SECTION 16721

FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS

PART 1 - GENERAL
1.1 RELATED DOCUMENTS
A. Drawings and general provisions of Contract, including General and Supplementary Conditions and
Division 1 Specification Sections, apply to this Section.
B. Requirements of the following Sections and Divisions apply to this Section:
1. Section 08700 - Builders Hardware
2. Section 14240 - Hydraulic Elevators.
3. Section 15321 - Electric Drive Horizontal Fire Pumps.
4. Section 15325 - Standpipe and Sprinkler System Pumps.
5. Section 15975 - Direct Digital Control.
6. Section 16010 - Basic Electrical Requirements.
7. Section 16050 - Basic Electrical Materials and Methods.
8. Section 16110 - Raceways.
9. Section 16120 - Wires and Cables.
10. Section 16130 - Boxes.
11. Section 16190 - Supporting Devices.
12. Section 16195 - Electrical Identification.
13. Section 16450 - Grounding.
14. Section 16481 - Motor Controllers.
1.2 SUMMARY
A. This Section includes fire alarm systems. It includes requirements for system components including but
not limited to the following:
1. Peripheral Alarm Initiation Devices:
a. Manual stations.
b. Smoke detectors.
c. Duct detectors.
d. Heat detectors.
e. Duct smoke detectors with associated duct smoke detector test station.
f. Waterflow and waterflow tamper switches dry contacts.
2. Peripheral Alarm Indicating Devices
a. Visual alarm signals.
b. Voice alarm speakers.
3. Control Devices
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 1
a. Addressable interface units and relays for:
(1) Fire Doors.
(2) Electro-magnetic door holder (door release) releases.
(3) Rolling counter door (fire) shutter releases.
(4) Fan shutdown.
(5) Annunciators.
(6) Printer.
(7) Emergency power supply.
(8) Host multiplexed computer interface.
1.3 DEFINITIONS
A. Alarm Initiating Device: A manual station, smoke detector, heat detector, or sprinkler water flow switch.
B. Alarm Signal: Signifies a state of emergency requiring immediate action. Pertains to signals such as the
operation of a manual station and the operation of a sprinkler system flow switch.
C. Class A Wiring: Circuits arranged and electrically supervised so a single break or single ground fault
condition will be indicated by a trouble signal at the FACP and the circuit will continue to be capable of
operation for its intended service in the faulted condition no matter where the break or ground fault
condition occurs.
D. Class B Wiring: Circuits electrically supervised such that a single break or a single ground fault condition
will be indicated by a trouble signal at the FACP no matter where the break or ground fault condition
occurs.
E. Hard-Wired System: Alarm, supervisory, and initiating devices directly connected, through individual
dedicated conductors, to a central control panel without the use of multiplexing circuits or devices.
F. Multiplex System: One using signaling method characterized by the simultaneous or sequential
transmission, or both, and the reception of multiple signals in a communication channel, including means
for positively identifying each signal.
G. Supervisory Signal: Indicates need for action regarding fire suppression or other protective system.
H. Trouble Signal: Indicates that a fault, such as an open circuit or ground, has occurred in the system.
I. Zone: Initiating device or combination of devices connected to a single alarm initiating device circuit.
1.4 SYSTEM DESCRIPTION
A. General: Zoned, noncoded, addressable, microprocessor based type system with manual and automatic
alarm initiation, analog addressable smoke detectors, and automatic alarm verification for alarms initiated
by smoke detector zones.
B. Signal Transmission: Multiplex signal transmission dedicated to fire alarm service only.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 2
C. Audible Alarm Indication: Voice alarm messages and tone signals on loudspeakers.
D. System connections for alarm initiation and alarm indicating circuits: Class B wiring.
E. Priority of Signals: Automatic response functions shall be accomplished by the first zone initiated. Alarm
functions resulting from initiation by the first zone shall not be al tered by subsequent alarms. An alarm
signal shall be the highest priority. Supervisory or trouble signals shall have second- and third-level
priority. Signals of a higher level priority shall take precedence over signals of lower priority even though
the lower priority condition occurred first. Annunciate all alarm signals regardless of priority or order
received.
F. Noninterfering: Provide zoned, powered, wired, and supervised system so a signal on one zone does not
prevent the receipt of signals from any other zone. All zones shall be manually resettable from the FACP
after the initiating device or devices have been restored to normal. Systems that require the use of
batteries or battery backup for the programming function are not acceptable.
G. Signal Initiation: The manual or automatic operation of an alarm initiating or supervisory operating device
shall cause the FACP to transmit appropriate signals including:
1. General alarm.
2. Fire suppression system operation alarm.
3. Smoke detector alarm.
4. Valve tamper supervisory.
5. Fire pump power supervisory.
6. Door release.
7. Elevator recall.
8. Elevator shutdown.
9. Fan shutdown.
H. Transmission to Remote Central Station: Alarm signals shall be automatically routed in a listed and
approved manner to a remote station service transmitter using listed and approved equipment. Final
connections to the remote station service transmitters will be made under another Contract, and connec-
tions to the FACP shall be made under this Contract.
I. Silencing at FACP: Switches shall provide capability for acknowledgment of alarm; supervisory, trouble,
and other specified signals at the FACP; and capability to silence the local audible signal and light an LED
(light emitting diode). Subsequent zone alarms shall cause the audible signal to sound again until silenced
in turn by switch operation. Restoration to normal of alarm, supervisory, and trouble conditions shall
extinguish the associated LED and cause the audible signal to sound again until the restoration is
acknowledged by switch operation.
J. Power Loss Indication: Sound trouble signal at the FACP upon loss of primary power at the FACP and
the annunciator. Indicate when operating on batteries at both locations.
K. Annunciation: Annunciate manual or automatic operation of any alarm or supervisory initiating device
both on the FACP and on the annunciator indicating the location and type device.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 3
L. General Alarm: A system general alarm includes:
1. Indicating the general alarm condition at the FACP and the system annunciator.
2. Identifying the device that is the source of the alarm (or its zone) at the FACP and the system
annunciator.
3. Initiating audible and visible alarm signals throughout the building.
4. Initiating voice alarms.
5. Closing fire and smoke doors normally held open by electro-magnetic door holders.
6. Stopping supply and return fans serving zone where alarm initiated.
7. Closing smoke dampers on system serving zone where alarm initiated.
8. Release fire doors.
9. Recording the event on the system printer.
10. Initiating transmission of alarm signal to remote central station.
M. Manual station alarm operation initiates a general alarm.
N. Water flow alarm switch operation:
1. Initiates a general alarm.
2. Causes the device location indicating lamp of the device that has operated to turn on or flash.
O. Smoke Detection for a Zone With Alarm Verification Causes:
1. Audible and visible indication "alarm verification" signal at the FACP.
2. Activation of a listed and approved "alarm verification" sequence at the FACP and the detector.
3. Recording of the event on the system printer.
4. General alarm initiation if the alarm is verified.
5. FACP indication canceled and system reset if the alarm is not verified.
P. Sprinkler valve tamper switch operation:
1. Causes a supervisory audible and visible "valve tamper" signal indication at FACP and annunciator.
2. Causes location indicating light to turn on or flash for the device that has operated.
3. Causes a printed record the event on the system printer.
4. Initiates transmission of supervisory signal to remote central station.
Q. Fire pump power failure, including a dead phase or phase- reversal condition:
1. Causes a supervisory audible and visible "fire pump power failure" signal to be indication at FACP
and annunciator.
2. Causes a printed record the event on the system printer.
3. Initiates transmission of trouble signal to remote central station.
R. Kitchen Hood Fire Supperssion Alarm Condition:
1. Initiates a general alarm.
2. Causes the location indicating light to turn on or flash for the device that has operated.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 4
S. Kitchen Fire Suppression Trouble Condition:
1. Causes a supervisory audible and visible "trouble" signal indication at FACP and annunciator.
2. Causes the location indicating light to turn on or flash for the device that has operated.
3. Causes a written record the event on the system printer.
4. Initiates transmission of trouble signal to remote central station.
T. Activation of elevator lobby, elevator shaft, or elevator equipment room automatic detectors shall cause
general alarm and cause automatic capture of elevators within associated elevator bank to return them the
egress level through fire alarm relay operation. Once obtaining that level, the cab doors shall open and the
elevator shall shut down. Thereafter, only selected elevators may be utilized by authorized personnel.
