DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS
SPECIFICATION GUIDELINES 28 31 00
SECTION 28 31 00 – FIRE DETECTION AND ALARM
GENERAL
This section deals with the fire alarm system, including the control panel and integral equipment, wiring and circuitry,
initiating devices, indicating appliances, and interfaces to the fire alarm system.
Work performed shall conform to all applicable federal, state, and local laws and codes, including the National Fire
Protection Association Standards (NFPA), and Section 1600, Electrical Standards.
SYSTEM DESCRIPTION
A completely new system shall be intelligent and addressable and fully microprocessor based (unless otherwise
approved as applicable by the University and AHJ) with the capability of two-way communication over signaling line
circuits between intelligent/analog addressable initiating devices or addressable interfacing/control modules and the
fire alarm control panel.
The new system shall utilize all new and unused equipment and materials, which are free from contamination and
corrosion.
Voice EVAC systems shall be used in large research, clinic, classroom, and dorm buildings. If a voice evacuation
system is not used, the system shall be arranged to provide distinct evacuation signals using electronic horns and
strobe lights.
All panels and peripheral devices shall be the standard product of a single manufacturer and shall display the
manufacturer's name on each component. Fire Lite Fire Systems shall manufacture Main Fire Alarm panel.
The fire alarm control panel shall allow for loading or editing special instructions and operating sequences as
required. The system is to be capable of on-site programming to accommodate facility expansion, building parameter
changes, or changes as required by local codes. All software operations are to be stored in a non-volatile
programmable memory within the fire alarm control panel. Loss of primary and secondary power shall not erase the
instructions stored in memory.
Fire Alarm panel shall be programmed to show distinct, specific, and clear locations of sensing devices.
All fire alarm system components including initiation, notification and control equipment shall be FM approved,
compatible for interconnection, and shall be by a single manufacturer in all cases where possible. Manufacture of
main fire alarm panel shall be Fire Lite.
All equipment shall be in new, clean condition with a warranty of one (1) year from the date of Owner acceptance.
All initiating circuits shall be arranged as Style C in accordance with NFPA 72.
All notification appliance circuits shall be arranged as Style Y in accordance with NFPA 72. All signaling line circuits
shall be arranged as Style 4 in accordance with NFPA 72 except for main communication circuits linking multiple
FACP's together. These circuits shall be arranged as Style 7 in accordance with NFPA 72, with the circuits arranged
to form a loop.
All circuits of the fire alarm control panel shall be designed for future expansion. In no case shall circuit capacities
exceed 80 percent of the design capacity as specified by the manufacturer.
Equipment locations are shown on the drawings. These drawings form a part of this specification and, as such, the
equipment locations designated shall be strictly adhered to, except the notification device locations, as shown on the
drawings, which are intended to be approximate. Locations shall comply with applicable Codes.
A separate spare shielded pair shall be included between the fire alarm panels a fire alarm enunciator panel.
In an existing building, all existing fire alarm equipment shall be left untouched and in service until it is to be removed
to facilitate the installation of the new system. If existing devices become a source of false alarms due to construction
conditions, if coordinated with the University project manager and the approval of University Fire Marshal, they may
be replaced during the construction period with heat detectors. Removal of all such fire alarm equipment shall be
carefully coordinated with the University Project Manager, USA Fire Marshal and the USA Department as applicable.
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SUBMITTALS
General: Written approval and permits shall be obtained from the City of Mobile Fire Department and USA Fire
Marshal prior to the beginning of any site installation work.
Submittal Package: A complete information package concerning the fire alarm system shall be developed and
submitted to the approval authorities. The purpose of this package is to allow thorough review of the proposed
system design and arrangement in order to determine compliance with the specification and design drawings. The
contractor is required to submit a complete package within 30 days of contract award. The submittal package shall
include the following information:
Complete system drawings drawn using AutoCAD Version 2006 compatible software to a scale of no less than 1/8 in.
= 1 ft. Shown shall be all system components by location, type and address number. The location of the FACP, all
subpanels, annunciator panels, initiating devices, notification devices and controlling devices shall be shown. All
notification devices shall also be numbered and the power tap used on each notification device identified where
applicable.
Drawings clearly indicating circuit point-to-point wiring to all initiating, notification and controlling devices. Complete
elementary wiring schematics shall be provided.
Drawings indicating wire counts, type and size of wire or cable used and the size and type of all conduit and their
locations throughout. The location of all junction boxes shall be shown. A legend and color-coding scheme shall be
clearly indicated on the drawing set.
Complete battery backup calculations shall be provided in conformance with NFPA 72 for the FACP and all
subsystems utilized for notification and fire department communications. The provision of emergency generator
power for the building shall not be used to reduce battery size requirements.
Complete battery calculations shall also be provided for all subpanels as appropriate including when devices and
circuits are added to existing subpanels.
Manufacturers' descriptive equipment data sheets on every system component, which clearly identifies the
component by, part number, type, etc. This includes data sheets on every module, which is to be incorporated within
the FACP or subpanels. Installation data sheets typically packaged with devices shall also be submitted for all
components. An installation manual for the FACP and voice evacuation panel and any associated subpanels shall be
submitted. Detailed information shall be provided concerning the programming methods and capabilities. Complete
information shall be provided which indicates password protection levels and the methods in which individual initiating
devices are temporarily taken out of service through programming. The contractor shall provide a step-by-step
description of how a device is temporarily impaired through programming modifications.
