UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER DESIGN STANDARDS

OCTOBER 2009

SECTION 13850 - FIRE DETECTION AND ALARM

1.1

APPLICABLE STANDARDS
A. Fire detection and alarm systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with the following standards,
including appendices (current edition at the time of design completion):
1.

NFPA 70, National Electrical Code

2.

NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm Code

3.

Insurance Carrier Guidelines for Loss Prevention and Control.

4.

Applicable Building and Health Codes (9NYCRR - NYSUFPBC & 10NYCRR - NYS Health Code)

Fire detection and alarm system equipment shall be listed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or approved by
Factory Mutual (FM) individually and as a system for their intended use. Compatibility - All fire detection
devices that receive their power from the initiating device circuit or signaling line circuit of a fire alarm control
unit shall be listed for use with the control unit.
B. Utilize standard products of a single manufacturer for each system. Additionally, each system shall be issued a
UL Fire Alarm Certificate (UL category UUJS Fire Alarm Firm) by the installing contractor.
C. Fire detection and alarm system equipment shall be approved by the U of R Fire Marshal.
1.

Acceptable Fire Alarm Equipment Manufacturers: Simplex, Cerberus Pyrotronics, Notifier, Edwards
Systems Technology (EST).

2.

Qualified contractors who layout & install systems at the U of R from information provided by the design
professional of record, (contract documents), shall be National Institute for Certification in Engineering
Technologies (NICET) Level III or IV Fire Alarm Technicians who are also factory trained and authorized
by the equipment manufacturer of the systems being provided.

D. Fire alarm interface with and reporting to the University's Central Fire Alarm Monitoring System shall be
submitted for approval to the U of R Director of Security Services. All fire alarm systems shall report to the
Central Fire Alarm Monitoring System by floor, zone, and type of device (i.e., water flow, manual pull, smoke
detection, heat detection, special extinguishing systems, and supervisory signals). Refer to examples indicated
herein. Patient care areas to report on Simplex True Site system (formerly GCC).

1.2

FIRE DETECTION AND ALARM SYSTEMS - GENERAL

A. Where Required: Provide fire detection, occupant notification, and U of R central monitoring reporting for all
new construction and major renovation projects as required for individual occupancies in the applicable
building code and as indicated herein. All normally occupied buildings shall at a minimum (even if not code
required) be provided with a manual fire alarm system to alert occupants and emergency forces. Note a manual
fire alarm system does not include detection, only manual fire alarm boxes and notification appliances.
Exceptions may include remote, small single story buildings and other normally unoccupied buildings, if
reviewed and approved by the U of R Fire Marshal.
B. All fire detection and alarm system designs and purchases shall be reviewed by the University Fire Marshal's
Office. System drawings and equipment submittals shall be reviewed and approved by the University Fire
Marshal's Office prior to installation. Submittals shall be in accordance with this and other sections with at least
(4) concurrent copies to the U. of R. Representative.

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UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER DESIGN STANDARDS

OCTOBER 2009

1.

Product Data: Contractor's NICET/UL certification; manufacturer's catalog cuts with models/options;
specifications; wiring diagrams; quantitative equipment list; and installation instructions for components,
wiring and materials. Calculations, using actual amperage loads for each device, module, etc. used to
determine stand-by battery ampere-hour rating shall be included and show normal, alarm and total
amperage requirements. Content of automatic voice message and logic sequences including logic matrix for
each system. Bind each set in folder with Table of Contents following specification sequence fully
annotated. Submit all components as a set prior to or with any shop drawings.

2.

Drawings: Each floor plan, typical and detailed wiring and riser diagrams cross referenced to related
drawings; complete information for system installation; symbol legends, title blocks and to scale of 1/8=1.
Where applicable, this shall be done on a PER FIRE PROTECTION ZONE basis.
a.

Floor plans: Locations of devices with device number at each device, appliances, panels, equipment,
junction/terminal cabinets, risers, electrical power connections, individual circuits and raceway
routing, system zoning; number, size, type raceways and conductors in each raceway; conduit fill
calculations with cross section area percent fill for each type and size of conductor and raceway. Only
those devices for final system shall be on these floor plans. Do not include locations of removed
devices.

b.

Typical wiring diagrams: For each device showing termination identifications, size and type
conductors.

c.

Detailed wiring diagrams: For control panels, modules, power supplies, electrical power connections,
auxiliary relays and annunciators showing termination identifications, size and type conductors,
circuit boards, LED lamps, indicators, adjustable controls, switches, ribbon connectors, wiring
harnesses, terminal strips and connectors, spare zones/circuits.

d.