1. If the alarmed detector is on the main egress level, the elevators shall automatically be returned to a
predetermined alternative level.
U The alarm activation of any elevator shaft or elevator machine room initiation device shall, in addition to
the system alarm operators listed above, cause subsequent events according to the following sequence:
1. If the alarmed initiation device is a smoke detector, the elevator cabs within that shaft shall be recalled
to an egress floor as allowed by the format listed in paragraph directly above. After the associated
shaft elevator cabs have all returned to the designated floors, a contact block from the associated
elevator controllers shall provide a signal to the fire alarm system.
2. If the alarm initiation device is a heat detector, the elevator recall signal shall be activated similar to
above. After the associated shaft elevator cabs have all returned to the designated floor (or if already
there), a control block from the associated elevator controllers shall provide a signal to the fire alarm
system. The fire alarm system shall then;
a. Signal the elevator controller to disconnect power to the elevator motors.
V. Activation of SEPARATE system bypass switches (a separate switch is required for each function listed)
shall override the automatic functions selectively within the system for:
1. Transmission of fire alarm condition signal to the municipal fire department (fire command station).
2. Operation of audible and visual alarms.
3. Operation of visual alarms.
4. Operation of FACP controlled door release devices.
5. Automatic shutdown and/or control of HVAC fans.
6. Automatic capture of elevators.
W. Remote Detector Sensitivity Adjustment: Manipulation of controls at the FACP causes the selection of
specific addressable smoke detectors for adjustment, displays of their current status and sensitivity
settings, and controls changes in those settings. Provide ability of using the same controls to program
repetitive scheduled changes in sensitivity of specific detectors. Sensitivity adjustments and sensitivity
adjustment schedule changes shall be printed on the system printer.
X. Recording of Events: Record all alarm, supervisory, and trouble events by means of system printer.
Printout shall be by zone, device, and function. When the FACP receives a signal, the alarm, supervisory,
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 5
and trouble condition shall be printed. The printout shall include the type of signal (alarm, supervisory, or
trouble), the device address and zone number, date, and the time of the occurrence. The printer shall
differentiate alarm signals from all other printed indications. When the system is reset, this event shall
also be printed including the same information concerning device, location, date, and time. Provide a
means to command the printout of a list of alarm, supervisory, and trouble conditions in the system.
Y. Independent System Monitoring: Supervise each independent smoke and heat detection system, duct
detector, and elevator smoke detection system for both normal operation and trouble.
Z. Circuit Supervision: Indicate circuit faults with both a zone and a trouble signal at the FACP. Provide a
distinctive indicating audible tone and (LED) indicating light. The maximum elapsed time between the
occurrence of the trouble condition and its indication at the FACP is 200 seconds.
1.5 ZONES
A. Smoke/Fire Zones
1. Basically, each floor shall be group zoned by building according to the fire partition construction with
further breakdown as to the device type. Additional zones shall be dedicated to:
a. Individual Air Handling Units
b. Food Service Fire Extinguishing System
c. Elevator Capture Control
d. Fire Pump System
e. Each electrical equipment room.
f. Each mechanical/pump room.
g. Each telephone/data room.
h. Central plant.
i. Dining Room
j. Kitchen
1.6 SUBMITTALS
A. General: Submit the following in accordance with Conditions of the Contract and Division 1 - General
Requirements.
B. Product Data: Submit manufacturer's product data showing material proposed. Product data shall include,
but shall not be limited to, the following:
1. Product of data sheets with equipment descriptions.
2. Bill of materials of all equipment.
3. Capacities/ratings.
4. Performance data.
5. Dimensions.
6. Sensitivity.
7. Power requirements
8. Conformance to standards
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 6
C. Shop Drawings: Submit complete shop drawings as required to determine acceptability. Drawings shall
be prepared on a computer drafting system. Shop drawings shall include, but shall not be limited to the
following:
1. Conduit and device floor plans with symbols, identification tag numbers, and wiring type and quantity
between devices. Wiring between devices shall have a sequential/zone identification tag number.
Devices also shall have an individual identification tag number.
2. Mounting details and elevations of panels and devices.
3. Front and back panel elevations of control panels.
4. Other drawings as required by the local authority having jurisdiction.
D. Shop Drawings: Submit complete shop drawings including the following:
1. Wiring diagrams.
2. Floor plans.
3. Riser diagrams.
4. Installation details.
5. Sequence of operation.
E. Riser Diagrams: Submit complete riser diagrams which shall include, but not be limited to:
1. Location of equipment control panels, detector and devices.
2. Fire alarm devices symbolized (same symbols as shown on E series drawings) with locations
identified and a unique identification number assigned to each detector or device.
3. Wiring interconnections.
4. Wiring schedule with type, quantity, color, size, and wire marker numbers identified.
5. Symbol list and abbreviations.
6. Wattage tap for each speaker.
F. Wiring Diagrams: Shop drawings shall include point-to-point wiring diagrams for circuits and devices.
The diagrams shall be specific only to this Project. Wiring diagrams shall include, but shall not be limited
to, the following:
1. Device/equipment terminations.
2. Wiring connection to terminals and between devices.
3. Schedule of wire types, sizes, and color coding.
G. Operational Information:
1. Shop drawing shall include a written description of features and functions of the fire alarm control
programs.
2. Provide sequences of operation.
3. Provide a list of each device address and tag number.
H. Calculations:
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 7
1. Provide calculations to indicate loading on each speaker circuit and the loading on each amplifier.
Indicate the spare capacity for each speaker circuit and amplifier.
2. Provide load calculations for standby battery power which shall include individual load requirements
and quantities of devices. Calculations shall be based on worst case loading conditions.
I. Operating and Maintenance Manuals: Submit complete operating and maintenance manuals. Provide
information pertinent to the equipment for preventive maintenance and for replacement of expendable
components. Provide complete and explicit instructions for start-up, operating, and stopping. Manuals
shall include the items listed below and other information recommended by the manufacturer:
1. List of components in system.
2. Troubleshooting guide.
3. System programming manual.
4. The name and telephone number of a factory-authorized, 24 hour service center within 50 miles of the
Project.
J. Operating and Maintenance Manuals: Submit complete operating and maintenance manuals. Provide
information pertinent to the equipment for preventive maintenance and for replacement of expendable
components.
K. System operation description including method of operation and supervision of each type of circuit and
sequence of operations for all manually and automatically initiated system inputs. Description shall cover
this specific project. Manufacturer's standard descriptions for generic systems are not acceptable.
L. Product certification signed by the manufacturer of the fire alarm system components certifying that their
products comply with the referenced standards.
M. Submission to Authority Having Jurisdiction: In addition to routine submission of the above material,
make a simultaneous identical submission to the authority having jurisdiction. Include copies of annotated
Contract Drawings as required to depict component locations to facilitate review. Upon receipt of com-
ments from the authority, submit a copy of the marked-up submittal for review. Make resubmissions to
the authority if required to make clarifications or revisions to obtain approval.
1.7 QUALITY ASSURANCE
A. Contractor's Quality Assurance Responsibilities: The Contractor shall have sole responsibility for quality
control of the work.
B. Manufacturer's Qualifications: Firms shall have been engaged in manufacture of fire alarm and detection
systems of types and sizes required, and whose products have been in satisfactory use in similar service for
not less than ten years, and have a fully staffed and equipped service organization within 50 miles of the
project.
C. Installer: Retain the services of the fire alarm manufacturer's certified employee to install, or to supervise
the installation of the system.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 8
D. Compliance With Local Requirements: Comply with the applicable building code, local ordinances, and
regulations and the requirements of the authority having jurisdiction.
E. Regulatory Requirements: Comply with applicable requirements of the laws, codes, ordinances, and
regulations of Federal, State and Municipal authorities having jurisdiction.
