Chapter 3-4 - Standard for Fire Alarm Systems
(Publié aussi en français sous le titre Chapitre 3-4 - Norme pour les réseaux avertisseurs d'incendie)
Table of Contents
1.	General
2.	Requirements
3.	Types of fire alarm systems
4.	Installation
5.	Inspection, testing and maintenance
Appendix A - Explanatory materials
Appendix B - Reference publications

1.	General
1.1	Purpose
This standard describes the requirements for the design, construction, installation, inspection, testing and maintenance of fire alarm systems in Government of Canada property to minimize risks to life and property and to protect and conserve the Government's financial position.
1.2	Application
This standard applies to all:
	(a)	departments and agencies listed in Schedules A and B of the Financial Administration Act (FAA) with the exception of the Department of National Defence;
	(b)	branches designated as departments for the purposes of the FAA; and
	(c)	those departments and other portions of the Public Service as defined in Part I of Schedule I of the Public Service Staff Relations Act.
This chapter replaces chapter 7‑5 of PMM Volume 12.
1.3	Scope
(a)	This standard describes the requirements for the design, construction and installation of fire alarm systems in
	(i)	new buildings;
	(ii)	alteration and reconstruction of existing buildings; and
	(iii)	upgrading of a fire alarm system to remove an unacceptable fire hazard (see appendix A).
(b)	This standard describes the requirements for the inspection, testing and maintenance of fire alarm systems in all buildings.
1.4	Administration
(a)	The Fire Commissioner of Canada or the authorized representative of the Fire Commissioner (henceforth referred to as FC) is responsible for the administration and enforcement of this standard.
(b)	This standard is not to be interpreted as permitting practices specifically prohibited by provincial or other legislation.
(c)	Where reference is made to other codes and standards, unless otherwise stipulated, the reference shall be to the latest edition including amendments to that code or standard.
(d)	In the event of an inconsistency between this standard and any other standard, the requirements in this standard shall prevail.
1.5	Review procedures
(a)	Plans and specifications for all fire alarm systems and modifications to existing fire alarm systems shall be submitted to the FC for review in accordance with chapter 3‑2, Fire protection standard for design and construction.
(b)	All new fire alarm systems and modifications to existing fire alarm systems shall be tested and verified by the manufacturer, an authorized agent of the equipment manufacturer, or a ULC listed fire alarm service company in accordance with the requirements of CAN/ULC‑S537, "Standard for the Verification of Fire Alarm Systems" and a copy of the verification certificate and report shall be submitted to the FC.
(c)	After verification of a fire alarm system installation or modification, the system shall be subject to an inspection and test performed by the installer and witnessed by the FC for final acceptance, except as permitted in (d).
(d)	Subject to the concurrence of the FC, the acceptance tests may be witnessed by a representative of the department or agency concerned with a written report or certificate forwarded to the FC.
1.6	Definitions
Certain terms used in this standard are defined to ensure understanding of their meaning and intent.
Administrative official means the official designated by the department or agency responsible for the administration of the property (agent administratif);
alarm signal means an audible signal transmitted throughout a zone or zones or throughout a building to advise occupants that a fire emergency exists (signal d'alarme);
alert signal means an audible signal to advise designated persons of a fire emergency (signal d'alerte);
ancillary system means a system actuated by the fire alarm system but which is not a required part of the fire alarm system (système auxiliaire);
annunciator means a device to indicate visually a signal received from the fire alarm system (annonciateur);
audible signal appliance means a device to indicate, by means of sound output, the actuation of the fire alarm system (audible signal appliances include air horns, bells, buzzers, sirens, gongs, chimes and loudspeakers) (appareil à signal sonore);
central station system means an independent facility to receive, verify and transmit alarms to the appropriate fire fighting service, and which conforms to NFPA Standard No. 71, "Installation, Maintenance, and Use of Central Station Signalling Systems" (poste central);
control unit means a unit which provides the central control and logic processing for the fire alarm system  (tableau de commande);
exit means that part of a means of egress that leads from the floor area it serves, including any doorway leading directly from the floor area, to an open public thoroughfare or to an exterior open space protected from fire exposure from the building and having access to an open public thoroughfare (issue);
fire alarm system means a combination of devices designed to warn the building occupants of an emergency condition (réseau avertisseur d'incendie);
fire detector means a device which detects a fire condition and automatically initiates an electrical signal to actuate an alert signal or an alarm signal and includes heat detectors and smoke detectors (see also heat detector, and smoke detector) (détecteur d'incendie);
fire suppression system means a system intended to automatically detect and extinguish a fire (réseau d'extinction d'incendie);
floor area means the space on any storey of a building between exterior walls and required fire walls, including the space occupied by interior walls and partitions, but not including exits and vertical service spaces that pierce the storey (aire de plancher);
Government of Canada property means real or personal property under the administration and control of a federal government department or agency, including property leased to the government (propriété du gouvernement du Canada);
heat detector means a fire detector designed to operate at a predetermined temperature or rate of temperature rise (détecteur thermique);
