Fire Alarm

Fire Alarm
Acceptance Testing
& On-Going Maintenance
with The Joint Comm.
Standards / Reporting
Prepared Especially for :
OSFM TEC 2016
Acceptance Testing 11-2008

Agenda
Before you begin

Completing the Acceptance Test
Documentation
Set the stage for on-going, trouble free service
Acceptance Testing 2008

Before you Begin
Ensure that an approved/reviewed set of

drawings are available
Compare the approved set to the Installer’s as-
built set
Contemplate any deviations
– Field modifications should be justified by the installer
and/or designer
Ask for a completed test & inspect document
– The AHJ should not be the first one to test the system
Verify UL Central Station Services are provided

Pre-Test Documentation
4.5.1.2 Before requesting final approval of the installation,
if required by the authority having jurisdiction, the
installing contractor shall furnish a written statement
stating that the system has been installed in accordance
with approved plans and tested in accordance with the
manufacturer’s published instructions and the appropriate
NFPA requirements.
4.5.1.3* The record of completion form, Figure 4.5.2.1,
shall be permitted to be a part of the written statement
required in 4.5.1.2. When more than one contractor has
been responsible for the installation, each contractor shall
complete the portions of the form for which that contractor
had responsibility.

Qualified Personnel
4.3.1 Equipment
– Listed for the purpose
4.3.2 System Designer
– Experienced in the proper design, application,
installation and testing of fire alarm systems
Factory Trained & Certified
Certified by Nationally Recognized Organization (NICET)
Registered, licensed or certified by the State or AHJ
4.3.3 System Installer
– Qualified or supervised by persons who are
Same as Designer

Qualified Personnel
A.10.2.2.5 Service Personnel should be able to do the
following:
1. Understand the requirements contained in the National Fire
Alarm Code and the fire alarm requirements contained in the
National Electrical Code.
2. Understand basic job site safety laws and requirements.
3. Apply troubleshooting techniques, and determine the cause of
fire alarm system trouble conditions.
4. Understand equipment specific requirements, such as
programming, application, and compatibility.
5. Read and interpret fire alarm system design documentation
and manufacturer’s inspection, testing, and maintenance
guidelines.
6. Properly use tools and test equipment required for testing and
maintenance of fire alarm systems and their components.
7. Properly apply the test methods required by the National Fire
Alarm Code.

Qualified Personnel
10.2.2.5.1 Service personnel shall be qualified and

experienced in the inspection, testing, and maintenance of
the fire alarm systems. Qualified personnel shall include,
but not be limited to, one or more of the following.
1. *Personnel who are factory trained and certified for fire alarm
system service of the specific type and brand of system.
2. *Personnel who are certified by a nationally recognized fire
alarm certification organization acceptable to the authority of
having jurisdiction.
3. *Personnel who are registered, licensed, or certified by a
state or local authority.
4. Personnel who are employed and qualified by an organization
listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory for the
servicing of fire alarm systems.

Qualified
Personnel

Qualified
Monitoring
Company

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS
The system installer and a qualified representatives of all

trades involved will perform this acceptance test and log the
test results on “NFPA Inspection and Testing Form” or other
document required by the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ)
The system installer is responsible for ensuring that the testing
does not damage equipment
– In larger systems, cycling mechanical systems over-and-over may
significantly reduce the lifespan of the equipment
All failures or discrepancies revealed during testing, as well as
any deviation from NFPA 72, must be entered as a note on
NFPA Test Form
Confirm that an input/output matrix for the system is available
Ensure that Central Station Services and Test & Inspect
Contracts are in Place

A.10.2.6.1 As an example, testing of the elevator fire
service and shutdown functions will usually require a
coordinated multi-discipline effort with presence of qualified
service personnel for the fire alarm system, the elevator
system, and other building systems. The presence of
inspection authorities might also be needed in some
jurisdictions. The development of a test plan should be
considered to ensure that the testing of these features is
accomplished in a coordinated and timely manner. This plan
should also ensure that all appropriate parties alarm
system and the elevator system are fulfilled. See 6.16.3
and 6.16.4 for specific elevator fire safety functions.

