Getting to Know the NFPA 72

The National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, or NFPA72, is the main standard for all emergency-response units dealing with fire alarms. This is continually revised to meet changing demands in fire detection and signaling, as well as emergency communications. Every alarm monitoring provider should be intimately familiar with the Code's latest edition, which was enacted this year. One new section of the 2013 edition deals with documentation.

In installing a system that will help save lives, every step will have to be logged in black and white. At minimum, the Code requires that the provider submit several documents. These include drafting a detailed description of the system and its purpose, information on the products to be used, and calculations for battery flow, emergency power, and voltage drop. Testing and maintenance records are a must.

Certain systems may need shop drawings. Under the 2013 NFPA 72, the drawings must contain the client and property particulars, details on the contractor, issue and revision dates, plus locations of the alarm devices. The floor drawings must denote the locations of all alarms, have compass references and graphic scales for the property, and riser diagrams that show the number and type of conductors and circuits.

Familiarizing yourself with the NFPA 72 and implementing its provisions adds to the reputation of an alarm monitoring company. It will go a long way to saving life and property when the time comes.