heritage building means any federally owned building that has been designated as either "Classified" or "Recognized" for its heritage significance upon recommendation by the Federal Heritage Buildings Review Office (immeuble patrimonial);
high building means a building falling within the scope of high building in the NBC (immeuble de grande hauteur);
historic building means any federally owned building that has been declared of national significance by the Minister of Environment Canada on the advice of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada (immeuble historique);
listed means equipment or materials included in a list published by a nationally recognized organization concerned with product evaluation, that maintains periodic inspection of production of listed equipment or materials and whose listing states either that the equipment or material meets appropriate standards or has been tested and found suitable for use in a specified manner (énuméré);
manual pull station means a device designed to initiate a signal when operated manually (poste manuel);
proprietary control centre means a facility located on the premises to receive, verify and transmit alarms to the appropriate fire fighting service and which conforms to NFPA No. 72D, "Installation, Maintenance, and Use of Proprietary Protective Signalling Systems" (central d'alarme privé);
smoke alarm means a combination smoke detector and audible signal appliance designed to sound an alarm within the room or space in which it is located upon the detection of smoke within that room or suite (avertisseur de fumée);
smoke detector means a fire detector designed to operate when the concentration of airborne combustion products exceeds a predetermined level (détecteur de fumée);
trouble signal means a signal warning of a fault condition in the fire alarm system (signal de défaillance électrique);
visual signal appliance means a device which utilizes light to alert occupants of a building to an emergency situation in a direct or indirect manner (appareil à signal);
zone means a subdivision of a building intended to identify the origin of either an alarm signal or an alert signal, the location of which is readily identifiable (zone).
1.7	Abbreviations
(a)	The abbreviations in this standard for the names of associations shall have the meanings assigned to them in this Article.
CSA	Canadian Standards Association	
FC	Fire Commissioner of Canada or the authorized representative of the Fire Commissioner	
NBC	National Building Code of Canada	
NFC	National Fire Code of Canada	
NFPA	National Fire Protection Association	
ULC	Underwriters' Laboratories of Canada	

(b)	The abbreviations of words and phrases in this standard shall have the meanings assigned to them in this article.
h	hour(s)	
m	meter(s)	
min.	minute(s)	
No.	number	
%	percent	

2.	Requirements
2.1	General
(a)	Except as otherwise stated, the design, construction and installation of fire alarm systems shall conform to the National Building Code of Canada.
(b)	A fire alarm system shall be provided for a building
	(i)	where it is required to have a fire alarm system by the NBC;
	(ii)	where it is required to have a fire alarm system by any of the standards listed in appendix C; or;
	(iii)	where conditions present a serious life hazard as determined by the FC (see appendix A).
(c)	In addition to (b), and except as permitted in (d), a fire alarm system shall be provided for a building
	(i)	in which there is a large property loss potential or a potential for a serious interruption of essential services as determined by the Administrative Official; in consultation with the FC;
	(ii)	that has been designated as a historic building or a heritage building; or

	(iii)	that contains works of art, historical artifacts or scientific specimens which are considered to form part of the nation's cultural heritage and are irreplaceable.
(d)	When it can be determined on the basis of a cost/benefit analysis, that a complete fire alarm system as required in (c) is not economically feasible or for technical reasons would not be practical, alternative fire protection measures may be provided as recommended by the FC in consultation with the Administrative Official.
2.2	Locations of heat detectors
(a)	Where a fire alarm system is required, and except as permitted in (b), heat detectors shall be installed in
	(i)	areas specified by the NBC;
	(ii)	workshops, such as machine shops, electrical shops, carpenter shops, paint shops, and  maintenance shops; and
	(iii)	laboratories in which flammable or combustible materials are stored or handled.
(b)	Heat detectors in (a) need not be provided where the area is protected by sprinkler systems conforming to FC No. 403, "Standard for Sprinkler Systems".
2.3	Locations of smoke detectors
(a)	Where a fire alarm system is required, smoke detectors, including duct‑type smoke detectors, shall be installed in
	(i)	areas specified by the NBC;
	(ii)	computer rooms in accordance with Chapter 3‑3, Fire protection standard for electronic data processing equipment;
	(iii)	record storage facilities in accordance with FC No. 311, "Standard for Record Storage"; and
	(iv)	every room containing valuable or irreplaceable materials as designated by the Administrative Official.
2.4	Locations of smoke alarms
(a)	Except as permitted in (b), smoke alarms shall be installed
	(i)	in areas as specified in the NBC; and
	(ii)	on each storey of a multi‑level dwelling unit, such that there is at least one smoke alarm on each storey.
Note:  In split‑level dwelling units, one smoke alarm can serve an adjacent lower level if there is no intervening door between the two levels.
(b)	Smoke alarms are not required in rooms or suites in which smoke detectors are required and provided in accordance with 2.3 (a).
3.	Types of fire alarm systems
3.1	General
(a)	Every fire alarm system shall be a single stage system conforming to subsection 3.2, except as required in (b) or permitted in (c).
(b)	A two‑stage fire alarm system conforming to subsection 3.3 shall be installed in a building that
	(i)	is a high building; or
	(ii)	contains a Group B occupancy having accommodation for more than 10 persons detained or receiving care or treatment (see appendix A).
