Electrically operated alarm attachments

[Jonathan]

I do hope that someone will be able to assist me in this matter. We
are being required by the Fire Marshall to install an exterior water
gong to our existing fire alarm system. It is of my understanding,
according to "Automatic Sprinkler Systems Handbook, 1999" that
"Outside alarms can be omitted where the sprinkler system is used as
part of a central station, auxiliary remote station, or proprietary
signaling fire alarm system utilizing listed audible inside alarm
devices." Our system falls within these parameters, but I have no
information from NFPA 70 and 72 to back it up. Can anyone help?

Thanks in advance,

Jonathan

 

[jackcsg]

I do hope that someone will be able to assist me in this matter. We
are being required by the Fire Marshall to install an exterior water
gong to our existing fire alarm system. It is of my understanding,
according to "Automatic Sprinkler Systems Handbook, 1999" that
"Outside alarms can be omitted where the sprinkler system is used as
part of a central station, auxiliary remote station, or proprietary
signaling fire alarm system utilizing listed audible inside alarm
devices." Our system falls within these parameters, but I have no
information from NFPA 70 and 72 to back it up. Can anyone help?

Thanks in advance,

Jonathan

Jonathan, depending where you are....NFPA is a guideline for most AHJ's.
They can request, and/or require additional signaling/detection equipment to
be installed. I haven't seen too many request for a "Water Gong" bell in a
while, but I do know in DC (District of Columbia), they require outside an
outside Bell/Strobe light that can not be an electric siren/strobe. Adding a
water gong (Sprinkler Guys) and an outside bell (Alarm Guys) are too
different things. You should ask if he specifically wants a "water gong"
bell, or just an outside bell for local notification if the sprinkler system
is activated. Having a local outside bell is not a bad thing, and in some
cases (Depending on the AHJ), required. It is not necessarily an NFPA code.

Jack

 

[Nick Markowitz]

You may omit the outside sounder by code but AHJ has final authority. Many
want an outside water gong or electrically operated bell or horn blinker
etc. because
alarm systems can fail to dial. Or otherwise send a signal and it is hoped
passerby will notify authorities or police etc see signal while patroling
and report it.
Sprinklers can cause excessive damage if they false trigger and faster you
notify fire dept to get them shut off the better. The water gong is
probably wanted becuse it will work regardless if power is present.



--
Nick Markowitz Jr.
Owner
Markowitz Electic Protection
Private Industry Fire Investigator.

Contributing Editor Pa. Firemans Magazine
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