A complete Bill of Materials listing all system components, manufacturer, quantity and part number.
Complete details of manufacturers' warranties on both equipment and installation. The manufacturer is required to
warrant the entire system for a minimum of one (1) year. The starting point of the warranty period is to be the date of
final acceptance testing and sign- off of the system by the Owner and Engineer. Where the fire alarm equipment
distributor used by the contractor is not a branch office of a manufacturer, the contractor is required to provide written
evidence of installation warranty by the manufacturer.
All drawing submittals shall be submitted on the same size sheets. The drawings shall be
sequentially numbered throughout the entire set.
The submittal package and shop drawings shall be prepared under the direct supervision of a registered professional
engineer. The engineer shall be employed by the installing contractor or the fire alarm equipment distributor.
At the time of completion of the submittal package, the contractor shall independently perform a quality assurance
review of the entire submittal package internally to assure completeness and conformance with the specification and
design drawings. Written confirmation of this review, which certifies compliance with the specification and design
drawings, is required. All employees involved in 1) development of the submittal package and 2) quality assurance
review of the submittal package shall be identified.
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SUBMITTAL REVIEW AND APPROVAL
Copies of the submittal package shall be distributed as follows:
Submit two complete copies of plans to Mobile Fire Department and two copies to USA Fire Marshal, plus one copy
for the Architect, and one copy for each additional consultant discipline required to review the submittal.
Installation of the system shall commence within a period of 14 days, once written approval to proceed from all
approval authorities is received.
PROJECT RECORD DESCRIPTIONS
The contractor shall provide the Owner with three copies of the following in both electronic file (Microsoft
Word/AutoCAD Version 2006) and hard copy format:
Record wiring and conduit layout diagrams, which indicate wire type, color-code, size and device interconnection.
These drawings shall be drawn to scale and not less than 1/8 in.=1ft.
Record elementary (including board level) wiring diagrams of the FACP subpanels, modules, annunciators and circuit
interconnections.
Record riser diagrams that indicate the arrangement of all initiating, notification and control devices.
Record device location drawings with device numbers provided for all initiating, notification and control devices. The
location of all junction boxes shall be shown.
Original technical literature produced by the manufacturer on all major parts of the system including control panel,
subpanels, annunciators, initiating and notification devices, power supplies, switches and auxiliary controls.
Complete battery backup calculations for the FACP and all subpanels. The provision of generator power shall not
reduce battery capacity.
Complete Bill of Materials listing all system components, manufacturer, quantity and part number.
Complete documentation of the manufacturer's warranties on both equipment and installation.
OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE DATA
The contractor shall provide three complete sets of the following in electronic file (Microsoft Word) and hard copy
format:
Operation Data: Operating instructions.
Maintenance Data: Maintenance and repair procedures.
QUALIFICATIONS
Only Alabama State certified fire alarm contractors will be given a permit by the Mobile Fire Department to install,
modify or repair a fire alarm system or components of a fire alarm system in any USA building.
All work performed to comply with this specification shall be carried out by and/or managed by a competent firm
regularly engaged in the installation and testing of fire alarm systems for commercial buildings. All subcontractors of
the general contractor including the chosen fire alarm equipment distributor shall also be competent firms which are
regularly engaged in the design, installation, testing, and servicing of fire alarm systems for commercial buildings.
Under the direction and supervision of the permitted fire alarm contractor; a licensed electrical contractor is
authorized to apply for a permit from the City of Mobile’s Urban Development Electrical Department to install conduit,
wire, and fire alarm associated equipment utilizing the approved engineer sealed and signed fire alarm system plans.
The licensed electrical contractor is not a fire alarm contractor and is therefore not authorized to design, program,
certify, perform panel terminations, inspect or test fire alarm systems in USA buildings.
Approval of cut-sheets, shop drawings, calculations and other materials submitted by the contractor shall not relieve
the contractor's responsibility for full compliance with the design drawings and specification unless written approval is
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requested by the contractor and obtained from the Engineer for each non complying feature. Finalized agreements
for all equipment deviations from the drawings and specification shall be completed prior to award of the installation
contract.
For those instances where the contractor cannot conform to the drawings and specification, a proposed variance
shall be submitted in writing to the USA Project Manager (PM) at least five (5) working days prior to the bidding date.
The Project Manager will respond to all proposed variances within two (2) working days of receipt.
All questions concerning interpretation of the design drawings and specification shall be submitted to the Project
Manager in writing no later than ten (10) working days prior to the bidding date. Requests for interpretations received
after this date will not be answered. The PM will respond to all requests for interpretations in writing and will provide a
summary of each request and the response to all bidding contractors. The PM will respond to all requests for
interpretations within two (2) working days of receipt.
The contractor shall utilize the services of a fire alarm equipment distributor who is a factory authorized
representative of Fire Lite, and a full line stocking distributor of the equipment manufacturer and shall maintain a
constant inventory of the parts typical of those used in the system installation covered under this specification.