F. Factory Mutual: Equipment, product, and material shall meet the requirements of and be approved by
Factory Mutual.
G. Single Source Manufacturer: The complete fire alarm system shall consist of products from one
manufacturer.
1.8 MAINTENANCE SERVICE
A. Maintenance Service Contract: Provide maintenance of fire alarm systems and equipment for a period of
12 months commencing with Substantial Completion, using factory-authorized service representatives.
B. Basic services: Systematic, routine maintenance visits on a monthly basis at times coordinated with the
Architect. In addition, respond to service calls within 24 hours of notification of system trouble. Adjust
and replace defective parts and components with original manufacturer's replacement parts, components,
and supplies.
C. Additional Services: Perform services within the above 12-month period not classified as routine
maintenance or as warranty work as described in Division 1 Section "Warranties and Bonds" when
authorized in writing. Compensation for additional services must be agreed upon in writing prior to per-
forming services.
D. Renewal of Maintenance Service Contract: No later than 60 days prior to the expiration of the
maintenance services contract, deliver to the Owner a proposal to provide contract maintenance and repair
services for an additional one-year term. Owner will be under no obligation to accept maintenance service
contract renewal proposal.
1.9 EXTRA MATERIALS
A. General: Furnish extra materials matching products installed, as described below, packaged with
protective covering for storage, and identified with labels clearly describing contents.
B. Lamps for Remote Indicating Lamp Units: Furnish quantity equal to 10 percent of the number of units
installed, but not less than one.
C. Lamps for Strobe Units: Furnish quantity equal to 10 percent of the number of units installed, but not less
than one.
D. Smoke Detectors, Fire Detectors, and Flame Detectors: Furnish quantity equal to 10 percent of the
number of units of each type installed but not less than one of each type.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 9
E. Detector Bases: Furnish quantity equal to 2 percent of the number of units of each type installed but not
less than one of each type.
F. Printer Ribbons: Furnish six (6) spare printer ribbons.
G. 4 boxes of register paper for the printer.
H. 1 spare fuse for each fused circuit in the system
I. 3 sets of any special tools required.
J. 24 spare screws of each type installed.
K. 2 screwdrivers of each type needed for system repairs/maintenance.
L. Keys and locks for all equipment shall be identified and identical where possible. Not less than 12 keys
for each type required shall be provided. 9 key numbering chart shall be provided in each instruction
manual furnished.
PART 2 - PRODUCTS
2.1 MANUFACTURERS
A. Manufacturers: Subject to compliance with requirements, provide products and series type indicated by
the following:
1. Cerberus Pyrotronics.
2. Honeywell, Inc.
3. Notifier; Div. of Pittway Corp.
4. Simplex Time Recorder Co.
2.2 GENERAL
A. The fire alarm system shall be either an integrated fire detection, evacuation signaling/one-way voice and
auxiliary function control system or a combination of component sub-systems. The required fire alarm
system components may share control equipment, or be able to operate as stand-alone sub-systems, but
shall in any case be fully compatible and arranged to function together as a single system. All component
sub-systems shall be capable of simultaneous, full load operation without degradation of the overall
system performance.
B. The fire detection component of the overall fire alarm system shall utilize point-addressable, multiplex
technology providing a discrete system "address" for each individual initiating device.
C. The system shall have analog circuit capability for monitoring detector sensitivity in accordance with
NFPA 72E.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 10
D. The overall fire alarm system shall utilize distributed signal processing, power supplies and evacuation
signaling components including amplifiers, pre-amplifiers and tone generators to provide automatic
degrade mode operation in the event of data gathering panel failure, central processing unit failure or
communications failure between the central processing unit and one or more data gathering panels.
1. When operating in degrade mode (i.e., when not communicating with the central processing unit),
each data gathering panel, including all associated detectors, evacuation signaling and auxiliary
function components shall operate as a stand-alone local fire alarm system, providing for its
associated area of the premises capability consistent with the requirements of NFPA 72A, 1987.
2. When operating in degrade mode, alarm and trouble signals shall be annunciated at the associated data
gathering panel; receipt of any fire alarm signal shall immediately initiate general evacuation
signaling zones.
3. Degrade mode operation shall be limited to portions of the system (data gathering panels and their
associated devices) not in communication with the central processing unit. All other portions of the
system shall continue in normal operation.
E. The fire alarm system shall monitor and annunciate three distinct types of signals:
1. Fire alarms, including signals initiated by manual fire alarm stations, smoke detectors, in-duct smoke
detectors, heat detectors, waterflow alarm switches, special suppression system agent discharge
pressure switches, and alarm contacts of monitored system releasing panels. Fire alarms shall be
audibly and visually annunciated in the zone of origin and shall automatically initiate a digitized voice
command throughout the facility. Fire alarm signals shall also put into operation auxiliary control
functions such as fan shutdown.
2. Supervisory signals, including signals initiated by sprinkler valve supervisory switches, supervisory
pressure switches, waterflow switches at the base of standpipe risers, supervisory contacts associated
with monitored fire pump controllers, manual control switches for auxiliary functions and status
annunciation contacts for devices controlled or monitored by the fire alarm system as auxiliary
functions. Supervisory alarms shall be audibly and visually annunciated at all annunciation devices.
Supervisory signals shall not initiate automatic evacuation signaling or auxiliary control functions.
3. Trouble conditions, including signals initiated by the system in response to fault conditions detected
in supervised circuits and/or components. Trouble conditions shall be audibly and visually
annunciated at all annunciation devices. They shall not initiate automatic evacuation signaling or
auxiliary control functions.
F. The system shall have spare installed capacity enabling it to support a twenty percent (20 %) increase in
initiating, control and indicating device circuits. Spare circuit capacity shall be evenly distributed
throughout the system.
G. Annunciators shall have an additional 100% spare spaces available for future building additions.
H. The system shall incorporate an alarm verification function in the control panel. Alarm verification shall
not be provided for manual fire alarm stations, waterflow alarm switches, or heat detectors.
I. Electromagnetic Interference
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 11
1. All fire alarm control equipment, devices and wiring shall be protected against unwanted radiated
electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI) which can interfere with
normal system processing and possibly cause unwanted alarms.
2. The system shall be designed and installed to be unaffected by the operation of a hand-held portable
radio (walkie-talkie) of 5 watts power generating capability within 12 inches of any system device
with all appropriate covers installed.
J. Initiating Circuits
1. Fire alarm initiating device circuits, including circuits monitoring manual fire alarm stations, smoke
and heat detectors, waterflow alarm switches and devices used for detecting activation of special fire
suppression systems shall be Class B, Style "C" as described in Table 3-5.1 of NFPA 72 - 1990.
2. Supervisory initiating circuits, including circuits monitoring valve supervisory switches, fire pump
functions, air pressure supervisory switches, magnetic contacts, electrical power supervision and low
battery supervision shall be Class B, Style "C" as described in Table 3-5.1 of NFPA 72 - 1990.
K. Signaling Line Circuits
1. Circuits connecting remote annunciation devices and central station monitoring equipment with the
control panel, and the main system riser between the remote transmitting panels and the control
panel(s) shall be Class B, Style "3" as described in Table 3-6.1 of NFPA 72, 1990.
2. The system multiplex/data signaling circuit shall be run in two separate conduits, physically separated
in separate chases or rooms and arranged such that severing one of the conduits will not put any
portion of the system out of service.
3 All addressable or digital data circuits, either between the control unit and data gathering panels or
between data gathering panels and addressable field devices, shall be considered signaling line
circuits.
L0 Indicating Appliance Circuits
1 Indicating appliance circuits shall be Class B, Style "Y", 4-wire, arranged to be capable of operation
over a single ground as described in Table 3-7.1.
M0 Control Circuits
1 Control circuits for supervised relays shall be "Style Y".
2.3 POWER SUPPLIES
A0 Except where otherwise required by local code, all AC power connections shall be to the building's
designated electrical power circuit and shall meet the requirements of NFPA 72 - 1990, Section 5.
