteries shall be marked with the _____
A.Month/Year of Manufacture
B. Month/Year of Installation
C. Day/Year of Manufacture
D. Day/year of Installation

Question 13
The Fire alarm Storage batteries shall _____________
A. Be red in color
B. Be 12 VDC
C. Be either trickle of float charge
D. Not be monitored for integrity

Question 14
The Supervisory Signal shall take precedence over _____
A. Trouble Signal
B. Alarm Signal
C. Emergency mass notification signal
D. Pre- Alarm Signal.

Question 15
Testing Personnel shall have knowledge and experience accepted to
___
A. System Owner
B. The Monitoring and maintenance company
C. The NFPA
D. The AHJ

Question 16
The Secondary power supply for in building mass notification systems
shall be capable of operating the system for a minimum of ____ and
shall be capable of operating the system during emergency condition
for ___ at maximum connected load.
A. 24 hours/ 15 Min.
B. 24 Hours/ 5 Min.
C. 12 Hours/ 15 Min.
D. 12 Hours / 5 Min.

Question 17
A separate storage battery and separate automatic charger shall be
provided for starting the engine- driven generator and shall.
A. Not be used for any other purposes

B. Not be used for any other purpose other than to provide backup
power to the fire alarm system serving the same building
C. Not be used for any other purpose other than emergency lighting.
D. Not be used for any other purpose other than emergency evacuation
signals.

Question 18
Fire Alarm Cables are permitted to be strapped to conduit to support
the cable
A. True
B. False
C. Only when the cable is within a dropped ceiling
D. Only if the conduit is at least 1 inches.

Question 19
Where non power limited wiring is installed exposed, it must be
mechanically protected within ___ of the finished floor.
A. 7 feet
B. 8 Feet
C. 9 Feet
D. None of the above.

Question 20
The Fire alarm Circuit disconnects shall be permitted to be secured in
the ____ position
A. On
B. Off
C. Middle
D. Down

Question 21
When installing the fire alarm cables, which of the following methods
of support is acceptable ?
A. Strap the cable to a nearby conduit

B. Tape the cable to conduit
C. Attach the cable to conduit

Question 22
Single PLFA Conductor shall not be smaller than ____ AWG
A. 22
B. 20
C. 18
D. 14

Question 23
NPFLA circuit overcurrent protection shall not exceed ___ ampere for
18 AWG conductors and ___ amperes for 16 AWG
A. 7,9
B. 5,10
C. 7,10
D. 15,20

Question 24
FPLP type cable used for fire alarm systems are permitted to be
substituted by ______ type cables.
A. FPL
B. FPLR
C. CMR
D. CMP

Question 25
PLFA conductors shall be solid or stranded
A. Aluminum
B. Copper
C. Copper or Aluminum
D. 14 AWG

Question 26
PLFA cables shall have a voltage rating of not less than
A. 120 V
B. 240 V
C. 300 V
D. 600 V

Question 27
NPFLA circuit conductors shall be rated for _____
A. 120 V
B. 240 V
C. 300 V
D. 600 V

Question 28
PLFA cables shall be permitted to be installed together with class 1,
NPFLA and medium power network powered broadband
communication circuits where _______________________
A. The cables are separated by a barrier

B. The cables are labelled with at least 600 V
C. The cables are the fire alarm system use only

Question 29
NPFLA circuit conductors shall not be smaller than _______
A. 12 AWG
B. 14 AWG
C. 16 AWG
D. 18 AWG

Question 30
Fire alarm cables installed in ducts used for environmental air shall be
type ______
A. FPLP
B. FPLR
C. NPFLR
D. FPL

Question 31
Transformers or other devices on the supply side of the PLFA power
sources shall be protected by an overcurrent devices rated at no more
than ____ amperes.
A. 5
B. 10
C. 20
D. 30

Question 32
The Branch circuit supplying fire alarm equipment shall _____
A. Supply no other load

B. Be sized 12 AWG copper or aluminum
C. Be rated for 240 V

Question 33
Type FPL –CI is _______________________________
A. A fire alarm cable used for portable fire alarm systems only.
B. A fire alarm cables that can be installed in ducts and plenum
C. A fire alarm cable that has only 3 conductors
D. 2 Hours circuit integrity rated cables.

Question 34
The Power limited fire alarm cables installed from floor to floor
vertically shall be _____________
A. FPLR
B. FPL
C. NPLF
D. FPR

Question 35
Where optical fire cables are utilized for fire alarm circuits, the cables
shall be installed in accordance with __________
A. NEC article 770

B. NEC chapter 9
C. NEC article 760

Question 36
PLFA Cables shall be installed in metal raceways or rigid nonmetallic
conduit where passing through a floor or wall to a height of ____ above
the floor.
A. 5 feet
B. 6 feet
C. 7 feet
D. 8 feet

Question 37
The Accessible portion of abandoned fire alarm cables shall ______
A. Be painted another color than its original color

B. Be covered or contained in an approved manner
C. Be Removed
D. Not be removed.

Circuits and Pathways

Conductors :
This term normally refers to wire and cable that will allow the flow of
electrons, or "conduct" electricity
➢Stranded
➢Solid
➢Susceptible to transient voltages.