The contractor, installation subcontractor, and the fire alarm equipment distributor shall each have a minimum of 7
years of continuous experience in the design and/or installation of fire alarm systems and shall have completed a
minimum of 5 projects of similar scope and complexity which were completed using addressable/analog systems. It is
intended that these projects incorporated the same equipment, manufacturer and model number, as is being
proposed for this project. To verify the qualifications, the contractor, installing subcontractor, and the fire alarm
equipment distributor shall submit a brief design narrative, which covers at least five fire alarm systems selected for
references. This narrative shall indicate the project location, approximate contract value, system size by device
counts, and a functional overview. These narratives shall provide an end-user contact name and telephone number
for each referenced system. Where a fire alarm equipment distributor is a branch office of a fire alarm manufacturer,
the references shall be chosen from projects in which the branch office completed both the design implementation
and the installation.
The Owner reserves the right to request documentation from the contractor with respect to any pending litigation
against the contractor or any subcontractor. Further, the Owner reserves the right to review an audited financial
statement of the contractor or any subcontractor for the most recently completed fiscal year.
The Owner reserves the right to disqualify any contractor who does not comply with all requirements of the Contractor
Performance Standard of this specification.
Manufacturer must have service facilities within a 30-mile radius of the installation location.
The Contractor must be certified by the State of Alabama as a fire alarm installer and have NICET Level III
Certification.
REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS
Equipment and materials shall be approved for their designed use and performance. The term "approved" shall mean
Underwriters Laboratories (UL) listed.
Approval Authorities: Approval authorities shall include the University of South Alabama, (Owner); their authorized
representative, (INSERT NAME OF RESPONSIBLE A/E FIRM HERE) (Engineer); the Alabama Building
Commission: and the City of Mobile Fire Marshal's Office.
WARRANTY AND SERVICE AGREEMENT
The contractor shall provide, as part of the installation cost of the system, a warranty and service agreement to cover
the installation of the system for a period of one (1) year following final system acceptance testing and sign-off by the
Owner following inspections of the AHJ including required (by NFPA) tests and inspections and planned and
emergency service during the first warranty year.
The warranty and service agreement shall include the following:
Labor, parts and equipment for components placed under warranty for one (1) year.
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Labor, parts and equipment to accomplish any manufacturer recommended upgrades or
replacements for one (1) year.
component
During the first full year of the warranty period, the fire alarm equipment distributor shall periodically perform
complete inspections of the system including recommended tests and maintenance in accordance with the
manufacturer's instructions and all applicable NFPA codes and standards. The fire alarm equipment
distributor shall participate in one scheduled fire drill exercise during the first year of the warranty period.
If fire sprinkler system in present this testing shall include all waterflow switches, valve tamper switches, fire
pump supervisory alarms, manual pull stations, detection devices, annunciators, control equipment,
notification circuits, and individual notification devices.
If smoke detectors are present during the first year of the warranty period the fire alarm equipment
distributor shall clean all new smoke detectors, including duct-type detectors, near the end of the warranty
period or more frequently if operating experience indicates the need for more frequent cleaning of individual
detectors.
The fire alarm equipment distributor shall provide a written record of all sensitivity settings of system smoke
detectors on a 6- month frequency during the first year of the warranty period. The distributor is responsible
for monitoring the drift or cleanliness level of the detectors based on sensitivity measurements and for taking
appropriate action to prevent false alarms from occurring.
Complete written reports covering each test interval shall be submitted to the Owner within five working days
of completion of field-testing. These reports shall comply with the requirements of NFPA 72.
Written information concerning contacting of the fire alarm equipment distributor for normal and emergency
service on a 24-hour period with appropriate phone numbers and contacts' names.
Written guarantee of phone consultation within 30 minutes, a 4-hour maximum response time for emergency
service related to alarm conditions and 12-hour response time related to trouble and supervisory conditions.
Provision for two (2) major programming changes and ten (10) minor programming changes at the option of
the Owner and at different times selected by the Owner during the first year of the warranty period. Major
programming changes involve address changes, message changes, function changes or other similar
changes to fifteen (15) or more devices. Minor programming changes involve less than fifteen (15) devices.
EXTRA MATERIALS
Provide all keys and tools that come with the equipment to the University Coordinator of Fire Alarm Tests and
Maintenance.
Provide three of each type of automatic smoke detector.
Provide one of each type of other installed initiating, notification, or controlling devices.
Provide six of each type of any special tools required for system use and maintenance.
Permanently mount two plan tubes near the fire alarm panel and place a copy of the as built
fire alarm system plans in the tube. The second tube if for sprinkler system plans.
PRODUCTS
Provide a fire alarm system as indicated with all components manufactured by a single manufacturer to the extent
possible.
Acceptable manufacturer of main fire alarm panel shall be Fire Lite Fire Alarm Systems
FIRE ALARM AND SMOKE DETECTION CONTROL PANEL
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The fire alarm control panel (FACP) shall be approved for supervision of intelligent/analog initiating devices through a
microprocessor. The complete assembly shall be Underwriter Laboratories listed under document UL 864. The FACP
shall also fully conform to the requirements of NFPA 72 for a local protective signaling system.
The FACP shall be fully field programmable using a laptop computer. The panel shall be capable of operating a
minimum of one (1) CRT, one (1) printer and one (1) remote liquid crystal display annunciator over standard RS-232C interfaces as well as one integral strip printer.