(c)	Subject to the concurrence of the FC, a two‑stage fire alarm system may be used in lieu of a single stage system where
	(i)	it is requested by the Administrative Official for operational reasons;
	(ii)	the building is sprinklered or incorporates such other features of design and construction that would make immediate total evacuation unnecessary; and
	(iii)	during all times that the building is occupied, there are sufficient staff on duty trained to respond to an alarm and direct or conduct an orderly evacuation of all occupants in the event of an emergency.
3.2	Single stage fire alarm systems
(a)	A single stage fire alarm system shall be designed to provide an alarm signal throughout the building when actuated as stipulated in (b).
(b)	The operation of any manual pull station, fire detector, or fire suppression system, shall
	(i)	cause an alarm signal on all audible signal appliances throughout the building and at the control unit;
	(ii)	indicate the floor or zone from which the fire alarm system was actuated by means of a visual signal at the control unit and at the annunciator(s) in accordance with subsections 4.9 and 4.11;
	(iii)	transmit a signal to the fire department as required in subsection 4.12;
	(iv)	cause any recirculating air handling system to shut down or function so as to provide the required control of smoke movement, when such system serves an area as described in the NBC;
	(v)	cause all required fire doors and smoke control doors, if normally held open, to close automatically; and
	(vi)	cause all locking devices on exit doors, if in the locked position, to release.
(c)	Audible signal appliances as required in (b) shall remain in operation until the system has been restored to normal or until silenced from the control unit as stipulated in subsection 4.9 except as permitted in (d).
(d)	In the case of buildings where at certain times there may be no persons on duty to respond to an alarm, the audible signal appliances may be silenced automatically after a period of not less than 20 min.
3.3	Two‑stage fire alarm systems
(a)	A two‑stage fire alarm system shall be designed to cause an alert signal at the 1st stage as stipulated in (b), and an alarm signal at the 2nd stage as stipulated in (c).
(b)	The operation of any manual pull station, fire detector, or fire suppression system shall at the 1st stage
	(i)	cause an alert signal on all audible signal appliances throughout the building and at the central alarm and control facility, except as stipulated in (iii) and (iv);
	(ii)	indicate the floor or zone from which the fire alarm system was actuated by means of a visual signal at the central alarm and control facility and at the annunciator(s), where provided, in accordance with subsections 4.10 and 4.11 respectively;
	(iii)	in buildings where the occupants are under close supervision and control of staff, such as hospitals and penitentiary living units, the alert signal may be arranged to be heard only at approved supervisory locations;
	(iv)	in the case of a high building, cause an alarm signal in lieu of an alert signal on all audible signal appliances throughout the zone and adjacent zones on the same floor level from which the fire alarm system was actuated and throughout the corresponding zone or zones on the floor level immediately above and the floor level immediately below;
	(v)	transmit a signal to the fire department as stipulated in subsection 4.12;
	(vi)	cause any recirculating air handling system to shut down or function so as to provide the required control of smoke movement, when such system serves an area as described in the NBC;
	(vii)	cause all required fire doors and smoke control doors, if normally held open, to close automatically;
	(viii)	cause all locking devices on exit doors, if in the locked position, to release (see appendix A);
	(ix)	cause any background music system to be automatically silenced; and
	(x)	initiate the operation of the recording equipment as stipulated in subsection 4.16 where such recording equipment is provided.
(c)	Except as required in (d) or permitted in (e), the operation of any manual pull station by means of keys accessible to authorized persons only or the actuation of the means provided at the central alarm and control facility shall cause an alarm signal on all audible signal appliances throughout the building in lieu of the alert signal.
(d)	In high buildings the central alarm and control facility shall be provided with means to initiate alarm signals selectively by floors to facilitate phased evacuation procedures.
(e)	In large complexes such as penitentiaries or air terminal buildings in international airports, the fire alarm system may provide for selective activation of alarm signals by zones or groups of zones if the building incorporates such features of design and construction that partial or phased evacuation procedures may be safely used.
(f)	The alert signal or alarm signal shall be capable of being silenced from the central alarm and control facility, but only after a minimum period of operation of 1 min. from the initial actuation of the alert signal.
(g)	The alert signal as required in (b)(i) shall automatically be changed to an alarm signal as required in (c) after a period of not more than 5 min., unless
	(i)	the alert signal has been manually acknowledged at the central alarm and control facility, cancelling the automatic alarm signal, but allowing the alert signal to continue to operate;
	(ii)	the alert signal has been manually silenced at the central alarm and control facility;
	(iii)	the fire alarm system has been manually switched from the 1st stage to the 2nd stage by zones as described in 3.3(e); or
	(iv)	the fire alarm system has been restored to normal.
(h)	Audible signal appliances shall continue to operate until the system has been restored to normal or until silenced from the central alarm and control facility, as stipulated in subsection 4.10, except as permitted (i).
(i)	In the case of buildings where at certain times there may not be any persons on duty to respond to an alarm, the audible signal appliances may be silenced automatically after a period of not less than 20 min.
