Fire Alarm System

CERTIFICATE COURSE
WHEN  Sat / 20 hrs course
TIME  9:00am – 3:00pm
PRICE  $989, early bird discount $899
Study Materials  Fire Alarm System Handbook / Supplied images and video files to be shown in class.
Instructor  Henry Nazar

At the end of this course students will be able to…

1. Understand the purpose and importance of a fire alarm system as well as describe the basic components and each of their function.
2. Understand applicable codes and standards from IBC, NEC and NFPA 72 as it applies to Fire Alarm Systems.
3. Understand the different circuit types: IDC, NAC and SLC and understand the devices and components that are connected to each circuit.
4. Understand the wiring methods required and described in NEC section 760 as it applies to fire alarm systems.
5. Understand how to read and interpret fire alarm plans.
6. Complete hands-on projects using supplied tools and equipment.  Test the fire alarm system and provide and understanding of how to troubleshoot the system using electrical meters and other tools.

COURSE CONTENT

1. Purpose and importance of a Fire Alarm System – What are the goals of the fire alarm system? What are some of its functions and how does the fire alarm system accomplish its goal?
2. Basic types of fire alarm systems – Describe different types of fire alarm systems as described in NFPA 72. Discuss how each type of system is used in the industry or real world.
3. Codes and standards – Describe and discuss IBC, NEC and NFPA 72 requirements as it applies to fire alarm systems.
4. Fundamentals of the fire alarm system – What are the “parts” or system components that make up a basic fire alarm system.  Describe the function of: The Fire Alarm Control Panel, Booster power supplies, Data Gathering Panels, Initiating devices, Notification appliances, and monitoring equipment.  Discuss the different circuit types as it applies to a fire alarm system: IDC, NAC and SLC.
5. Initiating devices – Discuss the various types of initiating devices such as smoke detectors, heat detectors, manual pull stations and water flow switches.  Use applicable sections of NFPA 72 and IBC (NYC BC if in NYC) to discuss where these devices are to be installed and how.
6. Notification appliances – Describe the different types of notification appliances: strobes, horns, speakers and bells.  Discuss audible requirements for both low-rise and high-rise buildings (Temporal 3, EVAC Tone).  Discuss the differences between Class A and Class B circuit wiring as it applies to the notification appliances.
7. Wiring Methods and NEC Code Requirements – Discuss the difference between NPLFA vs PLFA and discuss applicable NEC sections (NEC 760) as it applies to these types of wiring methods.
8. Fire alarm Plans and Symbols – What are the symbols seen on a fire alarm plan.  Discuss and review electrical fire alarm plans using actual plans.  Interpret plan notes and tables to determine wiring type (Class A or Class B), location of devices and location of fire alarm equipment.
9. Hands on projects – Using the accompanied technical Students will put together a Fire Alarm System using the following components: Fire Alarm Control Panel (Conventional – Zoned Panel), Smoke Detectors, Heat Detectors, Manual Pull Stations, Water Flow Switch, Sprinkler Control Valve, Remote Annunciator, Relays and modules.  Students will test the system using artificial smoke and will troubleshoot any issues with the system.