Riser diagrams: For entire system showing number, size and type of riser raceways and conductors in
each riser raceway and number of each type device per floor and zone.

e.

Include information indicating who will certify the system and who will perform the guaranteed
period services.

f.

University wide identification nomenclature system proposed for each device with examples.

3.

Together with shop drawing submittals, submit a certification from the fire alarm equipment (control panel)
manufacturer indicating that the proposed supervisor of installation and the proposed performer of
guaranteed period services is an authorized representative of the fire alarm equipment manufacturer.
Include name and address in the certification.

4.

Together with the product data submittal, submit a certification from both the fire alarm equipment
manufacturer and the detector manufacturer that the detectors being furnished are listed by UL as being
compatible with the control equipment. The U. of. R will not accept any submittal without this certification.

5.

Together with the product data submittal, submit a certification from the fire alarm equipment manufacturer
that the wiring and connection diagrams meet UL and NFPA requirements. The U of R will not accept any
submittal without this certification.

6.

Submit a copy of the electrical installers Fire Alarm license.

C. Equipment installers shall conduct a pre-acceptance test prior to acceptance test of all components in the
presence of a representative from the University Fire Marshal's Office and Facilities Maintenance. Test shall be
repeated until all defects have been remedied. Refer to Section 01910, Part 1.1 C. Record and Certification
documents shall be provided to the U of R as follows:
1.

In Each Operation and Maintenance Manual: Product data, drawings, test reports and Certificate of
Completion per NFPA 72. Bind in sets.

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UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER DESIGN STANDARDS

2.

OCTOBER 2009

One electronic and one hard copy of the final updated operating and maintenance manual to the U of R
Representative (Project Manager). These need to be provided in accordance wth the U of R Layering
Standard.
a.

The manual (3-ring, loose-leaf binder or manufacturer's standard binder with space for folded
drawings) shall be updated to include any information necessitated by shop drawing review; As
installed wiring and schematic diagrams which show all items of equipment and their interconnecting
wiring; all terminal identification; information for testing, repair, trouble shooting, assembly,
disassembly, and recommended maintenance intervals; a replacement parts list with current prices; and
a list of recommended spare parts, tools, and instruments for testing and maintenance purposes.

Two weeks prior to final inspection, deliver to the U of R Representative four (4) copies of the certification by
the authorized representative of the manufacturer of the fire alarm system equipment that the system has been
properly installed, adjusted, and tested.
D. Installer/supplier shall conduct up to three scheduled system familiarization classes at times agreed upon with
the University Fire Marshal and Facilities. At the end of the warranty period, the supplier shall conduct a second
thorough inspection and testing of the entire system, including sensitivity testing.
E. Equipment shall be compatible with other University systems within the same category. All equipment provided
within a specific project, contract, building, and system shall be of one manufacturer unless otherwise approved
by the University Fire Marshal prior to submission of bids. Any equipment of different manufacturer shall be
cross-listed with the primary fire alarm system and used only if approved by the U of R Fire Marshal. Each
building shall only have one fire alarm system with one location for all control and annunciation to allow easy
reset, testing, etc. This does not prohibit multiple control panels or network nodes within the same building
provided they were originally designed by the manufacturer to operate as one system. Interconnection via relays
and other external methods of smaller control panels not intended to work as one system will not meet this
requirement.
F. The complete fire protection system shall be fully tested and guaranteed for a period of one year after Owners
Representative written acceptance.

1.3

DESIGN REQUIREMENTS
A. All smoke and heat initiating devices shall be Analog Initiating Devices (sensors) as defined in NFPA 72(8)
(The National Fire Alarm Code). All manual fire alarm boxes, water flow switches, and other initiating and
supervisory devices shall be individually addressable devices.
Where project conditions indicate the need for modifications to these requirements, addressable devices or
zones of conventional initiating devices may be provided when reviewed and approved by the U of R Fire
Marshal (typically small, one and two story simple open floor plans).
B. Notification appliances shall be designed and installed to alert building occupants and to transmit a signal to a
constantly attended location (U of R Central Security Monitoring).
1.

Buildings greater than four (4) stories in height shall utilize emergency voice/alarm notification. Buildings
four (4) stories and less in height may use three code temporal pattern utilizing horns and strobes.

2.

Health care occupancies shall utilize private mode notification as outlined in NFPA 72 with the exception
of public areas (Le. lounges, gift shops, waiting areas, lobbies, etc.).

3.