Fiber Optic :
Consist of a glass material that transmits amplified light from a transmitter

to a receiver
• Thinner and less expensive than copper

• Not affected by transient voltages
• Connections must be made by competent person

Wireless :
Wireless networks utilize radio waves and/or microwaves to maintain

communication channels between computers
➢Eliminates wire and cabling

➢Interfered by radio signals and weather
➢Not affected by transient voltages.

Pathway Class Designation
• Class A, B, C, D, E, & X
• Survivability

Class A
1.This will include a redundant signal path - If the path is interrupted, the system feeds both
ends of the paths so there are now two paths; the original outgoing path which is now cut
shorter, and the return path which is now being used as an outgoing path
2.If wires are used, a wire-to-wire short may shut down the whole path
3.Both conventional and addressable systems fit into this
4.Both the IDC (Initiating Device Circuit) and the NAC (Notification Appliance Circuit) fit into
this
5.The panel shows a trouble signal when there is a problem
Class B
1.There is no redundant path
2.Any device beyond a break won't work
3.If wires are used, a wire-to-wire short may shut down the whole path
4.Both conventional addressable systems fit into this
5.Both IDC and NAC fit into this
Class C
1.Uses Handshaking (equivalent to an I'm OK signal) to supervise the path
2.Can have more than one pathway
Examples: Signals from the fire panel to the monitoring company

1.The use of IP (Internet Protocol), whether it's local communications or over the Internet
2.The communicators over the telephone lines that are still in use
Class D
1.Fail-Safe operation - If there is a failure, the device that is controlled by the fire alarm system goes
into fire mode
2.No trouble shows on the panel
3.This is annoyance supervision - people get annoyed when things don't work right and they want
the system fixed
Example of a device going into fire mode when a wire breaks or a signal is lost:
4.The fire door closes
5.Emergency door locks release
6.The damper closes
7.The fans shut down
Class E
1.These pathways are not supervised at all
2.No trouble signal will be shown on the panel if the path fails
Class N
1. This is basically local Ethernet, Token Ring, or other network or IP infrastructure. Unless a single
device is connected, or the path is short (less than 20 feet) and really protected in something like
conduit, two pathways are used
1.These pathways are verified through end to end communication, like data handshaking
2.Loss of communication between end points on any path show a trouble signal on the panel
3.Problems with one pathway won't affect the other pathway
Class X
1.This will include a redundant signal path. Like Class A, if the path is interrupted, the system feeds
both ends of the circuit so there are two circuits, the original outgoing path which is now cut shorter,
and the return path which is now being used as an outgoing path
2.Devices on both sides of an open will continue to communicate with the panel
3.If wires are used, devices on both sides of a wire-to-wire short will continue to communicate with the
panel (basically the short has to be isolated on both sides of the short)
Class A Circuits
Class A Initiating Device Circuit
Class A Notification Appliance Circuit
(Single open circuit condition causes a trouble on the

panel; all devices on the loop remain operative.)
Class B Circuits
Class B Initiating
Device Circuit
3.9K
EOLR
Class B Notification
Appliance Circuit
3.9K
EOLR
(End of line supervision resistors are required to supervise the integrity

of the loop.)
Survivability
• The level of survivability required is dependent on the type of fire
alarm system being installed. A higher level of survivability applies to
systems used for relocation or partial evacuation of occupants.
• Levels of Survivability are 1 - 3, depending on if the wiring is within an
Evacuation Signaling Zone (ESZ) or not
• An ESZ is a discrete area of a building, bounded by smoke or fire
barriers in which occupants are intended to relocate or evacuate.
• Level 0 means no survivability is required (wiring within the ESZ)
• Level 1 - 3 indicate that attack by fire shall not impair the control and
operation of Notification Appliances outside the ESZ

Survivability
• The Key Concept behind Levels 1 -3 is the Fact that Metal Raceway only
protects wiring against Mechanical Damage, NOT Damage by Fire.
• Level 1, In buildings that are protected by an Automatic Sprinkler System
and who’s wiring is installed in Metal Raceways
• Level 2 can be accomplished by,
▪ A, 2-hour rated CI Wire OR
▪ B, 2-hour fire rated cable system OR
▪ C, 2-hour fire rated enclosure OR
▪ D, 2-hour performance alternative approved by the AHJ
• Level 3, a combination of Levels 1 & 2.