3.4	Emergency voice communication systems
(a)	A fire alarm system in a high building shall include provision for voice communication capability consisting of
	(i)	a central alarm and control facility conforming to subsection 4.10;
	(ii)	a loudspeaker system conforming to subsection 4.14; and
	(iii)	an emergency telephone system conforming to subsection 4.15.
(b)	For two‑stage fire alarm systems other than in high buildings, a partial or complete voice communication system shall be provided where it is necessary, as determined by the Administrative Official in consultation with the FC, for effective emergency response and evacuation procedures.  In such cases the voice communication system may consist of one or more of the elements described in (a) or such other communication systems as may be recommended by the FC.
4.	Installation
4.1	General
(a)	All fire alarm systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with CSA C22.1, Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, and CAN/ULC‑S524, "Standard for the Installation of Fire Alarm Systems".
(b)	In the case of devices or site conditions that are not covered by the standards in (a), the design and installation shall comply with NFPA No. 72E, "Automatic Fire Detectors", or other standards of good fire protection engineering practice.
(c)	All equipment and devices shall be of a listed type.
(d)	All components of a fire alarm system shall be compatible.  Devices connected to the control unit shall be either those specified by the manufacturer's approved wiring diagram for the control unit; or substitute devices that are functionally compatible with the control unit and provide equivalent circuit loading and equivalent actuation of the control unit.
(e)	Fire alarm systems may be combined with building security and/or environmental control systems provided the complete system is of a listed type (see appendix A).
4.2	Power supply
(a)	Every fire alarm system including those with voice communication capability shall be provided with a main power and an emergency power supply.
(b)	The main power supply shall be provided in accordance with CSA C22.1, Canadian Electrical Code, Part I.
(c)	The emergency power supply shall be provided in accordance with
	(i)	CAN/ULC‑S524, "Standard for the Installation of Fire Alarm Systems",
	(ii)	CAN/ULC‑S527, "Standard for Control Units for Fire Alarm Systems", and
	(iii)	the NBC.
4.3	Wiring methods
(a)	Wiring for fire alarm systems and emergency voice communication equipment shall be installed in accordance with CSA C22.1, Canadian Electrical Code, Part I.
(b)	In high buildings, electrical conductors used in connection with fire alarm systems and emergency equipment, including emergency voice communication equipment, shall meet the requirements of (a) and be protected in conformance with the NBC.
4.4	Electrical supervision
(a)	Every fire alarm system and emergency voice communication system shall be electrically supervised in accordance with CAN/ULC‑S524, "Standard for the Installation of Fire Alarm Systems".
(b)	When a fire alarm system consists of more than 1 zone as required in 4.11(a) the zone in which the fault condition occurs shall be indicated.
(c)	Audible trouble signals shall remain in operation until the system has been restored to normal or until silenced from the control unit or from the central alarm and control facility.
4.5	Manual pull stations
(a)	Manual pull stations shall conform to ULC‑S528, "Manually Actuated Signalling Boxes For Fire Alarm Systems".
(b)	In the case of a single stage fire alarm system, manual pull stations shall be designed to activate the system as required in 3.2(b).
(c)	In the case of a two‑stage fire alarm system, manual pull stations shall be designed to activate all devices as described in subsection 3.3 and be equipped such that the use of a key or similar device will activate the fire alarm system as required in 3.3 (c), (d) and (e).
(d)	Manual pull stations shall be installed in each floor area, adjacent to each required exit door and in the path of egress from the building.  They shall be so located as to be readily visible and accessible and not likely to be obstructed, except as permitted in (e).
(e)	In a building where the occupants are under supervision or restraint manual pull stations may be installed at designated locations where they are under continuous surveillance.
(f)	All manual pull stations in a building shall be of the same general type with similar operational features.
4.6	Audible signal appliances (See also subsection 4.14 "Loudspeakers")
(a)	Audible signal appliances shall conform to the requirements of ULC‑S525, "Audible Signal Appliances for Fire Alarm Systems".
(b)	The audible signal shall consist of a bell sound unless there are environmental conditions requiring the use of a different device or tone.
(c)	Audible signal appliances shall be installed throughout the building except within exits, so as to be effectively heard in all parts of the floor area above all other sounds, except as permitted in (f).
(d)	In the case of a 2 stage fire alarm system, the same audible signal appliances may be used to provide both the alert signal and the alarm signal.
(e)	Audible signal appliances shall not be concealed above ceilings or behind walls or partitions.  They may be recessed in walls or ceilings if located in a metal box with the appliances readily visible and accessible for inspection and maintenance.
(f)	In a building where the occupants are under supervision or restraint, audible signal appliances may be located only in designated areas which are under continuous surveillance.
(g)	Audible signal appliances shall only be sounded for fire or other emergency purposes.
(h)	Visual signal appliances conforming to CAN/ULC‑S526, "Standard for Visual Signal Appliances for Fire Alarm Systems" shall be installed in addition to audible signal appliances where there is an abnormally high ambient noise level, or in a building or portion thereof intended for use primarily by persons with hearing impairments.