Provide visual indicating appliances as required by the Building Code, NFPA 72, ADA, and in the
following areas: mechanical and equipment rooms, rest rooms, areas with a high level of ambient noise.

4.

Provide accommodations to add visual notifications to sleeping rooms as needed for residents.

5.

Group A occupancies with an occupant load of 1,000 or more shall utilize emergency voice/alarm
notification.

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OCTOBER 2009

C. All new or renovated University fire alarm systems must be designed and installed to report the following fire
alarm points/zones to the University of Rochester Security Services Central Alarm Monitoring System
(currently ADT Centra-Scan 6000). The University Fire Marshal and Director of University Security Service
may require more discrete fire zone reporting based on intended use of area being protected or intended use of
space adjoining protected area.
Special Hazard Areas include hazardous chemical, flammable liquid/gas, high radioactive or biohazard storage areas,
high voltage rooms, incinerators, high magnetic field areas, areas where dangerous lasers are in use, generator rooms and
other such areas as determined by the University Fire Marshal and Director of University Security Services.
The following are examples for reporting fire alarm points/zones to the University Central Alarm Monitoring System:
Fire Alarm Interface/Communication Panels
1.
2.

Common interface panel supervisory alarm

Common interface panel trouble alarm

Local Fire Alarm Control Panels

1.
2.

Common fire panel supervisory alarm

Common fire panel trouble alarm

Water Flow Tamper Devices

1.
2.

By device location if connected to addressable fire control panel

By floor if not connected to addressable fire control panel

Medical Center General Office and Lab Areas

1.
2.

One zone per device type, by floor, by main grid/wing number

One zone per device type, by floor, by room for special hazard areas

SMH Outpatient Clinical Areas

1.
2.

One zone per device type, by floor, by main grid number

One zone per device type, by floor, by room for special hazard areas

SMH Inpatient Care Units

1.

One zone per device type, per patient care unit, by floor

SMH Inpatient Care Public Areas

1.

One zone per device type, by floor, by main grid number

Elevator Fire alarm Recall Systems - Option For Stand Alone System
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

One zone per device type, by floor for each elevator lobby
One zone per device type for each elevator control room
One zone per device type for each elevator shaft way
One zone per device type for each elevator penthouse
One zone per device type for each elevator pit

Residential Life Buildings

1.

One zone per device type, by floor, by wing

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UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER DESIGN STANDARDS

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Academic Buildings
1.
2.

One zone per device type, by floor

One zone per device type, by floor

General University Office Buildings

1.
2.

One zone per device type, by floor

One zone per device type, by floor

Research Facilities
1.
2.

One zone per device type, by floor

One zone per device type, by floor, by room for special hazard areas

Parking Garages
1.
2.
3.

One zone per device type, by parking level

One zone per device type, by floor, by office or mechanical/work room
One zone per device type, by floor, by room for special hazard areas

Fire Pumps Zone/Point

1.
2.
3.

Pump running
AC fail
Pump phase reversal

D. Large complex systems shall be peer to peer network.

E. Fire alarm zones which include all initiating devices and any audible or visual notification appliances shall
coordinate with existing fire protection zones (sprinkler and smoke zones) where applicable. This information
can be obtained from the U of R Fire Marshal's Office.
F. Connect all new and existing electric water flow and tamper devices to the fire alarm system. Monitor fire
pumps and transmit signal to University Central Alarm Monitoring System for loss of power, phase reversal,
pump running, pump trouble. NOTE THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SUPERVISORY SIGNALS AND
TROUBLE SIGNALS per NFPA 72 provisions.
G. Fire alarm activation shall automatically release all magnetically held open smoke/fire doors upon activation.
H. Fire alarm activation shall automatically communicate with building management systems to control selected
air handling units where applicable. This information can be obtained from the U of R Facilities Dept. and the U
of R Fire Marshal's Office.
I.

J.

Where smoke detection is required by the applicable building code or this Standard, the following items shall
apply:
1.

Where required, photo-electric smoke sensors shall be used in all areas except main electrical rooms,
laboratories, industrial areas, flammable liquid storage areas.

2.

Where required, ionization smoke sensors shall be used in all main electrical rooms, laboratories, industrial
areas, flammable liquid storage areas.

Fire detection for elevators and elevator shafts shall comply with the requirements of the applicable building
code, NFPA 70, NFPA 72, ANSI / ASME A17.1 and the following:

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UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER DESIGN STANDARDS

OCTOBER 2009

1.