OFF-SITE MONITORING
If the system is connected to an off-site monitoring

service (Central Station, remote supervising station or
municipal alarm system) the monitoring service must be
alerted and then disabled prior to testing
Disabling the off-site monitoring will create a trouble
condition in the system
The off-site monitoring service needs to be made aware
of who is testing the system, approximately how long the
test will take and the names of people authorized to
report a real fire during the test (this should be a
customer representative)

OCCUPANT NOTIFICATION
Verify that all personnel in the building have been

notified that the fire alarm system is going to be
tested

10.2.3.1 Before proceeding with any testing, all
persons and facilities receiving alarm,
supervisory, or trouble signals and all building
occupants shall be notified of the testing to
prevent unnecessary response.

INSTALLATION CHECKS
Complete the following, and record the results on the

testing documentation form.
– Confirm that the main system power supply (i.e. electrical-
distribution panel breaker) is clearly marked FIRE ALARM
CIRCUIT
– Confirm that the power supply is locked on or accessible
only to authorized personnel. Confirm that the location of
the circuit disconnecting means is permanently identified at
the fire alarm control panel (FACP)

INSTALLATION CHECKS
4.4.1.4.1 Dedicated Branch Circuit. A dedicated branch
circuit of one of the following shall supply primary power
(usually commercial light and power)
4.4.1.4.2 Mechanical Protection.
– 4.4.1.4.2.1 The dedicated branch circuit(s) and connections
shall be mechanically protected.
– 4.4.1.4.2.2 Circuit disconnecting means shall have a red
marking, shall be accessible only to authorized personnel, and
shall be identified as ‘‘FIRE ALARM CIRCUIT.’’
– 4.4.1.4.2.3 The location of the circuit disconnecting means
shall be permanently identified at the fire alarm control unit.
4.4.1.7.2 The location of any remotely located power
supply shall be identified at the master control unit as well
as on the record drawings. Identification on the control unit
display shall be acceptable

INSTALLATION CHECKS
Complete the following, and record the results on the

testing documentation form (continued)
– Confirm that the system control panel is properly grounded
with a minimum 12 AWG conductor
– Verify that all fuses are installed in all fire alarm modules
and are proper rating
– Confirm that conduit entry and wiring, including non-power
limited, conforms with panel requirements and also that
wiring is properly spaced

SYSTEM POWER SUPPLY TESTING
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
If there is no battery standby

– confirm that the main power supply is provided by a
dedicated branch of an emergency system in
accordance with the National Electric Code, Articles
700, 701, or 702
– Confirm with the electrical contractor that the
jurisdiction’s electrical inspector has approved the
emergency system installation
With the AC power applied
– confirm that the power-on indicator is illuminated

AC POWER FAIL VERIFICATION
With batteries connected, disconnect the main power
supply to the FACP and verify
– FACP trouble tone sounds
– FACP system trouble indicator illuminates
– If available, the FACP alphanumeric display indicates the
type of trouble
– FACP power-on indicator is off
Acknowledge the system trouble to silence the audible
trouble signal
Verify the visible system trouble indicator is illuminated
Restore the main power supply to the FACP and verify
– System trouble indicator is off
– Power-on indicator illuminates

VERIFICATION OF RE-SOUND AND
SIGNAL SILENCE
This test should be performed once at the control panel
or each area on selective signaling systems. Consult the
input/output matrix to determine specific notification
appliance circuit operation
Initiate an alarm and verify
– FACP tone device sounds
– Notification appliance operate in designated areas
– Associated alarm indicator flashes on
Operate the alarm silence switch and, if applicable,
acknowledge switch and verify
– FACP tone device silences
– Notification appliances cease operation
– Associated alarm indicator illuminates steadily

VERIFICATION OF RE-SOUND AND
SIGNAL SILENCE
(Continued)
Activate a second initiating device and verify

– FACP tone device sounds
– Audible notification appliances re-sound is designated areas.
Associated alarm indicator flashes on
Operate the alarm silence switch and, if applicable,
acknowledge switch and verify
– FACP: tone device silences
– Notification appliances cease operation
– Associated alarm indicator illuminates steadily
Restore the initiating devices to normal, reset the FACP and
verify that the system has returned to normal

