Inspecting Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors are important tools in fire prevention. But just because your company has smoke detectors installed does not necessarily mean your business and employees are safe. As smoke detectors age, they can become less sensitive. This can render them ineffieicent. NFPA 72 requires that smoke detectors are regularly tested for both functionality and sensitivity.
Each smoke detector must be tested within its listed and marked sensitivity range with UL-approved testing equipment within 1st year of install. After the first year, it is required to be tested every 2 years after until the 5thyear. Then the smoke detectors must be tested for sensitivity every 5 years.
This is completed with Manufacturer-approved method of sensitivity testing that measures true sensitivity of a detector head with a controlled amount of smoke pumped through its system, introducing into the detector. Both Photoelectric and Ionization detectors must be included.
Battery-operated and portable devices must be used and come with all accessories needed to perform sensitivity tests on detectors: main control unit, head, (2) different size extension cables, and charger. Sensitivity detector must self-calibrate before every test. Results must be shown in %/Ft.
Smoke detectors that are tested and found to be outside of their listed and marked sensitivity range, must be cleaned and recalibrated or replaced OR if they are field adjustable, they are permitted to be field adjusted within the listed and marked sensitivity range. (NFPA 72-2016 14.4.4.3.4-5)
Call Reliable Fire & Security to inspect not only your Smoke Detectors but all of your fire protection devices at 708-597-4600 . Visit our website for a complete list of services at www.reliablefire.com #firesafety #smokedetector #fireinspection #firealarm #firesprinkler #security #CCTV #cloudbasedsolutions #cardaccess #onecalldoesitall