Test plans are great tools for companies performing fire alarm system inspections and tests. Introduced in the 2013 edition of NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, they are a great aid to clarify exactly what you are and are not testing, and when you will inspect and test. NFPA also added a requirement for a test plan for integrated system testing in NFPA 4, but this article focuses on the NFPA 72 test plan. I think NFPA 72 could be clearer in what is required and who is responsible for providing the test plan, so this is how I would make the best use of this tool.

Go to NFPA 72 for answers

Test plans are required in Paragraph 14.2.10 in the 2022 edition of NFPA 72. All it says is, “A test plan shall be developed to clearly establish the scope of the testing for the fire alarm or signaling system.” 

However, if you go to Annex A, you will find much more information.

The inspection and testing contractor should provide the test plan and discuss it with the client prior to performing any testing. I would also provide a copy of Table 14.3.1 for Visual Inspections and Table 14.4.3.2 for Testing. This shows what the code requires for the frequency of the inspections and tests. 

Depending on the size of the facility, you may want to split up the tests to reduce any interruptions to business operations. For example, if you have a 12-story building, consider testing three floors once a quarter. This would reduce interference with the business and keep you more visible to the client. Include a list of the fire alarm devices and appliances that need to be tested and indicate what and how many will be tested during each scheduled visit. You should have an agreement with the client regarding when you can test audible and visible notification appliances.

NFPA 72 clearly states that the fire alarm system testing ends at the emergency control function interface devices. Anything beyond that is covered by other laws, codes or standards. Be very clear about what exactly you are testing. For example, if you have smoke detectors in elevator lobbies, do not say you will be testing elevator recall. That is an elevator function, and unless you are an elevator contractor, you are not qualified to determine if recall is operating correctly. Simply document what the elevator does when you test the lobby detector. If you test the smoke detector on the first floor and the elevator car travels to the second floor, indicate that on the test record. The same applies to the detectors in all elevator lobbies.

Know what you must test

If you are testing smoke detectors that operate smoke dampers, you only need to note that the damper operated. Dampers can be difficult to locate. Remember, all you need to do is test to be sure the smoke detector performed its part of the operation. Whether the damper operated correctly is a mechanical contractor’s responsibility.

The same applies if you have sprinkler system equipment connected to the fire alarm system. You may or may not be able to test the sprinkler waterflow switches or tamper switches, depending on your qualifications and your state or local licensing laws. I live in Florida, and unless I were a licensed sprinkler contractor, I would not be allowed to operate these devices. So, you may need to get the client to schedule the sprinkler contractor to be there at the same time you are so you can test the operation of the sprinklers and their connection to the fire alarm system. These items should be clearly stated on the test plan.

You should also indicate how you will test each device type. For example, clearly mention you will be testing smoke detectors using a canned smoke to verify entry into the chamber. Be sure to indicate what devices will be tested for each scheduled test. If there are any devices that will not be tested, that should also be clearly indicated.

In addition, remember that the scope for periodic testing clearly states the goal. Acceptance testing is to verify compliance with design requirements and that the system is installed and operating per code. During periodic testing, you are not required to verify code or design requirements. For example, you verify strobe light candela ratings and placement during the acceptance test. You only need to verify the strobe light flashes during a periodic test. Remember that NFPA 72 provides minimum requirements. You can do more if you choose. Just make sure you are qualified.

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