Section 907 — FIRE ALARM AND DETECTION SYSTEMS

This section covers the application, installation, performance and maintenance of fire alarm systems and their components in new and existing buildings and structures. The requirements of Section 907.2 are applicable to new buildings and structures. The requirements of Section 907.9 are applicable to existing buildings and structures.

907.1.1 Construction documents. Construction documents for fire alarm systems shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the location, nature and extent of the work proposed and show in detail that it will conform to the provisions of this code; the Califor- nia Building Code ; and relevant laws, ordinances, rules and regulations, as determined by the fire code official.

907.1.2 Fire alarm shop drawings. Shop drawings for fire alarm systems shall be prepared in accordance with NFPA 72 and submitted for review and approval prior to system installation. All plans and shop drawings shall use the symbols identified in NFPA 170, Standard for Fire Safety and Emergency Symbols.

Exception: Other symbols are allowed where approved by the enforcing agency.

907.1.3 Equipment. Systems and components shall be California State Fire Marshal listed and approved in accordance with Cali- fornia Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1 for the purpose for which they are installed.

907.1.4 Fire-walls and fire barrier walls. For the purpose of Section 907, fire walls and fire barrier walls shall not define separate buildings.

907.1.5 Fire alarm use. A fire alarm system shall not be used for any purpose other than fire warning or mass notification and where permitted by NFPA 72.

An approved fire alarm system installed in accordance with the provisions of this code and NFPA 72 shall be provided in new buildings and structures in accordance with Sections 907.2.1 through 907.2.29 and provide occupant notification in accordance with Section 907.5, unless other requirements are provided by another section of this code.

Not fewer than one manual fire alarm box shall be provided in an approved location to initiate a fire alarm signal for fire alarm systems employing automatic fire detectors or waterflow detection devices. Where other sections of this code allow elimination of

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fire alarm boxes due to sprinklers or automatic fire alarm systems, a single fire alarm box shall be installed at a location approved by the enforcing agency. Exceptions:

1. The manual fire alarm box is not required for fire alarm systems dedicated to elevator recall control and supervisory service and fire sprinkler monitoring.
2. The manual fire alarm box is not required for Group R-2 occupancies unless required by the fire code official to provide a means for fire watch personnel to initiate an alarm during a sprinkler system impairment event. Where provided, the manual fire alarm box shall not be located in an area that is open to the public. 3. The manual fire alarm box is not required to be installed when approved by the fire code official. 907.2.1 Group A. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group A occupancies where the occupant load due to the assembly occupancy is 300 or more, or where the Group A occupant load is more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge. Group A occupancies not separated from one another in accordance with Section 707.3.10 of the California Building Code shall be considered as a single occupancy for the purposes of applying this section. Portions of Group E occupancies occupied for assembly purposes with an occupant load of less than 1000 shall be provided with a fire alarm system as required for the Group E occupancy. Exceptions:
3. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.
4. Manual fire alarm boxes and the associated occupant notification system or emergency voice/alarm communication system are not required for Group A-5 outdoor bleacher-type seating having an occupant load of greater than or equal to 300 and less than 15,000 occupants, provided that all of the following are met: 2.1. A public address system with standby power is provided. 2.2. Enclosed spaces attached to or within 5 feet (1524 mm) of the outdoor bleacher type seating compose, in the aggregate, a maximum of 10 percent of the overall area of the outdoor bleacher-type seating or 1,000 square feet (92.9 m [2] ), whichever is less. 2.3. Enclosed accessory spaces under or attached to the outdoor bleacher-type seating shall be separated from the bleacher-type seating in accordance with Section 1030.1.1.1. 2.4. All means of egress from the bleacher-type seating are open to the outside.
5. Manual fire alarm boxes and the associated occupant notification system or emergency voice/alarm communication system are not required for temporary Group A-5 outdoor bleacher-type seating, provided that all of the following are met: 3.1. There are no enclosed spaces under or attached to the outdoor bleacher-type seating. 3.2. The bleacher-type seating is erected for a period of less than 180 days. 3.3. Evacuation of the bleacher-type seating is included in an approved fire safety plan. Every Group A building used for educational purposes shall be provided with a manual or automatic fire alarm system. This provision shall apply to, but shall not necessarily be limited to, every community college and university. Exception: Privately owned trade or vocational schools or any firm or company which provides educational facilities and instruc- tions for its employees. 907.2.1.1 System initiation in Group A occupancies with an occupant load of 1,000 or more. Activation of the fire alarm in Group A occupancies with an occupant load of 1,000 or more shall initiate a signal using an emergency voice/alarm communications system in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2. For Group A occupancies with an occupant load of 10,000 or more, see Section 907.2.1.3.

oyees._ 907.2.1.1 System initiation in Group A occupancies with an occupant load of 1,000 or more. Activation of the fire alarm in Group A occupancies with an occupant load of 1,000 or more shall initiate a signal using an emergency voice/alarm communications system in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2. For Group A occupancies with an occupant load of 10,000 or more, see Section 907.2.1.3.

Exception: Where approved, the prerecorded announcement is allowed to be manually deactivated for a period of time, not to exceed 3 minutes, for the sole purpose of allowing a live voice announcement from an approved, constantly attended location. 907.2.1.2 Emergency voice/alarm communication system captions. Stadiums, arenas and grandstands required to caption audible public announcements shall be in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.4. 907.2.1.3 Public address system. Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13108.9, for all buildings or structures constructed on or after July 1, 1991, which are intended for public assemblies of 10,000 or more persons, a public address system with an emer- gency backup power system shall be required. 907.2.2 Group B. A manual fire alarm system, which activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5, shall be installed in Group B occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:

1. The combined Group B occupant load of all floors is 500 or more.
2. The Group B occupant load is more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.
3. The fire area contains an ambulatory care facility. 4. For Group B occupancies containing educational facilities, see Section 907.2.2.2.

Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.

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907.2.2.1 Ambulatory care facilities. Fire areas containing ambulatory care facilities shall be provided with an electronically supervised automatic smoke detection system installed within the ambulatory care facility and in public use areas outside of tenant spaces, including public corridors and elevator lobbies.

Exception: Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 provided that the occupant notification appliances will activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.

907.2.2.2 Laboratories involving research and development or testing. A fire alarm system activated by an air-samplingtype smoke detection system or a radiant-energy-sensing detection system shall be installed throughout the entire fire area utilized for the research and development or testing of lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries.

907.2.2.3 Group B Educational facilities. Every Group B building used for educational purposes shall be provided with a manual or automatic fire alarm system. This provision shall apply to, but shall not necessarily be limited to, every community college and university.

Exception: Privately owned trade or vocational schools or any firm or company which provides educational facilities and instructions for its employees.

907.2.3 Group E. An automatic manual fire alarm system that initiates the occupant notification signal utilizing an emergency voice/alarm communication system meeting the requirements of Section 907.5.2.2 and installed in accordance with Section 907.6 shall be installed in Group E occupancies with an occupant load of 50 or more persons or containing more than one classroom or one or more rooms used for Group E or I-4 child-care purposes in accordance with this section . Where automatic sprinkler systems or smoke detectors are installed, such systems or detectors shall be connected to the building fire alarm system. One additional manual fire alarm box shall be located at the administration office or location approved by the AHJ.

Exceptions: 1. For public school state funded construction projects see Section 907.2.29. 2. For public schools see Section 907.2.3.7. 3. For private schools see Section 907.2.3.8.

907.2.3.1 System connection. Where more than one fire alarm control unit is used at the school campus, they shall be intercon- nected and shall operate all notification appliances.

Exception: Interconnection of fire alarm control units is not required when all of the following are provided: 1. Buildings that are separated a minimum of 20 feet (6096 mm) and in accordance with the California Building Code; and

2. There is a method of two-way communication between each classroom and the school administrative office approved by the fire enforcing agency; and 3. A method of manual activation of each fire alarm system is provided.

907.2.3.2 Assemblies located within a Group E occupancy. Assembly occupancies with an occupant load of less than 1,000 and located within a Group E occupancy campus or building shall be provided with a fire alarm system as required for the Group E

occupancy.

907.2.3.3 Notification. The fire alarm system notification shall comply with the requirements of Section 907.5.

907.2.3.4 Annunciation. Annunciation of the fire alarm system shall comply with the requirements of Section 907.6.4.1.

907.2.3.5 Monitoring . School fire alarm systems shall be monitored in accordance with Section 907.6.6.4.

907.2.3.6 Automatic fire alarm system. Automatic detection shall be provided in accordance with this section.

907.2.3.6.1 Smoke detectors. Smoke detectors shall be installed at the ceiling of every room and in “ceiling-plenums” utilized for environmental air. Where the ceiling is attached directly to the underside of the roof structure, smoke detectors shall be installed on the ceiling only.

Exception: Where the environment or ambient conditions exceed smoke detector installation guidelines, heat detectors or fire sprinklers shall be used.

907.2.3.6.2 Heat detectors. Heat detectors shall be installed in combustible spaces where sprinklers or smoke detectors are not installed.

907.2.3.7 Public school campuses. An automatic fire alarm system in compliance with Section 907.2.3 shall be provided in new buildings for all occupancies on Kindergarten through 12th grade public school campuses.

