Fire Alarm Inspections and Tests: Frequency & What to Expect

As a business, you need your fire alarm to work during a real fire to protect your employees and your property - which is part of why choosing the right type of fire alarm system matters from the start.. A fire alarm inspection ensures that your fire alarm works properly. Don't wait until an actual fire occurs to see if your fire alarm works as it should. 

As experts in installing, testing, and inspecting fire alarms in Atlanta, GA, Cliff's Fire explains what to know about fire alarm inspections to ensure that your alarm systems stay up to code. 

What Happens During Fire Alarm Inspection?

Before the technician begins your fire alarm inspection, local fire departments should be aware of the test. Aside from the visual inspections of every fire alarm system in your building, the fire alarm specialist will also perform alarm system inspections and testing on the following: 

• Alarm control panel
• Smoke detectors
• Sensors
• Electrical testing

How Long Will Testing Take?

Depending on the size and layout of your building, fire alarm inspection could take a few hours or several days. In addition, the inspection findings could add more time if your technician finds repairs or replacements necessary. 

While a fire alarm could temporarily halt business, a thorough inspection remains vital to the safety of your business and employees. 

What Employees Should Know About Fire Alarm Inspection

Familiarize your employees with the fire drill procedures to ensure that everyone has an escape plan in case of a fire. Give your employees notice of the fire alarm inspection to be ready for flashing lights, loud sirens, and electrical disruptions. While these disturbances should only last several minutes, it remains essential to communicate any fire alarm inspections to your employees. 

How Often Should You Test Your Fire Alarms?

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), businesses should have an annual fire alarm inspection to comply with safety regulations. However, specific components of your alarm system require more frequent review. 

• Pull station alarms: The NFPA recommends semi-annual inspections to ensure proper function. 
• Alarm panels: Inspection should occur after initial installation, then once a year. 
• Batteries: Depending on the alarm system and type of batteries, you should check your batteries monthly. 
• Alarm signals: The alarm sound and lights should have an annual inspection. 
• Sensors: Depending on your system, heat and smoke sensors require more frequent testing. Heat detectors require semi-annual review, while smoke sensors require quarterly testing.

Provide a Safe Environment for Your Employees and Business

Since the NFPA requires annual fire inspections. Although these tests may only last a few hours, it's crucial to schedule the test in advance or set reminders in your calendar to stay compliant. 

Practice fire safety by creating a fire drill and informing your employees. In addition, notify your staff of upcoming alarm testing to allow them to prepare. Create a safe environment for your employees, patrons, and property with routine fire alarm inspections.

By choosing an experienced team of fire safety specialists to work with, you can ensure that these tests happen on time. 

Schedule your fire alarm inspection today with the safety specialists of Cliff's Fire for sound peace of mind and safety regulation compliance.