BATTERY FAIL VERIFICATION
Remove harness from all system battery terminals and
verify
– FACP tone sounds within 200 seconds
– FACP system trouble indicator illuminates
– If applicable, FACP alphanumeric display indicates a
battery failure
Acknowledge the system trouble indicator to silence
audible trouble signal, and verify that the system
trouble indicator is illuminated
– Reconnect the battery harness and verify
FACP system trouble indicator if off.
FACP power trouble indicator is off.
If applicable, FACP alphanumeric display reads System
Normal

TESTING THAT CIRCUITS ARE
PROPERLY MONITORED FOR INTEGRITY
(ELECTRICALLY SUPERVISED)
Jumper each side of every initiation-device circuit, signaling

line circuit and initiating-device circuit to ground individually
– Confirm that a trouble condition is reported to the FACP each
time a circuit is connected to ground
Ten percent of the smoke detectors on every initiating-
device circuit and signaling line circuit should be removed
from their bases, one at a time
– Confirm that a trouble condition is reported to the FACP with
each devise removed
– Reinstall a device before removing the next one
– Document which detectors have been removed from their base.

TESTING THAT CIRCUITS ARE
PROPERLY MONITORED FOR INTEGRITY
(ELECTRICALLY SUPERVISED)
Break one connection on 10% of the initiating devices

(manual pull boxes, heat detectors, sprinklers flow switches,
valve supervisory switches, spot smoke detectors, duct
smoke detectors) and one connection on 10% of the devices
on signaling line circuits (It should be noted that spot smoke
detectors, in most cases, can be removed from their base
for trouble testing)
– Confirm that a trouble condition is reported to the FACP
– Remake each connection before opening the next connection
Remove one connection on 10% of the appliances on each
notification-appliance circuit
– Confirm that a trouble condition is reported to the FACP
– Remake each connection before opening the next connection.
– Document which appliance have had their circuit opened

FUNCTIONAL TESTING OF
INITIATING DEVICES
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS
The following tests require the use of building floor plans
showing all initiating devices, notification appliances, fire
zones and control relays
Proper annunciation (labeling) must be verified for every
initiating device
Using the input/output matrix, confirm that each activated
initiating devise operates the correct notification appliances
and any other controlled equipment
Record the results of the following tests on acceptable
device documentation
Every initiating device on the system must be actuated

INITIATING DEVICES
MANUAL FIRE ALARM BOXES (PULL STATIONS)

– Confirm that each fire alarm box is unobstructed, readily
accessible, located in the normal path of egress and that
the installed height of each fire alarm box meets
applicable requirement (NFPA or ADA)
– Activate each manual box by physically operating the
device. Opening the fire alarm box with a key is not an
acceptable test method

INITIATING DEVICES
SPOT SMOKE DETECTORS
– Visually confirm proper application and location of every
detector
– Document any misapplication
Should not be installed in dead air spaces, or in close proximity to
air diffusers
Should not be installed on ceilings closer than 4 inches to a wall
Sidewall-mounted detectors should be installed between 4 inches
and 12 inches from the ceiling
Should not be installed closer than 3 feet to an air diffuser or return-
air opening
Should not be installed near ceiling fans
Should not be installed in kitchens, furnace rooms, incinerator
rooms, above ashtrays in elevator lobbies or in location where “non-
hostile: smoke can normally be expected

INITIATING DEVICES
(Spot smoke detectors - Continued)
– Confirm that there is a smoke detector installed within

21 feet of the FACP, if the FACP area is not continuously
occupied
Not required if fully sprinkled under 2007 NFPA
– Activate every spot-type smoke detector with the SOLO
test tool or other approved test device
Using the magnetic switch on a detector is not an
acceptable test method
– If detector sensitivity testing is a project requirement,
use the smoke detector sensitivity test tool
See NFPA 72 and/or detector white papers for other detector

application guidelines

Table 10.4.2.2 (J) Multi sensor detectors
1. Each of the detection principles present within the
detector shall be tested independently for specific
detection principle regardless of the configuration status
at the time of testing. Each detector shall also be tested
to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Detectors shall be tested together if technology allows
individual detector responses to be verified.