Provide fire alarm system features for elevator Phase I and Phase II recall for new and existing elevators.
Where existing elevators do not have Phase I and / or Phase II capability, provide in the elevator machine
room immediately near EACH elevator controller, 3 fire alarm relays (phase I recall, phase II recall,
elevator power shut down) for future connection to upgraded elevator controllers.

2.

Smoke detection and heat detection shall be provided in all elevator hoistways and machine rooms
regardless if these spaces are currently sprinklered. This will allow future sprinkler protection without fire
alarm system modifications.

3.

Phase I recall shall only be initiated by activated smoke detectors located at the elevator lobby, in the
elevator machine room, or in the elevator hoistway per ANSI Elevator standard. Other smoke detectors or
fire alarm activation shall not recall the elevators unless needed by the fire safety plan of the facility and
reviewed with the U of R Fire Marshal.

K. All fire alarm system wiring conduit shall be labeled / identified as such every 10 feet; at both sides of the
structure where conduit penetrates partitions or floor slabs, at least once on every level, and at every junction
box. Each junction box shall be painted red and labeled by stencil or other neat lettering fire alarm.
PROVIDE INDIVIDUAL LABELS AT EACH ADDRESSABLE INITIATING OR CONTROL DEVICE
WITH EACH DEVICE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER following the defined University wide nomenclature
system. This device number shall be the same as that programmed in the fire alarm system and indicated on the
LCD fire alarm annunciators and control panel for easy device verification upon alarm and testing. Labels shall
be red plastic engraved and adequately secured to the device at the ceiling or immediately adjacent to the device
at the ceiling. Wall devices shall be secured by screws into the wall, especially at manual boxes where
tampering or removal of the label is probable.
L. Smoke detectors / sensors shall not be located within 5 feet of air supply diffusers.
M. System shall be 24 VDC power limited with 120 VAC primary input power. All portions of the system shall
operate on stand-by rechargeable battery power in addition to the primary power supply.
1.

Design load connected to primary power supply and standby batteries shall not exceed 80% of either
supply's rated continuous capacity.

2.

Primary power supply shall be sized to maintain all initiating devices in alarm and all notification
appliances, annunciators and auxiliary function activated simultaneously (full load alarm) for 30
consecutive minutes.

3.

Standby batteries shall be sized to maintain non-alarm supervisory power condition for 60 hours where not
connected to an emergency generator and 24 hours where connected to an emergency generator with at
least a 36 hour fuel supply followed by 5 consecutive minutes in full load alarm on battery power only
(requires 15 consecutive minutes in full load alarm for systems utilizing voice communication).

N. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be installed where required by the applicable building code and NFPA 72. Pull
stations shall be located in Exit corridors near Exit doors for patient care areas. At least two pull stations shall
be located in each zone (one by each Exit door) unless approved by the UR Fire Marshal.
O. Duct detectors shall be photoelectric employing the sampling tube principle and shall provide remote test
capability where the detector housing is over 5 ft. AFF. The fire alarm control panel (FACP) shall employ the
capability of controlling ventilation equipment. The FACP shall also have the capability of resetting the duct
detector following activation. In addition, the system shall provide the capability to by-pass the fan shut-down
sequence for preventative maintenance and testing. Duct detectors shall report as a supervisory condition and
report as such.
P. Systems shall employ pre-programmed sequence buttons/toggles to enable the users to easily by-pass different
outputs (i.e. fan shutdown, door holders, audio/visual devices, smoke watches, elevator recall, etc.). When an
output is in the by-pass mode, the panel shall display a trouble signal and shall transmit the same to the
University Central Alarm Monitoring System.

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UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER DESIGN STANDARDS

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Q. Each FACP shall have a data port available for the purpose of downloading reports on the condition of devices
on the system to a laptop computer by the FMO. The FMO shall receive any cables, programs, or training
necessary to retrieve these reports prior to project turnover.
R. For atriums, large open floor spaces and high ceiling areas, consider use of beam type smoke detection in lieu of
spot type detection if detection is required for these spaces. All detectors and devices must be positioned to
allow access by the University staff for testing and maintenance of devices.

1.4

HEALTH CARE OCCUPANCIES

A. Provide detection and notification as required by the building, health and fire codes.
B. Smoke detection shall be located within 5 ft. of both sides of required held-open smoke/fire barrier doors.
C. Manual pull stations shall be located on both sides of required smoke/fire barrier doors.
D. Smoke detection is not required in hospital patient sleeping rooms and other patient areas under constant
supervision of staff at ALL TIMES (i.e. where a constantly attended nurses station is surrounded by a suite of
patient rooms).
E. Audible notification appliances shall not be located in ICU suites, OR suites, and Cardiac Catheter Labs.
Careful placement of 15 candela low intensity strobes or other flashing lights which will not cause disturbance
of procedures will need review on a case by case basis with the U of R Fire Marshal and user of these spaces.
F. Audible notification in the Medical Center including staff shall be by voice announcement. A 3 tone alert will
begin the announcement followed by condition three-zero and then the location 3 times. After the
announcement the audible device will tone for no more than 3 minutes. Coordinate with UR Fire Marshal.

