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NFPA 72 Fire Alarm ITM Checklist

NFPA 72 fire alarm ITM checklist. Visual inspections, functional tests, and sensitivity testing items for all fire alarm system components.

NFPA 72Fire Alarm System2-8 hours44 inspection items

Visual Inspection — Control Equipment

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    Inspect fire alarm control panel (FACP) for trouble-free status
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    Verify panel power indicators (AC and battery) are lit
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    Check panel for physical damage, corrosion, or unauthorized modifications
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    Inspect remote annunciator panels for matching status to FACP
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    Verify all zone and device labels are legible and accurate
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    Check that spare fuses of correct type are available at panel

Visual Inspection — Field Devices

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    Inspect all manual pull stations for physical damage and accessibility
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    Verify pull stations are unobstructed and within 5 feet of exit doors
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    Inspect smoke detectors for physical damage, paint, or dust accumulation
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    Verify 36-inch clearance around smoke detectors is maintained
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    Inspect heat detectors for corrosion, damage, or paint
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    Check duct smoke detectors for access panel functionality
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    Inspect waterflow and tamper switch connections and wiring

Functional Testing — Initiating Devices

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    Test 100% of manual pull stations and verify alarm signal at FACP
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    Test smoke detectors using listed aerosol or calibrated test method
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    Test heat detectors using listed heat source (do not use open flame)
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    Test duct smoke detectors and verify HVAC fan shutdown
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    Test waterflow switches and verify alarm signal within 90 seconds
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    Test tamper switches and verify supervisory signal at FACP
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    Verify each device address matches panel programming and zone maps

Functional Testing — Notification Appliances

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    Test all audible appliances (horns, speakers, chimes) on each floor
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    Measure sound levels to verify minimum 15 dBA above ambient or 75 dBA at pillow level (sleeping areas)
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    Test all visual appliances (strobes) for proper flash rate and candela
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    Verify voice evacuation messages are clear and intelligible
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    Test speaker circuits for proper supervision
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    Document any areas where sound levels or strobe coverage is inadequate

Sensitivity Testing

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    Perform sensitivity testing of smoke detectors within first year, then every 2 years
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    Use calibrated test instrument to measure detector response threshold
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    Compare readings to manufacturer's listed sensitivity range
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    Replace or recalibrate any detector outside listed range
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    Document sensitivity readings for each detector tested
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    Maintain sensitivity testing records for AHJ review

Communication and Monitoring

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    Test primary communication path to central station monitoring
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    Test secondary (backup) communication path to central station
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    Verify alarm, supervisory, and trouble signals received at central station
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    Confirm signal transmission time is within 90 seconds
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    Test FDNY connection functionality and verify signal receipt
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    Document central station contact information and account numbers

Maintenance and Documentation

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    Clean all smoke detectors per manufacturer specifications
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    Tighten all terminal connections at FACP and field devices
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    Replace batteries per manufacturer recommended schedule
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    Complete NFPA 72 Record of Inspection and Testing form
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    Document all deficiencies with photos and severity ratings
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    File completed report with building owner and AHJ

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