INITIATING DEVICES
DUCT SMOKE DETECTORS
– Confirm proper application and location of every duct
detector. (For additional information concerning detector
placement, refer to NFPA 72)
– Initiate an alarm condition at each duct detector by
introducing smoke into the detector (The use of the
remote-test switch for an acceptance test is not
acceptable. See installation instruction that come with
the device for further details on methods for testing duct
detectors)
– Documentation from the Mechanical Contractor that
proves differential pressure between the exhaust and
sampling tubes should be provided
Note: Duct detectors supplied by others, such as the mechanical

contractor, are to be tested by the supplier

INITIATING DEVICES
RATE-OF-RISE HEAT DETECTORS

– Activate every rate-of-rise heat detector using the
SOLO rate-of-rise test tool or other approved
method (Care should be taken to avoid damaging
or destroying detectors during testing)

INITIATING DEVICES
MECHANICAL FIXED-TEMPERATURE HEAT DETECTORS

– Remove the “keyed” restorable heat element to
initiate an alarm from each detector
– For non-keyed detectors, initiate an alarm by
shorting across the terminals of each detector
– After each alarm is confirmed, reinstall the heat
element where applicable, and reset the system

INITIATING DEVICES
ELECTRONIC HEAT DETECTORS

– Activate every electronic heat detector using the
SOLO test tool or other approved method. Caution
must be used in choosing the heat source so as not
to damage the unit
LINEAR HEAT DETECTION
– Verify that linear heat detection is tested according to
the manufacturer’s instructions

INITIATING DEVICES
RADIANT-ENERGY (FLAME) DETECTORS

– Verify that each radiant detector is tested according
to the manufacturer’s instructions
Air Sampling Detection
– Air flow through all ports shall be verified for
operation
– Alarm response (120 seconds max) shall be verified
through the last port on each pipe run

INITIATING DEVICES
PROJECTED-BEAM SMOKE DETECTORS

– Confirm that the line of sight between the transmitter
and receiver of each beam detector is not above any
ceiling fans and is clear of any obstructions
– Verify that all detectors are placed in accordance with
building plans
– Activate every projected-beam detector by obscuring
the beam using the filter kit

INITIATING DEVICES
This testing must be conducted in cooperation
with the sprinkler contractor.
SPRINKLER SYSTEM SWITCHES
– The Sprinkler contractor shall initiate an alarm from every
flow switch by flowing water at the appropriate sprinkler
system inspector’s test valve (Manually operating a flow
switch is not an acceptable method)
– Confirm that the retard mechanism is correctly set by
verifying that an alarm occurs within 90 seconds after
starting water flow
– Move every sprinkler valve off-normal and confirm a
supervisory signal at the FACP
– Confirm supervisory signals at the FACP for any other
supervisory devices, such as fire pump running

INDICATING APPLIANCES
This testing is performed concurrently with the
testing of initiating devices and requires a copy of the
floor plans that show notification appliance locations.
Horns/Speakers and Strobes

– While visible appliances are quiescent (not activated),
verify that the candela rating of each one is consistent with
that shown on the floor plans
– Confirm that each appliance, audible and visible, operates
during an alarm
– Adequate Sound Pressure Levels (SPL) should be observed
throughout the protected area in accordance with NFPA 72
and the applicable code. As a minimum, representative
sound pressure levels should be measured throughout the
occupied space

SOUND MEASUREMENT
RECOMMENDATIONS
Measurements shall be taken with an ANSI S1.4a compliant Type 2
Sound Level Meter
The sound meter shall be set using the time-weighted characteristic
F(FAST), and shall record the maximum sound output (Peak Hold)
when the audible emergency evacuation signal is on
Representative measurements should be taken in the center of a
subject room or occupied space, with the meter held at a height of
approximately 4.5 feet (1.5m) and at least 1.5 feet (.5m) from any
hard surface
If required, multiple measurements should be taken and the average
SPL shall be recorded
In sleeping areas where a barrier such as a door is located between
the notification appliance and the listener, the should pressure level
shall be measured with the door closed or other barrier in place
between the appliance and the listener
If inadequate or excessive SPL’s are observed, the technician should
consult the installer and/or System Designer and recommend any
corrective action or system adjustments