B0 Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) units(s) shall be listed per UL Standard 1481, Power Supplies for
Fire Protective Signaling Systems, for fire alarm system use. Unit(s) shall be LaMarche A32 series or
equal consisting of a UL listed invertor model A31, a UL listed battery charger model A36 or larger,
complete with mounting rack, power buss connections, both AC and DC voltmeters and ammeters, form C
contact output to indicate rectifier failure/low-battery, and automatic transfer capability. The rectifier
failure/low-battery contact shall be connected to cause a supervisory alarm on the fire alarm system. The
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 12
automatic transfer feature shall switch the load to an emergency circuit upon battery depletion. The UPS
shall protect the fire alarm central control equipment, and peripheral printers and terminals, against
brownout and voltage transients. Upon utility power failure the UPS shall provide power to all connected
loads for a period of not less than 24 hours. If only one UPS unit is installed, it shall have a minimum
rating at 1.5 kVA at 120 vac output.
C0 Batteries/Secondary Power Sources
1 System control equipment shall receive secondary operating power from batteries integral to the
equipment. Such batteries shall supply operating power for a minimum duration of 24 hours.
2 Any portion of the system operation on secondary power shall annunciate as a trouble signal,
identifying the inoperable power supply(ies).
3 Secondary operating power provided shall be capable of operating all indicating appliances
simultaneously for a minimum of 15 minutes after a duration of four (4) hours in an alarm condition.
4 Low capacity conditions of secondary power supplies shall immediately annunciate as a trouble
signal, and shall identify the power source.
5 Design load connected to any power supply, amplifier or secondary power source shall not exceed
80% of its rated capacity.
6 Upon failure of normal (AC) power, the affected portion(s) of the system shall automatically switch
over to secondary power without losing any alarm, trouble or operator acknowledgment signals.
7 Operation of any portion of the system on secondary power shall annunciate as a trouble signal,
identifying the inoperable power supply(ies).
8 Standby batteries shall be provided which shall have capacity sufficient to maintain all portions of the
system in a normal, non-alarm condition for a minimum of 24 hours after which it shall be capable of
operating all indicating devices simultaneously for a minimum of 15 minutes.
9 All standby batteries shall be continuously monitored by the system. Low battery conditions shall
immediately annunciate as a trouble signal, identifying the deficient batteries.
D0 Magnetic door holders shall not be served by battery power. Magnetic door holders shall be supplied from
the FACP at 120 or 24 volts and shall released on the failure of primary power.
2.4 MANUAL PULL STATIONS
A0 Manual fire alarm stations shall be of the double-action, non-coded type. They shall consist of a housing,
fitted with a pull-down lever, which when operated, locks in position after releasing a spring-loaded
contact switch to effect activation of an alarm circuit. The body of the manual station shall be
permanently attached to the back plate assembly.
B0 Resetting the manual fire alarm stations after operation shall require the use of a key. Manual stations
which use a screwdriver or allen wrench for reset are not acceptable.
C0 Each manual fire alarm station shall be monitored individually, via either an integral, addressable element
or an addressable monitor module.
D0 Manual fire alarm stations shall be semi-flush mounted in finished areas or surface mounted in unfinished
areas, using appropriate backboxes and mounting hardware, on permanent walls or columns, 48" from the
finish floor to the top of the manual fire alarm station.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 13
E0 If manual stations requiring separate addressable elements or monitor modules are used, those elements or
modules shall be flush mounted in finished areas, and surface mounted in unfinished areas, in or on the
wall adjacent to the manual fire alarm station or in the ceiling directly above the manual fire alarm station,
using appropriate backboxes and mounting hardware. Separate addressable elements or modules
providing indication of system polling and/or device activation shall not be concealed.
2.5 SMOKE DETECTORS
A0 General: Comply with UL 268, "Smoke Detectors for Fire Protective Signalling Systems." Provide the
following features:
1 Factory Nameplate: With serial number and type identification.
2 Operating Voltage: 24-V d.c., nominal.
3 Self-Restoring: Provide detectors that do not require resetting or readjustment after actuation to
restore them to normal operation.
4 Plug-in Arrangement: Detector and associated encapsulated electronic components mounted in a
module that connects to a fixed base with a twist-locking plug connection. The plug connection shall
require no springs for secure mounting and contact maintenance. Provide terminals in the fixed base
for building wiring.
5 Visual Indicator: Connected to indicate detector has operated.
6 Addressability: Provide detectors with a communication transmitter and receiver having a unique
identification and status reporting capability to the FACP.
7 Remote Controllability: Provide detectors individually monitorable at the FACP for calibration,
sensitivity, and alarm condition, and have capability of individually adjustable sensitivity from the
FACP.
8 Photoelectric Smoke Detectors: Include the following features and characteristics:
a0 Detector Sensitivity: Between 2.5 and 3.5 percent per foot smoke obscuration when tested in
accordance with UL 268.
b0 Sensor: Infrared detector light source with matching silicon cell receiver.
c0 135 degree F back-up element.
9 Ionization-Type Smoke Detectors: Multiple-chamber-type operate on the ionization principle and
actuated by the presence of invisible products of combustion.
B0 Duct Smoke Detector: Photo-electric detector with sampling tube of design and dimensions as
recommended by the manufacturer for the specific duct size and installation conditions where applied.
Complete with housing and relay as required for fan shutdown.
C0 Duct Smoke Detector Test Station
1 Flush wall mounted except surface wall mounted or group wall mounted or grouped FATC flush door
mounted in mechanical equipment rooms.
2 Alarm/power LED.
3 Keyed test switch.
4 Stainless steel faceplate.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 14
5 White lettering on red nameplate identifying associated duct smoke detector.
2.6 ADDRESSABLE THERMAL DETECTOR (heat detector)
A0 Rate-compensated/fixed-temperature type with plug-in base and alarm indication lamp. Provide detectors
with a communication transmitter and receiver complete having a unique identification and status-
reporting capability to the FACP.
2.7 WATERFLOW SWITCHES
A0 Provided by Division 15, wired by Division 16.
2.8 SPRINKLER VALVE TAMPER SWITCHES
A0 Provided by Division 15, wired by Division 16.
2.9 ADDRESSABLE MONITORING DEVICES
A0 An addressable monitoring device shall be an electronic interfacing module which shall be connected to an
initiating circuit and shall provide an input to which the device can monitor the status of a conventionally
controlled switch or contact. Each device shall have a specific address assigned to the module. When the
locally operated switch contact closes, the module shall transmit its unique address to the fire alarm
control panel. The device shall have provision for setting the address. The device shall have an indicator
which lights when the device is operating.
B0 The device operating power shall be supplied from the initiating circuit. The device shall be supervised.
C0 The device shall be capable of being mounted in a 4 inch square by 1-1/2 inch deep electrical box. A
faceplate shall be provided for each device which contains the indicator light.
2.10ADDRESSABLE CONTROL DEVICES
A0 An addressable control device shall be an electronic relay module which shall be connected to an
initiating circuit to provide a dry contact output to control auxiliary equipment. Each device shall have a
specific address assigned to the module. When the device receives a command from the fire alarm control
panel through the supervised initiating circuit, the contact shall energize operating the auxiliary equipment.
An indicator light contained in the device shall light when the device is operating.
B0 The device operating power shall be supplied from a separate two wire 24 volt DC power supply located
in the fire alarm control panel.
C0 The device shall be capable of being mounted either flush or semi-flush in a standard 4 inch square by 1-
1/2 inch deep electrical box. A faceplate shall be provided for each device which contains the indicating
light.
D0 The device shall be used to shut down mechanical equipment.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 15
2.11ALARM INDICATING DEVICES
A0 General: Equip alarm indicating devices for mounting as indicated. Provide terminal blocks for system
connections.
B0 Visual Alarm Signals:
1 Shall be 75 candela/second minimum. 15/75 candela strobe lights are not sufficient to meet this
requirement.
2 Shall consist of a vibration resistant solid state flasher assembly which, upon activation, illuminates a
white or clear lens labeled "Fire" in red letters.
3 When mounted on the wall, the word "Fire" shall read from top to bottom.
4 Shall be listed in accordance with UL 1971.
5 Installation shall conform to the requirements for visual signaling appliances found in the "Americans
With Disabilities Act."
