Fire alarm systems are an important part of protecting employees, customers, residents, and property. In Ohio, commercial fire alarm systems are subject to inspection, testing, and maintenance requirements designed to make sure the system remains operational when it is needed most.
How Often Do Fire Alarms Need to Be Inspected?
Ohio's Fire Code requires fire alarm systems to be inspected, tested, and maintained according to NFPA 72, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code. Testing must follow the schedules established by NFPA 72, or more frequently if required by the local fire code official. Records of inspections and testing must also be maintained.
This means the exact testing schedule can vary depending on the type of system, equipment, building, and local requirements. A professional inspection helps ensure that required testing is completed and properly documented.
What Is Checked During a Fire Alarm Inspection?
A professional inspection can include testing and evaluating many parts of a fire alarm system, including:
- Smoke and heat detectors
- Manual pull stations
- Notification appliances such as horns, strobes, and speakers
- Fire alarm control panels
- Batteries and backup power
- Monitoring connections
- Supervisory and trouble signals
- Sprinkler system monitoring
- Duct detectors and other connected devices
- System wiring and connections
Smoke detector sensitivity is also subject to specific requirements. Under the Ohio Fire Code, sensitivity must be checked within one year after installation and every other year afterward, with limited provisions allowing longer intervals after qualifying tests.
Why Documentation Matters
Fire alarm inspections aren't just about testing the equipment. Proper documentation is also an important part of compliance. Ohio requires records of inspection, testing, and maintenance to be maintained. General fire-code records are required to be kept for at least three years unless another period is specified by the applicable code or standard.
Keeping accurate records can also make it easier to identify recurring problems, track repairs, and demonstrate that required maintenance has been completed.
What Happens If a Problem Is Found?
If a fire alarm inspection identifies a problem, the issue should be corrected so the system can continue operating properly. Ohio's Fire Code requires fire protection systems to be maintained in an operative condition and repaired or replaced when defective.
Ignoring a trouble signal, failed device, outdated battery, or other deficiency can leave a building without the protection its fire alarm system is designed to provide.
Keep Your Fire Alarm System Ready
Regular fire alarm inspections help protect your property while keeping your system maintained according to Ohio requirements. Professional testing can identify problems before they become an emergency and provide the documentation needed to show that required inspections have been completed.
If your business's fire alarm system is due for an inspection, Catawba Security can help with professional fire alarm inspections, testing, monitoring, and service. Contact us to make sure your system is ready when you need it most.