(i)	In the case of a fire alarm system with voice communication capability, the alert signal and the alarm signal may be transmitted by means of the loudspeakers in lieu of bells.
(j)	When the alert signal and alarm signal are transmitted by means of loudspeakers, such signals shall not be transmitted through the loudspeakers located in exit stairways.
(k)	All audible signal appliances in a building shall be of the same general type.
4.7	Fire detectors
(a)	Fire detectors shall conform to the following standards
	(i)	heat detectors — ULC‑S530, "Heat Actuated Fire Detectors for Fire Alarm Systems";
	(ii)	smoke detectors — CAN/ULC‑S529, "Smoke detectors for Fire Alarm Systems".
(b)	Fire detectors shall be installed in accordance with CAN/ULC‑S524, "Standard for the Installation of Fire Alarm Systems" and shall be located as specified according to their respective laboratory certifications.
(c)	Fire detectors shall be of the appropriate temperature or sensitivity rating.
(d)	A heat detector or smoke detector in a suite or dwelling unit shall be installed in the central portion of such suite or dwelling unit.
(e)	Duct‑type smoke detectors in air recirculating systems, shall be
	(i)	listed for air duct installation; and
	(ii)	installed at a location in the main supply air duct on the downstream side of the filter units; and at a location in the return air duct prior to exhausting from the building or prior to being diluted by outside fresh air.
4.8	Smoke alarms
(a)	smoke alarms shall conform to the requirements of CAN/ULC‑S531, "Smoke Alarms".
(b)	smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with the requirements of the NBC, except as permitted in (c).
(c)	In the case of a retrofit installation in an existing building, smoke alarms may be of the battery operated type, and in such case need not be interconnected.
4.9	Control units (See appendix A)
(a)	Control units shall conform to CAN/ULC‑S527, "Standard for Control Units for Fire Alarm Systems".
(b)	The control unit shall be located inside the building at or near the main entrance so as to be accessible at all times to authorized personnel and the fire  department.  When a remote control unit is provided near the main entrance, the main control unit is permitted to be located in other parts of the building.
(c)	The control unit shall be provided with manual means
	(i)	to silence the audible signal appliances throughout the building as required in 3.2(b)(i) and 3.3(b)(i); and
	(ii)	to silence the trouble signal as required in 4.4(b).
(d)	The actuation of the means as stipulated in (c) shall silence the audible signal but shall retain the visual signal.
(e)	The control unit shall be provided with means for the transmission of a signal to the fire department in accordance with subsection 4.12.
(f)	Spare fuses corresponding to those used in the control unit shall be provided at the control unit and shall be accessible only to authorized personnel.
(g)	When a building is part of a complex of buildings located in the vicinity of each other and under single management or administration, the control units in these buildings may be interconnected to a central control unit located at or near a main entrance to the complex so as to be accessible at all times to authorized personnel and the fire department.
4.10	Central alarm and control facilities (See appendix A)
(a)	Central alarm and control facilities shall conform to the requirements of CAN/ULC‑S527, "Standard for Control Units for Fire Alarm Systems".
(b)	The central alarm and control facility shall be located
	(i)	on the street entrance floor of the building to which the fire department would normally respond; and
	(ii)	within a sound resistant room or enclosure of adequate size to accommodate equipment and operating personnel.
(c)	In a building complex consisting of 2 or more communicating buildings or towers and under common ownership and management, integrated fire alarm and voice communication systems throughout the complex shall be controlled from a single central alarm and control facility.
(d)	The central alarm and control facility shall be provided with
	(i)	means to indicate visibly and audibly signals from the fire alarm system and fire suppression systems;
	(ii)	means to indicate visibly and audibly the floor or zone from which a signal is initiated;
	(iii)	means to silence the audible signal at the central alarm and control facility;
	(iv)	means to silence all audible signal appliances throughout the building, but only after a minimum operating period of 1 min.;
	(v)	means to cancel the automatic changeover of the alert signal to an alarm signal, thus allowing the alert signal to continue to operate;
	(vi)	distinctive visual signal devices to indicate when the means as required in (iii), (iv) and (v) have been actuated;
	(vii)	means to activate all audible signal appliances throughout the building either selectively or collectively;
	(viii)	means to activate loudspeakers as required in 4.14, either selectively or collectively;
	(ix)	means to control telephone communication as required in subsection 4.15;
	(x)	means to record all voice traffic, alert signals, and alarm signals as detailed in subsection 4.16 when a recording means is required;
	(xi)	means for the transmission of a signal to the fire department in accordance with subsection 4.12;
	(xii)	means to control air handling systems as required in subclause 3.3(b)(vi);
	(xiii)	means to cause the top vent to open when there is a smoke shaft;
	(xiv)	means to cause all required fire doors, and smoke control doors, if normally held open, to close automatically; and
	(xv)	means to silence any background music systems.
4.11	Zoning
(a)	Fire alarm systems shall be zoned in accordance with the NBC (see appendix A).
(b)	An annunciator shall be provided for every fire alarm system comprising more than 1 zone as required in (a).
(c)	In lieu of a separate annunciator, the annunciator may be integrated with the control unit or the central alarm and control facility.