1.5

DORMITORY OCCUPANCIES
A. Provide detection and notification as required by the building and fire code.
B. Provide smoke detection within corridors and elevator lobbies.
C. Provide 24VDC, single station smoke detectors which are powered and supervised from the fire alarm control
panel in each dormitory room with audible integral detector sounder in the room(s). Activation of these room
single station detectors shall NOT activate the building wide fire alarm notification appliances but shall be
identifiable at the fire alarm annunciator and control panels as an individual room or suite of rooms. A
supervisory signal shall be sent to U of R Central security as a room smoke detector if accepted by the U of R
Fire Marshal and Director of Security Services. For those dormitory buildings not currently protected
throughout with a fire sprinkler system, an integral heat detector on the single station smoke detector shall be
provided with the heat detector connected to the fire alarm and activating the building fire alarm notification
appliances upon sensing heat. Heat detectors within dormitory areas protected with fire sprinkler systems are
not required. Desired protection includes quick response residential sprinklers throughout, single station smoke
detectors within sleeping rooms connected to the fire alarm per above, smoke sensors within corridors and at
smoke doors, manual pull boxes, and all connected to Central Security Services. Use of 110 candela
strobe located within 6 feet of the sleeping bed pillow location is required for those designated ADA and
hearing impaired sleeping rooms. Each single station detector base shall have the ability to power this strobe
and activate upon either single station device or building alarm activation. Optional 120V AC single station
smoke detectors are acceptable in fully sprinklered (quick response) buildings upon review of U of R Fire
Marshal.
D. Where suites of dormitory sleeping rooms are present, activation of one single station detector within the suite
shall automatically activate all detectors within the suite.
E. Locate remote annunciators at building front entrances or 24 hour observed locations coordinated with the U of
R Fire Marshal.

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UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER DESIGN STANDARDS

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1.6 AMBULATORY CARE OCCUPANCIES

A. Provide detection and notification as required by the building, health and fire code.
B. Smoke detection shall be located at both sides of required held-open smoke/fire barrier doors.
C. Provide audible notification to be heard (15db above ambient noise) in all locations throughout the building.
D. Provide visual indicating devices in all public accessible areas of the building. (Note - this does not include
individual office spaces unless warranted on an individual basis.) Confer with University Fire Marshal's Office
for unique areas or applications.

1.7

BUSINESS OCCUPANCIES
A. Provide detection and notification as required by the building and fire code.
B. Provide audible notification to be heard (15db above ambient noise) in all locations throughout the building.
C. Provide visual indicating devices in all public accessible areas of the building. (Note - this does not include
individual office spaces unless warranted on an individual basis). Confer with University Fire Marshal's Office
for unique areas or applications.

1.8

ASSEMBLY OCCUPANCIES
A.

Provide detection and notification as required by the building and fire code.

B.

Provide audible notification to be heard (15 db above ambient noise) in all locations throughout the building.

C.

Provide visual indicating devices in all public accessible areas of the building. (Note - this does not include
individual office spaces unless warranted on an individual basis). Confer with University Fire Marshal's Office
for unique areas or applications.

1.9

STORAGE OCCUPANCIES
A. Provide detection and notification as required by the building and fire code.
B. Provide audible notification to be heard (15 db above ambient noise) in all locations throughout the building.
C. Provide visual indicating devices in all public accessible areas of the building. (Note - this does not include
individual office spaces unless warranted on an individual basis).
D. Consider additional partial coverage smoke detection for use in high value storage areas. Spot type smoke
detection cannot be used in unheated areas. Beam type smoke detection usually provides superior detection and
covers larger areas.

1.10

INDUSTRIAL OCCUPANCIES
A. Provide detection and notification as required by the building and fire code.
B. Provide audible notification to be heard (15 db above ambient noise) in all locations throughout the building.
C. Provide visual indicating devices in all public accessible areas of the building. (Note - this does not include
individual office spaces unless. warranted on an individual basis). Confer with University Fire Marshal's Office
for unique areas or applications.

