Fire Alarm Control Panel: Everything You Need to Know

Posted by Quickshipfire on June 23rd, 2022

Your fire protection system is controlled by the Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP). They connect devices that detect hazards with devices that alert people. Your Fire Alarm Control Panel receives signals from smoke alarms and manual pull stations. In response to these signals, a series of events occurs that alert building occupants to possible fires. A fire alarm control panel will send out visual and audible alarms in the event of fire. This will assist occupants in evacuating safely and allow emergency services to respond quickly.

An addressable system is needed for large buildings. For smaller buildings, conventional systems are fine. Their difference is in their wiring. Conventional fire alarm panels are usually placed in similar zones, so it's hard to know which one was triggered in case of a fire.

The use of addressing fire alarm panels is, however, an intelligent alternative that provides higher accuracy when locating fires. In contrast to conventional fire control panels, each field device has its own address. Because of this system's pinpoint accuracy, firefighters can spend less time searching for fire and more time putting it out.

Where should I place fire alarm control units?

According to the National Fire Protection Association, Fire Alarm and Signaling Code should be within reach of the authority having jurisdiction, but do not specify where they should be located. There are other resources that offer guidance on where to locate fire alarm control panels. It's a good idea to check your local building and fire safety codes for your municipality's specific requirements.

Fire alarm control units must be located on the same floor firefighters use to enter the building, as firefighters need quick, easy access to the panels. This is why FACPs are often placed near the front entrance. In larger buildings, they'll be in an enclosed emergency control room - if that's the case, you'll have to install annunciators to ensure occupants can hear the panel's alarm signal.

What features do the latest commercial fire panels include?

There are a number of fairly basic features in commercial fire panels from the past. Modern fire alarms perform a whole host of tasks to ensure the safety of a building and its occupants during an emergency. They can disable elevators, shut down electricity, and even unlock doors that might otherwise be locked during a fire. Many commercial building owners are updating their fire panels due to these new features.

Who handles annual fire alarm system testing?

Fire alarm systems require regular maintenance to ensure they work when you need them most. Each year, buildings with a high occupancy risk classification should have their systems inspected. On the other hand, moderate occupancy risk structures require biennial inspections. Low occupancy risk buildings only require triennial assessments. Inspection schedules for critical infrastructure facilities vary depending on AHJ directives.

Fire safety saves lives, property, and money, and every structure's fire alarm system is unique. Regardless of how different they are, most buildings require an effective fire system control panel to monitor the facility and alert occupants and firefighters to potential fires.

Contact Quickshipfire today to learn how the right fire system control panel can increase your building's security, ensure occupant safety, and reduce potential damage.

When you need essential fire alarm equipment at affordable prices, Quickshipfire can help; Call (833)747-7845 or email info@quickshipfire.com with questions. See our contact page, here, for more info.

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