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
Before you Begin Ensure that an approved/reviewed set of drawings are available Compare the approved set to the Installer s asbuilt 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. electricaldistribution 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 initiatingdevice 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
FUNCTIONAL TESTING OF 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
FUNCTIONAL TESTING OF 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 returnair 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 nonhostile: smoke can normally be expected
FUNCTIONAL TESTING OF 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.
FUNCTIONAL TESTING OF 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
FUNCTIONAL TESTING OF 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)
FUNCTIONAL TESTING OF 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
FUNCTIONAL TESTING OF 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
FUNCTIONAL TESTING OF 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
FUNCTIONAL TESTING OF 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
FUNCTIONAL TESTING OF 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
FUNCTIONAL TESTING OF 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 sitespecific 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 nonvolatile 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)
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