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UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER DESIGN STANDARDS

1.11

OCTOBER 2009

LABORATORY OCCUPANCIES
A. Provide detection and notification as required by the applicable building code.
B. Provide audible notification to be heard (15 db above ambient noise) in all locations throughout the building.
C. Provide visual indicating devices in all public accessible areas of the building. (Note - this does not include
individual office spaces unless warranted on an individual basis). Confer with University Fire Marshal's Office
for unique areas or applications.
D. Consider additional partial coverage smoke detection for use in specific locations where high value storage and
experimentation occur and where smoke or particulates are not normally present.

1.12

FIRE ALARM SYSTEM COMPONENTS

A. Fire Alarm Control Panels:
1.

The control panel shall provide power, annunciation, supervision and control for the detection and alarm
system. The control panel shall be modular in construction and contain all modules necessary for system
operation. Modules shall be solid state, microprocessor based construction.

2.

The system shall be field programmable, software driven and capable of one person walk test. Software
shall reside in nonvolatile memory.

3.

The system shall be capable of reading and displaying at the control panel, the sensitivity of remote
intelligent/ analog detection sensors. Individual intelligent/analog sensor alarm thresholds shall be
adjustable from the control panel.

4.

Panel annunciator shall be an 80 character alphanumeric display. Annunciator shall provide a 32 character
user definable message associated with each device or zone. Panel function indicating lamps shall be long
life light emitting diodes (LED's).

5.

Dynamic supervision of system electronics, wiring, detection devices and software shall be provided by the
control system. Self testing of operating system shall be indicated by type and location on the alphanumeric
annunciator. Software and processor operation shall also be annunciated upon failure.

6.

Control Switches: Setup, test, reset, manual evacuation, silence and acknowledge.

7.

Panel enclosure shall be designed for surface or recessed mounting. The cover shall have clear windows for
viewing operational status and be lockable. Color shall be manufacturer's standard.

8.

The panel shall be equipped with battery charging circuits sufficient to recharge fully depleted batteries to
within 70% of maximum capacity within 12 hours.

B. Smoke Detectors / Sensors:

1.

Photo-electronic smoke sensors/detectors shall operate by the light scattering principal and shall contain a
solid state LED, a mirror and a light sensing photodiode. Sensors shall operate at nominal 3.0% obscuration
sensitivity provisions.

2.

Ionization sensors/detectors shall contain two ionization chambers and an LED alarm indicator for
activation by the presence of combustion products. The reference chamber and the microcomputer chip's
software shall compensate against sensitivity changes caused by environmental factors. Shall operate at
nominal 1.5% obscuration sensitivity provisions.

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UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER DESIGN STANDARDS

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3.

Sensors shall be microprocessor based integrated circuitry for two-way communication with fire alarm
control panel. Circuitry shall be contained in the sensor, not within the mounting base.

4.

Common mounting twist-lock base with capability for mounting either smoke sensors or heat sensors.
Removable cover and insect screen for field cleaning.

5.

Sensors shall operate on a two wire circuit and contain LED indicator(s) which shall pulse whenever
checked by the fire alarm control panel and latch on when in alarm.

6.

Sensor shall be dynamically supervised and uniquely identifiable by the fire alarm control panel. The
sensor's analog value shall be analyzed by the fire alarm control panel for calibration, identification and
sensitivity.

7.

High bay areas such as mechanical spaces and atriums shall have remote test capabilities.

C. Duct-Type Smoke Detectors / Sensors:

1.

Each unit shall consist of detector head, detector base, duct housing, and sampling tube.

2.

Intelligent photo-electronic sensor shall communicate actual smoke chamber values to the system control
panel; system shall automatically compensate for environmental changes.

3.

Sensor completely shielded to protect from EMI and RFI.

4.

Sensors shall operate on a two wire circuit. Integral LED shall pulse whenever sensor is checked by the fire
alarm control panel and latch on when in alarm.

5.

Sensors / detectors shall be dynamically supervised and uniquely identifiable by the fire alarm control
panel. The sensor's analog value shall be analyzed by the fire alarm control panel for calibration,
identification and sensitivity.

6.

Size sampling tubes for full width of the duct.

7.

Provide a remote test station and LED type remote indicating light directly below each detector and mount
on the underside of the ceiling or wall where the detector is concealed. Label duct smoke detector remote
indicator.

D. System Heat Detectors / Sensors:

1.

2.

Fixed temperature detectors / sensors:

a.

Low profile, white colored, surface mounted on flush box; 135F fixed temperature electronic
thermistor with re-usable temperature element. Visual LED indicator for tripped mode and ensuring
power is present and sensor is being polled.

b.

