Chapter 9 — FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
Section 916
California Fire Code (Title 24, Part 9) · 2019 edition · updated 2026-09-10 · California
CBSC: official editions, supplements and errata
Italicized text is a California amendment to the model code, as printed in the official publication.
916.1 Gas detection systems. Gas detection systems required¶
by this code shall comply with Sections 916.2 through 916.11.
916.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sec-¶
tion 105.7.11.
916.2.1 Construction documents. Documentation of the gas detection system design and equipment to be used that demonstrates compliance with the requirements of this code shall be provided with the application for permit.
916.3 Equipment. Gas detection system equipment shall be¶
designed for use with the gases being detected and shall be installed in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
916.4 Power connections. Gas detection systems shall be¶
permanently connected to the building electrical power sup- ply or shall be permitted to be cord connected to an unswitched receptacle using an approved restraining means that secures the plug to the receptacle.
916.5 Emergency and standby power. Standby or emergency¶
power shall be provided or the gas detection system shall ini- tiate a trouble signal at an approved location if the power supply is interrupted.
916.6 Sensor locations. Sensors shall be installed in approved¶
locations where leaking gases are expected to accumulate.
916.7 Gas sampling. Gas sampling shall be performed con-¶
tinuously. Sample analysis shall be processed immediately after sampling, except as follows:
1. For HPM gases, sample analysis shall be performed at intervals not exceeding 30 minutes.
2. For toxic gases that are not HPM, sample analysis shall be performed at intervals not exceeding 5 min- utes, in accordance with Section 6004.2.2.7.
3. Where a less frequent or delayed sampling interval is approved.
916.8 System activation. A gas detection alarm shall be initi-¶
ated where any sensor detects a concentration of gas exceed- ing the following thresholds:
1. For flammable gases, a gas concentration exceeding 25 percent of the lower flammability limit (LFL).
2. For nonflammable gases, a gas concentration exceed- ing one-half of the IDLH, unless a different threshold is
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220 2019 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
Copyright © 2019 ICC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Accessed by Kevin Day (kevin.day@dgs.ca.gov), (California Building Standards Commission) Order Number #100735044 on Jul 24, 2019 03:54 PM (PDT) pursuant to License Agreement with ICC. No further reproduction or distribution authorized. Single user only, copying and networking prohibited. ANY UNAUTHORIZED REPRODUCTION OR DISTRIBUTION IS A VIOLATION OF THE FEDERAL COPYRIGHT ACT AND THE LICENSE AGREEMENT, AND SUBJECT TO CIVIL AND CRIMINAL PENALTIES THEREUNDER.
100735044
FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
specified by the section of this code requiring a gas detection system.
Upon activation of a gas detection alarm, alarm signals or other required responses shall be as specified by the section of this code requiring a gas detection system. Audible and visible alarm signals associated with a gas detection alarm shall be distinct from fire alarm and carbon monoxide alarm signals.
916.9 Signage. Signs shall be provided adjacent to gas detection¶
system alarm signaling devices that advise occupants of the nature of the signals and actions to take in response to the sig- nal.
916.10 Fire alarm system connections. Gas sensors and gas¶
detection systems shall not be connected to fire alarm systems unless approved and connected in accordance with the fire alarm equipment manufacturer’s instructions.
916.11 Inspection, testing and sensor calibration. Inspection¶
and testing of gas detection systems shall be conducted not less than annually. Sensor calibration shall be confirmed at the time of sensor installation and calibration shall be per- formed at the frequency specified by the sensor manufacturer.
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