Exceptions: 1. A manual fire alarm system may be provided for a relocatable building that is sited with the intent that it be at the site for less than three years and is sited upon a temporary foundation in a manner that is designed to permit easy removal. Also see CCR, Title 24, Part 1, California Administrative Code, Section 4-314 for definition of relocatable building. 2. A fire alarm system is not required for detached buildings designed and used for non-instructional purposes that meet the applicable requirements for that occupancy. Buildings would include, but not be limited to:

Concession Stand

Press Box

Restroom Facilities

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Shade Structure

Snack Bar Storage Building Ticket Booth

907.2.3.8 Private schools. An automatic fire alarm system shall be provided in new buildings of private schools.

Exception: Automatic detection devices are not required where an approved automatic sprinkler system is installed in accor- dance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate on sprinkler water flow and manual activation is provided from a normally occupied location.

907.2.3.9 Day care, Group E.

907.2.3.9.1 An automatic fire alarm system shall be provided in all buildings used as or containing a Group E day care.

Exception: Automatic detection devices are not required where an approved automatic sprinkler system is installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate on sprinkler water flow and manual activation is provided from a normally occupied location.

907.2.3.9.2 Smoke detectors shall be installed in every room used for sleeping or napping.

907.2.3.10 Day care, Group E or Group I-4 located on a public school campus. An automatic fire alarm system shall be provided in all buildings used as or containing a Group E or Group I-4 day care.

907.2.4 Group F. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group F occupancies where both of the following conditions exist:

1. The Group F occupancy is two or more stories in height.
2. The Group F occupancy has a combined occupant load of 500 or more above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.

Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.

907.2.4.1 Manufacturing involving lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries. A fire alarm system activated by an air-samplingtype smoke detection system or a radiant-energy-sensing detection system shall be installed throughout the entire fire area where lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries are manufactured; and where the manufacturer of vehicles, energy storage systems or equipment containing lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries where the batteries are installed as part of the manufacturing process.

907.2.5 Group H. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group H-5 occupancies and in occupancies used for the manufacture of organic coatings. An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed for highly toxic gases, organic peroxides and oxidizers in accordance with Chapters 60, 62 and 63, respectively.

907.2.5.1 Group H occupancies located on the 11th story and above. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be required on each side of the 2-hour fire-smoke barrier and at each exit on the 11th story and above.

907.2.6 Group I. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group I occupancies. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be provided in accordance with Sections 907.2.6.1, 907.2.6.2 and 907.2.6.3.3.

Exceptions:

1. Large family day care.
2. Occupant notification systems are not required to be activated where private mode signaling installed in accordance with NFPA 72 is approved by the fire code official and staff evacuation responsibilities are included in the fire safety and evacuation plan required by Section 404.

907.2.6.1 Reserved.

907.2.6.2 Group I-2. A manual and automatic fire alarm system shall be installed in Group I-2 occupancies. Where automatic fire suppression systems or smoke detectors are installed, such systems or detectors shall be connected to the building fire alarm system.

Exception: Where an entire facility is used for the housing of persons, none of whom are physically or mentally handicapped or nonambulatory, and are between the ages of 18 and 64, the buildings or structures comprising such facility shall be exempt from the provisions of this subsection relating to the installation of an automatic fire alarm system.

907.2.6.2.1 Notification. The fire alarm notification system shall be in accordance with Section 907.5.2.5.

907.2.6.2.2 Automatic fire detection. Smoke detectors shall be provided in accordance with this section. 1. In patient and client sleeping rooms. Actuation of such detectors shall cause a visual display on the corridor side of the room in which the detector is located and shall cause an audible and visual alarm at the respective nurses’ station. A nurse call system listed for this function is an acceptable means of providing the audible and visual alarm at the respective nurses’ station and corridor room display. Operation of the smoke detector shall not include any alarm verification feature.

Exception: In patient and client rooms equipped with existing automatic door closers having integral smoke detec- tor, the integral detector is allowed to substitute for the room smoke detector, provided it meets all the required alerting functions.

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2. Group I-2 nurses’ stations. A minimum of one (1) smoke detector shall be installed at the nurses’ station and centrally located.

3. In waiting areas and corridors onto which they open, in the same smoke compartment, in accordance with Section 407.2.1 of the California Building Code. 4. In areas where patients are restrained, smoke detectors shall be installed at ceilings throughout all occupied areas and mechanical/electrical spaces of smoke compartments and in adjacent smoke compartments where occupants of those compartments utilize the same means of egress.

907.2.6.3 Group I-3 occupancies. Group I-3 occupancies shall be equipped with a manual fire alarm system and automatic smoke detection system installed for alerting staff.

Exception: An automatic smoke detection system is not required within temporary holding cells.

907.2.6.3.1 System initiation. Actuation of an automatic fire-extinguishing system, automatic sprinkler system, a manual fire alarm box or a fire detector shall initiate an approved fire alarm signal that automatically notifies staff.

907.2.6.3.2 Manual fire alarm boxes. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required to be located in accordance with Section 907.4.2 where the fire alarm boxes are provided at staff-attended locations having direct supervision over areas where manual fire alarm boxes have been omitted.

907.2.6.3.2.1 Manual fire alarms boxes in detainee areas. Manual fire alarm boxes are allowed to be locked in areas occupied by detainees, provided that staff members are present within the subject area and have keys readily available to operate the manual fire alarm boxes.

907.2.6.3.3 Automatic smoke detection system. An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed throughout resident housing areas, including sleeping units and contiguous day rooms, group activity spaces and other common spaces normally open to inmates .

Exceptions:

1. Other approved smoke detection arrangements may be used to prevent damage or tampering or for other purposes provided the function of detecting any fire is fulfilled and the location of the detectors is such that the speed of detection will be equivalent to that provided by the spacing and location required in accordance with NFPA 72 as referenced in Chapter 80. This may include the location of detectors in return air ducts from cells, behind grilles or in other locations. Spot type, combination duct and open area smoke detectors may be used when located not more than 14 inches (356 mm) from the return air grill. For initiation and annunciation purposes, these detectors may be combined in groups of four. The fire code official having jurisdiction, however, must approve the proposed equivalent performance of the design. 2. For detention housing and/or mental health housing area(s), including correctional medical and mental health uses, automatic smoke detection system in sleeping units shall not be required when all of the following conditions are met: 2.1. All rooms, including the inmate cells, are provided with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.

2.2. Building is continuously staffed by a correctional officer at all times. 3. Smoke detectors are not required to be installed in inmate cells with two or fewer occupants in detention facilities which do not have a correctional medical and mental health use.

4. Smoke detectors are not required to be installed in inmate day rooms of detention facilities where 24-hour direct visual supervision is provided by a correctional officer(s) and a manual fire alarm box is located in the control room.

907.2.6.3.4 System annunciation. A staff alerting fire alarm shall sound at all staff control stations on the floor of activation and an audible and visual signal shall be indicated on an annunciator at the facility control center upon activation of any automatic extin- guishing system, automatic detection system or any smoke detector or manual actuating or initiating device. In addition, where there are staff-control stations on the floor, an audible, visual and manual alarm shall be located in each staff control station.

Fire and trouble signals of fire alarm systems and sprinkler water-flow and supervisory signals of extinguishing systems shall be annunciated in an area designated as the facility control center which shall be constantly attended by staff personnel. All such signals shall produce both an audible signal and visual display at the facility control center indicating the building, floor zone or other designated area from which the signal originated, in accordance with Section 907.6.4.

All local detention facilities within the scope of Section 6031.4 of the Penal Code shall have an automatic smoke detection system. A manual fire alarm-initiating device shall be installed in all guard control stations and shall be capable of alerting personnel in a central control point to the presence of fire or smoke within the facility.

907.2.6.4 Group I-4 occupancies. An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed throughout the Group I-4 occupancies, including contiguous day rooms, group activity spaces and other common spaces normally occupied by the clients. Group I-4 facil- ities located above the first story shall comply with the provisions of Section 436.1.

907.2.6.5 Large family day care. Every large family day-care home shall be provided with at least one manual fire alarm box at a location approved by the enforcing agency. Such device shall actuate a fire alarm signal, which shall be audible throughout the facility at a minimum level of 15 db above ambient noise level. These devices need not be interconnected to any other fire alarm device, have a control panel or be electrically supervised or provided with emergency power. Such device or devices shall be attached to the structure and must be a device that is listed and approved by the Office of the State Fire Marshal.

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907.2.7 Group M. Fire alarm systems shall be required in Group M occupancies in accordance with Sections 907.2.7.1 and 907.2.7.2.

907.2.7.1 Occupant load. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group M occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:

1. The combined Group M occupant load of all floors is 500 or more persons.
2. The Group M occupant load is more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.

Exceptions:

1. A manual fire alarm system is not required in covered or open mall buildings complying with Section 402 of the California Building Code .
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will automatically activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.

907.2.7.1.1 Occupant notification. During times that the building is occupied, the initiation of a signal from a manual fire alarm box or from a waterflow switch shall not be required to activate the alarm notification appliances when an alarm signal is activated at a constantly attended location from which evacuation instructions shall be initiated over an emergency voice/alarm communication system installed in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.