VOICE EVACUATION SYSTEMS
Verify that the speaker-tap settings are

consistent with that shown on floor plans and
design documents
Measure and record representative SPL’s
throughout the occupied space as described
above, and as otherwise required
Ensure the pre-recoded message is
distinguishable and understandable

VOICE EVACUATION SYSTEMS
Ensure that the prerecorded message is playing on the

alarm floor the floor above and the floor below after
tripping an initiating device, all levels must be verified
for correct operations of evac message routing
Verify the operation by area for emergency paging,
stairwells must be zoned separately than other areas. All
areas must meet required SPL levels
Plug into and operate all fire-fighter phone jack locations
verify that the call is received from the correct location

Synchronization of Visuals
7.5.4.3.2 Visible notification appliances shall be installed in
accordance with Table 7.5.4.3.1(a), using one of the
following:
1. A single visible notification appliance.
2. Two visible notification appliances located on opposite walls.
3. * Two groups of visible notification appliances, where visual
appliances of each group are synchronized, in the same room
or adjacent space within the field of view. This shall include
synchronization of strobes operated by separate systems.
4. More than two visible notification appliances or groups of
synchronized appliances in the same room or adjacent space
within the field of view that flash in synchronization.

ELEVATOR-RECALL
This test should be performed with the
assistance of the elevator contractor.
Initiate an alarm on an elevator-recall detector on a floor other

than the primary recall floor
– Confirm that the elevator returns to the primary recall floor
Initiate an alarm on an elevator-recall detector on the primary
recall floor
– Confirm that the elevator returns to an alternate floor
Confirm that the operation of any other functions, such as
shunt trip and/or elevator warning lights

AUXILIARY RELAYS
This section can be used to check auxiliary operation
or controls not included in any other section. Before
performing this test, review the input/output matrix.
Initiate an alarm and verify that each auxiliary relay performs

the required function
– Fan Shutdown – Verify that each unit shuts down in accordance
with the input/output matrix
– Stairwell and/or atrium pressurization – Verify that fans run in
accordance with the input/output matrix
– Damper Controls – Verify operation in accordance with the
input/output matrix
– Access and/or egress controlled doors – Verify that all doors
unlock in accordance with the input/output matrix

SMOKE DOOR RELEASE
This testing is done concurrently with the testing of
initiating devices and is best accomplished with a
copy of the floor plans that show magnetic door
holder locations.
Confirm that each magnetic door holder de-energizes

during an alarm, documenting proper operation of each
Confirm that no obstruction, such as a carpet, prevents
the door from closing and latching
Confirm that magnetic door holders are not powered
when the primary AC system power fails (Unless part of
the 24 volt system and included in battery calculations)

FAN CONTROL AND FAN
OVERRIDE CONTROL SYSTEM
These tests must be conducted with the HVAC
contractor. Record the results of the following tests
on acceptable documentation. Before starting this
physical testing, review the input/output matrix and
the programmer’s report.
With the FACP normal:

– Place each FACP fan-control switch in the on position
Verify that the proper fan has begun to operate and that the
associated fan funning indicator is illuminated
Verify that the local HOA (Hand-off-Auto) switch as the fan is
overridden

FAN CONTROL AND FAN
OVERRIDE CONTROL SYSTEM
(Continued)
– Place each FACP fan-control switch in the AUTO position

Verify that the appropriate fan is under control of
temperature-control equipment and, if applicable, that the
associated AUTO indicator next to the switches is illuminated
Verify that the local HOA switch at the fan is not overridden
– Place each FACP fan-control switch in the OFF position
Verify that the proper fan stops and that the associated FAN
STOPPED indicator next to the switch is illuminated
Verify that the local HOA switch at the fan is overridden
– With all fan-control switches in the AUTO position, reset
the FACP
Verify that all fans restart in the appropriate sequence

