Fire alarm systems have many functions, but one of the most important is to save lives. They alert everyone inside the building by detecting smoke, fire, or water flow.
The NFPA 72(r) National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code(r) outlines the proper installation, application, inspection, maintenance, and testing of fire detection and alarm systems.
Control
Besides alerting building occupants to a fire, your system can also monitor and control conditions within the building. It can identify whether a device is functioning normally or is in an alarm condition, and it can also tell when a circuit needs service.
Your system may also send signals that help synchronize with other safety systems, like security and public address technology. These integrations can save you money on installation and maintenance and improve operations.
A reliable fire alarm used by fire alarm systems companies is essential for ensuring fire emergencies are handled quickly and efficiently. Your system will notify you and the authorities of smoke, security alarm tampering, fire trouble, and power failure as soon as possible.
Detection
The purpose of your fire alarm system is to detect fires and send a signal to alert people in the building that a fire is occurring. It is done through detectors that can be smoke, heat or carbon monoxide sensors.
When a smoke, gas or flame detector is triggered, the sensor will send a signal to the control panel, which will then sound building alarms and summon emergency help. The panel will then be able to track the cause of the alarm and determine whether or not to dispatch firefighters.
This system is often used in commercial buildings because it warns occupants early that a fire is imminent. It also provides the fire crews a chance to react and save lives.
Notification
Your system’s notification and monitoring functions can be critical in several situations. For example, if a fire alarm goes off in a crowded stadium or hospital, it can lead to overcrowding exit pathways and stampede-type conditions.
Notification appliance devices can be a vital part of a fire alarm system. They must be appropriately selected, installed and monitored to ensure they function correctly and comply with building codes. They must be visually identifiable to occupants and must provide the correct type of audible signals for their intended use.
Notification appliance devices include strobes, digital signs, audio announcement systems and other visual or aural signaling appliances. These must be tested for proper functionality and comply with NFPA 72, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code.
Notification to Authorities
Fire alarm systems are designed to notify authorities of an emergency so that they can respond as quickly as possible. It is accomplished through the system’s ability to send a signal to a monitoring station either on-site or offsite.
Depending on the building’s classification, fire alarms can also be used to perform other functions. These include control functions like sealing off areas, powering off air conditioning, and redirecting elevators to a specific level.
In addition, the system’s capabilities can also identify supervisory and trouble conditions. For instance, if a circuit malfunction (such as due to a wiring break), the fire alarm panel will signal that the circuit is not operating correctly and should be repaired.
The National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code state that a fire alarm system should be capable of synchronizing with other safety devices for operational benefits and cost savings. These other devices may include public address technology and mass notification systems.