The FACP shall contain an alphanumeric system status display of at least 32 characters, which can be viewed
without opening the FACP front cover. This display shall be field
programmable and capable of automatically displaying device address number, device type, status of alarm or
trouble and Owner designated message. It shall be possible to step through the current alarm or trouble notifications
through the use of a keypad on the control panel.
The FACP shall be capable of reading and recording the true sensitivity level of all intelligent/analog smoke detectors
on an individual basis. The FACP shall be specifically listed under UL 864 to perform this function from the FACP. It
shall not be necessary to perform any degree of testing at the individual detection devices in order to conform with
the UL listing. The FACP shall also incorporate a walk-test feature to facilitate testing of the system.
The FACP shall be capable of alarm verification on a per device basis. The FACP and all subpanels shall be modular
in construction and designed to receive plug-in component boards to accomplish the various system functions to be
described in this specification. The FACP shall have alarm and trouble silence switches with a subsequent alarm and
trouble-receiving feature. Silencing of audible notification signals shall not effect the operation of visual notification
devices or remotely controlled relays.
The provision of main power to the FACP shall be the responsibility of the contractor. The contractor shall connect a
new and dedicated 120 V AC, 20 amp power circuit as indicated on the drawings to the FACP in full accordance with
NFPA 72 and the National Electrical Code as well as all state and county electrical codes and requirements.
All AC power connections shall be hardwired on an individual dedicated branch circuit, which serves no other loads.
The circuit and connections shall be mechanically protected within approved electrical enclosures, conduits or
raceways. The power circuit disconnecting means shall be clearly labeled "Fire Alarm System Power." The
disconnecting means shall be located in a locked enclosure, which is accessible only to authorized personnel.
Normal backup power to the FACP and associated subpanels shall be provided by 24 V DC rechargeable batteries
sized to operate the complete system on standby for 24 hours. Following this 24-hour period, the batteries shall be
capable of operating the system under alarm conditions for a period of 2 hours. Fifteen minutes of evacuation alarm
operation at maximum connected load shall be considered the equivalent of 2 hours of emergency operation. (NFPA
72-1996, 1.5.2.6).
The FACP and associated subpanels shall be equipped with integral battery chargers, which automatically keep the
batteries fully charged. Wires, which lead from the backup battery terminals, shall be fully supervised for open and
short circuit conditions.
The FACP and associated subpanels shall automatically switch to backup battery power in the event that the
incoming power level drops to 80 percent of rated voltage. All system functions including detection, supervision,
annunciation, alarm retransmission, evacuation signaling and control functions shall function identically on either
primary or back-up power.
The approximate location of the FACP is shown on the drawings. The exact location and orientation shall be
determined through consultation with the approval authorities. Where subpanels are used as part of the system
installation, these panels shall be fully monitored by and controllable by the FACP. All reset system functions shall be
completed at the FACP only. The FACP, any subpanels, auxiliary devices and all electronic components shall be
designed and installed such that no spurious signals or operations occur within the system which is the result of
radio/cellular phone transmissions. The system shall not be adversely affected by either a 5-watt hand-held two-way
radio or a 1/2 watt- cellular telephone being operated to within 12 in. of any system panel or device.
INITIATING DEVICES
The approximate location of all initiating devices is shown on the drawings. All existing initiating devices shall not be
disturbed unless absolutely necessary to facilitate installation of a new device.
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No existing devices are to be disturbed without specific authorization by the University Engineering Design and
Construction Project Manager.
All new initiating devices shall be addressable or shall be provided with addressable interface devices. All detection
devices shall be intelligent/addressable.
There shall be no limit to the number of initiating devices or monitor modules, which may be activated, or "in alarm"
simultaneously.
The FACP for alarm supervisory shall monitor all special extinguishing systems, fire pumps, and other systems, and
trouble conditions as appropriate.
Supervisory alarms (used for tamper switches and flow switches in the sprinkler system) shall be distinct from trouble
indications.
Any special appliances such as beam detectors etc. must be approved in advance by AHJ and University.
MANUAL PULL STATIONS
Manual pull stations shall be provided at all locations indicated on the drawings. Manual pull stations shall be
electrically operated and shall not require a pull force of more than 5 lbs. or movement of more than 4 in. to initiate an
alarm signal. Each pull station shall be installed at a convenient level for operation but in no case no more than 4 ft.
(centerline) above finished floor level.
Each pull station shall be a dual action non-break glass type. Each manual pull station shall require a key or special
tool for reset. A common key or tool design is required for all stations. This common key or tool shall match existing
tool or key currently being used. Fire Alarm Installer shall give any keys and tools that come with the equipment to the
University Project Manager.
SMOKE DETECTORS
Spot type smoke detectors shall be provided at all locations indicated on the drawings. All smoke detectors utilized
shall be of the analog/addressable intelligent photoelectric type. Each detector shall be capable of reporting the
sensitivity level to the FACP. The sensitivity level shall also be adjustable from the FACP. Detectors must be the
plug-in type with a separate base. Each detector shall incorporate an LED to indicate both normal operation (pulsed
light) and alarm activation (steady light). The detector/base design should be such that individual detectors may be
locked into bases where deemed necessary.
