NFPA 72
NFPA 72 is the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code — the governing standard for every commercial fire alarm system in North America. It defines how initiating devices (smoke detectors, pull stations, waterflow switches), notification appliances (horns, strobes, speakers), and fire alarm control panels must be installed, tested, inspected, and maintained. Chapter 14 covers the testing and maintenance schedule most building owners interact with.
Key requirements
- 1
Monthly visual inspection of the fire alarm control panel
- 2
Quarterly inspection of supervisory signal devices and off-premises signal transmission
- 3
Semi-annual sensitivity testing of smoke detectors (or an annual alternative under specific conditions)
- 4
Annual functional testing of every initiating device, notification appliance, and interface relay
- 5
Written inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) report retained for at least 1 year (AHJ may require longer)
- 6
Monitoring: supervising station connection tested annually; transmitter batteries load-tested
Published summary for informational use. Fire code adoption varies by jurisdiction and edition. Verify current enforced codes with your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) and consult a licensed fire protection contractor before taking action. Not legal or professional advice.