907.2.7.2 Storage of lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries. A fire alarm system activated by an air-sampling-type smoke detection system or a radiant-energy-sensing detection system shall be installed in a room or space within a Group M occupancy where required for the storage of lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries in accordance with Section 320.

907.2.8 Group R-1. Fire alarm systems and smoke alarms shall be installed in Group R-1 occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.8.1 through 907.2.8.3.

907.2.8.1 Manual fire alarm system. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group R-1 occupancies.

Exceptions:

1. A manual fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two stories in height where all individual sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces to those units are separated from each other and public or common areas by not less than 1-hour fire partitions and each individual sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, egress court or yard.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required throughout the building where all of the following conditions are met: 2.1. The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.

2.2. The notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler water flow. 2.3. Not fewer than one manual fire alarm box is installed at an approved location.

907.2.8.2 Automatic smoke detection system. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed throughout all interior corridors serving sleeping units.

Exception: An automatic smoke detection system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving sleeping units and where each sleeping unit has a means of egress door opening directly to an exit or to an exterior exit access that leads directly to an exit.

907.2.8.3 Smoke alarms. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11.

907.2.9 Groups R-2, R-2.1 and R-2.2 . Fire alarm systems and smoke alarms shall be installed in Group R-2 and R-2.1 occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.9.1 through 907.2.10.2.1.1. Group R-2.2 shall be equipped throughout with an automatic fire alarm system and shall have a manual fire alarm pull station at the 24-hour staff watch office.

907.2.9.1 Manual fire alarm system. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group R-2 occupancies where any of the following conditions apply:

1. Any dwelling unit or sleeping unit is located three or more stories above the lowest level of exit discharge.
2. Any dwelling unit or sleeping unit is located more than one story below the highest level of exit discharge of exits serving the dwelling unit or sleeping unit.
3. The building contains more than 16 dwelling units or sleeping units. 4. Congregate residences with more than 16 occupants.

dwelling unit or sleeping unit is located three or more stories above the lowest level of exit discharge. 2. Any dwelling unit or sleeping unit is located more than one story below the highest level of exit discharge of exits serving the dwelling unit or sleeping unit. 3. The building contains more than 16 dwelling units or sleeping units. 4. Congregate residences with more than 16 occupants.

Exceptions:

1. A fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two stories in height where all dwelling units or sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces are separated from each other and public or common areas by not less than 1-hour fire partitions and each dwelling unit or sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, egress court or yard.
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and the occupant notification appliances will automatically activate throughout the notification zones upon a sprinkler water flow.

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3. A fire alarm system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving dwelling units and are protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, provided that dwelling units either have a means of egress door opening directly to an exterior exit access that leads directly to the exits or are served by open-ended corridors designed in accordance with Section 1027.6, Exception 3.

907.2.9.2 Smoke alarms. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11.

907.2.9.3 Group R-2 college and university buildings. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group R-2 occupancies operated by a college or university for student or staff housing in all of the following locations:

1. Common spaces outside of dwelling units and sleeping units.
2. Laundry rooms, mechanical equipment rooms and storage rooms.
3. All interior corridors serving sleeping units or dwelling units.

Required smoke detectors listed in accordance with UL 268 in dwelling units and sleeping units in Group R-2 occupancies operated by a college or university for student or staff housing shall be interconnected with the fire alarm system to activate the occupant notification in accordance with NFPA 72 and shall comply with Section 907.2.11.8.

907.2.10 Group S. A fire alarm system shall be installed in a Group S occupancy as required by Sections 907.2.10.1 and 907.2.10.2.

907.2.10.1 Public- and self-storage occupancies. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group S public- and self-storage occupancies three stories or greater in height for interior corridors and interior common areas. Visible notification appliances are not required within storage units.

Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, and the occupant notification appliances will activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.

907.2.10.2 Storage of lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries. A fire alarm system activated by an air-sampling-type smoke detection system or a radiant-energy-sensing detection system shall be installed throughout the entire fire area where required for the storage of lithium-ion batteries or lithium metal batteries in accordance with Section 320.

907.2.11 Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms. Listed single- and multiple-station smoke alarms complying with UL 217 shall be installed in accordance with Sections 907.2.11.1 through 907.2.11.7, NFPA 72 and the manufacturer’s instructions. Exception: For Group R occupancies. A fire alarm system with smoke detectors located in accordance with this section may be installed in lieu of smoke alarms. Upon actuation of the detector, only those notification appliances in the dwelling unit or guest room where the detector is actuated shall activate.

ions 907.2.11.1 through 907.2.11.7, NFPA 72 and the manufacturer’s instructions. Exception: For Group R occupancies. A fire alarm system with smoke detectors located in accordance with this section may be installed in lieu of smoke alarms. Upon actuation of the detector, only those notification appliances in the dwelling unit or guest room where the detector is actuated shall activate.

907.2.11.1 Group R-1. Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in all of the following locations in Group R-1:

1. In sleeping areas.
2. In every room in the path of the means of egress from the sleeping area to the door leading from the sleeping unit.
3. In each story within the sleeping unit, including basements. For sleeping units with split levels and without an intervening door between the adjacent levels, a smoke alarm installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level provided that the lower level is less than one full story below the upper level. See Section 907.2.10.8 for specific location requirements. 907.2.11.2 Groups R-2, R-2.1, R-2.2, R-3, R-3.1 and R-4 and I-1. Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed and maintained in Groups R-2, R-2.1, R-2.2, R-3, R-3.1 and R-4 regardless of occupant load at all of the following locations:
4. On the ceiling or wall outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of bedrooms.
5. In each room used for sleeping purposes.
6. In each story within a dwelling unit, including basements but not including crawl spaces and uninhabitable attics. In dwellings or dwelling units with split levels and without an intervening door between the adjacent levels, a smoke alarm installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level provided that the lower level is less than one full story below the upper level. 4. In a Group R-3.1 occupancies, in addition to the above, smoke alarms shall be provided throughout the habitable areas of the dwelling unit except kitchens. See Section 907.2.10.8 for specific location requirements. 907.2.11.2.1 Licensed Group R-2.1 occupancies. Licensed Group R-2.1 occupancies housing more than six nonambulatory, elderly clients shall be provided with an approved manual and automatic fire alarm system. Exceptions: Buildings housing nonambulatory clients on the first story only and which are protected throughout by the following: 1. An approved and supervised automatic sprinkler system, as specified in Sections 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, which upon activation will initiate the fire alarm system to notify all occupants. 2. A manual fire alarm system. 3. Smoke alarms required by Section 907.2.11.

907.2.11.2.1.1 Smoke alarms. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11.

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907.2.11.2.2 Group I-4 occupancies. Large family day-care homes shall be equipped with State Fire Marshal approved and listed single station residential type smoke alarms.

907.2.11.2.3 Group R-3.1. In all facilities housing a bedridden client, smoke alarms shall receive their primary power from the building wiring when such wiring is served from a commercial source and shall be equipped with a battery backup. Smoke alarms shall be electrically interconnected so as to cause all smoke alarms to sound a distinctive alarm signal upon actuation of any single smoke alarm. Such alarm signal shall be audible throughout the facility at a minimal level of 15 db above ambient noise level. These devices need not be interconnected to any other fire alarm device, have a control panel, or be electronically supervised or provided with emergency power.

907.2.11.2.4 Smoke alarms. Smoke alarms shall be tested and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Smoke alarms that no longer function shall be replaced.

907.2.11.2.5 Existing Group R occupancies. See the California Residential Code for existing Group R-3 occupancies or Chapter 11 of the California Fire Code for all other existing Group R occupancies.

907.2.11.2.6 Group R-4. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group R-4 occupancies housing nonambulatory clients.

907.2.11.3 Installation near cooking appliances. See Section 907.2.11.8.

907.2.11.4 Installation near bathrooms. See Section 907.2.11.8.

907.2.11.5 Interconnection. Where more than one smoke alarm is required to be installed within an individual dwelling unit or sleeping unit in Group R or I-1 occupancies, the smoke alarms shall be interconnected in such a manner that the activation of one alarm will activate all of the alarms in the individual unit. Physical interconnection of smoke alarms shall not be required where listed wireless alarms are installed and all alarms sound upon activation of one alarm. The alarm shall be clearly audible in all bedrooms over background noise levels with all intervening doors closed.

907.2.11.6 Power source. In new construction, and in newly classified Group R-3.1 occupancies, required smoke alarms shall receive their primary power from the building wiring where such wiring is served from a commercial source and shall be equipped with a battery backup. Smoke alarms with integral strobes that are not equipped with battery back-up shall be connected to an emergency electrical system in accordance with Section 1203. Smoke alarms shall emit a signal when the batteries are low. Wiring shall be permanent and without a disconnecting switch other than as required for overcurrent protection.

Exception: Smoke alarms are not required to be equipped with battery backup where they are connected to an emergency electrical system that complies with Section 603.