DUCT DETECTORS
Analog addressable photoelectric type duct detectors shall be provided at all locations shown on the drawings. The
positioning of each duct detector shall be carefully chosen to assure access for maintenance and optimum
performance of the detector. Differential pressure measurements and airstream velocity shall be taken and recorded
by the contractor to assure compliance with the manufacturer's requirements. Each detector shall incorporate sample
tubes, which are both selected and installed in full conformance with the manufacturer's requirements. Individual
detectors shall be the plug-in type with a twist-lock base. The sensitivity of the individual detectors shall be readily
determinable through the FACP. The sensitivity setting of the individual detectors shall also be adjustable through the
FACP. The contractor shall be responsible for relocating any duct detectors, which are not considered by the
Engineer to be properly located at no cost to the Owner.
HEAT DETECTORS
Heat detectors shall be installed where shown on the drawings. The thermal type sensor shall be a plug-in unit, which
mounts to a twist- lock base. The sensor shall be a combination rate of rise/fixed temperature sensor U.L. Listed/FM
approved as a rate compensated heat detector.
The sensor shall fit into a base that is common with both photoelectric and thermal sensors and shall be compatible
with other addressable detectors, addressable manual stations, and addressable interface modules on the same
circuit.
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Each sensor shall be capable of operating at a selectable rate of rise operation of 15 or 20 degrees Fahrenheit per
minute and shall be self-restorable.
Each sensor is capable of fixed temperature or rate of rise operation for appropriate application or environmental
condition.
SIGNALING APPLIANCES
The FACP shall be fully integrated with a voice communication system. The combined FACP/voice communication
system shall be of one manufacturer and UL listed (UOJZ) as a combined system. The voice communication system
may utilize a distributed amplification approach with subpanels located throughout the facility, however, all subpanels
shall be arranged to be monitored by a communications network, which is arranged as a Style 7 circuit.
The individual voice communication system, including any subpanels if used, shall be capable of providing both AC
powered speaker circuits and DC powered strobe circuits. Each panel shall be provided with fully redundant
equipment including main power supply, backup power supply, tone generator, preamplifiers and amplifiers. The
redundant amplifier arrangement may be such that a single backup amplifier may be provided for up to three primary
amplifiers. Any degradation of equipment within a subpanel shall be annunciated as a trouble condition at the FACP.
The panel and all subpanels shall operate identically on primary and back-up power supplies.
The system shall be arranged with one channel such that notification may be given in throughout the building
automatically. The message shall be produced digitally and shall be capable of being
easily customized and revised. The use of tape drives or any other mechanical means to produce a voice message is
not acceptable.
The voice system shall be capable of producing the following message automatically: May I have your
attention...may I have your attention... there is a possible fire or other emergency in the building... please move
immediately to the nearest exit. Do not use the elevators."
The message shall repeat continuously until silenced at the FACP. In the event of failure of the digital message to be
produced, the system shall be capable of automatically providing a continuous alert tone.
The voice communication system shall incorporate a microphone, which is capable of overriding any or all circuits,
whether activated or inactive, on a selectable basis. The system shall be readily capable of addressing all circuit
audible devices through an all-page feature simultaneously.
The main voice control panel shall be capable of manual selection of 1) normal voice/tone operation, 2) tone only
operation, and 3) manual only operation. The panel shall recognize the off normal selector switch position as a
trouble notification. The panel shall also be capable of switching from normal automatic mode to manual mode and
then back to normal automatic mode without the need to reset in order to restore any affected zones.
The placement of speakers in the immediate vicinity of the main voice control panel shall be carefully chosen by the
contractor to assure that manual operation of the voice system through use of the microphone is not adversely
impacted.
The system shall be capable of producing multiple tones such as high/low, slow whoop, yeow, wail, yelp, beep,
stutter and continuous horn and shall be capable of producing a Code 3 temporal pattern or march time pattern.
Subpanels, if used, need not be capable of being readily switchable between tones following system installation. The
final tone to be utilized for the installation will be selected by the Owner and Engineer after the contractor has been
selected.
The speakers provided for each audible circuit shall be specifically UL listed for fire alarm/voice evacuation system
service. All speakers shall be suitably protected against moisture. The installing contractor is responsible for selecting
the power taps of the individual speakers such that the requirements of NFPA 72 have been met with respect to
audibility of the devices. A sound level meter hall be used to verify that individual speakers are capable of providing a
sound level which is a minimum of 15 dBA over normal ambient conditions based on normal operation of the audible
circuits. The contractor is responsible for modifying or adding speakers, circuits or voice evacuation subpanels as
necessary in order to meet the audibility requirements. The speaker locations shown on the drawings are
approximate locations.
Strobe circuits shall be coordinated with audible circuits such that activation of an audible circuit results in activation
of the companion strobe circuit. The strobe circuits shall be capable of being arranged such that they continue to
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operate in the event that the audible circuits have been silenced and remain operating until the FACP has been reset.
Strobe circuits should also be coordinated with the audible circuits such that they are zoned in the same manner as
the audible circuits.
All stand alone strobes as well as strobe devices of combination electronic horn/strobes shall be rated at a minimum
of 75 candela per UL 1971. Dual rated 15/75 candela or other dual rated strobe combinations shall not be used. The
original equipment manufacturer of these strobes shall be either Gentex or Wheelock. Both the audible circuits and
the strobe circuits shall be designed for expandability. The maximum load per circuit shall not exceed 80 percent of
circuit capacity. The installing contractor is responsible for assuring that the strobe circuit capacity contemplates the
inherent momentary current surge of the strobe devices.
