Re: Smoke alarms (was Re: For Graham, Rober, and Coppernob)

[Frank Olson <Use_the_email_links@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Kurt Delaney wrote:
> "Frank Olson" <Use_the_email_links@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote in message
> news:DMnIg.473216$iF6.169566@xxxxxxxxxxx
>
>>NFPA 72-2002 11.7.6.7  Installations that include the connection of
>>single- or multiple-station alarms with other input or output devices,
>>such as but not limited to relay modules, remote signaling devices, phone
>>dialers, security panels, heat detectors, and manual pull stations, shall
>>be permitted, providing that an open or short circuit of the wiring
>>leading to these input or output devices does not prevent normal operation
>>of the single- or multiple-station alarm.
>
>
> Thanks for the reference, Frank.  I followed a similar discussion over on
> worthingtonsolutions.com, and a conclusion they came up with there was that
> a connection via a relay to a security panel was within code (i.e., it
> didn't do any harm to the hard-wired smokes).  However, using the hard-wired
> smokes with a relay does not make the security panel a valid fire protection
> / detection device.  For example, if you had that setup and it was hooked up
> to a monitoring company, you could not claim that the system was actively
> monitored for fire detection (for insurance purposes, etc.).  However, the
> house is still properly protected for fire detection per code.

My insurance agent simply asked if the smoke alarms were monitored.
They don't really care about anything else.  You should check the fine
print on your policy however as some may include additional requirements
like:  UL(C) listed monitoring services, annual testing by a qualified
technician, etc.  These days the "fine print" is more important than
ever.  If you use an insurance broker (or agent) he should be familiar
enough with your own requirements and be able to categorize the risk
properly to provide you with optimum coverage.


>
> Personally, I used a Firex relay to connect my 110v interconnected smokes to
> my OmniPro panel.  The panel is not monitored by a company, but I have it
> set up to perform certain actions if the Firex relay is activated, such as
> turn off the HVAC systems, turn on lights, etc.

GASP!!!  That's "against Bass"!  I'll report you immediately!  :-)