What do you need to know about fire alarm system inspections?

Fire alarm systems not only prevent the spread of a fire in a building but also protects people, assets, and property. However, it’s near to impossible to tell whether they are in a pristine working condition or not by just looking at them. Like any other electronic component, fire alarm systems are prone to damage and can compromise its operation over time. Contaminants, dirt, and dust can interrupt the functioning of smoke detectors. Thus, it is not only important but also mandatory to maintain fire alarm systems on a regular basis. With proper fire alarm system maintenance, testing, and inspection, a fire alarm system can be kept in proper condition and available if and when required. Moreover, keeping your fire protection system maintained will also prevent long-term expenses and costly repairs. 

When should be fire alarm system inspections conducted?

Every property owner is required to get visual inspections done at frequencies set by NFPA 72. Some of the components of the fire protection system that require inspections are – 

• Control panel – as per the law, these components must be inspected when they are installed on the property, reinstalled, and every year after the installation. 
• Batteries – a professional officer must inspect all the battery types when installing the system. While what type of battery is used in the fire protection system determines the frequency of the inspection, it’s often recommended to get them inspected with other inspections to be safe. Primary and lead-acid batteries are required to be inspected every month whereas nickel-cadmium and sealed lead-acid batteries require semi-annual inspections. 
• Sensors – initiating devices and all sensors like smoke or heat alarms require inspections every three months or at least once in six months depending on the kind of initiating device you have installed. They need to be inspected when the initial installation is done, as well as after reinstallation.  
• Audible alarms: They require to be inspected every year
• Pull Stations: These alarms require inspection every six months. 

Steps followed during fire alarm system inspections 

• Inspecting and checking alarm sensors like heat or smoke detectors as per the specifications mentioned by the manufacturer. An inspection officer who is well-experienced can perform such inspections and knows about the different sensors and their inspection requirements.
• Checking inputs of the system and test the alarms. 
• Coordinating with the fire department to simulate the inputs.
• Checking if there is any corrosion present on the batteries. Also checking their expiration date to ensure they are safe to use.