NFPA 96 2017 Edition, the currently adopted edition which does not change in the latest edition published by NFPA, requires that at minimum there be an audible OR visible indicator to show that the system has activated. In 10.6.2 it requires that IF the building has a fire alarm system the activation of the extinguishing system shall activate the building fire alarm system.
If an AHJ is requiring both an audible and visible indicator such as a horn strobe to activate upon extinguishing system activation when the building doesn’t already have a fire alarm system they are exceeding the minimum requirements stated above and can only do so if they have specifically required this through adoption of a local ordinance. The system’s manual “flag” or “indicating button” if visible in the space as provided by a manufacturer is sufficient to meet NFPA 96 if there is no fire alarm in the building. Please let me know if you have any questions and ask your membership to contact our office any time they encounter an AHJ that is applying this incorrectly. They can email me or Chief Gantt.
10.6 System Annunciation.
10.6.1
Upon activation of an automatic fire-extinguishing system, an audible alarm or visual indicator shall be provided to show that the system has activated.
10.6.2
Where a fire alarm signaling system is serving the occupancy where the extinguishing system is located, the activation of the automatic fire-extinguishing system shall activate the fire alarm signaling system.
Sincerely,
Craig D. Landolt CFCO
State Fire Marshal
Office of Commissioner John F. King
Two Martin Luther King Jr Drive SE
Suite 920 West Tower
Atlanta, Georgia 30334
C: 470-270-6499
clandolt@oci.ga.gov
The fire equipment industry in Georgia is currently experiencing significant transformations. It is imperative for owners to unite in order to uphold the reputation, prestige, and ethical standards associated with this profession.
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