Survivability
• When attack by fire will affect signaling and control outside of the
ESZ, then pathway survivability Levels 2 - 3 are used (at the discretion
of the AHJ)
• When the wiring outside of the ESZ is necessary for the operation and
control of Notification Appliances until it enters the ESZ, Level 2 - 3
must be used
• CI rated Cables may be used where pathway survivability Level 2 - 3 is
required.
• CI Cables are not required for Levels 0 - 1.
• Follow NEC 760 and the AHJ’s guidance

DETECTORS INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS

Requirement for Smoke Detectors
Cl. 17.7.1.8- Smoke detectors shall not be installed where following
conditions exist.
a. Temperature is below 0 C.
b. Temperature is above 380 C.
c. Relative Humidity is above 93%. d. Air velocity is greater than 1.5
m/sec (300 ft./min).

Requirement for Smoke Detectors
Installation requirement for smoke Detectors
Detector location and spacing shall take into consideration the
following features.
a. Ceiling shape and surface.
b. Ceiling height.
c. Configuration of material content in the area.
d. Combustion characteristics of the fuel load in the area.
e. Compartment ventilation

Installation of SD on SMOOTH CEILING
1. Spot type detectors shall be placed on the ceiling.
2. Spot-type smoke detectors shall be located on the ceiling not less than 100 mm from a
sidewall to the near edge.
3. Detectors shall not be installed on sidewall as regular practice. Where whole areas are
covered by ceiling mounted detectors and corner areas are desired to be protected,
detectors shall be mounted on sidewalls at 300 mm down from the ceiling to the top
of the detector.
4. The distance between smoke detectors shall not exceed a nominal spacing (S) of 9 m.
5. There shall be detectors within a distance of one-half the nominal spacing, measured
at right angles from all walls or partitions extending upward in sloped ceilings or
towards center to within the top 15 percent of the ceiling height.
6. All points on the ceiling shall have a detector within a distance equal to or less than
0.7 times the nominal 9 m spacing, S. (0.7S)

Effect of PARTITIONS- Cl. 17.5.2
• What is the reason for the value of 15 percent when considering the
effect of partitions? 0.1H or 0.15H (10% to 15% of height)
The ceiling jet velocity varies with the distance from the ceiling, and the 10
percent depth criterion is the depth above which the majority of the flow occurs
H
During the time a fire alarm system should respond, the 10
percent ceiling jet thickness is generally valid.
The 10 percent number from the research was increased to 15

percent of the floor-to-ceiling height for the requirement.
Effect of PARTITIONS - Cl. 17.5.2
• What is the reason for the value of 15 percent when considering the
effect of partitions?

Requirement of Detectors under concealed
spaces

spaces

spaces

spaces

spaces
(1) Openings of the grid are 6.4mm or larger in the least
dimension.
(2) Thickness of the material does not exceed the least

dimension.
(3) Openings constitute at least 70 percent of the area of the

ceiling material.
Detectors shall not be required below open grid

Ceilings if all above condition exist


Blind Spot..?


Ceiling jet dynamics for corner fires
274
Example-1
A Room is having following Dimensions
Length = 30 ft.
Width = 30 ft.
Height = 10 ft.
Type of Ceiling = Smooth & flat
Selected detector = Spot type
Listed spacing = 30 ft. (from Manufacturer catalogue)
Determine Number of Detectors and draw showing location

Solution-1
What does NFPA 72 tells us about spacing and location under given
condition.
Cl. 17.6.3.1
1. The distance between detectors shall not exceed their listed
spacing, and there shall be detectors within a distance of one-half
the listed spacing, measured at right angles from all walls or
partitions extending upward to within the top 15 percent of the
ceiling height.
2. All points on the ceiling shall have a detector within a distance
equal to or less than 0.7 times the listed spacing (0.7S).
Solution-1 Listed Spacing = 30 ft.
Max. allowable distance from wall = 15ft. ( as per cl.17.6.3.1(1))
30ft.
𝐿𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ/𝑊𝑖𝑑𝑡ℎ
Number of Detector along length/Width = 𝑀𝑎𝑥. 𝐿𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑆𝑝𝑎𝑐𝑖𝑛𝑔
30
Number of Detector = 30
Number of Detectors = 1 (Along length)

Number of Detectors = 1 (Along Width)
30ft
Room Layout
For Compliance
1. Distance from wall should be half of listed spacing that

means 15 ft.
2. All point in the room should be within 0.7x listed spacing
distance that means 21 ft. ( 0.7 x 30 = 21 ft.)

Distance from wall are half of
Solution-1 listed spacing(Compliant)
30ft.
15 ft.
15 ft. 15 ft.
30ft
15 ft.
Example-2
Length = 50 ft.
Width = 50 ft.
Height = 10 ft.
Listed spacing = 30 ft. (from Manufacturer catalogue- Max.)