6 Tamper proof construction and mounting.
C0 Voice/Tone Speakers: Comply with UL 1480, "Speakers for Fire Protective Signalling." Compression-
driver type with flared projectors having a frequency response of 400 to 5000 Hz.; equipped with an alnico
V magnet and a multiple tap, varnish impregnated, sealed matching transformer. Transformer tap range
and speaker power rating shall be matched to the acoustical environment of the speaker location. Provide
an actual minimum sound output, on alarm of 88 dB at watt tap at 10 feet, measured on axis and provide
a minimum audible output on alarm of 65 dBA or 15 dBA over the local ambient level, whichever is
greater, throughout all normally occupiable areas of the building.
D0 Speaker Mounting: Flush, wall mounted as shown on Drawings.
2.12FIRE DOORS/SHUTTERS
A0 Provided by Division 8, wired by Division 16. To initiate the closing signal, a control module (or relay)
shall be installed as required to signal all door holders to release.
2.13MAGNETIC DOOR HOLDERS
A0 Provided by Division 8, wired by Division 16. To initiate the closing signal, a control module (or relay)
shall be installed as required to signal all door holders to release.
2.14FIRE ALARM CONTROL PANEL (FACP)
A0 General: Comply with UL 864, "Control Units for Fire Protective Signalling Systems."
B0 Cabinet: Lockable steel enclosure. Arrange panel so all operations required for testing or for normal care
and maintenance of the system are performed from the front of the enclosure. If more than a single unit is
required to form a complete control panel, provide exactly matching modular unit enclosures. Provide
cabinets large enough to accommodate all components and to allow ample gutter space for interconnection
of panels as well as field wiring. Identify each enclosure and each component by an engraved red
laminated phenolic resin nameplate. Lettering on the enclosure nameplate shall not be less than 1 inch
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 16
high. Identify individual components and modules within the cabinets by engraved laminated phenolic
resin nameplates.
C0 Systems: Construction requiring removal of field wiring for module removal is not acceptable.
D0 Control Modules: Types and capacities to perform all functions of the fire alarm system. Provide local,
visible, and audible signals to notify of any alarm, supervisory, and trouble condi tion. Provide each type
of audible alarm with a distinctly different sound.
E0 Resetting: Provide the necessary controls to prevent the resetting of any alarm, supervisory, or trouble
signal while the alarm or trouble condition on the system still exists.
F0 Alphanumeric Display and System Controls: Arrange to provide the basic interface between human
operator at FACP and addressable system components, including annunciation, supervision, and control.
Provide a display with a minimum of 32 characters, arranged to display alarm, supervisory, and
component status messages and indicate control commands to be entered into the system for control of
smoke detector sensitivity and other parameters.
G0 Voice Alarm: An integrated, UL listed, life safety, and emergency communication system, complying
with the requirements of NFPA 72, "Installation, Maintenance and Use of Emergency Voice/Alarm
Communications Systems." FACP shall include central voice alarm system components complete with all
necessary microphones, pre- amplifiers, amplifiers, and tone generators. Features shall include:
1 Amplifiers: Comply with UL 1711, "Amplifiers for Fire Protective Signalling Systems."
2 Alarm Channels: Two channels to permit simultaneous transmission of different voice evacuation
announcements to specific zones or floors as well as emergency public address announcements to
specific areas via the central control microphone. All announcements shall be made over dedicated,
supervised communication lines.
3 Status Annunciator: Indicating the status of the various voice alarm speaker zones as well as the
status of fire fighter telephone two-way communication zones.
H0 Instructions: Provide a typeset, printed, or typewritten instruction card mounted behind a lexan plastic or
glass cover in a stainless steel or aluminum frame. Install the frame in a location observable from the
FACP. Describe steps to be taken by an operator when a signal is received as well as the functional
operation of the system under all conditions: normal, alarm, and trouble. Obtain approval for instructions
before mounting.
I0 The data communication rate between the system CPU and associated annunciators, data gathering panels
and addressable initiating devices shall be 2400 baud, minimum.
1 The time delay between activation of an alarm initiating device (excluding retarded waterflow
switches and smoke detector circuits arranged for automatic alarm verification) and activation of the
associated automatic evacuation signaling and automatic auxiliary control functions shall not exceed
15 seconds.
J0 The fire detection system CPU shall be field programmable from a remote keyboard, as well as from
CPUs key pad.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 17
K0 The fire alarm system control equipment shall be capable of supporting all addressable devices in alarm
simultaneously, without impairing normal operation of the system.
L0 Acknowledgment of incoming signals shall silence the audible signal(s) at the Fire Alarm Control Panel.
Receipt of any subsequent fire alarm, supervisory or trouble signal(s) shall cause the appropriate audible
signal(s) to resound.
M0 The control panel(s) shall not be capable of being reset until all alarm conditions have been cleared.
N0 Field programmable functions shall include:
1 Adding or deleting monitor and control points. This feature shall allow the removal of any
detector(s)/zone(s) and/or data gathering panel(s) from the system, such that alarms registered in the
areas affected will be ignored by the system. Access to this feature shall be password protected. A
listing function shall be available to list all disabled devices/zones or data gathering panel(s)'s at
designated printers and CRT's.
2 Change text descriptions associated with individual monitor/ control points.
3 Assign and change priority of individual monitor or control points.
4 Temporarily bypass control points independent of their associated monitor points. Use of this feature
shall allow any operator selected detector(s)/zone(s) to be monitored by the system while inhibiting all
alarm inputs except for local display at CRT's and printers. Access to this feature shall be password
protected. A listing function shall be available to list all bypassed devices/zones at designated printers
and CRT's.
5 Selective output of signals, by assigned priority, to annunciation devices including graphic led
annunciators, CRT's and printers. Each type of annunciator shall be capable of displaying and/or
recording a different group of signals.
O0 The control equipment provided shall be arranged to provide software activated smoke detector alarm
verification capability on a detector-by-detector basis. This feature shall, when activated by software
command, provide a variable 30 second maximum signal interrupt period followed by a variable 30
second maximum confirmation period, for the detector(s) specified by the system operator. When
activated, this feature shall automatically block the initial alarm signal from any smoke detector(s) for
which the feature is enabled for the selected interrupt period, after which the system shall automatically
reset those detectors. A subsequent activation of a reset detector, within the selected confirmation period,
shall be received and immediately processed by the fire detection system as an alarm signal.
P0 The fire alarm system shall be capable of generating the following reports:
1 Complete software printout.
2 Monitor Point List including user defined messages and assigned priority.
3 Control Point List including user defined messages and assigned priority.
4 Devices/zones in alarm list.
5 Devices/zones in trouble list.
6 Disabled Point List.
7 Bypassed point list.
8 Disabled zone list.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 18
Q0 Addressable monitor and control points may be combined into logical groups or lists (in software) to the
extent that such grouping does not detract from the required operation of the system, including resounding
of signals subsequent to actuation of the signal silence switch. Systems which treat logical groups like
hardwired zones with respect to alarm/trouble resound are not acceptable.
2.15REMOTE TRANSMITTING PANELS (Data Gathering Panels)
A0 Data Gathering Panels (DGP's) shall:
1 Interface local initiating and indicating circuits and devices with the control panel(s) via the signaling
line circuit.
2 The remote transmitting panels shall incorporate integral power supplies meeting the requirements of
this specification.
B0 Data gathering panels shall be capable of stand-alone, degrade mode operation, initiating evacuation
signals in their associated evacuation signaling zone(s) in response to fire alarm signals.
C0 Failure or malfunction of a data gathering panel shall not impair operation of fire alarm system devices
and functions beyond those normally monitored or controlled by the affected data gathering panel.
D0 Provide as a minimum, the remote transmitting panels as indicated on the drawings.
E0 Additional remote transmitting panels may be used as necessary to accommodate system equipment
requirements and system design, subject to review and approval by the Architect.
2.16ANNUNCIATION DEVICES
A0 Printers
1 Each printer shall produce a permanent hard copy of all signals received, in the order in which they
are received with alarm taking precedence over other signals.