(d)	Additional annunciators may be provided at specified locations such as security offices and mechanical equipment rooms.
4.12	Transmission of alarms
(a)	Fire alarm systems, if required, shall provide for the transmission of an alarm to the fire department, except as permitted in (b), (c) and (d), by means of a connection
	(i)	directly to the fire department,
	(ii)	to a central station system, or
	(iii)	to a proprietary control centre.
(b)	When facilities as stipulated in (a) are not available, the alarm may be transmitted to the fire department by means of any other independent agency capable of providing this service.
(c)	When the automatic transmission of an alarm to the fire department as stipulated in (a) and (b) cannot be provided, permanently mounted signs shall be posted at each manual pull station giving instructions that the fire department or the fire authority should be notified and including the telephone number of the fire department or the fire authority.
(d)	In areas where the fire department is located beyond the range of effective response, provision shall be made for the transmission of the alarm to a continuously manned facility.  If the continuously manned facility is not available, other means of alerting the general public such as bells or horns on the exterior of the building shall be considered.
4.13	Connections to fire suppression systems
(a)	A sprinkler system or other fire suppression system, when provided, shall be connected to the fire alarm system.
(b)	The discharge of a fire suppression system, shall activate the fire alarm system as specified in subsections 3.2 and 3.3.
(c)	The operation of each of the supervisory devices on a fire suppression system (e.g. valve tamper switches, loss of power to fire pumps) shall cause an audible signal and a separate visual trouble signal at the control unit (see appendix A‑4.11(a)).
4.14	Loudspeakers
(a)	Loudspeakers shall conform to the requirements of CAN/ULC‑S541, "Standard for Speakers for Fire Alarm Systems".
(b)	Loudspeakers shall be so located within floor areas as to provide effective voice communication throughout the building, including exit stairways, and shall be controlled from the central alarm and control facility, except as permitted in (c).
(c)	In a building where the occupants are under supervision or restraint, subject to the concurrence of the FC, the loudspeakers may be located in designated locations only and which are under continuous surveillance.
(d)	Loudspeakers shall be arranged so that they can be controlled by floors or zones including stairways, both selectively and collectively from the central alarm and control facility.
(e)	A fire alarm system incorporating voice communication capability shall be designed so that when the loudspeakers are actuated selectively in any zone or zones the alert signal or alarm signal can be maintained in the other zones of the building.
(f)	Each loudspeaker circuit shall be provided with means to disconnect the circuit automatically in the event of a short circuit and cause a signal at the central alarm and control facility to indicate the defective circuit.
(g)	Loudspeakers shall not be concealed above ceilings or behind walls or partitions but may be recessed in walls and ceilings provided the devices can be readily identified and are visible and accessible for inspection and maintenance.
4.15	Emergency telephones
(a)	Emergency telephone systems shall be installed in accordance with CAN/ULC‑S524, "Standard for the Installation of Fire Alarm Systems" and the requirements of this subsection.
(b)	Emergency telephones shall be provided and located within every floor area and at the central alarm and control facility.
(c)	Emergency telephones shall be located within 6 m of each exit, except as permitted in (d).
(d)	In the case of a building where the occupants are under supervision or restraint, the emergency telephones may be installed in designated locations where they will be under continuous surveillance.
(e)	Emergency telephones shall be identified as to their location and use and coloured red.
(f)	The emergency telephone system shall be arranged to provide 2‑way telephone communication between the central alarm and control facility and any floor emergency telephone as follows
	(i)	the raising of any emergency telephone handset from its bracket on any floor shall cause a distinctive audible and visible flashing signal at the central alarm and control facility, indicating the floor or zone where the telephone is located;
	(ii)	the raising of the telephone handset at the central alarm and control facility shall cancel the audible signal and replace the visible flashing signal by a continuous signal; and
	(iii)	the raising of another telephone handset on any other floor or zone after the initial call has been answered at the central alarm and control facility shall cause a busy signal at the telephone on the floor or zone and a visible flashing signal at the central alarm and control facility as described in (i).
(g)	Means shall be provided at the central alarm and control facility to provide for either private communication between the telephone at the central alarm and control facility and any other telephone on the system or open line communication among all telephones on the system.
(h)	Where vandalism or misuse of equipment may be a problem, a telephone jack may be provided in a floor area in lieu of a telephone subject to the concurrence of the FC.  In such a case at least 2 portable telephones equipped with jack plugs shall be located at the central alarm and control facility for use by building emergency personnel or the fire department.
4.16	Recording systems
(a)	In the case of a two stage fire alarm system, a two‑track tape recording system using a cassette of 90 min. duration may be provided at the central alarm and control facility to record simultaneously alert signals, alarm signals and voice traffic over the loudspeakers on one track and voice traffic over the telephones on the other track.
(b)	The tape recording device shall be automatically actuated upon the operation of
	(i)	a manual pull station, fire detector or fire suppression system; or
	(ii)	the voice communication system.
(c)	The tape recording device shall be arranged so that once started, it shall continue to operate for the full duration of the tape.
(d)	The time lapse of the cassette shall be indicated by a running time meter that shall be actuated whenever the cassette is operating.