Solution-2 Listed Spacing = 30 ft.
Max. allowable distance from wall = 15ft. ( as per cl.17.6.3.1(1))
50ft.
𝐿𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ/𝑊𝑖𝑑𝑡ℎ
Number of Detector along length/Width = 𝑀𝑎𝑥. 𝐿𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑆𝑝𝑎𝑐𝑖𝑛𝑔
50
Number of Detector = 30
Number of Detectors = 2 (Along Length)

Number of Detectors = 2 (Along Width)
50ft
Room Layout
For Compliance
1. Distance from wall should be half of listed spacing that

means 15 ft.
2. All point in the room should be within 0.7x listed spacing
distance that means 21 ft. ( 0.7 x 30 = 21 ft.)

Solution-2 Distance from wall are half of
listed spacing(Compliant)
50ft.
15 ft.
15 ft.
20ft.
15 ft. 15 ft.
20ft.
50ft
20ft.
Within 0.7x Spacing
15 ft. 20ft. 15 ft.
15 ft.
15 ft.
Distance between the detector is
less than max. listed
spacing(Compliant) NFPA 72 Training- Mehboob Shaikh(CFPS, CFI, AMIE) 281
Example-3
Length = 30 ft.
Width = 30 ft.
Height = 10 ft.
Height of Partition = 9 ft.
Listed spacing = 30 ft. (from Manufacturer catalogue- Max.)

Example-4
Length = 200 ft.
Width = 150 ft.
Height = 8 ft.
Listed spacing = 50 ft.
Draw the location of the detectors on plan and show the dimensions
between the detectors and to the wall.

Example-5
Length = 227 ft.
Width = 166 ft.
Height = 8 ft.
Space the detectors for this room and draw the detector layout.

Installation of SD on JOIST & BEAM CEILING

For ceilings with beam pockets formed by intersecting beams including

waffle or pan type ceilings, of depths of equal to/more than 10% of ceiling
height or ceilings with beam depths equal to or greater than 10% of the
ceiling height (0.1 H), the following shall apply:
a. Where beam spacing is equal to or greater than 40 percent of the ceiling
height (0.4 H), spot-type detectors shall be located on the ceiling in each
beam pocket.
b. Where beam spacing is less than 40 percent of the ceiling height (0.4 H),
the
following shall be permitted for spot detectors:
1. Smooth ceiling spacing in the direction parallel to the beams and at one-
half smooth ceiling spacing in the direction perpendicular to the beams.
2. Location of detectors either on the ceiling or on the bottom of the beams.
1. Solid joists shall be considered equivalent to beams for smoke

detector spacing guidelines.
2. For ceilings with beam pockets formed by intersecting beams
including waffle or pan type ceilings, of depths of less than 10% of
ceiling or ceilings with beam depths of less than 10% of the ceiling
height (0.1 H), smooth ceiling spacing shall be permitted.
3. Spot-type smoke detectors shall be permitted to be located on
ceilings or on the bottom of beams.

For corridors 4.6 m in width or less having ceiling beams or solid joists
perpendicular to the corridor length, the following shall apply:
a. Smooth ceiling spacing shall be permitted.
b. Location of spot-type smoke detectors on ceilings, sidewalls, or the
bottom of beams or solid joists.
For rooms of 84 m2 or less, the following shall be permitted:
a. Use of smooth ceiling spacing
b. Location of spot-type smoke detectors on ceilings or on the bottom
of beams

Ceiling depth is more than 10% of the
height of the ceiling from floor




Installation of SD on SLOPED PEAKED CEILING
• What is RISE AND RUN IN SLOPE CEILING…?
293
Installation of SD on SLOPED PEAKED CEILING
Spacing is measured along the floor, not along the slope
Sectional view of a peaked ceiling; a detector must be placed within 3 feet (900 mm) of the roof peak 294
Color Coding of Heat Detectors

Installation of HD on SMOOOTH CEILING CONSTRUCTION

Installation of HD on IRREGULAR AREAS
For irregularly shaped areas, the spacing between detectors shall be

permitted to be greater than the listed spacing, provided that the maximum
spacing from a detector to the farthest point of a sidewall or corner within
its zone of protection is not greater than 0.7 times
NFPA 72the listed
Training- spacing.
Mehboob Shaikh(CFPS, CFI, AMIE) 297
Example-1
A space that has a dimension of 10 feet wide and 150 long with a
ceiling 10 feet or less with listed spacing of 30 ft.
Determine location and number of detectors.
10 ft.
150 ft.

