Buying fire alarm equipment

In order to protect your business from fire damage, you need to have reliable fire alarm equipment installed. But before you try to install any fire protection equipment yourself, make sure you understand what local, state and federal laws and safety regulations apply to your business. You may be surprised at all of the rules and regulations that apply, even when selecting a monitoring service for your business.

Fire alarm equipment and the NFPA

The NFPA, or the National Fire Protection Association, is the main organization responsible for educating the public about safety rules and regulations related to fire alarm equipment. This organization publishes and promotes several safety codes including the National Electrical Code, or NEC. This code is not a federal law, but most states enforce its regulations. The NEC will impact how your fire alarm equipment is wired and installed, especially your fire alarm control panels. For example, the NEC has rules for conduit and cable protection, grounding, temperature ratings and current ratings.

Local and state safety regulations

In addition to meeting the rules and regulations set by the NFPA, you also will need to make sure your fire alarm equipment meets the safety and licensing regulations set by your local and state governments. These governments tend to focus their rules on the qualifications of the fire alarm monitoring services and installers. For example, they may require all fire alarm equipment technicians to be licensed, bonded and properly trained. They may also require that technicians carry an authorized identification card and complete a minimum number of CPE credits each year.

Federal laws

Finally, you'll need to make sure your fire alarm equipment complies with all applicable federal laws. One of the laws that you may not think about when buying and installing fire alarm equipment is the Americans with Disabilities Act, or ADA. This act requires companies to have safety equipment that is accessible for people with disabilities. This means you'll need to select a fire alarm that has a flashing light or some other visual alert so people with impaired hearing will be aware that an emergency alarm has been activated. You'll also want to think about installing Braille emergency exit signs and instructions to help visually impaired people find their way safely out of the building in case of a fire.

Choose the right provider

The right fire alarm installer is the only way to be sure you're complying with all the relevant codes, laws, and regulations. We can help you find multiple qualified fire alarm installers in your area – free. Just answer a few basic questions about your business and you'll be on your way to getting the right fire protection at the right price.