(e)	When the tape recording device is operating, a continuous visual signal shall be actuated.  At the conclusion of the operating period, the signal shall become a flashing signal.
(f)	The tape recording device shall be locked in the console and accessible to authorized persons only.
(g)	The removal of the cassette shall be indicated by a visual flashing signal which shall be cancelled when the cassette is replaced.
(h)	At least 2 spare cassettes shall be kept at the central alarm and control facility for use by authorized persons only.
5.	Inspection, testing and maintenance
5.1	General
(a)	Except as otherwise stated, the inspection, testing and maintenance of fire alarm systems shall conform to the National Fire Code of Canada.
(b)	The inspection, testing and maintenance of fire alarm systems shall be the responsibility of the department or agency responsible for the administration of the property, except as stipulated in (c).
(c)	In the case of leased property, the inspection, testing and maintenance of fire alarm systems shall be the responsibility of the owner of the property unless otherwise stipulated in the leasing agreement.
(d)	The inspection, testing and maintenance of fire alarm systems shall be carried out either by
	(i)	qualified staff,
	(ii)	the manufacturer of the equipment,
	(iii)	an authorized agent of the equipment manufacturer, or
	(iv)	a ULC listed fire alarm service company.
(e)	All persons who would be required to take action in the event of an alarm shall be notified before any fire alarm system is tested to avoid an unnecessary response.
(f)	Immediate action shall be taken to have all defects and deficiencies observed during testing procedures repaired with the minimum of delay.
(g)	Faults or deficiencies which cannot be resolved within 24 h shall be reported to the FC.
(h)	A record of all inspections and tests shall be kept on file for at least 2 years for review by the FC when requested.
5.2	Impairment and interruption
(a)	Routine maintenance or an alteration to the fire alarm system which could possibly inadvertently actuate the fire alarm system shall not be carried out during normal working hours, except for emergency service or repairs as permitted in (b).
(b)	When emergency service or repairs are required, the Chief Fire Emergency Warden or the Deputy shall be notified, and the fire alarm system shall be shut off temporarily to prevent a possible false alarm.
(c)	Should the shut‑off period exceed 24 h, the FC shall be so advised and arrangements shall be made to provide temporary fire alarm service by means of mechanical or electrical gongs, horns, sirens, or otherwise as required by the FC.
5.3	Procedures
(a)	Fire alarm systems shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with CAN/ULC‑S536, "Standard for the Inspection and Testing of Fire Alarm Systems".
(b)	Periodic inspections and testing of fire alarm systems shall conform to the schedules described in CAN/ULC‑S536, "Standard for the Inspection and Testing of Fire Alarm Systems".
(c)	In the case of fire alarm systems incorporating voice communication capability, in addition to the requirements of (b) the monthly tests shall include
	(i)	the operation of the loudspeakers from the central alarm and control facility to ensure that they are functioning properly and can be heard throughout all parts of the building,
	(ii)	the transmission of telephone communication between the central alarm and control facility and the telephones throughout the building to ensure that the telephones are operative, and
	(iii)	the operation of the recording means where provided in accordance with subsection 4.16 and if requested to do so, the submission of the used cassettes to the FC for checking.
(d)	The yearly tests described in CAN/ULC‑S536, "Standard for Inspection and Testing of Fire Alarm Systems", including fire alarm systems incorporating voice communication capability, shall be conducted under emergency power.
(e)	When the emergency power supply consists of an engine driven generator, it shall be regularly tested in accordance with the requirements of CSA C282, "Emergency Electrical Power Supply for Buildings".
(f)	Ancillary systems shall be tested in conjunction with tests of the fire alarm system.

Appendix A - Explanatory materials
A — 1.3(c)
The extent of application of this standard to the upgrading of fire alarm systems to remove an unacceptable hazard should be based on the judgement and the merits of each case.
A — 2.1(b)(iii) and A — 3.1(b)(ii)
The intent of the requirement is to provide a fire alarm early warning system in buildings such as RCMP detachment buildings with detention facility for 10 persons or less and nursing stations offering care or treatment with overnight accommodation for 10 persons or less.  Fire alarm systems in these buildings/occupancies are permitted to be a single stage fire alarm system.
A — 3.3(b)(viii)
In large buildings such as air terminal buildings, the locking devices on exit doors may be released within the zone in which the alert or alarm signal is originated.  The floor area of each zone in a storey should not be less than 2000 m2.
A — 4.1(e)
Integrated systems
It is possible to combine a fire alarm system with building security and/or environmental control systems with approved equipment.  However there are many potential operational problems with such combined systems.  A decision to use an integrated system should only be made on the basis of a thorough value engineering study of a specific project.  Such an evaluation should take into consideration the following points:
	1.	Conventional design practice for security and fire alarm systems has long called for completely independent systems, even including separate conduit for wiring, to reduce the likelihood of simultaneous interruption or failure, and to reduce unauthorized interference with these systems.  With an integrated system, loss of one system would result in loss of building security, fire alarm, and environmental control systems simultaneously.  The designer should include an analysis of this risk in his evaluation.
