the dos and don'ts of inspection, testing, and maintenance of fire
TRANSCRIPT
Who’s responsible?
Property, Building or System Owner May delegate responsibility in writing
(ex. landlord to tenant)
Owner may hire a person or organization Written contract is required
14.2.2 Responsibilities. 14.2.2.1 The property or building or system owner or the owner’s designated representative shall be responsible for inspection, testing, and maintenance of the system and for alterations or additions to this system. 14.2.2.2 The delegation of responsibility shall be in writing, with a copy of such delegation provided to the authority having jurisdiction upon request. 14.2.2.3 Inspection, testing, or maintenance shall be permitted to be done by the building or system owner or a person or organization other than the building or system owner if conducted under a written contract.
Alarm Signal
Emergency Condition … there is a fire!
A signal indicating an emergency condition or alert that requires action. [NFPA 72 (2007) 3.3.172.1]
Temporal Code 3 tone
American Standard for Fire Evacuation
ALARM: PULL STATION I.C.U. WEST WING
VISITORS LOUNGE 11:55PM TUE 02-11-2009 2M147
Power On Alarm Pre Alarm
Trouble Supervisory Silence
Acknowledge
Scroll
Reset
Silence
1 2 3
4 5 6
7 8 9
0
Alarm Signal Acknowledge
“I acknowledge the cause of the alarm event.”
Only stops the panel beeping
Silence “I’m certain all is safe and ready for
people to stop evacuating.”
Stops the audible and visual devices
Reset “I’m ready to put everything back to it’s
normal state.”
Resets all devices impacted by the alarm (fire safety functions)
Trouble Signal
Fault Condition … something’s broken!
A signal initiated by a system or device indicative of a fault in a monitored circuit, system or component. [NFPA 72 (2007) 3.3.172.6]
Examples include…
Open Circuit, Loss of Primary Power, Loss of Data Transmission
TROUBLE: PULL STATION I.C.U. WEST WING
Z1 INVALID REPLY 11:45PM TUE 02-11-2009 2M147
Power On Alarm Pre Alarm
Trouble Supervisory Silence
Acknowledge
Scroll
Reset
Silence
1 2 3
4 5 6
7 8 9
0
Trouble Signal
Acknowledge “I acknowledge this trouble exists. I’m
working on it now.”
Stops the panel beeping.
Lamp remains illuminated.
Scroll View multiple trouble events
Troubles clear automatically Lamps turn off
LCD message returns to “All Systems Normal”
Supervisory Signal
Supervised System has Fault Condition … that system is impaired!
A signal indicating the need for action in connection with the supervision of guard tours, the fire suppression systems or equip., or the maint. features of related systems. [NFPA 72 (2007) 3.3.172.6]
Examples include… Sprinkler Valve Closed (Tamper), Agent Cylinder Low Pressure
SUPERVISORY ACTIVE TAMPER I.C.U. WEST WING
VISITORS LOUNGE 11:55PM TUE 02-11-2009 2M158 Power On Alarm Pre Alarm Trouble Supervisory Silence
Acknowledge
Scroll
Reset
Silence
1 2 3
4 5 6
7 8 9
0
Supervisory Signal
Acknowledge “I’m aware this supervisory condition
exists and taking appropriate action.”
Stops the panel beeping.
Lamp remains illuminated.
Scroll View multiple supervisory events
Supervisory Conditions clear automatically Lamps turn off
LCD message returns to “All Systems Normal”
Control Panel Types
Conventional
Responds to changes in electrical current flow
Zones = Separate Circuits
No history log
No software/programming
Zone 1
Zone 2
Zone 3
Addressable
Responds / Communicates using data transmission
Each Device = Unique ID and Label
History Log
Programmable Logic / Levels by Device
SLC
1S101 1S102
1S103 1S104
1M243 1S105
Fire Alarm System
SLC NAC 1
Smoke
Detectors
Alarm
Typical Arrangement
Fire Suppression Systems
SLC NAC 1
Manual
Release
Station
Abort
Switch Smoke
Detectors
NAC 2
First Alarm
Second Alarm (Pre-discharge)
NAC 3 Discharge Alarm
Relay Outputs
HVAC Shutdown, etc.
Typical Arrangement
Releasing
Circuit
Maintenance Switch
NFPA Standards
NFPA minimum standards Frequencies and Methods
Answers the question… “What is the minimum acceptable level of operational reliability for this Fire Protection System?”
Where to find the requirements: NFPA 72 (2013 Edition) National Fire
Alarm and Signaling Code
Chapter 14
Retroactive
What is an Inspection?
Verify that no changes have occurred that
would affect system performance
Good operating condition
Free from physical damage
Frequencies vary from weekly to annually
A visual examination… of the Fire Protection System
Inspections Smoke Detectors
Location and mounting
> 3 ft. from air supply diffuser.
> 4 in. from sidewall.
Sensing chamber > 1 in. from ceiling (no flush mount).
Sub-floor mounted high as possible facing down or vertically (not on floor)
Physical damage
Excessively Dirty / Obstructed
Increased airflow rate
Inspections
Manual Pull Stations
Location and Mounting
Horizontal (top of device 42–54 in. AFF)
Vertical (< 5 ft. from exit door)
Obstructed
Physical Damage
What is Testing?