BYPASS SWITCHES
Operate all bypass switches and verify that a

trouble condition is activated at the FACP

Additional Oregon Requirements

DOCUMENTATION
Upon completion of the testing, and when

required, complete and sign NFPA 72 Record of
Completion
– The installer’s representative shall prepare and sign
its respective parts of the Record of Completion
– Copies of the NFPA INSPECTION AND TESTING form
shall be distributed, as required, to the system
owner, the AHJ, the provider of supervising station
service, and the installer
– A copy of all completed forms shall be left at the
FACP and in the permanent project file

Building Reports Joint Commission
Template

Testing Log

Notes and Recommendations
in EC Format

Inspection Summary
in EC Format

Post Acceptance Documentation
4.5.2.3 Documentation Required. Every
system shall include the following
documentation, which shall be delivered to the
owner or the owner’s representative upon final
acceptance of the system:
1. An owner’s manual and manufacturer’s published
instructions covering all system equipment
2. Record drawings (As-Built)
3. For software-based systems, a record copy of the site-
specific software
4.5.3.1 A complete record of the tests and
operations of each system shall be kept until the
next test and for 1 year thereafter.

Continued Service
IFC
907.9.5 Maintenance, inspection and
testing. The building owner shall be responsible
for to maintain the fire and life safety systems in
an operable condition at all times. Service
personnel shall meet the qualification
requirements of NFPA 72 for maintaining,
inspecting and testing such systems. A written
record shall be maintained and shall be made
available to the fire code official.

Continued Service
10.6.1.2* For software-based systems, a copy of

the site-specific software shall be provided to the
owner or owner’s designated representative. A
copy of the software shall be stored in non-
volatile non-erasable, non-rewritable memory
and shall be stored on-site.

Reference Materials
IFC
NFPA 72 - 2007
ADA
Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Web Site
- Fire & Life Safety Practices
Detector Test Tools:
– SOLO 461 (available from SDI www.SDIfire.com)

Need Help ???
Contact Performance Systems
– Portland, Oregon (HQ)
503-641-2222
– Bothell, Washington
425-368-4201
– info@psintegrated.com
It helps us to help you !!!!

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Fire Alarm - Method

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Prepared Especially for :

OSFM TEC 2016

Acceptance Testing 11-2008

Before you begin

Acceptance Testing 2008

Ensure that an approved/reviewed set of

Acceptance Testing 2008

Acceptance Testing 2008

Acceptance Testing 2008

Acceptance Testing 2008

10.2.2.5.1 Service personnel shall be qualified and

Acceptance Testing 2008

Acceptance Testing 2008

Acceptance Testing 2008

The system installer and a qualified representatives of all

Acceptance Testing 2008

Acceptance Testing 2008

If the system is connected to an off-site monitoring

Acceptance Testing 2008

Verify that all personnel in the building have been

Acceptance Testing 2008

Acceptance Testing 2008

Complete the following, and record the results on the

Acceptance Testing 2008

Acceptance Testing 2008

Complete the following, and record the results on the

Acceptance Testing 2008

If there is no battery standby

Acceptance Testing 2008

Acceptance Testing 2008

Acceptance Testing 2008

Activate a second initiating device and verify

Acceptance Testing 2008

Acceptance Testing 2008

Jumper each side of every initiation-device circuit, signaling

Acceptance Testing 2008

Break one connection on 10% of the initiating devices

Acceptance Testing 2008

Acceptance Testing 2008

MANUAL FIRE ALARM BOXES (PULL STATIONS)

Acceptance Testing 2008

Acceptance Testing 2008

– Confirm that there is a smoke detector installed within

See NFPA 72 and/or detector white papers for other detector

Acceptance Testing 2008

Acceptance Testing 2008

Note: Duct detectors supplied by others, such as the mechanical

Acceptance Testing 2008

RATE-OF-RISE HEAT DETECTORS

Acceptance Testing 2008

MECHANICAL FIXED-TEMPERATURE HEAT DETECTORS

Acceptance Testing 2008

ELECTRONIC HEAT DETECTORS

Acceptance Testing 2008

RADIANT-ENERGY (FLAME) DETECTORS

Acceptance Testing 2008

PROJECTED-BEAM SMOKE DETECTORS

Acceptance Testing 2008

Acceptance Testing 2008

Horns/Speakers and Strobes

Acceptance Testing 2008

Acceptance Testing 2008