Detector test 2

[Weldinspect]

I didn´t find it in the search window, so what percentage detectors in a new building do we have to test for the acceptance test acording to NFPA 72?

 

[cdafd]

I think 100%

Plus good idea, because even with the modern tech and especially computer programming of panels, thanks sometimes just to not work.

And especially if you are talking about a high rise.

Not near the book till Thursday

 

[Weldinspect]

Yes it´s a high rise, thanks cdafd

 

[cdafd]

Looks like it may be the table in chapter ten under first column acceptance

http://www.nfpa.org/~/media/Files/forms and premiums/nfpa3/nfpa3chapter_2.pdf

http://www.ecmag.com/section/miscellaneous/acceptance-testing

 

[Weldinspect]

Table 10.3.1 on the first document only checks the need for the test but not the percentages and the secod page does not mention the standard paragraph

 

[Weldinspect]

NFPA 72 2000 Table 10.4.2.2 13.g.1 that I can´t find says it´s 100%

 

[cdafd]

Not near the book but will look on Thursday

From the first link above


Chapter 14 of the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code includes requirements for testing of all fire alarm system components and subsystems. Initial acceptance testing of the entire system in accordance with the test methods prescribed in Chapter 14 is re- quired before the system can be approved and put into service.

 

[Weldinspect]

Chapter 14 is not so clear for me,I found this part in table 14.4.2.2:

(g) Smoke detectors
(1) In other than one- and two-family
dwellings, system detectors and single- or
multiple-station smoke alarms

Smoke detectors/smoke alarms shall be tested in place to ensure smoke
entry into the sensing chamber and an alarm response. Testing with smoke
or listed aerosol, acceptable to the manufacturer of the aerosol or the
manufacturer of the smoke detector/smoke alarm and identified in their
published instructions, shall be permitted as acceptable test methods.
Other methods listed in the manufacturer’s published instructions that
ensure smoke entry from the protected area, through the vents, into the
sensing chamber shall be permitted.
Any of the following tests shall be performed to ensure that each smoke
detector is within its listed and marked sensitivity range:
(1) Calibrated test method
(2) Manufacturer’s calibrated sensitivity test instrument
(3) Listed control equipment arranged for the purpose
(4) Smoke detector/control unit arrangement whereby the detector causes a
signal at the control unit when its sensitivity is outside its listed sensitivity
range
(5) Other calibrated sensitivity test method approved by the authority having
jurisdiction
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
-By the way, we are using intelligent Siemens smoke detectors.
-This paragraph says "each smoke detector" but the tests that follow seem that shall be done at the factory?

 

[cdafd]

I would say the table 10 has a check to test smoke detector for acceptance test.

So to me the default would either test one for the entire system or all of them.

Plus in one year on the inspection you are supposed to test every device. So if you do it yearly, seems like you would check it on initial.

 

[cdafd]

How about this???

NFPA 72 2010

10.18.2.4.1 Verification shall ensure that the installed system includes all components and functions, that those components and functions are installed and operate as required, that the system has been 100 percent acceptance tested in accordance with Chapter 14, and that all required documentation has been provided to the system owner.


Exception: Where the installation is an extension, modification, or reconfiguration of an existing system, the verification shall be required for the new work only, and reacceptance testing in accordance with Chapter 14 shall be acceptable.

 

[Weldinspect]

Great help cdafd, although NFPA 72 still ow us a clear statement dont´t you think? 100% acceptance tested don´t exactly say that 100% detectors shall be tested. By the way this are intelligent smoke detectors
Thank you

 

[cdafd]

To me it does!

They are not that intelligent.

Just even on simple systems, have seen them not work or do wacky things!!!

 

[Weldinspect]

Thank you

 

[stookeyfpe]

Your answers are in Section 14.4.1 of NFPA 72 (I am quoting from the 2013 edition). Table 14.4.3.2 Item 17 (g) specifically describes how smoke detectors are to be functionally tested and how to test it.