907.2.11.7 Smoke detection system. Smoke detectors listed in accordance with UL 268 and provided as part of the building fire alarm system shall be an acceptable alternative to single- and multiple-station smoke alarms and shall comply with the following:

1. The fire alarm system shall comply with all applicable requirements in Section 907.
2. Activation of a smoke detector in a dwelling unit or sleeping unit shall initiate alarm notification in the dwelling unit or sleeping unit in accordance with Section 907.5.2.
3. Activation of a smoke detector in a dwelling unit or sleeping unit shall not activate alarm notification appliances outside of the dwelling unit or sleeping unit, provided that a supervisory signal is generated and monitored in accordance with Section 907.6.6.

907.2.11.8 Specific location requirements.

Extract from NFPA 72 Section 29.11.3.4 Specific Location Requirements*.

This extract has been provided by NFPA for the Office of the State Fire Marshal adoption by reference as follows:

29.11.3.4 Specific location requirements. The installation of smoke alarms and smoke detectors shall comply with the follow- ing requirements:

(1) Smoke alarms and smoke detectors shall not be located where ambient conditions, including humidity and temperature, are outside the limits specified by the manufacturer's published instructions.

(2) Smoke alarms and smoke detectors shall not be located within unfinished attics or garages or in other spaces where temperatures can fall below 40ºF (4ºC) or exceed 100ºF (38ºC).

(3) Where the mounting surface could become considerably warmer or cooler than the room, such as a poorly insulated ceil- ing below an unfinished attic or an exterior wall, smoke alarms and smoke detectors shall be mounted on an inside wall.

(4) Smoke alarms and smoke detectors shall not be installed within an area of exclusion determined by a 10-foot (3.0 m) radial distance along a horizontal flow path from a stationary or fixed cooking appliance, unless listed for installation in close proximity to cooking appliances. Smoke alarms and smoke detectors installed between 10 feet (3.0 m) and 20 feet (6.1 m) along a horizontal flow path from a stationary or fixed appliance shall be equipped with an alarm-silencing means or use photoelectric detection.

(5) Smoke alarms or smoke detectors that use photoelectric detection shall be permitted for installation at a radial distance greater than 6 feet (1.8 m) from any stationary or fixed cooking appliance when both of the following conditions are met: (a) The kitchen or cooking area and adjacent spaces have no clear partitions or headers.

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(b) The 10-foot (3.0 m) area of exclusion would prohibit the placement of a smoke alarm or smoke detector required by other sections of this code.

(6) Effective January 1, 2022, smoke alarms and smoke detectors installed between 6 feet (1.8 m) and 20 feet (6.1 m) along a horizontal flow path from a stationary or fixed cooking appliance shall be listed for resistance to common nuisance sources from cooking. (7) Smoke alarms and smoke detectors shall not be installed within a 36-inch (910 mm) horizontal path from a door to a bathroom containing a shower or tub unless listed for installation in close proximity to such locations. (8) Smoke alarms and smoke detectors shall not be installed within a 36-inch (910 mm) horizontal path from the supply registers of a forced air heating or cooling system and shall be installed outside of the direct airflow from those registers. (9) Smoke alarms and smoke detectors shall not be installed within a 36-inch (910 mm) horizontal path from the tip of the blade of a ceiling-suspended (paddle) fan unless the room configuration restricts meeting this requirement. (10) Where stairs lead to other occupied levels, a smoke alarm or smoke detector shall be located so that smoke rising in the stairway cannot be prevented from reaching the smoke alarm or smoke detector by an intervening door or obstruction. (11) For stairways leading up from a basement, smoke alarms or smoke detectors shall be located on the basement ceiling near the entry to the stairs. (12) For tray-shaped ceilings (coffered ceilings), smoke alarms and smoke detectors shall be installed on the highest portion of the ceiling or on the sloped portion of the ceiling within 12 inches (300 mm) vertically down from the highest point. (13) Smoke alarms and detectors installed in rooms with joists or beams shall comply with the requirements of Section 17.7.3.2.4 of NFPA 72.

(14) Heat alarms and detectors installed in rooms with joists or beams shall comply with the requirements of Section 17.6.3 of NFPA 72.

*For additional requirements or clarification, see NFPA 72.

907.2.12 Special amusement areas. Fire detection and alarm systems shall be provided in special amusement areas and throughout the exit access to the point of exit discharge in accordance with Section 914.7.

907.2.13 High-rise buildings and Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access. High-rise buildings and Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall be provided with an automatic smoke detection system in accordance with Section 907.2.13.1, a fire department communication system in accordance with Section 907.2.13.2 and an emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2. Exceptions:

occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75_ feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall be provided with an automatic smoke detection system in accordance with Section 907.2.13.1, a fire department communication system in accordance with Section 907.2.13.2 and an emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2. Exceptions:

1. Airport traffic control towers in accordance with Section 907.2.22 of this code and Section 412 of the California Build- ing Code .
2. Open parking garages in accordance with Section 406.5 of the California Building Code .
3. Buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5 in accordance with Section 303.1 of the California Building Code .
4. Low-hazard special occupancies in accordance with Section 503.1.1 of the California Building Code .
5. Buildings with an occupancy in Group H-1, H-2 or H-3 in accordance with Section 415 of the California Building Code .
6. In Group I-2 and R-2.1 occupancies, the alarm shall sound at a constantly attended location and occupant notification shall be broadcast by the emergency voice/alarm communication system. 907.2.13.1 Automatic smoke detection. Automatic smoke detection in high-rise buildings and Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall be in accordance with Sections 907.2.13.1.1 and 907.2.13.1.2.

907.2.13.1.1 Area smoke detection. Area smoke detectors shall be provided in accordance with this section. Smoke detectors shall be connected to an automatic fire alarm system. The activation of any detector required by this section shall activate the emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2. In addition to smoke detectors required by Sections 907.2.1 through 907.2.9, smoke detectors shall be located as follows:

1. In each mechanical equipment, electrical, transformer, telephone equipment or similar room that is not provided with sprinkler protection.

2. In each elevator machine room, machinery space, control room and control space and in elevator lobbies. 907.2.13.1.2 Duct smoke detection. Smoke detectors listed for use in air duct systems shall be provided in accordance with this section and the California Mechanical Code. The activation of any detector required by this section shall initiate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location. Duct smoke detectors complying with Section 907.3.1 shall be located as follows:

3. In the main return air and exhaust air plenum of each air-conditioning system having a capacity greater than 2,000 cubic feet per minute (cfm) (0.94 m [3] /s). Such detectors shall be located in a serviceable area downstream of the last duct inlet.

4. At each connection to a vertical duct or riser serving two or more stories from a return air duct or plenum of an airconditioning system. In Group R-1 and R-2 occupancies, a smoke detector is allowed to be used in each return air riser carrying not more than 5,000 cfm (2.4 m [3] /s) and serving not more than 10 air-inlet openings.

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907.2.13.2 Fire department communication system. Where a wired communication system is approved in lieu of an inbuilding, two-way emergency responder communication coverage system in accordance with Section 510, the wired fire department communication system shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 72 and shall operate between a fire command center complying with Section 508, elevators, elevator lobbies, emergency and standby power rooms, fire pump rooms, areas of refuge and inside interior exit stairways. The fire department communication device shall be provided at each floor level within the interior exit stairway.

907.2.13.3 Multiple-channel voice evacuation. In buildings with an occupied floor more than 120 feet (36 576 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, voice evacuation systems for high-rise buildings shall be multiple-channel systems.

907.2.14 Atriums connecting more than two stories. A fire alarm system shall be installed in occupancies with an atrium that connects more than two stories, with smoke detection in locations required by a rational analysis in Section 909.4 and in accordance with the system operation requirements in Section 909.17. The system shall be activated in accordance with Section 907.5. Such occupancies in Group A, E or M shall be provided with an emergency voice/alarm communication system complying with the requirements of Section 907.5.2.2.

907.2.15 High-piled combustible storage areas. An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed throughout high-piled combustible storage areas where required by Section 3206.5.

907.2.16 Aerosol storage uses. Aerosol product rooms and general-purpose warehouses containing aerosol products shall be provided with an approved manual fire alarm system where required by this code.

907.2.17 Lumber, wood structural panel and veneer mills. Lumber, wood structural panel and veneer mills shall be provided with a manual fire alarm system.

907.2.18 Underground buildings with smoke control systems. Where a smoke control system is installed in an underground building in accordance with the California Building Code, automatic smoke detectors shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.2.18.1.

907.2.18.1 Smoke detectors. Not fewer than one smoke detector listed for the intended purpose shall be installed in all of the following areas:

1. Mechanical equipment, electrical, transformer, telephone equipment, elevator machine or similar rooms.

2. Elevator lobbies.

3. The main return and exhaust air plenum of each air-conditioning system serving more than one story and located in a serviceable area downstream of the last duct inlet.

4. Each connection to a vertical duct or riser serving two or more floors from return air ducts or plenums of heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems, except that in Group R occupancies, a listed smoke detector is allowed to be used in each return air riser carrying not more than 5,000 cfm (2.4 m [3] /s) and serving not more than 10 air inlet openings.

907.2.18.2 Alarm required. Activation of the smoke control system shall activate an audible alarm at a constantly attended location.

