Focus on Fire
Part 1: Fire-System Maintenance Includes Fire Alarms and Extinguishers
Part 2: Fire Systems: Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Ensure Compliance
Part 3: Fire Systems: What Does a Maintenance Program Include?
Fire Systems: Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Ensure Compliance
By Robert Trotter - September 2009
Managers can ensure the operational integrity of fire-alarm systems through an ITM program to take full advantage of state-of-the-art systems, reduce life-cycle costs, and extend service life. Such a program must satisfy requirements of the National Fire Alarm Code and other locally adopted codes and standards and conform to the equipment manufacturer’s published instructions.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 72, National Fire Alarm Code, permits the delegation of ITM responsibility, but the agreement must be in writing, with a copy of such delegation provided upon request to the authority having jurisdiction.
A person or organization other than the owner can conduct ITM activities if they occur under a written contract. But it is important to remember the building owner retains ultimate responsibility, even though ITM activities were delegated to someone else under contractual agreement.
The provider of fire-alarm-system maintenance should receive authorization and certification as a distributor from the manufacturer of the installed product to be tested. This status enables the provider to access up-to-date information regarding software and equipment revisions, as well as applications for new products.
