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 systems, 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 installing a 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 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 newcomers to the fire alarm field. They can also help you to become certified by 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 by reading and understanding the applicable codes and standards and attending the available training.