907.2.19 Deep underground buildings. Where the lowest level of a structure is more than 60 feet (18 288 mm) below the finished floor of the lowest level of exit discharge, the structure shall be equipped throughout with a manual fire alarm system, including an emergency voice/alarm communication system installed in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2. 907.2.20 Covered and open mall buildings. Where the total floor area exceeds 50,000 square feet (4645 m [2] ) within either a covered mall building or within the perimeter line of an open mall building, an emergency voice/alarm communication system shall be provided. Access to emergency voice/alarm communication systems serving a mall, required or otherwise, shall be provided for the fire department. The system shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.

907.2.21 Residential aircraft hangars. Not fewer than one single-station smoke alarm shall be installed within a residential aircraft hangar as defined in Chapter 2 of the California Building Code and shall be interconnected into the residential smoke alarm or other sounding device to provide an alarm that will be audible in all sleeping areas of the dwelling.

907.2.22 Airport traffic control towers. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be provided in airport control towers in accordance with Sections 907.2.22.1 and 907.2.22.2.

Exception: Audible appliances shall not be installed within the control tower cab.

907.2.22.1 Airport traffic control towers with multiple exits and automatic sprinklers. Airport traffic control towers with multiple exits and equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 shall be provided with smoke detectors in all of the following locations:

1. Airport traffic control cab.
2. Electrical and mechanical equipment rooms.
3. Airport terminal radar and electronics rooms.
4. Outside each opening into interior exit stairways.
5. Along the single means of egress permitted from observation levels.
6. Outside each opening into the single means of egress permitted from observation levels.

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907.2.22.2 Other airport traffic control towers. Airport traffic control towers with a single exit or where sprinklers are not installed throughout shall be provided with smoke detectors in all of the following locations:

1. Airport traffic control cab.
2. Electrical and mechanical equipment rooms.
3. Airport terminal radar and electronics rooms.
4. Office spaces incidental to the tower operation.
5. Lounges for employees, including sanitary facilities.
6. Means of egress.
7. Utility shafts where access to smoke detectors can be provided.

out shall be provided with smoke detectors in all of the following locations:

1. Airport traffic control cab.
2. Electrical and mechanical equipment rooms.
3. Airport terminal radar and electronics rooms.
4. Office spaces incidental to the tower operation.
5. Lounges for employees, including sanitary facilities.
6. Means of egress.
7. Utility shafts where access to smoke detectors can be provided.

907.2.23 Energy storage systems. An automatic smoke detection system or radiant-energy detection system shall be installed in rooms, areas and walk-in units containing energy storage systems as required in Section 1207.5.4.

907.2.24 Motion Picture and Television Production Studio Sound Stages and Approved Production Facilities

907.2.24.1 Sound Stages—Solid-ceiling Sets and Platforms. Where required by Chapter 48, all interior solid-ceiling sets over 600 square feet (55.7 m [2] ) in area, and platforms (when provided) over 600 square feet (55.7 m [2] ) in area and which exceed 3 feet (914 mm) in height shall be protected by an approved heat detector system. Heat detectors shall be spaced 30 feet (9144 mm) on center or as required by the manufacturer’s installation instructions. The fire alarm system shall be connected to an approved supervis- ing station in accordance with Section 907.6.5 or a local alarm which will give an audible signal at a constantly attended location.

907.2.24.2 Production locations—solid-ceiling sets and platforms. Where required by Chapter 48 of the California Fire Code, build- ings with existing fire protection systems and where production intends to construct solid-ceiling sets over 600 square feet (55.7 m [2] ) in area, and platforms over 600 square feet (55.7 m [2] ) in area and which exceed 3 feet (914 mm) in height shall be protected by an approved heat detector system. Heat detectors shall be spaced 30 feet (9144 mm) on center or as required by the manufacturer’s installation instructions. The fire alarm system shall be connected to an approved supervising station in accordance with Section 907.6.6 or a local alarm which will give an audible signal at a constantly attended location.

907.2.24.3 Fire alarm control units. Fire alarm control units shall be California State Fire Marshal listed and shall be utilized in accordance with their listing. Control units are permitted to be temporarily supported by sets, platforms or pedestals.

907.2.24.4 Heat detectors.

907.2.24.4.1 Heat detection required by this section shall be defined as a portable system as it is intended to be reinstalled when platforms or sets are changed.

907.2.24.4.2 Heat detectors shall be secured to standard outlet boxes and are allowed to be temporarily supported by sets, plat- forms or pedestals.

907.2.24.4.3 Heat detectors shall be provided for solid-ceiling sets and platforms where required by Section 4805.3 and 4811.14.

907.2.25 Group C occupancies (Organized Camps).

907.2.25.1 General. Every building and structure used or intended for sleeping purposes shall be provided with an automatic smoke-detection system.

Exceptions:

1 . Buildings and structures in existence and in operation prior to January 1, 1985. 2. Tents, tent structures and buildings and structures that do not exceed 25 feet (7620 mm) in any lateral dimensions and where such building or structure is not more than one story.

907.2.25.2 Camp fire alarm. Every organized camp shall provide and maintain audible appliances or devices suitable for sound- ing a fire alarm. Such audible appliances or devices may be of any type acceptable to the enforcing agency, provided they are distinctive in tone from all other signaling devices or systems and shall be audible throughout the camp premises. When an auto- matic fire alarm system is provided, as required by Section 450.6.6 of the California Building Code, all audible appliances required by this section shall be of the same type as that used in the automatic system.

[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.12] Fire Alarm.

Every organized camp shall provide and maintain an audible appliance or audible appliances suitable for sounding a fire alarm. Such audible appliance or audible appliances may be of any type acceptable to the enforcing agency provided they are distinctive in tone from all other signaling devices or systems and shall be audible throughout the camp premises.

When an automatic fire alarm system is provided, all audible appliances and fire alarm signals as required by this section shall be of the same type as that used in the automatic system.

907.2.26 Fixed guideway and passenger rail transits systems fire alarm and communication systems.

907.2.26.1 General. Every fixed guideway transit station shall be provided with an approved emergency voice/alarm communica- tion system in accordance with NFPA 72. The emergency voice/alarm communication system shall be designed and installed so that damage to any one speaker will not render any paging zone of the system inoperative.

Exception: Open stations.

907.2.26.2 System components. Each station fire alarm system shall consist of: 1. Fire alarm control unit at a location as permitted by the enforcing agency.

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2. An alarm annunciator(s). The annunciator(s) shall be located at a point acceptable to the enforcing agency. The annun- ciator(s) shall indicate the type of device and general location of alarm. All alarm, supervisory and trouble signals shall be transmitted to the local annunciator(s) and the operations control center. 3. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be provided throughout passenger platforms and stations. Exception: Two-way emergency communication reporting devices (emergency telephones) are allowed to be used in lieu of manual fire alarm boxes, as permitted by the enforcing agency. Such devices shall provide two-way communica- tion between the operations control center and each device. Such devices shall be located as required for manual fire alarm boxes, and shall be distinctly identified by signs, coloring or other means acceptable to the enforcing agency. 4. Automatic smoke detectors in all ancillary spaces.

Exceptions: 1. Ancillary spaces protected by an approved fixed automatic extinguishing system; or 2. Ancillary spaces protected by quick-response sprinklers. 5. Automatic control of exiting components.

907.2.26.3 Emergency voice/alarm communication system. Each station shall be provided with a an emergency voice/alarm communication system capable of transmitting voice, recorded or electronically generated textual messages to all areas of the station. The system(s) shall be configured such that the messages can be initiated from either the Emergency Management Panel (EMP) or the operations control center.

907.2.26.4 Emergency telephones. A dedicated two-way emergency communication phone system designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 72 shall be provided in all underground stations to facilitate direct communications for emergency response between remote locations and the EMP.

907.2.26.4.1. Remote emergency phones shall be located at ends of station platforms, each hose outlet connection and station valve rooms.

907.2.26.4.2. Provisions shall be made in the design of this two-way emergency communication phone system for extensions of the system to the next passenger station or guideway portal.

907.2.27 Winery caves. An approved manual fire alarm system conforming to the provisions of Section 907.2.1 shall be provided in all Type 3 winery caves.

907.2.28 Group L. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed throughout buildings having Group L occupancy.

When Group L occupancies are located in mixed use buildings, at least one manual fire alarm box shall be located within the Group L occupancy.

907.2.28.1 Group L occupancies located on the 11th story and above. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be required on each side of the 2-hour fire-smoke barrier and at each exit on the 11th story and above.

907.2.29 Public school state-funded construction projects for kindergarten through 12th grade — automatic fire alarm system requirements.

907.2.29.1 Alterations to existing buildings on an existing public school campus. An automatic fire alarm system shall be provided for all portions within the scope of an alteration project. The provisions of this section shall apply to any public school project on an existing campus and receiving state funds pursuant to Leroy F. Green, School Facilities Act of 1998, California Educa- tion Code, Sections 17070.10 through 17079. For purposes of this section, an existing campus refers to a school site, where an application for construction of original buildings was made to DSA prior to July 1, 2002.

Exceptions: 1. A manual fire alarm system may be provided for a construction project that has an estimated total cost of less than $200,000.