Thermoplastic housing with mounting to same base as smoke detectors.

c.

A system addressable initiating module shall be permitted to connect each group of elevator
conventional heat detectors to the system.

Rate Compensated Heat Detectors: for special hazard systems.

E. Manual Fire Alarm Boxes:

1.

Semi-flush, non-coded, addressable type with addressable module located within the pull station or within
10' immediately above the pull station.

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UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER DESIGN STANDARDS

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2.

Pull down type, single action U of R standard, unless otherwise reviewed and approved by the University
Fire Marshal's Office. These devices shall be installed so that the top of the device does not exceed 48
inches AFF.

3.

Indoor construction, bright red finish, manufactured from high impact lexan with raised white letters.

4.

Mechanically latch open upon operation until manually reset by opening with University standard issue
key, including control panel locks.

5.

Dynamically supervised and uniquely identifiable by the system.

F. System Audible / Visual Notification Appliances:

1.

2.

Speakers:
a.

Surface or flush mounted for wall and flush for finished ceiling mounting.

b.

400-4000 Hz frequency response. Field selectable 25/70.7V RMS operating line voltage with 1/4, 1/2,
1 and 2 watt taps. Normally set for the 1 watt setting subject to adjustment during the fire alarm
system acceptance testing at the discretion of the Fire Safety representative.

c.

Die-cast housing, water sealed compression driven, vandal resistant grille and baked white or red
epoxy finish.

Strobe Units:
a.

Nominal 24 VDC with built-in Xenon flashtube and solid state circuitry. UL 1971 listed.

b.

Polycarbonate lens, pyramidal shaped with the word a FIRE imprinted in red on white lens side - clear
lens at strobe front face. Flush wall mounted.

c.

Minimum effective intensity rating of 15, 75 or 110 candela per UL 1971; rated life of minimum 500
hours of continuous operation. Synchronized flash rate of 1 per second. Use 15 candela ratings for
corridors and public restrooms; and 75-110 candela ratings arranged per NFP A 72 Chapter 6 for other
public areas.

3.

Provide separate strobe units or in combination with audible appliances.

4.

Audible appliances or audible/strobe combination units use 4 square backbox with extension and single
strobes use single gang backbox.

5.

Multi-Tone Appliance (Horns):

a.

24 volts DC. Basic grille type, surface or flush mounted. Color shall be red as standard or white if
required for aesthetic purposes.

b.

Signaling device shall be capable of producing the following electronic signals:

1.

Horn rated 95 dBA @ 10ft. (broadband, continuous).

2.

Bell @ 89 dBA @ 10ft. (1560 Hz modulated).

3.

Code 3 horn @ 95 dBA @ 10ft. (ANSI 53.41 temporal pattern).

4.

Code 3 tone @ 92 dBA @ 10ft. (ANSI 53.41 temporal pattern).

c.

Indoor construction, unless noted WP for weatherproof type construction.

d.

Provide backbox and grille for installation; 4 in. deep box maximum.

Section 13850 Fire Detection and Alarm

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UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER DESIGN STANDARDS

OCTOBER 2009

G. Fire Safety Control Equipment:

1.

Addressable Control Relay Modules (ACRM): Supervised addressable relay module which is remotely
located from fire alarm control panel; operated via 24 VDC fire alarm power; relay contacts rated 10 amp
120 VAC for releases of magnetic door holder circuits, elevator recall, etc.

2.

Addressable Initiating Modules (AIM): Supervised addressable solid state electronic module for mounting
in 4 x 4 junction box to interface between tamper, water flow, low air, kitchen fire system, zone of elevator
heat detectors, and other contact type non-addressable devices.

H. Power Supplies:

I.

J.

1.13

1.

Primary power supply: 120 VAC, 60 Hz input and transformed, rectified, filtered and regulated, 24 VDC
output. Coordinated with standby batteries and charger for automatic transfer without loss of power or data.
Protection from lightning, voltage and current transients for entire system.

2.

Standby battery and charger:

a.

Batteries: 24 VDC maintenance free lead calcium wet cell batteries; cell reversal protection; ten year
life expectancy; fused battery connections. Batteries shall be supervised.

b.

Charger: Self-regulating, solid state type, automatic with capability to fully charge the completely
discharged batteries within twenty-four hours.

c.

Provide additional NEMA 1 vented shop painted steel enclosure and steel wall mount brackets for
standby batteries where required due to battery sizes. Locate above control panels, verify with U of R
Representative.