Example-1
Allowable Spacing.
Width of the space(how narrow given space is)
For 10’ width spacing

shall not increase more
than 41.2’
There are different dimensions on the curve that
start with the standard spacing of 30-foot by 30-
foot and works its way down to the 42.4
dimension for very narrow spaces

Example-1
As we know that, as per cl.17.6.3.1.2 ( irregular spaces) ; Max. Spacing
from the detector to the farthest point of a sidewall or corner within its
zone of protection is not greater than 0.7 time the listed spacing.
I.e. Detector should be within 0.7 x 30 = 21 ft. from every corner,
Lets check,
5ft.
We need to find this NFPA 72 Training- Mehboob Shaikh(CFPS, CFI, AMIE) 300
Example-1
Applying pythagoras theorem;
(21)^2 = (X)^2 +(5)^2
(21)^2 – (5)^2 = (X)^2
X = 20.39 ft.
5ft.
We need to find this NFPA 72 Training- Mehboob Shaikh(CFPS, CFI, AMIE) 301
Example-1
A space that has a dimension of 10 feet wide and 150 long with a
ceiling 10 feet or less with listed spacing of 30 ft.
Determine location and number of detectors.
10 ft.
20.39 ft. 36.4 ft. 36.4 ft. 36.4 ft. 20.39 ft.
150 ft.
Spacing between the Detectors within in the

max. spacing limit as per 30 ft. Detector curve.

Installation of HD on BEAM CONSTRUCTION
1. A ceiling shall be treated as a smooth ceiling if the beams project no

more than 100 mm below the ceiling.
2. Where the beams project more than 100 mm below the ceiling, the
spacing of spot-type heat detectors at right angles to the direction of
beam travel shall be not more than two-thirds of the listed spacing (S).
3. Where the beams project more than 460 mm below the ceiling and are
more than 2.4 m on center, each bay formed by the beams shall be
treated as a separate pocket area.
4. Where beams are less than 300 mm in depth and less than 2.4 m on
center, detectors shall be permitted to be installed on the bottom of
beams

Example-1
30ft.
1. Beams project 6 inches from the ceiling.
2. Beam spacing is 6-foot centers.
3. Ceiling height is 10 feet or less and
ceiling is level.
4. Listed spacing = 30 ft. 6ft. 6ft. 6ft. 6ft.
30ft
Determine location and permissible
spacing for the detectors.

Example-1
30ft.
As beam projects more than 4 inch. So
Spacing at right angle to beam travel = (2/3rd)66% x listed spacing

Spacing at right angle to beam travel = 0.66 x 30 = 19.8 ft./2 = 9.9ft.
Spacing from the wall = 50% x Listed Spacing 6ft. 6ft. 6ft. 6ft.
30ft
Spacing from the wall = 50% x 30
Spacing from the wall = 15 ft.

Example-1
Detectors on the beam
30ft.

15ft
30ft
9ft. 12ft 9ft.
.
Within 2/3rd of listed spacing in

right angle to beam - Compliant

Example-1
Detectors in the beam Pocket
30ft.

15ft
30ft
6ft. 18ft 6ft.
.
Within 2/3rd of listed spacing in

right angle to beam - Compliant

Example-2
1. Beams project 20 inches from the ceiling.

2. Beam spacing is 15-foot centers.
3. Ceiling height is 10 feet or less and ceiling is level.
4. Listed spacing = 30 ft.
Determine location and permissible spacing for the detectors.

Example-2
As Beam depth is more than 460 mm and 2.4
meter in center each bay formed by the
beams shall be treated as a separate pocket
area.
75ft.
15ft.
40 ft.
15ft. 15ft. 15ft.
1 2 3 4 5 6

Example-2
Distance is within listed spacing of 30 ft.
7.5 ft. 75ft.
15ft.
40 ft.
15ft. 15ft. 15ft.

25 ft.
25 ft.
7.5 ft.
7.5 ft.
Distance is within 2/3rd of listed spacing NFPA 72 Training- Mehboob Shaikh(CFPS, CFI, AMIE) 310
Example -3
Length = 200 ft.
Width = 166 ft.
Height = 10 ft. 6 inch = 10.5’
Type of Ceiling = Beam Construction
Depth of beams = 30 Inch. = 2.5’
Width between the beam = 39 Inch = 3.25’
Selected detector = Spot type heat detector
Determine location and permissible spacing for the detectors.