2. A manual fire alarm system may be provided for a relocatable building that is sited with the intent that it be at the site for less than three years and is sited upon a temporary foundation in a manner that is designed to permit easy removal. See California Administrative Code, Section 4-314 for definition of relocatable building. 3. A fire alarm system is not required for detached buildings designed and used for noninstructional purposes that meet the applicable requirements for that occupancy. Buildings would include, but not be limited to:

Concession stand.

Press box.

Restroom facilities.

Shade structure.

Snack bar. Storage building. Ticket booth.

Automatic fire detectors utilized for the purpose of performing fire safety functions shall be connected to the building’s fire alarm control unit where a fire alarm system is required by Section 907.2. Detectors shall, upon actuation, perform the intended function and activate the alarm notification appliances or activate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location. In buildings not equipped with a fire alarm system, the automatic fire detector shall be powered by

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normal electrical service and, upon actuation, perform the intended function. The detectors shall be located in accordance with NFPA 72.

907.3.1 Duct smoke detectors. Smoke detectors installed in ducts shall be listed for the air velocity, temperature and humidity present in the duct. Duct smoke detectors shall be connected to the building’s fire alarm control unit where a fire alarm system is required by Section 907.2. Activation of a duct smoke detector shall initiate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location and shall perform the intended fire safety function in accordance with this code and the California Mechanical Code . In facilities that are required to be monitored by a supervising station, duct smoke detectors shall report only as a supervisory signal and not as a fire alarm. They shall not be used as a substitute for required open area detection.

Exceptions:

1. The supervisory signal at a constantly attended location is not required where duct smoke detectors activate the building’s alarm notification appliances.
2. In occupancies not required to be equipped with a fire alarm system, actuation of a smoke detector shall activate a visible and an audible signal in an approved location. Smoke detector trouble conditions shall activate a visible or audible signal in an approved location and shall be identified as air duct detector trouble.

907.3.2 Special locking systems. Where special locking systems are installed on means of egress doors in accordance with Section 1010.2.13 or 1010.2.12, an automatic smoke detection system shall be installed as required by those sections and Sections 907.3.2.1 through 907.3.2.5.

907.3.2.1 Delayed egress. In other than Group I, Group R-2.1 and Group R-4, occupancies for single-story building smoke detectors shall be installed at ceilings throughout all occupied areas and mechanical/electrical spaces. For multiple-story buildings, smoke detectors shall be installed throughout all occupied areas and mechanical/electrical spaces for the story where delayed egress devices are installed. Additional detectors are required on adjacent stories where occupants of those stories utilize the same means of

egress.

Exception: Refer to Section 907.3.2.4 for Group A courthouse occupancies.

907.3.2.2 Delayed egress for Group I and R-2.1 occupancies. Smoke detectors shall be installed at ceilings throughout all occupied areas and mechanical/electrical spaces of smoke-compartments where delayed egress devices are installed. Additional detectors are required in adjacent smoke-compartments where occupants of those compartments utilize the same means of egress.

907.3.2.3 Delayed egress for Group R-4 occupancies. In occupancies licensed as residential care facilities for the elderly and housing clients with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, smoke detectors shall be installed at ceilings throughout all occupiable rooms and areas and mechanical/electrical rooms and spaces.

907.3.2.4 Delayed egress for Group A Courthouse occupancies. Approved automatic smoke detection systems shall be installed at ceilings in all occupied corridors and mechanical/electrical spaces of occupancies where delayed egress devices are installed.

907.3.2.5 Controlled egress doors for Group I-2 occupancies. Smoke detectors shall be installed at ceilings throughout all occu- pied areas and mechanical/electrical spaces of smoke-compartments where controlled egress doors are installed.

907.3.3 Elevator emergency operation. Automatic fire detectors installed for elevator emergency operation shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Orders and NFPA 72.

907.3.3.1 Hoist way fire detection. Smoke detectors or other automatic fire detection shall be provided in hoist ways in accor- dance with NFPA 72 for the following: 1. Where required by California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Orders, to initiate elevator phase I emergency recall. 2. Where required by Section 3003.4.3 to activate a hoist way ventilation system.

907.3.4 Wiring. The wiring to the auxiliary devices and equipment used to accomplish the fire safety functions shall be monitored for integrity in accordance with NFPA 72.

Where a fire alarm system is required by another section of this code, occupant notification in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be initiated by one or more of the following. Initiating devices shall be installed in accordance with Sections 907.4.1 through 907.4.3.1.

1. Manual fire alarm boxes.

2. Automatic fire detectors.

3. Automatic sprinkler system waterflow devices.

4. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems.

907.4.1 Protection of fire alarm control unit. In areas that are not continuously occupied, a single smoke detector shall be provided at the location of each fire alarm control unit, notification appliance circuit power extenders and supervising station transmitting equipment.

Exception: Where ambient conditions prohibit installation of a smoke detector, a heat detector shall be permitted.

907.4.2 Manual fire alarm boxes. Where a manual fire alarm system is required by another section of this code, it shall be activated by fire alarm boxes installed in accordance with Sections 907.4.2.1 through 907.4.2.6.

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907.4.2.1 Location. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be located not more than 5 feet (1524 mm) from the entrance to each exit. In buildings not protected by an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, additional manual fire alarm boxes shall be located so that the distance of travel to the nearest box does not exceed 200 feet (60 960 mm).

Exception: When individual dwelling units are served by a single exit stairway, additional boxes at other than the ground floor may be omitted.

907.4.2.2 Height. The height of the manual fire alarm boxes shall be not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) and not more than 48 inches (1372 mm) measured vertically, from the floor level to the highest point of the activating handle or lever of the box. Manual fire alarm boxes shall also comply with Section 11B309.4 of the California Building Code.

Exception: [DSA-AC] In existing buildings there is no requirement to retroactively relocate existing manual fire alarm boxes to a minimum of 42 inches (1067 mm) and a maximum of 48 inches (1219 mm) from the floor level to the activating handle or lever of the box.

907.4.2.3 Color. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be red in color.

907.4.2.4 Signs. Where fire alarm systems are not monitored by an approved supervising station in accordance with Section 907.6.6, an approved permanent sign shall be installed adjacent to each manual fire alarm box that reads: “WHEN ALARM SOUNDS—CALL FIRE DEPARTMENT.”

Exception: Where the manufacturer has permanently provided this information on the manual fire alarm box.

907.4.2.5 Protective covers. The fire code official is authorized to require the installation of listed manual fire alarm box protective covers to prevent malicious false alarms or to provide the manual fire alarm box with protection from physical damage. The protective cover shall be transparent or red in color with a transparent face to permit visibility of the manual fire alarm box. Each cover shall include proper operating instructions. A protective cover that emits a local alarm signal shall not be installed unless approved. Protective covers shall not project more than that permitted by Section 1003.3.3.

907.4.2.6 Unobstructed and unobscured. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be provided with ready access, unobstructed, unobscured and visible at all times.

907.4.2.7 Operation. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be operable with one hand including boxes with protective covers.

907.4.3 Automatic smoke detection. Where an automatic smoke detection system is required, it shall utilize smoke detectors unless ambient conditions prohibit such an installation. In spaces where smoke detectors cannot be utilized due to ambient conditions, approved automatic heat detectors shall be permitted.

907.4.3.1 Automatic sprinkler system. For conditions other than specific fire safety functions noted in Section 907.3, in areas where ambient conditions prohibit the installation of smoke detectors, an automatic sprinkler system installed in such areas in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and that is connected to the fire alarm system shall be approved as automatic heat detection.

Occupant notification by fire alarms shall be in accordance with Sections 907.5.1 through 907.5.2.5 . Occupant notification by smoke alarms in Group R-1 and R-2 occupancies shall comply with Section 907.5.2.1.3.2.

907.5.1 Alarm activation and annunciation. Upon activation, fire alarm systems shall initiate occupant notification and shall annunciate at the fire alarm control unit, or where allowed elsewhere by Section 907, at a constantly attended location.

907.5.1.1 Presignal feature. A presignal feature shall only be provided where approved. The presignal shall be annunciated at an approved, constantly attended location, having the capability to activate the occupant notification system in the event of fire or other emergency.

Exception: A presignal feature shall not be permitted to be installed in a Group I-2 or R-2.1 occupancy.

907.5.2 Alarm notification appliances. Alarm notification appliances shall be provided and shall be listed for their purpose.

907.5.2.1 Audible alarms. Audible alarm notification appliances shall be provided and emit a distinctive sound that is not to be used for any purpose other than that of a fire alarm. In Group I-2 occupancies, audible appliances located in patient areas shall be only chimes or similar sounding appliances for alerting staff. See Section 907.5.2.5.

Exceptions:

1. Audible alarm notification appliances are not required in patient areas of Group I-2, Condition 2 occupancies that are in compliance with Section 907.5.2.5 .
2. A visible alarm notification appliance installed in a nurses’ control station or other continuously attended staff location in a Group I-2 care suite shall be an acceptable alternative to the installation of audible alarm notification appliances throughout a suite or unit in Group I-2, Condition 2 occupancies that are in compliance with Section 907.5.2.5 .
3. Where provided, audible notification appliances located in each enclosed occupant evacuation elevator lobby in accordance with Section 3008.9.1 of the California Building Code shall be connected to a separate notification zone for manual paging only.

