NFPA 72, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, governs how fire alarm systems are installed, inspected and tested. Most commercial buildings need a full test at least once a year, with some parts checked more often. In Texas, that work is done by technicians licensed through the State Fire Marshal’s Office.
What gets tested
- Initiating devices — smoke and heat detectors, pull stations and duct detectors are tested annually.
- Notification appliances — every horn, strobe and speaker is confirmed to work and to be heard and seen where it should be.
- Panel and power — batteries are inspected every six months and load-tested every year; primary power and trouble signals are verified.
- Monitoring — alarm, supervisory and trouble signals are confirmed at the central station with the right zone and address.
- Sprinkler interfaces — waterflow and valve tamper switches are tested together with the sprinkler contractor.
Smoke detector sensitivity
Smoke detectors drift as they collect dust. NFPA 72 requires their sensitivity to be checked within a year of installation and then every other year. Once readings stay stable, the interval can be stretched to as long as five years. Detectors outside their listed range are cleaned or replaced.
What a good report includes
- Every device listed by address and location
- A pass or fail result and the date of the test
- Each deficiency with a recommended fix
- Battery readings
- The technician’s name and license number
That report is what your fire marshal and insurer will ask for. If it’s missing devices or vague about problems, it won’t hold up.
Moving walls or changing how a room is used can affect detector spacing and strobe coverage. Bring your alarm contractor in before construction starts, not after the ceiling is closed.
Keep the paperwork in one place
Safe Life customers can download every alarm test report from the customer portal, along with a current backup of their panel’s programming database.