Example -4
Length = 30 ft.
Width = 30 ft.
Height = 10 ft
Type of Ceiling = Joist Construction
Width between the Joist = 36 inch.
Distance between wall and center of joist = 18 inch.
Selected detector = Spot type heat detector
Determine location and permissible spacing for the detectors

Installation of HD on HIGH CEILING

Question 38
What is the color code requirement for a spot type heat detector at
200 degrees Fahrenheit ?
A. White
B. Blue
C. Red
D. Green

Question 39
Under which of the following Conditions shall spot type of smoke
detectors not be installed
A. When the temperature is above 50 F

B. When the relative humidity is 90%
C. When the temperature is above 100 F
D. When the relative humidity is below 93%

Question 40
Heat detectors should be selected to operate at least ____ degrees F
above the maximum expected ambient temperature at the ceiling of
the protected space.
A. 10 F
B. 15 F
C. 20 F
D. 25 F

Question 41
The handle of a manual pull station initiating device shall be mounted
not less than ____ in and not more than ____ in from the finished floor.
A. 40/48
B. 42/46
C. 40/46
D. 42/48

Question 42
Manual fire alarm boxes shall be _____ in color.
A. Red
B. Green
C. Blue
D. Black

Question 42
Heat Detector with the listed spacing of 50 feet will be installed. What
spacing shall be used for a 20 foot ceiling that is smooth and flat ?
A. 29 feet
B. 32 feet
C. 35.2 feet
D. 40 feet

Question 43
Manual fire alarm boxes shall be located within ____ of the exit
doorway
A. 4 feet
B. 4 feet, on the outside of the doorway
C. 5 feet
D. 5 feet, on the inside of the doorway

Question 44
When the heat detectors are installed on a peaked ceiling, a row of
detectors shall be located within ___ of the peak of the ceiling.
A. 3 feet
B. 4 feet
C. 5 feet
D. 6 feet

Question 45
What is the temperature classification of a heat detector that is red in
color
A. Ordinary
B. Intermediate
C. High
D. Extra High

Question 46
The maximum travel distance to the nearest manual fire alarm box shall
bot exceed ____ measured horizontally on the same floor.
A. 200 feet
B. 300 feet
C. 350 feet
D. 400 feet

Question 47
According to NFPA 72, what is the maximum allowable spacing for a
spot type of heat detector that is listed for 50 foot spacing if it is to be
installed on a 25 foot ceiling that is smooth and flat ?
A. 50 feet
B. 33 feet
C. 26 feet
D. 23 feet

Question 48
Under what condition are the heat detector permitted to be installed
on the bottom of beams ?
A. Where beams are less than 12 in. in depth and less than 6 feet on
center
B. Where beams are less than 12 in. in depth and less than 8 feet on
center
C. Where beams are less than 12 in. in depth and less than 10 feet on
center
D. Under no condition.

Question 48
Smoke detectors shall not be installed if ______
A. The Temperature is below 40 F

B. The Temperature is above 100 F
C. The Relative humidity is above 85 F

Question 49
Where a spot type of detector is installed during construction, it shall
_______
A. Not be operational, and protected from construction debris, dust,

dirt and damage.
B. Be operational, and protected from construction debris and damage
C. Be cleaned after construction is completed
D. You cannot install a smoke detector till after construction has
finished.

Question 50
Sampling system piping shall be conspicuously indentified as “ Smoke
detector sampling tube – Do not disturb” at interval on piping that
provide visibility within the space
A. The length of the sampling system piping

B. 15 feet
C. 20 feet
D. 30 feet

Question 51
According to NFPA 72, line type heat detectors shall be located on the
ceiling or on the sidewall not more than ____
A. 20 inches from ceiling

B. 20 inches from the sidewall
C. 20 inches from the ceiling
D. 30 inches from the sidewall.

Question 52
A pressure supervisory signal initiating device for a dry pipe sprinkler
system shall indicate _____
A. Both high and low pressure conditions

B. On and off condition
C. A Low Pressure condition
D. A High Pressure condition.

Installation of AUDIBLE NOTIFICATION APPLIANCES
Public Mode Audible Requirement
• A sound level at least 15 dB above the average ambient sound level or

5 dB above the maximum sound level having a duration of at least 60
seconds, whichever is greater, measured 5 ft (1.5 m) above the floor
in the area required to be served by the system using the A-weighted
scale (dBA).

Private Mode Audible Requirement
• A sound level at least 10 dB above the average ambient sound level or

5 dB above the maximum sound level having a duration of at least 60
seconds, whichever is greater, measured 5 ft (1.5 m) above the floor
in the area required to be served by the system using the A-weighted
scale (dBA).

Sleeping area Requirement

Intelligibility Requirement

Installation of VISUAL NOTIFICATION APPLIANCES

Installation of VISUAL NOTIFICATION APPLIANCES

Need of Fault Isolation in Fire
Alarm System
FIRE DISTROYS INSULATION ON WIRES
SHORT CIRCUIT DESTROYES DELIVERY OF POWER

OR DATA
NFPA 72, CHAPTER 23, 23.6.1
23.6.1 : SLC Zones : A single fault on a pathway connected to the addressable devices shall not cause the loss
of the devices in more than one zone.
23.6.1.1 -Each floor of the building shall be considered a separate zone.

