FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY CORNER W RI TT E N A N D P H O TO G R A P H ED BY M I C H A E L T. R EA R D O N , P.E .
MAINTAINING LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS Part Two Frequency
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n the Winter 2024 edition of Artisan Spirit Magazine, we provided an overview of the requirements and necessity for maintaining critical life safety systems within your facility. Part two of this segment will dive further into the frequencies for inspections and testing following the initial acceptance by the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). Some of the procedures may be completed in-house, while others are required to be conducted by qualified individuals or companies. However, the owner holds the ultimate responsibility of maintaining all systems within the building. You should consult with your local inspection and testing company or obtain the specific codes and standards to become knowledgeable about the specific criteria as each type of life safety system is unique. The most common types of life safety systems which will be discussed, include:
CODE/STANDARD REQUIREMENTS Your local AHJ, which includes building code officials and fire marshals, should be contacted to determine their specific inspection, testing, and documentation requirements. Local AHJ requirements may vary in specific criteria including code editions, addition/amended requirements, and documentation reporting. While many AHJs require documentation to remain on site, some may also require submission of documentation within specific timeframes. The most common codes and standards utilized for the previously mentioned life safety systems include: Life Safety System
> Automatic Sprinkler Systems and Fire Pumps
Applicable Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance Code/Standard
Automatic Sprinkler Systems
NFPA 25 – Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems
> Fire Protection Tanks
Fire Pumps
> Wet Chemical Extinguishing Systems (I.E. Kitchen Hood Suppression Systems)
NFPA 25 – Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems
Fire Protection Tanks
NFPA 25 – Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems
> Fire Extinguishers
Wet Chemical Extinguishing Systems
NFPA 17A – Standard for Wet Chemical Extinguishing Systems
Fire Extinguishers
NFPA 10 – Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers
> Fire Doors
Fire Alarm Systems
NFPA 72 – National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
> Emergency Lights
Emergency Lights
NFPA 101 – Life Safety Code
Exit Signs
NFPA 101 – Life Safety Code
> Fire Alarm Systems
> Exit Signs
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Your local Authority Having Jurisdiction, which includes building code officials and fire marshals, should be contacted to determine their specific inspection, testing, and documentation requirements.
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