Fire Watch During Silenced Fire Alarm System?

3/19/2019

We occasionally have inadvertent fire alarm activations that we can't get to stop until a fire alarm company arrives to correct the issue at the facility where I work. Are we permitted to turn off the alarm and conduct a fire watch during this time instead?

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4 Comments

Franck

3/19/2019 11:24:41 am

Why don't you ask your fire alarm company the procedure to reset the alarm yourself ?
It doesn't make sense (my point of view) to be dependent to an outside company to correct the issue at your facility.

Firewatch is a possible answer in case of impairment of a system, but it is not the same level as a permanent fire alarm (unless you have a permanent firewatch). During idle period, if rounds are performed every 2 hours, you could have a severe fire before you will notice it without a proper fire alarm system. It is the same with automatic fire protection systems

Jason

3/19/2019 12:38:27 pm

Unlikely that a fire watch is required as any new alarm event will then resound the alarm. I would advise against resetting the alarm given the potential for rolling more trucks

Christian R

3/19/2019 10:52:32 pm

In some states it is illegal to touch a fire alarm system unless you are a fire alarm system contractor. Also, if it is an older conventional system it may not reactive the horns and strobes if the second alarm is on the same zone or even worst, not send a second fire alarm signal to the monitoring station. Also, you are not properly trained to determine if there is a fire on your property and by tampering with life safety equipment you are risking the life of yourself, other, become liable for any loss of property and may be fined or imprisoned. If you are having this many false alarms maybe it is time to properly maintain/upgrade your fire alarm system. At times companies are unable to properly maintain a fire alarm system due to resources or knowledge and it may be time to find another provider. Good luck.

Ronnie

3/20/2019 07:48:40 am

Discuss the use of fire watch with your local AHJ.

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