2 The printout shall include a clear english description of the specific type of signal received, the origin
of that signal and the time and date at which the signal was received.
3 Each printer shall be full carriage (80 Columns minimum), high speed (1 line per second minimum),
and equipped with tractor feed for use with conventional continuous feed paper.
4 Operating (electrical) power shall be 24 VDC or derived from an integral power supply meeting the
requirements of this specification. Primary AC power for the printer shall be supplied via a
permanent (non-plug) connection.
B0 CRT Display Terminal(s)
1 CRT Display Terminal(s) shall have a minimum 8 x 10 inch viewing area and shall be capable of
displaying a minimum of 24 lines of data simultaneously with a minimum of 80 alpha/numeric
characters per line.
2 CRT(s) shall display all signals received, in the order in which they are received, up to the capacity of
the screen. Fire and supervisory alarm signals shall be displayed until the condition is cleared and the
control panel(s) reset. Trouble signals shall be displayed until the condition is cleared. Subsequent
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 19
signals shall be stored and shall be displayed sequentially as the preceding signals are disposed of by
acknowledgment and appropriate follow-up action.
3 The CRT display shall include a clear english description of the specific type of signal received, the
origin of that signal, and the time and date at which the signal was received.
4 Operating (electrical) power shall be derived from an integral power supply meeting the requirements
of this specification. Local AC power for the remote CRT's shall be supplied via a permanent (non-
plug) connection.
5 Power supplied to the CRT shall be continuous and uninterrupted by loss of the primary source of
system operating power.
C0 Graphic Annunciator
1 Annunciator Panel: Indicating the building floor plan with a "you are here" designation. Provide an
LED indicating light located on the floor plan in each zone. Mark zone boundaries on the annunciator
floor plan. Provide lights that indicate the floor on which a signal was actuated if this differs from the
zone. Engrave zone and floor designations on the face of the annunciator. Provide custom
annunciators (WSA or equal) to show building as shown on drawings. Provide size , shape, material
to match and conform to mounting location design standards.
2 Indicating Lights: Individual LED indicating lights for each type of alarm and supervisory device.
Provide an LED to indicate trouble. The actuation of any alarm or supervisory signal shall cause the
illumination of a zone light, floor light, and device light. System trouble shall cause the illumination
of all of these lights and also the trouble light. In addition to these LED indicators, provide normal
power and battery power indicating lights. Provide a toggle switch or push-button LED test switch.
The test switch shall not require key operation.
3 Material and Legend: Satin finish stainless steel or brushed aluminum for annunciator face plate.
Provide at least 1/4-inch wide, engraved floor plan boundary lines in the face plate surface. Fill the
engraving with black paint. Provide zone boundary lines at least 1/8-inch wide, engraved in the
annunciator face plate. Fill engraving with red paint. Engrave legends for the various LED indicating
lights in the annunciator face plate with minimum 1/4-inch-high, red paint filled letters.
4 Operating (electrical) power shall be derived from the FACP(s) via a supervised circuit or from an
integral power supply meeting the requirements of this specification. Power shall be via a permanent
(non-plug) connection.
D0 Where Required
1 Remote printers shall be installed in the following locations:
a0 Engineer Office.
b0 Security.
2 Remote CRT display terminals shall be installed in the following locations:
a0 Engineers Office.
b0 Security.
3 Graphic Annunciator shall be installed in the following locations:
a0 At the Main Entrance to the building. Room 02002.
2.17EVACUATION SIGNALING SYSTEM
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 20
A0 Evacuation signaling shall be accomplished throughout the premises via one-way fire alarm voice/tone
speakers and strobe lights.
B0 The evacuation signaling shall be by a digitized voice message. An alarm signal shall provide the
evacuation signal throughout the facility. Strobe lights shall annunciate throughout upon alarm.
C0 Operating voltage of all fire alarm strobe lights shall be 24 VDC and shall be powered from and
supervised by the fire alarm system.
D0 Removal of any evacuation signaling device from its associated indicating appliance circuit shall cause a
trouble signal at the Fire Command Center.
E0 All evacuation signaling devices shall be equipped with terminal connectors. Pigtail devices are not
acceptable.
F0 Evacuation signaling devices shall be installed and tapped so as to produce an audible output on alarm
which is clearly intelligible and clearly audible above ambient noise levels.
G0 The evacuation signaling system(s) shall provide two channel capability via the fire alarm speakers.
H0 The evacuation signaling system shall be arranged for automatic operation, with provision for manual
operation/override at the fire command center. Equipment shall be arranged so that evacuation signaling
zones can be selectively addressed, individually, or in any combination of individual zones.
I0 Evacuation signaling system tone generators, pre-amplifiers and amplifiers shall be distributed throughout
the protected premises, physically located in or adjacent to their associated data gathering panel(s)'s
evacuation signaling zone(s). One or more amplifiers shall be provided for each evacuation signaling
zone, as necessary for the speaker load in that zone, plus one backup amplifier, per data gathering panel(s)
arranged to automatically switch over in the event of a primary amplifier failure. The backup amplifier
shall be sized the same as the largest primary amplifier associated with that data gathering panel(s).
1 Evacuation signaling zoning shall be as zoned consistent with the fire compartmentation within the
building.
2 Evacuation signaling system zoning delineates geographical areas served by the evacuation signaling
system(s) only. All evacuation signaling devices located within an evacuation signaling zone, both
audible and visual, shall be arranged to operate together. Manual activation of all evacuation
signaling devices within an evacuation signaling zone shall be by actuation of a common manual
control.
J0 Required amplifier capacity shall be calculated based on the following parameters:
1 One-half watt speakers.
2 A safety/expansion factor of 1.5.
3 An amplifier derating factor of 0.2.
K0 Manual controls for evacuation signaling shall be provided in the Fire Command Center, shall over -ride
automatic operation and shall include:
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 21
1 A supervised, momentary contact signal silence switch, with "Normal" and "Signal Silence" positions
identified.
2 A supervised, 3-position switch for each evacuation signaling zone, with "Voice," "Auto" and
"Evacuate" positions identified.
3 A supervised, 3-position "All-Call" switch with "Voice", "Off" and "Evacuate" positions identified.
4 An operator's microphone.
L0 Evacuation signaling controls shall provide automatic digitized voice message transmission capability. A
distinct automatic taped message or digitized voice message transmission capability is required for each
zone of the building. All control cabinets and associated power supplies shall be sized to support this
capability.
M0 Upon receipt of a fire alarm signal, an automatic digitized voice message shall operate automatically
throughout the facility.
N0 Upon receipt of a fire alarm signal, visual strobe lights shall activate throughout the facility.
O0 Actuation of a manual control switch at the FACP signaling panel to either the "Evacuate" or "Voice"
position shall activate the strobe lights and a digitized voice command throughout the facility. No other
controls or switches shall be necessary in order to accomplish this function; "one-switch" manual
evacuation signaling capability is required.
1 When the microphone key is pressed, the digitized voice shall be interrupted in zones selected for
"Voice," and the operator shall be able to transmit voice messages to the selected zone(s). Releasing
the microphone key shall cause the digitized voice to resume. Pressing the microphone key shall not
affect the operation of evacuation signals in zones selected for "Evacuate."
2 Pressing the microphone key shall not affect operation of the strobe lights.
P0 There shall be no provision to manually shut down the evacuation signals, except by actuation of the
"Signal Silence" or "System Reset" switches.
1 Actuation of the "Signal Silence" switch shall shut down all evacuation signals except those which are
operating under manual control. The "Signal Silence" switch shall not override manual control
switches. Receipt of a subsequent fire alarm signal shall cause the evacuation signals to resound.
2 Actuation of the "System Reset" switch shall cause the system to attempt to reset. If all fire alarm
initiating devices have been restored to non-alarm condition, all evacuation signals shall shut down.
If one or more fire alarm initiating devices remain in alarm, evacuation signals shall resound.
2.18RETRANSMISSION OF FIRE ALARMS TO FIRE DEPARTMENT
A0 Receipt of any fire alarm signal (initial signal only) shall be automatically retransmitted to the local fire
department via a digital communicator. Both alarm and supervisory signals shall be retransmitted.