	2.	The major fire alarm manufacturers all have multiplex fire alarm systems available now, so it is no longer necessary to purchase a combined system in order to obtain the benefits of multiplex signalling technology.
	3.	At one time there was a substantial saving in equipment cost with combined systems.  However, the equipment cost of multiplex signalling systems has declined dramatically in the past decade along with other computer‑based technology.  Today there is often little or no equipment cost advantage to combined systems.  The designer should ensure that his cost analysis is based on current data.
	4.	The useful life expectancies of the three sub‑systems often differ substantially.  The designer should therefore determine if making major changes to one subsystem would necessitate changes to the entire integrated system, and how this will affect the total life‑cycle cost of the systems.
	5.	The designer should consider the effect of any increased system complexity on maintenance cost; training of system operators; and overall system reliability.
	6.	A combined system generally increases the number of people who will have to have access to the system, as it serves several functions.  This may present security‑of‑access problems for both building security and fire alarm.  The designer should consider if the degree of access control that the client can exercise will satisfy the security needs of the installation.
	7.	In a combined system it may be possible for persons authorized to work on one sub‑system to inadvertently or deliberately tamper with the other two sub‑systems.  The designer should determine this possibility and weigh it against the degree of security and reliability required for each sub‑system.
	8.	The designer should consider the complexity of the software that may be required to combine three functions that operate on different priorities and have different information — processing needs.  The designer should be satisfied that adequate software support will be available throughout the life expectancy of the system.
	9.	The designer should be aware that with separate systems one has the option of either separate locations for the control units or co‑location.  With an integrated system, of course, only one location is possible, and this location will usually be dictated by the fire protection authority.  The designer should also be aware that information — exchange between systems can be accomplished with either separate or integrated systems.
A — 4.9 and A — 4.10
Where it is considered necessary for operational and maintenance requirements and with the concurrence of the FC, supervised bypass switches may be provided for the purpose of inhibiting the activation of the following functions:
−	release of fire extinguishing agent in a fire suppression system,
−	shut down of the power supply to electronic data processing (EDP) equipment,
−	shut down of air circulation systems; or
−	other ancillary systems.
A — 4.10
A central alarm and control facility is a facility which houses the controls as described in the NBC and 4.10 of this Standard.  The NBC and 3.4 of this Standard describe where a central alarm and control facility is required and the location of the facility.
A — 4.11(a)
Zoning of supervisory devices (off‑normal condition) of fixed fire suppression systems is prescribed by the applicable standards on fire suppression systems.

Appendix B - Reference publications
This standard refers to the following codes and standards which are not found in this volume:
Fire Commissioner of Canada standards
Records storage
Sprinkler systems
General storage
These standards may be obtained from the Fire Commissioner of Canada, Labour Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0J2 or from Offices of Labour Canada.  As they are revised, they will be published in this volume.
Treasury Board publication
Treasury Board Manual
Materiel, Services and Risk Management volume
Fire Protection, Investigation and Reporting (Part III, chapter 5)
This volume may be purchased from the Canada Communication Group — Publishing, 45 Sacré‑Coeur Blvd., Hull, Québec, K1A 0S9.
CSA standards
CSA standard C22.1	Canadian Electrical Code Part I	
CSA standard C282	Emergency Electrical Power Supply for Buildings	

These standards may be purchased from the Canadian Standards Association, 178 Rexdale Blvd., Rexdale, Ontario, M9W 1R3.
National Research Council of Canada publications
	National Building Code of Canada
	National Fire Code of Canada
These publications may be purchased from the Secretary, Associate Committee on the National Building Code, National Research Council, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0R6.
NFPA standards
NFPA 71	Installation, Maintenance, and Use of Central Station Signalling Systems	
NFPA 72D	Installation, Maintenance, and Use of Proprietary Protective Signalling Systems	
NFPA 72E	Automatic Fire Detectors	

These standards may be purchased from FIPRECAN, 7‑1590 Liverpool Court, Ottawa, K1B 4L2.
ULC standards
CAN/ULC‑S524	Standard for the Installation of Fire Alarm Systems	
ULC‑S525	Standard for Audible Signal Appliances for Fire Alarm Systems	
CAN/ULC‑S526	Standard for Visual Signal Appliances for Fire Alarm Systems	
CAN/ULC‑S527	Standard for Control Units for Fire Alarm Systems	
ULC‑S528	Standard for Manually Actuated Signalling Boxes for Fire Alarm Systems	
CAN/ULC‑S529	Standard for Smoke Detectors for Fire Alarm Systems	
ULC‑S530	Standard for Heat Actuated Detectors for Fire Alarm Systems	
CAN/ULC‑S531	Standard for Smoke Alarms	
CAN/ULC‑S536	Standard for the Inspection and Testing of Fire Alarm Systems	
CAN/ULC‑S537	Standard for the Verification of Fire Alarm Systems	
CAN/ULC‑S541	Standard for Speakers for Fire Alarm Systems.	
These standards may be purchased from the Underwriter's Laboratories of Canada, 7 Crouse Road, Scarborough, Ontario, M1R 3A9.