Activation of any alarm initiating devices shall cause the following to occur:
Audible and visual indicators within the FACP shall activate.
An integral alphanumeric display and integral printer within the FACP as well as the remote LCD annunciator shall
provide identification of the exact initiating device in alarm by device number as well as type of device and custom
location message. The individual information on a per device basis shall be in accordance with Owner developed
program criteria and text.
The FACP shall automatically initiate through the voice evacuation system an alert tone which is a minimum 10 sec.
in length, followed by a digitally produced evacuation textual message. The message shall sound throughout the
zone in which the alarm signal initiated.
The USA Police Department shall receive an indication of the alarm condition by means of a signal being transmitted
through the digital alarm communications transmitter (DACT) within 90 seconds of activation. Sprinkler system
waterflow indications shall be distinguishable from all other transmitted alarm conditions.
Activation of individual duct detectors shall result in automatic shutdown of the respective air handling units. Individual
HVAC units shall be capable of automatically shutting down based on operation of other selected initiating devices
based on Owner provided program criteria. In general, duct-type smoke detectors shall not activate building
notification devices unless specifically identified to do so by the Engineer.
Activation of any supervisory initiating devices shall cause the following to occur:
Audible and visual notifications within the FACP and remote LCD annunciator panel shall activate.
The integral alphanumeric display within the FACP and remote LCD annunciator shall provide identification
of the exact supervisory device activated by device number, type and Owner provided program criteria and
text.
The USA Police Department shall be notified of the supervisory condition by means of a signal being
transmitted through the digital alarm communications transmitter (DACT) within 90 seconds of activation.
The occurrence of a supervised malfunction within a supervised circuit subpanel or system device shall cause the
following to occur:
Audible and visual indicators within the FACP and remote LCD annunciator shall activate.
The integral alphanumeric display within the FACP and remote LCD annunciator shall provide
identification of the exact equipment; component or circuit trouble according to Owner approved
programming text.
The USA Police Department shall be notified of the trouble condition by means of a signal being transmitted
through the digital alarm communications transmitter within 90 seconds of activation.
AUXILIARY DEVICES
The fire alarm system shall be capable of controlling remote relays as shown on the drawings. These relays will
control such functions as HVAC system shutdown, stair pressurization, fan control, and elevator recall. The individual
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relays should be arranged such that they are controlled from the intelligent loop and remain activated until the FACP
has been reset.
The individual relays shall be controllable based on programming of any number of initiating devices selected. As an
example, the individual HVAC units should be capable of shutting down by either the duct detectors provided on the
unit or any smoke detector located in a corridor zone of the building.
ANNUNCIATION SYSTEM
The annunciation system shall consist of an alphanumeric LCD display and integral strip printer on the FACP; and
one remote LCD annunciator panel Protection against mechanical damage shall be provided in the form of a hinged
cover consisting of plexiglass in steel frame with keyed lock. The cover lock shall be keyed the same as the "enable"
keys with on the LCD panel.
The LCD annunciator panel shall be capable of duplicating the information provided on the FACP display. The
annunciator shall be capable of stepping through all alarm and trouble conditions present on the system through use
of a keypad.
Adjacent to the LCD display provide a CAD generated 1/16 inch (or other appropriate scale) scaled floor plans
showing the location of all initiating devices. Identify devices using identifications corresponding to the remote LCD
annunciator panel. Properly orient drawings with respect to actual mounting location so that device locations and
building areas are easily understood. Provide a red "YOU ARE HERE" arrow. Submit these drawings for approval
prior to framing and mounting. Also submit information covering the proposed frame for approval prior to installation.
DIGITAL ALARM COMMUNICATOR TRANSMITTER
The fire alarm system shall be provided with a built in IP DACT and/or DACT capable of transmitting contact ID
format fire control communicator. The communicator shall be arranged to separately indicate to the USA Police
Department the following conditions within 90 seconds of activation:
General system alarm.
General system supervisory condition.
General system trouble condition.
Sprinkler system waterflow.
Fire Pump running.
Fire Pump Power Failure.
Fire Pump Phase Reversal.
EXECUTION AND INSTALLATION
Work shall be performed only by those licensed for their specific trade in accordance with federal, state and local
regulations. For all low voltage electric work, the work shall be supervised and/or performed only by those licensed by
the State of Alabama for Low Voltage Class LV-U or LV-A. The installation of the 120 VAC power and control circuits
and connections shall be supervised and/or performed only by those licensed by the State of Alabama for Class I or
Class III.
Quality of Work: All work shall be performed in a high quality, highly skilled and timely manner.
Working Hours: Installation work shall be done only during those times which are approved in advance by the Owner
but shall normally be during regular working hours which are defined as 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through
Friday. The University Project Manager will determine the specific work hours to be followed based on the project
conditions, which may be determined to require alteration based on the degree of completion of the project or other
factors.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Ceiling heights in the facility vary significantly. As such, ladders or scaffolding may be required to facilitate some
installation work. The contractor shall be responsible for obtaining and paying the cost of any such equipment. Under
no circumstances may such equipment owned by the Owner be used for installation work.