B0 All wiring and terminations between the fire alarm system and any on-site equipment necessary for
performing this function shall be electrically supervised by the fire alarm system. Faults in monitored
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 22
circuits which may prevent retransmission of fire alarm signals shall cause a trouble signal at the Fire
Command Center.
C0 Equipment and signaling requirements shall be in accordance with Local fire department requirements.
2.19FAN STATUS PANEL
A0 Furnish and install a fan status indicator panel at the FACP for control and monitoring of the air-handling
systems.
B0 Status shall be provided for all supply, return and exhaust fans with a supply over 2,000 cfm. Provide list
of fans to Architect.
C0 Any associated damper operation shall be controlled by the building automation system.
PART 3 - EXECUTION
3.1 INSTALLATION, GENERAL
A0 Review Drawings for systems designations, systems boundaries, device locations, zone designations, trunk
risers, and special features.
B0 Equipment mounting heights shall be in accordance with the state and local Fire Alarm Codes and
Handicapped Codes.
3.2 CONDUCTORS AND CONDUIT
A0 Install all wire and cable in metallic conduit raceways as specified in Section 16110 - Raceways.
B0 Size raceways and associated boxes as required by the National Electrical Code limiting fill to 30 percent
unless otherwise indicated or further reduced by manufacturer's representative's recommendations.
Terminate all conduits with bushings.
C0 Fire alarm system conduit systems shall be dedicated to the fire alarm system and shall contain no
unrelated conductors.
D0 Fire alarm system conduits shall be arranged to reduce the possibility of water in those conduits draining
through control panels.
1 All conduits shall be arranged to enter control cabinets from below.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 23
2 Conduits shall be provided with 3, -inch drain holes at the horizontal low point beneath each control
cabinet.
E0 Bushings shall be provided at the termination of all conduits.
F0 Junction boxes shall be installed as necessary to minimize the overall length of conduit required,
consistent with these Specifications. All conductors shall be pulled through junction boxes, without
splices.
G0 Junction boxes should have permanent identification that indicates the circuit identification contained in
the junction box.
H0 Pullboxes shall be installed in each fire alarm system conduit at intervals not to exceed 100 feet.
Pullboxes shall be 4-inch square, minimum.
I0 Terminal cabinets may be installed as appropriate where distance or number of conduit bends make
continuous conductors between devices impractical.
1 Terminal cabinets shall be 6 x 6 x 4 inches minimum, provided with pressure-plate type barrier
terminal strips and screw mounted covers. Terminal strips shall be securely and permanently
mounted to the back of the terminal cabinet. Terminals within each terminal cabinet shall be clearly
numbered with indelible marker for identification, using a consistent numbering convention
throughout the project. These markings shall be noted on the record drawings.
2 Terminal cabinets shall be readily accessible for inspection and servicing. Terminal cabinet locations
requiring the use of scaffolds or ladders over 6 feet in length for inspection and servicing will not be
accepted.
J0 All device backboxes, junction boxes and terminal cabinets shall be sized to accommodate the number of
conductors contained therein, extension rings or extension boxes are not acceptable.
K0 All fire alarm system, pull boxes, junction boxes and terminal cabinets shall be painted "fire engine red"
prior to installation. The Contractor shall provide touch-up painting, of pull boxes, junction boxes and
terminal cabinets prior to final acceptance testing.
L0 Each fire alarm system junction box, pullbox, or electrical enclosure containing fire alarm system
conductors, including initiating device indicating appliance or signaling line circuits, annunciator circuits,
auxiliary function circuits, AC power conductors or grounding conductors shall be uniquely and
permanently labeled with a permanent marker that indicates the circuit designation within the conduit.
This labeling shall be keyed to the floor plans.
M0 All surface mounted device backboxes shall be of metal construction, painted "fire-engine" red, designed
and sized to accommodate the device(s) mounted on them. Undersized backboxes designed to
accommodate flush mounting of devices, or backboxes with visible, unused conduit knockouts are
unacceptable.
N0 All fire alarm system conductors shall be:
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 24
1 New. Wire that has scrapes, nicks, gouges or crushed insulation shall not be used.
2 Insulated for 600 volts (except bare shield drain conductors); insulation type per NEC Article 760 for
non-power limited circuits.
3 Installed in conduit or enclosed raceway.
4 Continuous (except bare shield drain conductors) between devices and between devices and
intermediary terminal cabinets.
5 Sized as recommended by the fire alarm system manufacturer, 14 AWG for single or twisted pair
conductors and 18 AWG for multi-conductor, twisted, jacketed cables, minimum.
O0 Splices in fire alarm system conductors are specifically prohibited, except for soldered and taped splices in
shield drain conductors, as necessary to maintain continuity of the shield between devices. All splices
shall be mechanically secure before soldering. The use of wire nuts is specifically prohibited.
P0 All fire alarm system conductors shall be of the type(s) specified herein.
1 All initiating circuit, signaling line circuit, AC power conductors, shield drain conductors and
grounding conductors, shall be solid copper, stranded or bunch tinned (bonded) stranded copper. All
indicating appliance circuit conductors shall be solid copper or bunch tinned (bonded) stranded
copper.
2. All signaling line circuits, including all addressable initiating device circuits shall be multi-conductor
jacketed twisted cable or twisted shielded per manufacturers recommendations.
3. All non-addressable initiating device circuits, indicating appliance circuits and 24 VDC auxiliary
function circuits shall be twisted pairs or twisted shielded per manufacturers recommendations.
Indicating appliance circuits, initiating device circuits and signaling line circuits shall be shielded if
installed in common conduits.
4. The use of aluminum wire is prohibited.
Q. All fire alarm conductor terminations, except splices in shield drain conductors, and including field
connections to supervisory resistors, diodes, relays or other devices, shall be to numbered terminals or
terminal strips and shall be readily accessible for inspection, service, testing and maintenance.
1. All fire alarm conductor terminations shall be within junction boxes, device backboxes, terminal
cabinets, control panels or other suitable metal enclosures.
2. Terminals and terminal strips shall be suitable for the size and number of conductors connected to
them.
3. Each conductor termination shall be uniquely numbered with durable plastic tags or uniquely
identifiable by a combination of numbers and color codes. These conductor numbers shall be shown
on the Contractor's record drawings (floor plans and detailed wiring diagrams) in a manner allowing
ready identification of all conductor terminations.
4. The use of wire nuts is specifically prohibited.
R. All control panel wiring shall conform to the requirements of this section:
1. All control panel wiring shall be fully dressed and bundled with nylon tie wraps at 3-inch intervals.
Bundled wiring shall be routed parallel to terminal strips within control panels, with individual
conductors turned out at 90 angles to their associated terminal connections. AC power conductors
shall be bundled and routed separately from low voltage conductors. A minimum 2-inch separation
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 25
shall be maintained between AC power conductors and low voltage conductors wherever possible.
All control cabinets shall be sized to accommodate the requirements of this section.
2. Control panels shall not be used as raceways. Conductors which do not terminate within a control
panel shall not be routed through that control panel.
S. Fire alarm conductors shall be separated into three categories:
1. Data circuits, including signaling line circuits, addressable initiating device and auxiliary function
circuits and annunciator circuits, and 24 VDC power circuits for addressable devices.
2. Low voltage non-data circuits, including one and two-way voice communication circuits and
indicating appliance, auxiliary function and remote signaling circuits.
3. AC Power Circuits.
T. Each category of fire alarm conductors shall be installed in physically separated, dedicated conduits, and
shall not interface with one another except at common associated control equipment. Addressable
modules or elements used to provide system "addresses" for non-addressable type initiating devices shall
be considered "control equipment" for the purposes of this section. Fire alarm system conductors shall be
further segregated as necessary to conform to the fire alarm system manufacturer's recommendations and
as necessary to prevent electrical and/or audio cross talk between conductors installed in common
conduits.
U. All fire alarm circuits shall be twisted and shielded as recommended by the system manufacturer(s) and as
necessary to prevent electrical and/or audio cross talk between conductors installed in common conduits.