Simulate Events/Conditions
May require measurement using
calibrated equipment
Frequencies vary from monthly to
12-years
Validate the functionality … of the Fire Protection System
Testing
Manual Pull Stations
Actually pull the lever
Will it pull open?
Will it pull loose from the wall?
Opening with a key to operate the switch
is not a sufficient test !
Testing
Notification Appliances Audible (Horns & Speakers)
Measure throughout protected area (occupiable).
Sound Level Meter (ANSI S3.41, “F”).
Never > 120 dBA
Voice messages must be “distinguishable & understandable”
Public Mode
• > 15 dBA above avg. ambient level
Private Mode
• > 10 dBA above avg. ambient level
Testing
Notification Appliances
Visible (Strobe Lights)
Using “approved” drawings…
• Locations verified
• Floorplan changes don’t affect layout
• Candela marking verified
Functional test
• Confirm each appliance flashes
Testing
Smoke Detector Smoke Entry Test All detectors
Software, test buttons, magnets, etc. are
not acceptable!
14.4.2.2 – Item 14 (g)(1) Smoke Detectors.
Smoke detectors/smoke alarms shall be tested in place to ensure smoke entry into the sensing chamber and an alarm response. Testing with smoke or listed aerosol, acceptable to the manufacturer of the aerosol or the manufacturer of the smoke detector/smoke alarm and identified in their published instructions, shall be permitted as acceptable test methods. more…
Maintenance
Smoke Detector Cleaning
When sensitivity is outside its listed range… • Clean and Recalibrate or… • Replace
Also, periodically • Manufacturer’s recommendations • Consider local ambient conditions
14.5 Maintenance.
14.5.1 System equipment shall be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s published instructions. … 14.5.3 The frequency of cleaning of system equipment shall depend on the type of equipment and the local ambient conditions.
Maintenance
Batteries
Permanently mark batteries
Month/Year Format
Mfr. Date
3-5 year replacement cycle
3- 5 years from date of mfr.
Importance of Training
Who? Job classifications
“Train the Trainer”
When? New employee orientation
Annual review
How? Owner’s Manual
Service Provider
“Train the Trainer”
Clean Agent Training
Clean Agent Training Requirements:
Anyone expected to operate
Thoroughly trained in functions
Anyone working in a protected room
Training on agent safety issues
NFPA 2001 (2012 Edition) 7.6.1 All persons who could be expected to inspect, test, maintain, or operate fire extinguishing systems shall be thoroughly trained and kept thoroughly trained in the functions they are expected to perform. 7.6.2 Personnel working in an enclosure protected by a clean agent shall receive training regarding agent safety issues.
Recordkeeping
Location of records Always maintained in a current condition
- Reflecting all system changes
At the Fire Alarm Panel …or…
Alternate location identified at the FACU
- Prominently labeled “SYSTEM RECORD DOCUMENTS”
NFPA 72 (2013) – 7.7.2 Document Accessibility 7.7.2.1 With every new system, a documentation cabinet shall be installed at the system control unit or at another approved location at the protected premises. 7.7.2.2* All record documentation shall be stored in the documentation cabinet. 7.7.2.3 Where the documentation cabinet is not in the same location as the system control unit, its location shall be identified at the system control unit. 7.7.2.4 The documentation cabinet shall be prominently labeled SYSTEM RECORD DOCUMENTS. 7.7.2.5 The contents of the cabinet shall be accessible by authorized personnel only.
Recordkeeping
“Completion Documents” available to service personnel Record of Completion
Record drawings
Written sequence of operation
Owner’s Manual / Manufacturer’s Published Instructions
Copy of site specific software (CD-ROM)
14.2.4 System Documentation. Prior to system maintenance or testing, the record of completion and any information required by Section 10.18 regarding the system and system alterations, including specifications, wiring diagrams, and floor plans, shall be provided by the owner or a designated representative to the service personnel upon request.
Recordkeeping
Retain ITM Records Most systems…
Until Next Test + 1 year
Systems with heat detectors… 5 years of Testing + 1 year (unless you test them all every year)
Paper or Electronic Media
NFPA 72 (2013) - 14.6.2 Maintenance, Inspection, and Testing Records. 14.6.2.1 Records shall be retained until the next test and for 1 year thereafter. 14.6.2.2 For systems with restorable fixed-temperature, spot type heat detectors tested over multiple years, records shall be retained for the 5 years of testing and for 1 year thereafter. 14.6.2.3 The records shall be on a medium that will survive the retention period. Paper or electronic media shall be permitted.
Common intermittent troubles
Ground Faults
Circuit Problems (Open Circuit, EOL Issues, etc.)
