Why You Want a Fire Alarm Inspector to Be Certified By NICET

NICET is the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies. Achieving NICET certification requires more than attendance at a series of classes. Certification is achieved by passing an extensive test of job knowledge, verification of performance, and evaluation of your work experience. NICET certification represents a career level in an engineering field, not just the completion of a few courses.

Fire Safety Device Inspection

Local fire protection authorities require clear documentation of at least annual fire alarm system inspections. Building owners and facilities managers may prefer more frequent inspections and maintenance to ensure the system will work precisely as planned in case of an emergency. Since certain parts of any system may wear out or accumulate dust and grime, a careful testing and regular inspection are warranted, even in addition to the usual checks.

Importance of NICET Certification

Teams of experts in the field of electrical engineering developed the NICET certification testing to ensure they are sufficiently challenging to separate serious certification candidates from those who are not willing to perform the necessary work and study. Achievement of NICET is an accomplishment that stands out as a hiring qualification for some companies.

NICET certification can be upgraded at different points in your career. The program involves Levels 1-4, with Level 4 reaching the top of the profession. These individuals are qualified for the most complex assignments and can troubleshoot even the most complicated electrical systems.

Play It Safe

A NICET certified fire alarm inspector assures you that your systems are operating as planned. Checking every device and simulating potential problems can help the inspector to identify any underlying or developing problems. Malfunction of your fire alarm devices can be disastrous.

Working with a NICET certified fire safety company will provide peace of mind that your system will be properly designed, installed, tested, and maintained. NICET certified experts at High Rise Security Systems work with Chicago area hospitals, universities, high-rise residences, and commercial buildings to ensure the safety of the occupants and assets while providing ongoing fire alarm maintenance and testing.

Failure of a fire security system is not permissible. Knowing that the inspectors of your fire safety system’s detection and notification devices are NICET certified means that every element of the system will work when needed. Local fire protection authorities recognize the professional qualifications of NICET experts as the top performers in their field.

Managing Fire Alarm Installation

With any new construction or major building renovation, the fire detection systems must be in place and tested before an occupancy permit can be issued. With most electrical contractors, wiring the fire alarm systems is only a small part of the overall electrical job, yet it is the most important element for protecting the lives of future occupants. Working with a certified fire safety company to install the system saves time and reduces the potential for lost revenue resulting from a delay in approval.

Local codes require that the installation of fire detection systems be performed only by experienced and certified individuals. Before permits may be granted, the installer will present proof of installation certification issued by the local fire authorities, a nationally recognized fire safety organization, or by an intense training program performed by the manufacturer of the equipment.

Preparing the Fire Alarm System Plan

Today’s integrated fire detection and alarm systems can be complex and involve substantial interconnectivity. They need more than electrical expertise since designs call for one warning device to transmit information to a central control point and the local fire department for quick response. Also, the alerting device will trigger notification equipment that will initiate an orderly evacuation.

Needless to say, an interconnected system, whether wired or wireless, demands proper programming and sequential connectivity to function properly. Improper programming can result in costly delays.

Connect with a Licensed Fire Safety Company

A certified fire safety company should be part of the early design process to identify the location, number, and types of fire detection equipment to install. By collaborating at the beginning of the planning process, the electrical plan and the fire alarm installation should be coordinated so that they may be integrated seamlessly into the construction process.

Incorporating a fire safety company into the fire alarm installation process will bring the newest technologies to the plan. Doing so will extend the time before the system becomes obsolete. Moreover, more sophisticated detection capability and quicker response to emergencies improve the protection of future occupants.

Fire Alarm Monitoring Service

Professional fire safety companies play an essential role in new construction and building retrofits. Incorporating the most modern detection and notification capability at the outset can provide peace of mind for decades. Companies like High Rise Security Systems in Chicago will offer ongoing support and maintenance services for the fire detection system.

Commercial Fire Alarm System Approval and Acceptance

Whether planning a new building or retrofitting an old one, a comprehensive design starts with a full review of the layout of your structure to determine which type of commercial fire alarm system and suppression devices should be incorporated. Proper placement and types of detection devices, alarms, and other warning equipment are essential to the safety of building occupants. Each element should be geared toward immediate detection and notification to implement the timely evacuation of occupants and quick response from the local fire department.

Local Code Requirements

Local authorities and municipalities impose somewhat different requirements for approval of a commercial fire alarm system. Moreover, the steps for approval may vary from place to place.

All designs should comply with local fire codes and NFPA-72 (National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code). One requirement is to have the design work. Installation, and testing completed by someone who can prove experience and certification for these systems. Proof of the designer’s experience will be submitted to the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) at the outset.

Shop Drawings

Before approval, shop drawings should show the detail of the plan. No work can begin without approved permits.

The shop drawings should clearly represent each device and connection within the proposed system. The drawings will show elements such as the owner and location of the building, installation contractor, and dates of issue. Detail will include floor plans, riser diagrams, plus control panel, circuitry, and point-to-point wiring diagrams marked according to the NFPA 170 protocol.

The location of windows and doors and placement of each fire detection and notification device, monitor and control interfaces must be shown. Types of equipment attached to each electrical circuit must be defined, and backup power sources must be depicted.

Installation

The installing personnel should be licensed by a state or local authority or a nationally recognized organization. Alternatively, they should have been certified in a formal training program at the manufacturer's location.

Final Approval

When the installation is complete, the contractor or building owner will usually issue a written statement that the installation followed the proposed plan and met all manufacturer specifications.

Working with a fully licensed and qualified fire safety company for the design, installation, and maintenance of your commercial fire alarm system is the best route. Experienced companies like High Rise Security Systems in Chicago can help with each step of the way.