So, You Want to be in The Fire Alarm Systems Business?

Being in the life safety systems field can be rewarding. Rewarding, because the systems you install, service or test may prevent serious injury or save someone’s life. Because of that life safety function of these system, it’s important that you identify, understand and apply a set of rules. 

These rules are called Codes and Standards and are published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the International Code Council (ICC). The Codes tell us where to install the system components, and the Standards tell us how to install and when to test them. A third set of documents is the component’s manufacturer’s instructions, which tell us how to test and maintain those components.

I have been in all phases of the fire alarm system business: System design, sales, Installation, testing and maintenance. In the past, some burglar alarm and electrical contractors have asked me, “What can be the difference between installing a fire alarm from burglar alarm system.” If you are asking the same question, I suggest you reread the two paragraphs above. Burglar alarm systems do not have the stringent requirements that are required of fire alarm systems. 

You can set out on the right path, and I encourage you to do so, by contacting the Automatic Fire Alarm Association and sign up for classes they offer to those that are new to the fire alarm field. They can also help you to become certified with the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET). You should also purchase a copy of the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code from NFPA

If you don’t have the proper training and install fire alarm systems, you are exposing yourself and your company to the possibility of serious liability lawsuits. You can help yourself and avoid that from happening by reading and understanding the applicable codes and standards and attending the available training.