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Any work, which will result in the impairment of any existing fire protection system within the facility, shall not be
carried out without first obtaining approval from the USA Project Manager, and the University Fire Marshal.
Verification: The contractor shall become familiar with all details of the work, verify all dimensions and locations of
existing and additional new equipment in the field, and shall advise the Owner and Engineer of any discrepancy
before performing the work.
Pre-Construction Conference: The Contractor shall attend a pre-construction conference after shop submittals have
been approved but before installation work commences. This meeting will be held at a location determined by the
University Project Manager. This meeting shall also be attended by the Owner, Engineer and a representative from
the fire alarm equipment distributor and installing subcontractor.
SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS
All equipment shall be approved for the purpose for which it is used and installed in accordance with the
manufacturer's instructions and within approval limitations.
In existing buildings, the contractor shall be responsible for the removal of all existing fire alarm system equipment,
devices, conduit, wiring, etc. where applicable. The existing system shall be maintained in service during the
installation of the new system to the maximum extent possible. Necessary impairments to the existing system shall
be kept to an absolute minimum and planned at least 48 hours in advance. All impairments shall be carefully
coordinated with the University Project Manager and the University Fire Marshal. The contractor shall close all
openings in walls, ceilings and floors after the removal of existing equipment and devices, duplicating the original
material and finish.
Devices mounted to masonry walls and monolithic ceilings are allowed to be surface mounted. Interconnecting
circuits shall be run in exposed conduit (EMT) in unfinished areas in accordance with the National Electric Code
(NFPA 70). Series 700 Wiremold or approved equal shall be utilized in finished areas. All Wiremold shall be
selected/painted to exactly match background finishes.
Devices mounted to gypsum board walls and lay-in tile ceilings shall be flush mounted. Interconnecting circuits shall
be concealed within the wall cavity or above the ceiling tile. In general, fire alarm wiring shall be installed in electrical
conduit. However, with pre-approval by the University Project Manager, in some cases, where suitable for the
conditions and not subject to damage, conductors need not be installed in conduit provided that the cable is utilized
which is listed for the application, such as UL listed plenum-rated cable. If allowed, this cable shall be routed and
secured in full compliance with the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70). Circuits shall not lay on or otherwise be in
contact with the suspended ceiling, wire, cable, lights, HVAC ductwork, or other equipment located above the
suspended ceiling. Appropriate cable supports such as bridle rings or lathers channel hangers shall be utilized. In all
cases, the circuits shall be supported from the building structure or suitable existing hangers/supports using suitable
fasteners
Accessibility for maintenance must be considered prior to installing equipment. Any possible access issues should be
discussed with University representative.
The contractor is responsible for completing all core drills necessary for installation of conduits or circuits. All core drill
locations shall be completed in full accordance with the drawings and specifications. Penetrations through fire rated
barriers shall be properly sealed with a sealing material approved by the University Project Manager.
The selection of cable types and wire with respect to conductor size, shielding requirements and separation between
circuits shall be in full compliance with the requirements NFPA 70 and with the manufacturer of the FACP without
exception. In the event that performance testing indicates that conductor performance or separation is inadequate,
the contractor shall make all necessary corrections without expense to the Owner.
The selection of conductors shall fully comply with the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70), Articles 725 and 760. The
stranding restrictions of individual conductors shall be complied with without exception. All wiring shall be approved
for fire alarm system application. Samples of all cable and wire to be utilized in the installation shall be submitted to
the Engineer and Owner for approval prior to usage.
All AC power or AC control wiring shall be run in EMT conduit or flexible metallic conduit in full compliance with the
National Electrical Code (NFPA 70). In no case shall AC power or AC control wiring be run in the same conduit as
any other fire alarm circuits. Within the FACP, all subpanels and within all other interfaces of the fire alarm system, a
minimum separation distance of 2 in. between AC power or control wiring and all other circuits shall be maintained.
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The exception to this would be at terminal blocks within the panels or at the interface with devices. At these locations,
the maximum possible separation shall be attained.
To prevent insulation damage the following requirements apply: Any threaded conduit terminating at sheet metal
boxes or cabinets shall be provided with insulating bushings. All flexible conduit connectors shall also be equipped
with insulated bushings.
All cable and wiring shall be color-coded. Different color- codes shall be used for initiating circuits, notification circuits,
control circuits and communication circuits. In all circuits where polarity must be observed, two different colors shall
be used.
Permanent wire markers shall be used to identify the terminations of all conductors within the FACP and all system
subpanels. Permanent wire markers shall also be used at all devices, which have numbered terminals
.
The number of splices shall be held to an absolute minimum. Where splices cannot be avoided and at the termination
of all devices which incorporate pigtail connecting wires, either phenolic terminal blocks or pressure type wire
connectors shall be utilized. Wire nuts shall not be used. All such splices and terminations shall take place within
junction boxes. Where pressure type connectors are utilized, these connectors shall be attached to the wires using
the manufacturer's intended tool without exception. In all cases where shielded cable is used, the shielding shall be
maintained continuously throughout the circuit and shall terminate within the FACP, subpanels and devices in full
compliance with manufacturer's requirements and system listings.