907.5.2.1.1 Average sound pressure. The audible alarm notification appliances shall provide a sound pressure level of 15 decibels (dBA) above the average ambient sound level or 5 dBA above the maximum sound level having a duration of not less than 60 seconds, whichever is greater, in every occupiable space within the building.

907.5.2.1.2 Maximum sound pressure. The total sound pressure level produced by combining the ambient sound pressure level with all audible notification appliances operating shall not exceed 110 dBA at the minimum hearing distance from the

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audible appliance. Where the average ambient noise is greater than 105 dBA, visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in accordance with NFPA 72 and audible alarm notification appliances shall not be required.

907.5.2.1.3 Audible alarm signal frequency in Group R-1, R-2 and I-1 sleeping rooms. Audible alarm signal frequency in Group R-1, R-2 and I-1 occupancies shall be in accordance with Sections 907.5.2.1.3.1 and 907.5.2.1.3.2.

907.5.2.1.3.1 Fire alarm system audible signal. In sleeping rooms of Group R-1, R-2 and I-1 occupancies, the audible alarm signal activated by a fire alarm system shall be a 520-Hz low-frequency signal complying with NFPA 72.

907.5.2.1.3.2 Smoke alarm signal in sleeping rooms. In sleeping rooms of Group R-1, R-2 and I-1 occupancies that are required by Section 907.2.8 or 907.2.9 to have a fire alarm system, the audible alarm signal activated by single- or multiple-station smoke alarms in the dwelling unit or sleeping unit shall be a 520-Hz signal complying with NFPA 72.

Where a sleeping room smoke alarm is unable to produce a 520-Hz signal, the 520-Hz alarm signal shall be provided by a listed notification appliance or a smoke detector with an integral 520-Hz sounder.

907.5.2.1.4 Audible alarm signal. The audible signal shall be the standard fire alarm evacuation signal, ANSI S3.41 Audible Emergency Evacuation Signal, “three pulse temporal pattern,” as described in NFPA 72.

Exception: The use of the existing evacuation signaling scheme shall be permitted where approved by the enforcing agency.

907.5.2.2 Emergency voice/alarm communication systems. Emergency voice/alarm communication systems required by this code shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 72. The operation of any automatic fire detector, sprinkler waterflow device or manual fire alarm box shall automatically sound an alert tone followed by voice instructions giving approved information and directions for a general or staged evacuation in accordance with the building’s fire safety and evacuation plans required by Section 404. In high-rise buildings and Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, the system shall operate on at least the alarming floor, the floor above and the floor below. Speakers shall be provided throughout the building by paging zones. At a minimum, paging zones shall be provided as follows:

1. Elevator groups.

2. Interior exit stairways.

3. Each floor.

4. Areas of refuge as defined in Chapter 2.

Exception: In Group I-2 occupancies, where in accordance with Section 907.5.2.5, audible fire alarm notification devices are not provided, upon receipt of an alarm at a constantly attended location, a general occupant notification shall be broadcast over the public-address system.

907.5.2.2.1 Manual override. A manual override for emergency voice communication shall be provided on a selective and all-call basis for all paging zones.

907.5.2.2.2 Live voice messages. The emergency voice/alarm communication system shall have the capability to broadcast live voice messages by paging zones on a selective and all-call basis.

907.5.2.2.3 Alternative uses. The emergency voice/alarm communication system shall be allowed to be used for other announcements, provided that the manual fire alarm use takes precedence over any other use.

907.5.2.2.4 Emergency voice/alarm communication captions. Where stadiums, arenas and grandstands have 15,000 fixed seats or more and provide audible public announcements, the emergency/voice alarm communication system shall provide prerecorded or real-time captions. Prerecorded or live emergency captions shall be from an approved location constantly attended by personnel trained to respond to an emergency.

907.5.2.2.5 Standby power. Emergency voice/alarm communications systems shall be provided with standby power in accordance with Section 1203.

907.5.2.3 Visible alarms. Visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in accordance with Sections 907.5.2.3.1 through 907.5.2.3.4 .

Exceptions:

1. In other than Group I-2, Visible alarm notification appliances are not required in alterations, except where an existing fire alarm system is upgraded or replaced, or a new fire alarm system is installed.
2. Visible alarm notification appliances shall not be required in enclosed exit stairways, enclosed exit ramps, exterior exit stairs and exterior exit ramps.
3. Visible alarm notification appliances shall not be required in elevator cars.
4. Visual alarm notification appliances are not required in critical care areas of Group I-2, Condition 2 occupancies that are in compliance with Section 907.5.2.5 .
5. A visible alarm notification appliance installed in a nurses’ control station or other continuously attended staff location in a Group I-2 care suite shall be an acceptable alternative to the installation of visible alarm notification appliances throughout the care suite or unit in Group I-2, Condition 2 occupancies that are in compliance with Section 907.5.2.5.

907.5.2.3.1 Public use areas and common use areas. Visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in public use areas and common use areas including but not limited to:

1. Band rooms.

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2. Classrooms.

3. Corridors.

4. Gymnasiums.

5. Lobbies.

6. Meeting and conference rooms. 7. Multipurpose rooms.

8. Music practice rooms. 9. Occupational shops. 10. Occupied rooms where ambient noise impairs hearing of the fire alarm. 11. Sanitary facilities including restrooms, bathrooms and shower rooms. 12. Shared office rooms used by two or more persons. 13. Normally occupied room(s) used by two or more persons, such as mother’s room, phone room, quiet room, wellness room, etc.

14. Normally occupied storage room/area. 15. Exam rooms in medical office buildings.

Exception: Where employee work areas have audible alarm coverage, the notification appliance circuits serving the employee work areas shall be initially designed with not less than 20-percent spare capacity to account for the potential of adding visible notification appliances in the future to accommodate hearing-impaired employee(s).

907.5.2.3.2 Groups R-1 and R-2.1. Habitable spaces in dwelling units and sleeping units in Group R-1 and R-2.1 occupancies in accordance with Table 907.5.2.3.2 shall be provided with visible alarm notification. Visible alarms shall be activated by the in-room smoke alarm and the building fire alarm system.

TABLE 907.5.2.3.2—VISIBLE ALARMS

907.5.2.3.3 Group R-2. In Group R-2 occupancies required by Section 907 to have a fire alarm system, each story that contains dwelling units and sleeping units shall be provided with the capability to support future visible alarm notification appliances in accordance with NFPA 72. Such capability shall accommodate wired or wireless equipment.

907.5.2.3.3.1 Wired equipment. Where wired equipment is used to comply with the future capability required by Section 907.5.2.3.3, the system shall include one of the following capabilities:

1. The replacement of audible appliances with combination audible/visible appliances or additional visible notification appliances.
2. The future extension of the existing wiring from the unit smoke alarm locations to required locations for visible appliances.
3. For wired equipment, the fire alarm power supply and circuits shall have not less than 5-percent excess capacity to accommodate the future addition of visible alarm notification appliances, and a single access point to such circuits shall be available on every story. Such circuits shall not be required to be extended beyond a single access point on a story. The fire alarm system shop drawings required by Section 907.1.2 shall include the power supply and circuit documentation to accommodate the future addition of visible notification appliances.

907.5.2.3.4 Group R-2.1, R-3.1 and R-4. Protective social care facilities which house persons who are hearing impaired, shall be provided with notification appliances for the hearing impaired installed in accordance with NFPA 72 and which shall activate upon initiation of the fire alarm system or the smoke alarms.

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907.5.2.4 Group E schools. One audible alarm notification appliance shall be mounted on the exterior of a building to alert occu- pants at each playground area.

907.5.2.5 Group I-2. Audible appliances shall be used in nonpatient areas. Visible appliances are allowed to be used in lieu of audible appliances in patient occupied areas. Audible appliances located in patient areas shall be only chimes or similar sounding appliances for alerting staff. Where audible fire alarm notification devices are not provided, upon receipt of an alarm at a constantly attended location, a general occupant notification shall be broadcast over the public-address system.

In occupancies housing nonambulatory persons where restraint is practiced, staff and attendants shall be provided and housed or located in such a manner that such supervisory personnel will also be alerted upon activation of the fire alarm system or any detector required by this section.

A fire alarm system shall be installed and monitored in accordance with Sections 907.6.1 through 907.6.6.4 and NFPA 72.

907.6.1 Wiring. Wiring shall comply with the requirements of the California Electrical Code and NFPA 72. Wireless protection systems utilizing radio-frequency transmitting devices shall comply with the special requirements for supervision of low-power wireless systems in NFPA 72.

907.6.1.1 High-rise buildings. Wiring for fire alarm network communication circuits between multiple control units shall be in accordance with the following:

1. Class A or Class X installed in accordance with NFPA 72.

2. Installed in enclosed continuous metallic raceways in accordance with the California Electrical Code.

907.6.2 Power supply. The primary and secondary power supply for the fire alarm system shall be provided in accordance with NFPA 72.

Exception: Backup power for single-station and multiple-station smoke alarms as required in Section 907.2.11.6.

