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.

Fire Detection Systems are More than just detection systems

Fire Detection Systems are More than Just Detection Systems

Fire detection systems have evolved considerably in recent decades. Sophisticated smoke and gas detection sensors, wireless connectivity, and a range of notification accessories create a unified network that detects trouble at the earliest instance while notifying building occupants instantly.

These systems also direct evacuations while contacting the local fire emergency agencies for immediate response.

Fire detection systems are not simply the old “break glass and run” mechanisms of the past.

Notifier Fire Detection Devices

One company, Notifier by Honeywell, draws upon Honeywell's long history of technological innovations in atmospheric monitoring. With integrated technology, systems include the most sophisticated smoke and gas detection devices, notification equipment that includes alarms, strobe lights and horns, and more designed to protect building occupants.

Central Fire Monitoring Systems

As soon as one sensor identifies a problem, the fire detection system transmits the information to a monitoring station. Security personnel can quickly determine the location of the emergency and direct people away from the danger. The system simultaneously notifies the local fire department. Loudspeakers and LED messages direct occupants to the appropriate areas for evacuation.

Connected annunciators placed near the entrances to large buildings provide information to arriving firefighters about the location and status of the emergency.

Versatility

Fire alert systems may combine with the building’s access control network to alert building occupants to the possibility of entry by an unauthorized individual. If entry security is breached, the notification systems can alert central control personnel who may then initiate evacuation or direct occupants to a secure area. Closed circuit TVs that are used to monitor fire emergencies can also work to monitor intruders.

High Rise Security Systems in Chicagoland

HRSS has teamed up with Notifier by Honeywell and others to provide the most comprehensive and technologically advanced fire detection systems available. For new design or retrofits, collaborate with the HRSS experts for support in building occupants and monitoring.

HRSS can provide ongoing preventative maintenance and testing to make sure your systems are in top working condition at all times.

Contact HRSS for your building's fire and personal security requirements.

Who to Call for Fire Alarm Inspections

Regular fire alarm inspections must be conducted annually to meet the requirements of agencies, including state and local building authorities and the National Fire Prevention Agency (NFPA). The NFPA Fire Alarm Code (NFPA-72), requires building owners to commission certified fire alarm companies to test all devices regularly to maintain the safety of all occupants.

Regular Fire Alarm System Maintenance and Testing

While various components of the systems should require more frequent testing, especially older units, local fire commissions require certification that each element of the fire alarm system has been tested for proper operation. The testing should be a natural part of an ongoing preventative maintenance program performed by your fire alarm monitoring service.

Regular maintenance of the system must be performed by an experienced, certified fire safety company that is recognized by your local authorities.

As systems age, environmental conditions can have a detrimental effect on the sensors and critical parts of a fire detection system. Regular maintenance and testing can identify loss of calibration and replace parts rendered defective because of accumulated dirt and grime.

Testing requires the technician to simulate conditions that activate the system. Once the systems are determined to be working properly, adjustments and recalibrations will ensure the system will react to emergency situations correctly. Also, the technician will make sure the system is communicating properly with local fire departments.

Why is Certified Testing Important?

The principal reason for testing and certifying the operation of the fire detection systems is that proper service saves lives.

Secondly, annual testing is a requirement of local authorities and the NFPA.

Third, insurance companies will reject claims without clear certification, thereby leaving you with substantial liability.

HRSS, a Chicagoland Certified Alarm Monitoring Service

Technicians from High Rise Security Systems in the Chicagoland region are trained and certified to inspect and maintain fire alarm systems throughout the area. HRSS services and verifies fire alarm networks in hospitals, universities, apartment buildings, and high-rise office buildings throughout the area. HRSS can provide a regular preventative maintenance program to provide peace of mind for you and all your occupants.

Fire Alarm Inspection is Not Optional

Regular fire alarm inspection is essential to the safety of building inhabitants. Systems are designed and installed to alert all occupants to potential danger from smoke and fire while facilitating prompt and safe evacuations. Systems also notify local fire and emergency departments to respond quickly.

A faulty, poorly maintained fire notification system could result in death and injury.

Legal Reasons for Regular Inspection

Maintaining all fire detection systems in proper working order is mandated by local fire authorities, National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The NFPA Fire Alarm Code (NFPA-72) addresses fire alarm inspection requirements in detail citing six reasons for doing so. These are:

1. Lives are at stake! Operational effectiveness can only be assured through regular inspection and testing.
2. Necessary to meet the requirements of local regulations and insurance carrier.
3. Insurance claims are non-supportable if annual inspections have been neglected.
4. Limit liability due to fire injuries.
5. Ensure against nuisance alarms.
6. Properly working alarms and inspections are required by law.

Review of Fire Alarm Systems

Regardless of the age of the system, regular inspection is necessary. Factors such as vandalism or environmental, can affect even the newest systems. As the equipment ages, dust and grime can impact the responsiveness of the equipment. Parts may begin to wear out.

Much older alarms require close attention and more frequent maintenance to ensure that they can sustain the level of responsiveness required.

Maintenance and Testing Procedures

A certified fire alarm monitoring service performs the mandated testing steps to attest that the testing has been performed. The company will test and calibrate sensors, simulate emergency conditions for testing, set or reset the sensitivity, coordinate with the local fire department to ensure automatic notification when a fire is detected, and check batteries for life and corrosion.

High Rise Security Systems in Chicago

High Rise Security Systems is an experienced and certified fire safety company that performs regular maintenance and inspection throughout the Chicagoland area. HRSS experts can perform periodic inspection, testing, and maintenance.

Preventative maintenance saves lives and ensures peace of mind.

Commercial Fire Alarm Installation: The Shop Drawing

Commercial Fire Alarm Installation: The Shop Drawings

Fire alarm system designs must comply with the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, NFPA-72. Also, in most jurisdictions, a building permit is required which should include the required fire alarm systems. These must be approved before any installation may begin.

For approval, complete specifications, system descriptions and drawings, must be submitted. The notification appliance circuit, input/output matrix and battery calculations must be included.

Shop Drawing Requirements

Shop drawings are the detailed drawings submitted to the authority having jurisdiction for the location involved before review and approval. These provide the details of the system and connections, such as the location of each device, appliances, wiring sequences and methods, and depictions of how the components are to be linked. Floor plan drawings, control panel wiring, riser diagrams, conduits and routing details must be included.

Point-to-point wiring diagrams must depict exactly how the electrical network will be connected.

Formatting the Shop Drawing for Commercial Fire Alarm Installation

Using uniformly sized paper, the drawing detail should include:

1. Identification of the building, deed holder, and occupants
2. Name of installer or contractor
3. Location of protected premises
4. Citation that the design is in accordance with NFPA®70 (Standard for Fire Safety and Emergency Symbols)
5. Date of issue and any revisions

Moreover, drawn according to scale, shop drawings for fire alarm systems should clearly identify the floor, compass direction, walls and doors, partitions, descriptions and device locations, primary power location, monitor and control interface locations. All components of the fire alarm system, conductor, conduits, and site of air diffusers located near smoke detectors should also be depicted.

System Representation

Shop drawings must represent:

1. Location of control equipment
2. Field wiring terminals
3. Circuit identification
4. Indicators and controls
5. Connections to supervising stations and safety control interfaces
6. Risers with wiring diagrams included