Battery Faults
Device Failures
Trouble Conditions
Common Troubles
Cause: Ground Fault
Exposed wire touches grounded metal
Poor wiring installation
Shorts caused over time
Other trades tightening wires
Solution: Track it down
Experienced technician
Quality instrumentation
Common Troubles
Cause: Circuit Problems
Open Circuit (Broken/Disconnected Wire)
EOL Issues (Resistor Failed/Removed)
Incorrect wire types
Solution: Repair
Fix, don’t ignore
Check EOLs first
Use recommended wire types
Cause: Battery Faults
Bad battery – happens routinely
Charging problems
Reversed polarity
Solution: Inspect Replace
Check voltage
Replace battery
Use the correct fuses for system protection
Common Troubles
Common Troubles
Cause: Device Failures
Dust/Debris/Contamination of sensors
Intelligent systems self diagnose
Failures increase at end of useful life
Solution: Maintenance
Follow NFPA 72 requirements
Replace problem devices
In the case of an emergency, it might just prevent alarm operation
Detectors won’t report smoke
Notification appliances won’t operate
Life safety is at risk
Impacts business continuity
The real problem
Response to alarms
These people are reluctant to take action: Business occupants without training
Building visitors / Assembly occupants
Apathetic occupants
These people take action: Business occupants with assignments
Business occupants with training
Voice directed occupants
Occupants who see smoke or fire (too late)
Response to alarms
Typically before an occupant will take action:
Must feel responsible for the occupancy
Must have training to evacuate
Must have a second clue to the emergency (Smoke, Fire or Hear Siren)
Occupants may hesitate and wonder…
“What’s going on?” or “What’s wrong?
…before concluding there is a fire and evacuate.
Making it Worse
Multiple false alarms reduce confidence in the fire alarm system Increased feeling of apathy
Resistance to evacuate
Other issues with fire alarm signals: Failure to recognize the fire alarm
Failure to hear the signal
Occupants don’t know what to do
Why it matters…
“Specialists in the field tend to agree..that more than three nuisance alarms in one year can undermine the credibility of the system.”
Guylene Proulx, Ph. D. Fire Protection Engineering Magazine Winter 2007
What can you do?
In buildings with lots of visitors…
Use voice notification/communication
Train staff to give instructions
Be proactive in minimizing false alarms
Implement a proper ITM program
Evaluate detector placement, sensitivity, and type
Inform occupants
Cause of each false alarm
Rebuild system credibility
Develop and follow a plan
Facility Emergency Action Plan [NFPA 101 - 4.8]
Fire Prevention Plan [OSHA 29 CFR 1910.38]
Perform facility fire drills
NFPA 101 - 4.7
What can you do?
Why it matters…
Costly downtime
Public apathy
Service costs
Fire Department fines
Life safety compromised
The problem with false alarms…
Accidental Discharges
Cause: Dirty environment Excess dust creation (operations/machinery, raised floors)
Air duct dust burn-off (seasonal changes)
Transfer from external areas (vehicle exhaust, manufacturing)
Solution: Housekeeping Maintain the environment
Maintenance procedures - Agent Disconnect Switch
Minimize transfer possibilities
Evaluate operational changes for possible impact
Accidental Discharges
Cause: Human error Release of refrigerant gas
Pipe welding
Manual release
Solution: Procedures, Policies and Training Agent Disconnect Switch (Maintenance Switch)
Access control
Written maintenance procedures
Training Sequence of Operation
NFPA 2001 requirements
Accidental Discharges
Cause: Malfunctions RF/EMI Interference
- medical equip., portable radios, etc.
Electrical Transients - lightning strikes, power company, etc.
Sometimes unpredictable
Solution: Implement safeguards Equipment compatibility (UL compatibility tested)
Proper shielding of panel and circuits
Surge/transient protection
Abort switch
Who’s qualified?
Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Personnel
Qualified and Experienced
People who are one or more of the following…
Factory Trained on specific type/brand of equipment
Certified by nationally recognized certification organization (NICET)
State or Local Government License
UL Listed Service Organization
NFPA 72 (2013)
Can it be the system owner?
Owner permitted if qualified
Building Owner …or…
System Owner
…or…
Other Organization
14.2.2.3 Inspection, testing, or maintenance shall be permitted to be done by the building or system owner or a person or organization other than the building or system owner if conducted under a written contract.
Take responsibility for your fire system
Forget to consider the fire system when your facility changes
Manage Changes
When remodeling or expanding…
Consider Fire Panel capacity
Consider code requirements changes over time
Consider potential obsolescence of equipment
Ability to find old parts?
What are your options? Leave what you have alone and install a new panel
Major upgrade to new panel or devices
Total system replacement
Manage Changes
Fire Suppression Systems… Room integrity (Door Fan Testing)
New penetrations?
HVAC changes?
Agent Concentration
Room bigger or smaller?
Move interior walls?
Has the potential to
impact performance or safety.
Manage Changes
Fire Detection and Alarm Systems… Alarm notification
Floorplan changes?
Potential impact to…
… Visibility (strobe candela)
… Audibility (sound level)
Detection performance Increased airflow rates
Fire Hazard changes (more or less Mission Critical?)
Obstructions to Optical Detection (Flame or VISD)
Introduction of potential false alarm sources
Fire System Lifespan
Is the product still available? Backward compatibility of devices
Obsolete raw materials
UL864 9th Edition (in effect Dec. 2008)
Halon 1301 System parts depleting
Have your needs changed? Advanced features
Addressable devices
Time to replace? …it depends