What is “Runner Service”?

Runner service is a service required for Proprietary Supervising Station and Central Supervising Station Fire Alarm Systems where an individual is dispatched to the protected premises when signals are received at the supervising station. The runner is dispatched by...

Code Question – Blocking with a Bookcase

Code Question: Is there language in the code that specifically prohibits blocking a fire alarm device (like a horn/strobe or pull station) with a bookcase? The condition you describe would be classified as a deficiency by NFPA 72. Chapter 3 defines a deficiency as a...

Code Question – Air-Sampling Network Smoke Detection

Code Question – “Does the Annex A recommendation for located a smoke detector not closer than 3 feet from a supply or return air opening also apply to air-sampling network smoke detection?” An air sampling-type smoke detector, commonly called an aspirating smoke...

Code Question – What are my options for fire alarm household applications?

NFPA 72, Chapter 29, Single- and Multiple-Station Alarms and Household Fire Alarm Systems, is a code within a code. Most of the chapter in NFPA 72 are concerned with commercial fire alarm systems. Chapter 29 specifically states that Chapters 7 (Documentation), 10...

Code Question – Strobe Requirements

Code Question — My AHJ wants me to put a strobe in an office area with two desks. Is this a requirement of the IBC or NFPA 72? The IBC (International Building Code), determines the fire alarm requirements for a building. Based on the building classification (Use...

Code Question – Initiating Device Requirements

Code Question – I am designing a fire alarm system. Do I use the IBC or NFPA 72 for initiating device requirements? The IBC (International Building Code), determines the fire alarm requirements for a building. Based on the building classification (Use Group), Section...