907.6.3 Initiating device identification. The fire alarm system shall identify the specific initiating device address, location, device type, floor level where applicable and status including indication of normal, alarm, trouble and supervisory status, as appropriate.

Exceptions:

1. Fire alarm systems in single-story buildings less than 22,500 square feet (2090 m [2] ) in area.
2. Fire alarm systems that only include manual fire alarm boxes, waterflow initiating devices and not more than 10 additional alarm-initiating devices.
3. Special initiating devices that do not support individual device identification.
4. Fire alarm systems or devices that are replacing existing equipment.

907.6.3.1 Annunciation. The initiating device status shall be annunciated at an approved on-site location.

907.6.4 Zones. Fire alarm systems shall be divided into zones where required by this section. For the purposes of annunciation and notification, zoning shall be in accordance with the following: 1. Where the fire-protective signaling system serves more than one building, each building shall be considered as a separate

zone.

2. Each floor of a building shall be considered as a separate zone. 3. Each section of floor of a building that is separated by fire walls or by horizontal exits shall be considered as a separate zone. 4. Each floor shall be zoned separately and a zone shall not exceed 22,500 square feet (2090 m [2] ). The length of any zone shall not exceed 300 feet (91 440 mm) in any direction.

Exception: Automatic sprinkler system zones shall not exceed the area permitted by NFPA 13. 5. For Group I-3 occupancies each cell complex shall be considered a separate zone. 6. For Group H and L occupancies on the 11th story and above, each side of the 2-hour fire-smoke barrier shall be considered a separate zone. 7. Annunciation shall be further divided into zones where deemed necessary by the enforcing agency.

system zones shall not exceed the area permitted by NFPA 13. 5. For Group I-3 occupancies each cell complex shall be considered a separate zone. 6. For Group H and L occupancies on the 11th story and above, each side of the 2-hour fire-smoke barrier shall be considered a separate zone. 7. Annunciation shall be further divided into zones where deemed necessary by the enforcing agency.

907.6.4.1 Annunciation. Alarm, supervisory and trouble signals shall be annunciated in the main control unit by means of an audible signal and a visual display in accordance with NFPA 72. Identification of the type of alarm and supervisory initiating devices, such as manual, automatic, sprinkler waterflow, sprinkler valve supervisory, fire-pump supervisory, etc., shall be sepa- rately indicated.

Exception: Group R-3 occupancies.

907.6.4.1.1 Annunciator panel. An annunciator panel complying with 907.6.4.1 and the associated controls shall be provided in an approved remote location where deemed necessary by the Enforcing Agency . The visual zone indication shall lock in until the system is reset and shall not be canceled by the operation of an audible alarm-silencing switch.

907.6.4.2 High-rise buildings. In high-rise buildings and Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, a separate zone by floor shall be provided for each of the following types of alarm-initiating devices where provided:

1. Smoke detectors.

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2. Sprinkler waterflow devices.

3. Manual fire alarm boxes.

4. Other approved types of automatic fire protection systems.

907.6.4.3 High-rise buildings zoning annunciator panel. In high-rise buildings, a zoning annunciator panel shall be provided in the Fire Command Center. This panel shall not be combined with the Firefighter Smoke Control Panel unless approved. Panel shall be in matrix format or an approved equivalent configuration. All indicators shall be based upon positive confirmation. The panel shall include the following features at a minimum: 1. Fire alarm initiating devices with individual annunciation per floor for manual fire alarm boxes, area smoke detectors, elevator lobby smoke detectors, duct smoke detectors, heat detectors, auxiliary alarms and sprinkler waterflow. (Red LED) 2. Sprinkler and standpipe system control valves per floor–supervisory. (Yellow LED) 3. Common fire alarm system trouble. (Yellow LED) 4. Annunciation Panel Power On. (Green LED) 5. Lamp test. (Push Button)

907.6.4.4 Notification zoning. Upon activation of initiating devices where occupant notification is required for evacuation, all notification zones shall operate simultaneously throughout the building.

Exceptions:

1. High-rise buildings as permitted in Section 907.2.13. 2. Hospitals and convalescent facilities with staff alerting notification appliances or emergency voice/alarm communi- cation, zoning shall be in accordance with the approved fire plan.

3. Detention facilities.

4. Upon approval by the fire code official in buildings which are sprinklered throughout, specific notification zoning shall be permitted where the notification zones are separated by a minimum of a 2-hour fire barrier and 2-hour fire-resis- tive floor assembly. The system shall have the capability to activate all other notification zones by automatic and manual means.

5. Upon approval by the fire code official in buildings which are sprinklered throughout, specific notification zoning shall be permitted where the activated initiating device or fire extinguishing system is separated from any nonactive notifi- cation zones by a minimum of 300-foot horizontal distance. The system shall have the capability to activate all other notification zones by automatic and manual means. 6. Where a Group H or L occupancy is located above the 10th story, each side of the 2-hour fire-smoke barrier shall be considered a separate zone.

907.6.5 Access. Access shall be provided to each fire alarm device and notification appliance for periodic inspection, maintenance and testing.

907.6.6 Monitoring. Fire alarm systems required by this chapter or by the California Building Code shall be monitored by an approved supervising station in accordance with NFPA 72 and this section.

Exception: Monitoring by a supervising station is not required for:

1. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms required by Section 907.2.11.
2. Smoke detectors in Group I-3 occupancies shall be monitored in accordance with Section 907.2.6.3.
3. Automatic sprinkler systems in one- and two-family dwellings.

907.6.6.1 Transmission of alarm signals. Transmission of alarm signals to a supervising station shall be in accordance with NFPA 72.

907.6.6.2 MIY monitoring. Direct transmission of alarms associated with monitor it yourself (MIY) transmitters to a public safety answering point (PSAP) shall not be permitted unless approved by the fire code official.

907.6.6.3 Termination of monitoring service. Termination of fire alarm monitoring services shall be in accordance with Section 901.9.

907.6.6.4 Group E schools. Automatic fire alarm systems shall be monitored and shall transmit the alarm, supervisory and trou- ble signals to an approved supervising station in accordance with NFPA 72. The supervising station shall be listed as either UUFX (Central Station) or UUJS (remote & proprietary) by the Underwriters Laboratory Inc. (UL) or other approved listing and testing laboratory or shall comply with the requirements of FM 3011. Termination of monitoring services shall be in accordance with Section 907.6.6.3.

Upon completion of the installation, the fire alarm system and all fire alarm components shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 72.

907.7.1 Single- and multiple-station alarm devices. When the installation of the alarm devices is complete, each device and interconnecting wiring for multiple-station alarm devices shall be tested in accordance with the smoke alarm provisions of NFPA 72.

907.7.2 Record of completion. A record of completion in accordance with NFPA 72 verifying that the system has been installed and tested in accordance with the approved plans and specifications shall be provided.

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907.7.3 Instructions. Operating, testing and maintenance instructions and record drawings (“as builts”) and equipment specifications shall be provided at an approved location.

The maintenance and testing schedules and procedures for fire alarm and fire detection systems shall be in accordance with Sections 907.8.1 through 907.8.4 and NFPA 72. Records of inspection, testing and maintenance shall be maintained.

907.8.1 Maintenance required. Where required for compliance with the provisions of this code, devices, equipment, systems, conditions, arrangements, levels of protection or other features shall thereafter be continuously maintained in accordance with applicable NFPA requirements or as directed by the fire code official.

907.8.2 Testing. Testing shall be performed in accordance with the schedules in NFPA 72 or more frequently where required by the fire code official. Records of testing shall be maintained.

Exception: Devices or equipment that are inaccessible because of safety considerations shall be tested during scheduled shutdowns where approved by the fire code official, but not less than every 18 months.

907.8.3 Smoke detector sensitivity. Smoke detector sensitivity shall be checked within one year after installation and every alternate year thereafter. After the second calibration test, where sensitivity tests indicate that the detector has remained within its listed and marked sensitivity range (or 4-percent obscuration light gray smoke, if not marked), the length of time between calibration tests shall be permitted to be extended to not more than 5 years. Where the frequency is extended, records of detectorcaused nuisance alarms and subsequent trends of these alarms shall be maintained. In zones or areas where nuisance alarms show any increase over the previous year, calibration tests shall be performed.

907.8.4 Inspection, testing and maintenance. The building owner shall be responsible to maintain the fire and life safety systems in an operable condition at all times. Service personnel shall meet the qualification requirements of NFPA 72 for inspection, testing and maintenance of such systems. Records of inspection, testing and maintenance shall be maintained.

An approved fire alarm system shall be provided in existing buildings and structures where required in Chapter 11.

Smoke alarms shall be tested and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instruc tions and this code.

907.10.1 Smoke alarm replacement. Smoke alarms shall be replaced when any of the following apply:

1. The smoke alarm fails to respond to operability tests.

2. The smoke alarm exceeds 10 years from the date of manufacture marked on the unit, unless an earlier replacement is specified in the manufacturer’s instructions.

3. The smoke alarm end-of-life signal is sounded.

4. The smoke alarm date of manufacture cannot be determined.

Where the replacement of smoke alarms is required by this section, smoke alarms shall not be required to include the 520-Hz signal unless the smoke alarms to be replaced include that signal.