23.6.1.2 - If a floor of the building is subdivided into multiple zones by fire or smoke barriers and the fire plan
for the protected premises allows relocation of occupants from the zone of origin to another zone on the same
floor, each zone on the floor shall be considered a separate zone.
A single zone could be designated in the following ways:
(1) By floor where an SLC would not span multiple floors

(2) By floor area, where a large floor would be split into multiple zones based on a maximum floor
area size (e.g., 22,500 ft2 )
(3) By re barrier or smoke barrier compartment boundaries, which an SLC would not cross
(4) By maximum length or circuit, where an SLC would not be longer than a predetermined length
(e.g., 300 ft)
Need of Fault Isolation in Fire
Zone-1
Alarm Zone-3
ISOLATOR
Short Circuit
Zone-2
ISOLATOR
SECTION – 03
INSPECTION, TESTING AND
MAINTENANCE

Lusser Product Law
• According to the Lusser product law, as the number of components
increases, the reliability of each individual component has to be
improved commensurately to maintain the reliability of the overall
system.
PT = P1 × P2 × P3 × · · · × P
PT = Probability of successful operation for the system, or reliability

Pn = Probability of successful operation of the nth component
n = The number of constituent components

Lusser Product Law
• The probability of successful operation of a system is not directly
computable. It is computed from failure rate data for each of the
constituent components of that system. Failure rate, that is, the
probability of failure, is related to the probability of successful
operation by :
ΛT = 1 – PT
where
ΛT = Failure rate of the total system
PT = Probability of successful operation for the system, or reliability

Failure Rate
Defined As :
• Rate of Occurrence of failure

• Number of failure specified time period
Units :
• Failure per million hours (f/moh)
• Failure per billion hours ( f/boh)

Failure Rate

Failure Rate – MIL- HDBK-217
Since the failure rate is essentially constant

over the statistical failure rate region of the
bathtub curve, the failure rate of any electronic
component and, hence, any electronic system
assembled from electronic components can be
derived from the failure rate data established in
Military Handbook:
Reliability Prediction of Electronic Equipment.

Influences to Reliability
Production
maturity
Design & Storage
Construction Condition
Material Transport
Condition Condition
ELECTRONIC
COMPONENT
Operating Production
Condition maturity
Electrical Mechanical
Stresses Stress
Climate
Environment

RELIABILITY CALCULATIONS
• Once the inherent failure rate has been computed, the reliability of
the system can be calculated:
R = e^ (–Λt)
where
R = Reliability of the system
e = Napierian logarithm base, 2.71828
Λ = Inherent failure rate of the system
t = Time period for which reliability has been computed

RELIABILITY CALCULATIONS
• Assuming maintenance restores the entire system to complete
operability, the required maintenance interval is computed from
tR = ln RR /(–Λ)
where
ln RR = Napierian log of the required reliability, RR
Λ = Inherent failure rate of the system
tR = Required maintenance interval to achieve the required reliability
The mathematical relations shown give the engineer the ability to calculate a recommended
maintenance interval on a totally new product

EXAMPLE
DESIGN OBJECTIVE : To alert the occupants of a fire, enabling them to make
safe egress from the facility, with a reliability of 90 percent (0.9).

EXAMPLE
System Components Quantity(q) Failure Rate Total Failure rate

(λ) (f/mdoh) (qxλx) (f/moh)
Smoke detectors 10 1 10
Horn/strobe 1 2.5 2.5
Control panel 1 25 25
Screw terminals 49 0.10 4.9
Wire segments 25 0.05 1.25
Inherent failure rate, Λ 43.65

EXAMPLE
• Lets Convert Inherent failure rate from failure per million operating hours to failure per
year.
• 43.65 f/moh = 0.00004365 failures per hour (f/h)
• Λ = 0.3824 failures per year
Using the required interval equation.

tR = ln RR /(–Λ)
where
ln RR = ln 0.90 = –0.11
Λ = 0.3824
tR = –0.11/–0.3824
tR = 0.288 yr

EXAMPLE - CONCLUSION
This indicates that this system, with the component failure rates used,
will require a complete inspection, test, and maintenance routine every
0.288 years in order to maintain at least a 90 percent reliability in
achieving its design objectives.

INSPECTION, TESTING & MAINTENANCE

ASSURE VS ENSURE

Manufacturer Published Requirement
Vs
Code Requirements
Written Contract
Inspection, testing, or maintenance shall be permitted to be done be a
person or organization other than the owner if conducted under a
written contract.