Terminal Strip Cabinets (Provide at least 1 per floor with signaling line circuit (SLC) and audible and visual
notification circuits to allow future system extensions and modifications without homeruns back to control
panel or splicing wiring).
1.

Lockable, vandal resistant surface mounted cabinets constructed of 14 gauge steel, size as recommended by
the company producing the system.

2.

Equip cabinets with barrier type double screw terminals rated 300V minimum, meeting UL 94
requirements for materials classed 94V-O.

3.

Use identification strips, tags or labels to identify each conductor.

4.

Shop paint cabinets red and stencil on front in 1/2 in. high white letters, to identify the purpose of each
terminal strip cabinet.

Remote Annunciators and Manual Paging Stations:

1.

80 character LCD type display, local piezo sounder upon status change, single master key activated control
switches for acknowledgment of alarm and silence of local piezo. Only monitors and displays status of
system and shows each device message same as master fire alarm control panel, but shall not permit system
notification appliance silencing or reset of any system without the use of a master key lockout switch.

2.

Manual paging station shall include press to talk microphone and pre-amplifier. Station to be placed in
locked cabinet, keyed to the FACP common key.

SYSTEM WIRING (REFER TO NFPA 72 NATIONAL FIRE ALARM CODE AND APPENDIX SECTION
13-3 FOR DEFINITIONS AND FURTHER GUIDANCE)

Section 13850 Fire Detection and Alarm

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UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER DESIGN STANDARDS

OCTOBER 2009

A. Entire system shall be in EMT or other metallic raceway system. Provide at least a 12 foot flexible MC or other
metallic flexible conduit whip from each structure mounted j-box to each ceiling mounted device to allow minor
relocation of devices without extending conductors. Support all raceways and devices direct to structure and not
to ceilings or other systems. Use rigid and other raceway types as required by NEC and NFPA 72. WIRING
SHALL BE CONTINUOUS BETWEEN DEVICES WITH NO SPLICES, WIRE NUT CONNECTIONS OR
TERMINATIONS AT ANY LOCATIONS OTHER THAN A FIRE ALARM DEVICE, TERMINAL STRIP
OR CONTROL PANEL. Control panels shall not be used as junction boxes. Flexible MC cable painted/striped
red or FPLP cable without raceways may be used on floors above ceilings only and beyond terminal cabinets if
accepted in writing by U of R Fire Marshal & Project Manager due to budget and other considerations.
B. Signaling Line Circuits (SLC):
1.

Number of and size of conductors as recommended by the fire alarm manufacturer of the system, site
conditions, system performance needs of individual building and per NEC Article 760 requirements.

2.

Solid copper twisted, shielded and jacketed conductors: Type FPL, FPLP, FPLR, NFPL, NFPLP, NFPLR.
Use of TFN or THHN/THWN insulation, rated 600 volts, 90 degree C is generally not permitted.

3.

All SLC between control panels (network type systems) and between floor terminal cabinets and control
panels shall use Class A Style 7 circuit types. Floor SLC beyond floor terminal cabinets may be Class B
style 4 circuits provided isolation modules are included to isolate circuit faults so no more than 1 floor of a
building is nonfunctional during a fault condition, otherwise Class A Style 6 or 7 circuits are required.
Buildings with very large floor areas will require further review with the U of R Fire Marshal regarding
permitted floor areas protected by one SLC. Generally, SLC should be arranged on a horizontal floor basis.

C. Initiating Device Circuits (lDC):

1.

For those circuits between contact type devices (flow switches, conventional heat detectors, etc.) and an
addressable input modules, Class B, Style C IDC are required. For conventional fire alarm systems in
existing buildings which are not protected with a fire sprinkler system, IDC shall be Class A, Style D or E.

2.

Solid copper jacketed minimum 14 AWG conductors: Type FPL, FPLP, FPLR, NFPL, NFPLP, NFPLR.
Use of TFN or THHN/THWN insulation, rated 600 volts, 90 degree C is generally not permitted.

D. Notification Appliance Circuits (NAC):

1.

Same as signaling line circuits, except that conductor size shall not be less than No. 14 AWG and use of
TFN or THHN/THWN conductors may be permitted for strobe circuits upon U of R Fire Marshal approval.

2.

Visible devices shall be on circuits separate from audible devices. Class B Style Y required for all NAC,
except Class A Style Z required for buildings not protected throughout with fire sprinkler protection and
where total building evacuation does not occur (i.e.. protect in place concepts for high rises, hospital, etc.).
Modifications may be permitted upon review and approval of the U of R Fire Marshal.

END OF SECTION 13850

Section 13850 Fire Detection and Alarm

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