1. All conductor shielding shall be continuous (with splices) for the length of the circuit, grounded at the
associated control panel only.
2. Shield drain conductors and foil shall be trimmed and taped at each splice to prevent grounding of the
shield at any location other than the associated control panel.
V. All low voltage fire alarm circuits shall be installed as non-power limited circuits in accordance with
Article 760 of NFPA 70. All other fire alarm circuits shall be installed in accordance with the applicable
requirements of Article 310 of NFPA 70, 1993 edition.
W. Conductors looped around terminals are not acceptable.
X. Wire nuts are not acceptable.
Y. T-tapping of addressable circuits shall be in accordance with the fire alarm system manufacturers
recommendations and within the limitations of the system's listing(s). T-tapping of non-addressable
circuits is prohibited.
3.3 COORDINATION
A. Recommend to Owner and request approval of nameplate inscriptions, zone designations, and system
designations on system annunciators and central control equipment prior to shop drawing submittals.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 26
B. Division 16, together with equipment suppliers and other Divisions, shall coordinate their equipment
operational voltages and controls for proper system operation. Division 16 shall provide any necessary
auxiliary equipment for system interfaces. The auxiliary equipment shall provide for, but not be limited
to:
1. Fire door release.
2. Electro-magnetic door holder release interfaces.
3. Rolling counter door release interfaces.
4. Proper E/P switch smoke damper controls, zoning, and control power.
5. Elevator controllers and smoke detectors interfaces.
C. Division 16, together with Division 15, shall coordinate exact duct detector locations at air handling
equipment and in return and exhaust HVAC ductwork.
D. Nameplates shall be per Section 16195.
E. All information for the system wiring shall be supplied by the manufacturer. The sizes of the different
wires shall be those specified by the manufacturer. Building wire shall be in accordance with Section
16120 and NEC articles 760, 775 and 800.
F. Turn over elevator interface equipment to Division 14 and install all wire and cable to each elevator
controller for operation of each of the following items:
1. Elevator cab loudspeaker.
3.4 INSTALLATION
A. Install device boxes of size and type recommended by manufacturer's representative to suit device and
location shown on Drawings. Install central control and terminal cabinets at five feet above floor to
center, unless otherwise noted, supported independently from stud partitions.
B. Provide a dedicated fused disconnect switch on power line to FACP complete with nameplate "FIRE
ALARM SYSTEM".
C. Place batteries in the fire alarm control unit or similar type enclosure located next to the control unit.
Batteries which vent explosive hydrogen gas (gelled-electrolyte, lead-calcium, lead-antimony, and
nicked-cadmium) shall not be placed in the same enclosure as the fire alarm control panel. Such batteries
shall be placed in an area with suitable ventilation. It shall be the responsibility of the fire alarm supplier to
advise the engineer and contractor at bid time of any special ventilation requirements not provided as part
of the fire alarm contract.
D. Locate duct mounted smoke detectors in air handling unit main supply ducts and return/exhaust ducts at
least six duct widths downstream from any duct opening, deflection plate, damper, sharp bend, or branch
connection where physically possible. If field conditions prohibit, locate for best smoke detection in the
air stream. Provide remote duct smoke detector test station for each duct smoke detector.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 27
E. Locate system end of line diodes or resistors so that they are readily accessible above accessible ceiling
spaces at the furthest downstream device or in FATC cabinets in equipment rooms. Identify associated
circuit by nameplate.
F. Locate all detectors shall be located at the highest point on the ceiling except as specifically noted.
G. Connect all devices mounted on suspended ceilings to securely mounted junction boxes with flexible
metallic conduit which shall be long enough to move the device five (5) feet in any direction.
H. Mount detector bases on ceiling boxes so that the indicator lamps are visible from the floor below (lined
up in corridor applications) or from the nearest equipment aisle or from the doorway entering the room.
I. Clean and test all detectors in the project.
J. Label central control equipment and terminal cabinet components by functional description.
3.5 GROUNDING
A. Ground equipment and conductor and cable shields. For audio circuits, minimize to the greatest extent
possible ground loops, common mode returns, noise pickup, cross talk, and other impairments. Provide 5-
ohm ground at main equipment location. Measure, record, and report ground resistance.
3.6 FIELD QUALITY CONTROL
A. Manufacturer's Field Services: Provide services of a factory-authorized service representative to supervise
the field assembly and connection of components and the pretesting, testing, and adjustment of the system.
B. Pretesting: Upon completing installation of the system, align, adjust, and balance the system and perform
complete pretesting. Determine, through pretesting, the conformance of the system to the requirements of
the Drawings and Specifications. Correct deficiencies observed in pretesting. Replace malfunctioning or
damaged items with new and retest until satisfactory performance and conditions are achieved. Prepare
forms for systematic recording of acceptance test results.
C. Report of Pretesting: After pretesting is complete, provide a letter certifying the installation is complete
and fully operable. The letter shall include the names and titles of the witnesses to the preliminary tests.
D. Final Test Notice: Provide 10 days' minimum notice in writing when the system is ready for final
acceptance testing.
E. Minimum System Tests: Test the system in accordance with the procedures outlined in NFPA 72H,
Chapters 2 and 4 and NFPA 72E, Chapter 8. Minimum required tests are as follows:
1. Verify the absence of unwanted voltages between circuit conductors and ground.
2. Megger test all conductors other than those intentionally and permanently grounded with electronic
components disconnected. Test for resistance to ground. Report readings less than 1- megohm for
evaluation.
3. Test all conductors for short circuits utilizing an insulation testing device.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 28
4. With each circuit pair, short circuit at the far end of the circuit and measure the circuit resistance with
an ohmmeter. Record the circuit resistance of each circuit on the record drawings.
5. Verify the control unit is in the normal condition as detailed in the manufacturer's operating and
maintenance manual.
6. Test initiating and indicating circuits for proper signal transmission under open circuit conditions.
One connection each should be opened at not less than 10 percent of the initiating and indicating
devices. Proper signal transmission in accordance with class of wiring used shall be observed.
7. Test each initiating and indicating device for alarm operating and proper response at the control unit.
Test smoke detectors with actual products of combustion.
8. Test the system for all specified functions in accordance with the manufacturer's operating and
maintenance manual. Systematically initiate specified functional performance items at each station
including making all possible alarm and monitoring initiations and using all communications options.
For each item, observe related performance at all devices required to be affected by the item under all
system sequences. Observe indicating lights, displays, signal tones, and annunciator indications.
Observe all voice audio for routing, clarity, quality, freedom from noise and distortion, and proper
volume level.
9. Test both primary power and secondary power. Verify, by test, the secondary power system is
capable of operating the system for the period and in the manner specified.
F. Retesting: Rectify deficiencies indicated by tests and completely retest work affected by such deficiencies
at Division 16's expense. Verify by the system test that the total system meets the Specifications and
complies with applicable standards.
G. Report of Tests and Inspections: Provide a written record of inspections, tests, and detailed test results in
the form of a test log. Submit log upon the satisfactory completion of tests.
H. Tag all equipment and stations and other components at which tests have been satisfactorily completed.
Place tags upon completion of tests.
3.7 RECORD DRAWINGS
A. Supply two complete sets of record drawings showing in diagrammatic form all interconnection wiring,
zones, etc. with terminal designations for all devices.
3.8 COMMISSIONING
A. Provide the services of a factory-authorized service representative to demonstrate and train Owner's
maintenance personnel as specified below.
B. Train Owner's maintenance personnel in the procedures and schedules involved in operating,
troubleshooting, servicing, and preventive maintaining of the system. Provide a minimum of (4) 4 hour
training sessions.
C. Schedule training with the Owner at least seven days in advance.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 29
D. Occupancy Adjustments: When requested within one year of date of Substantial Completion, provide on-
site assistance in adjusting sound levels and adjusting controls to suit actual occupied conditions. Provide
up to three visits to the site for this purpose.
3.9 ALTERNATES
A. Under the base bid the audible alarm voice/tone speakers shall be installed as specified. Under alternate
E1 the audible alarm device shall be tone signal only.
END OF SECTION 16721
FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
16721 - 30