Basics
Inspecting: Performed Annually & Semiannually;
visual test.
Testing: Performed Annually; functional testing.
• Annual: Every 12 months

• Semiannual: Every 6 months
Fire Alarm System- Inspection
14.3 – Inspections
• Inspection = A “visual” check of the system
• Frequencies are as stated in Table 14.3.1

Fire Alarm System- Inspection
14.3 – Inspections
• Inspections are permitted to be scheduled around scheduled shut
downs if approved by the AHJ
• Intervals may be extended up to 18 months

Fire Alarm System- Testing
14.4 – Testing
• Testing = A “functional” check of the system

14.4 – Testing
• Frequencies as stated in Table 14.4.3.2

14.4 – Testing
• 14.4.3.2 – Initial Acceptance Testing
• New systems shall be inspected and tested
• The AHJ shall be notified prior to initial acceptance testing

14.4 – Testing
• 14.4.3.2 – Re-acceptance Testing
• 14.4.1.2 – Reacceptance Testing
• When an initiating device, notification appliance or control relay is
added – functional test required
• When an initiating device, notification appliance or control relay is
removed – functional test required on another device, appliance or
relay on the circuit

• 14.4.4.3 - Smoke detector sensitivity testing
• Within 1 year after installation
• Then check every other year; except…
• After the second test if the detector is within its listed sensitivity
range the frequency can be extended to 5 years

Smoke detector sensitivity testing methods
✓Calibrated test method
✓Manufacturer’s calibrated sensitivity test equipment
✓Listed control equipment that can perform sensitivity testing
✓Listed control equipment that warn of a detector outside of its listed
range

14.4.5. - Restorable fixed-temp heat detectors
• 2 or more detectors shall be tested per initiating circuit

• Different detectors shall be tested each year (records must be kept)
• All detectors need to be tested within 5 years

Non-restorable fixed-temp heat detectors

• First test occurs at 15 years
• Test 2 detectors per 100 at lab
• Replace those detectors with new detectors
• If the test detectors pass, repeat the process in 5 years
• If the test detectors fail, test additional detectors
• Test circuit mechanically and electrically

14.4.11 – Voice Intelligibility testing
1) Subject Based- Use of human subjects to assess how speech will be

understood and simulate what it may sound like during a real event.
2) Quantitative- Use of an instrument or tool that will provide speech
intelligibility score

1) Subject Based- Subject-based test methods can gauge how much of

the spoken information is correctly understood by a person or a group
of individuals. Results of speech intelligibility are usually described as
predictions but documented as measurements

• 2) Quantitative Method : Speech Transmission Index (STI) and Speech

Transmission Index for Public Address (STIPA), which is a modified
version of STI, is special audio signal played over the emergency
communications systems being tested and is the most commonly
used.
• Instruments used to measure STI or STIPA use a special protocol
consisting of signals in seven octave bands.

Testing Method : When and Where
Intelligibility is important everywhere but is not always achievable in

every location.
It is important to assess every area and discuss with your AHJ which
areas will or will not be required to meet intelligibility.

Testing Method : How
• Using Microphone with a live messages

• Using Prerecorded message

The recommended method is using a pre-recorded message played
through the speaker system via the panel or amplifier.
• The intelligibility measurements should be taken where a person
would typically be, and the measurement should be taken where they
do their normal activities. For example, in an office environment the
measurement should be taken by the desk area. If it is a sleeping room, then the
test measurement should be taken near the pillow.
• Measurements should not be made near the floor, ceiling, or corners
of a room because it’s unlikely a person would position themselves
there.

Calibrating Signal Source.
This will require the use of the STI or STIPA test signals played into the
microphone using the talk box. The talk box should be calibrated per
manufacturer’s instructions before calibrating the signal source and be
set up per the manufacturers’ recommendation.

Acceptable Criteria
Completely intelligible
Not intelligible at all and clear message375
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FIRE ALARM SYSTEM

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

NFPA 72 Training- Mehboob Shaikh(CFPS, CFI, AMIE) 5

NFPA 72 Training- Mehboob Shaikh(CFPS, CFI, AMIE) 6

NFPA 72 Training- Mehboob Shaikh(CFPS, CFI, AMIE) 7

NFPA 72 Training- Mehboob Shaikh(CFPS, CFI, AMIE) 8

Annexure-B Engineering Guide

Annexure-C System Performance and Design Guide

Annexure-D Speech Intelligibility

Annexure-E Sample Ordinance

Wiring Diagram & Guide for testing fire alarm

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

What Exactly this listing means ?

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

1. They must be useful to the end of

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

FM Approvals • Automatic and ESFR fire sprinklers

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

Southwest Research Institute • Plastic pipe for fire protection service

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

Detection Control Notification

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

Controls for the system are located in the FACU The

• Providing two-way firefighter communication

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

Used two-wire circuits to establish

Depending on the arrangement of

The four-wire systems provided a higher level

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

It is commonly referred to as addressable technology,

Addressable/intelligent technology is very versatile, able

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

A Warning of Fire Danger :

A signal initiated by a fire

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

A Warning of Sprinkler or other

An initiating device such as a valve

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

A warning of fire alarm system

A signal initiated by the fire alarm

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING

A indication the system has a

A signal initiated by the fire alarm

NFPA 72 FIRE ALARM TRAINING