All wires shall be checked for grounds, opens, shorts and correct resistance, capacitance and other parameters prior
to termination of the circuits at the FACP or subpanels and prior to the installation of devices. The minimum
resistance to ground or between any two conductors shall be 10 megohms, verified with a voltage generating megger
tester. Testing of all circuits for resistance, capacitance and insulation integrity shall be fully documented on a per
circuit basis. The contractor shall give a minimum of one day's notice to the Engineer in advance of all testing so that
these tests may be witnessed at the discretion of the Engineer.
All junction boxes which are not recessed shall be painted red, both internally and externally. Junction box covers
shall also be painted red on both sides. All junction boxes for which the circuit use is not readily discernable shall be
permanently labeled. All junction boxes, which contain devices or modules, shall be labeled permanently and clearly.
Detection devices shall not be installed within 3 ft. of any supply air register or within 1 ft. of any other ceiling mounted
device. Detectors shall be mounted in accordance with NFPA 72 and manufacturer's requirements, and equipment
listings. All detectors, which are to be installed below suspended ceilings, shall be centered within the tile. Tee bars
shall be utilized to support junction boxes of all suspended ceiling mounted devices without exception. The minimum
horizontal separation distance between a detection device and the closest edge of any structural steel or concrete
structural member shall be 1 ft.
All devices which are mounted to monolithic ceilings or to walls shall include plaster rings, bases, back boxes or other
similar components which are intended for use by the manufacturer for the application.
Permanent, clear identification of all addressable devices and the indication of the use of all modules is required.
These identification labels shall be permanently mounted adjacent to the device or on the junction box cover as
appropriate.
Where fire alarm system relays interface with equipment being controlled, these connections shall be accomplished
only under direct supervision of knowledgeable representatives responsible for the installation, testing or
maintenance of the particular equipment being controlled. The Owner will provide information as necessary for
compliance with this requirement. The contractor is to complete all interface wiring without expense to the Owner. All
remotely located relays controlling equipment shall be positioned within 3 ft. of the device being controlled without
exception.
Audible notification devices, strobes and manual pull stations in high moisture areas or any other high humidity
environment as well as any exterior mounted devices shall be of a moisture-proof design.
Audible notification devices, strobes and manual pull stations in areas where they are subject to mechanical damage
should be protected by a suitable wire mesh cover securely mounted over the devices. Refer to the drawings to
identify those devices in need of protection.
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All strobes and combination electronic horn strobes shall be mounted such that the bottom of the device is mounted
80 inches above the finished floor or 6 inches below the ceiling, whichever is lower.
Two completely separate telephone cables shall be installed between the digital alarm communicator transmitter and
the main telephone cabling/terminations boards for the building. The contractor shall ensure that the two separate
telephone line connections are fully functional between the fire alarm control panel and the USA Police Department
receiving equipment before the Owner accepts the system.
FIELD QUALITY CONTROL
The installing contractor shall provide a qualified project superintendent for the overall management and supervision
of the work.
The project superintendent shall assure that adequate supervision is provided during all periods of installation of the
fire alarm system. The project superintendent and all job site supervisors shall have a minimum of five years of
continuous experience in the installation of fire alarm systems of similar scope and complexity.
Upon completion of the installation, the installing contractor shall test all alarm initiating devices, supervisory devices,
control devices and notification devices for proper response and effectiveness and for clear address reporting at the
FACP and annunciators indicating the type of device and exact location. Operation of all annunciating devices
including the FACP, printer and remote LCD panel shall be verified. Testing shall include thorough sound level
measurements of audible notification devices. These tests shall be fully documented. All testing up to the point of
conducting the final acceptance tests shall be recorded using a temporary printer. The permanent printer of the
system shall not be installed prior to the final acceptance tests.
All smoke detectors shall be suitably protected by the fire alarm contractor against contamination up to the time of the
final acceptance tests.
An itemized test report in accordance with NFPA 72 shall be submitted to the Engineer and Commissioning Authority.
This report shall provide complete details of the testing completed for all devices as well as circuit testing parameters.
Data shall be submitted indicating the sensitivity level of all system smoke detectors.
Following completion of a 100 percent system functional test, the contractor shall perform a thorough acceptance test
of the system at the direction of and to the satisfaction of the Owner, Engineer, University Fire Marshal, and
Commissioning Authority. The acceptance test shall include, at minimum, demonstration of 10% of initiating devices
and verification of associated device address reporting to the FACP, and a full demonstration of interlock and
integration to other systems. This test shall not be carried out until at least 15 days after completion of all contractor's
testing, modification and repairs following the original contractor's functional test and submittal of the functional
testing documentation to the Engineer. The 15 day interval is also intended to be a system "burn-in" period. Any false
activations of the system which occur within the burn-in period which are determined to be the result of a system fault
shall result in the restart of the 15 day period.
In the event that the acceptance test of the system results in the need for system repair or modification, the contractor
shall demonstrate the operability of the system to the full satisfaction of the Owner, Engineer, University fire Marshal,
and Commissioning Authority following the completion of repairs or modification.
In the event that the County requires a separate demonstration of the operability of the system for acceptance
purposes, the Contractor shall carry out these additional tests without expense to the Owner.
The contractor shall conduct an independent quality assurance review of all developed "record" drawings to assure
accuracy and completeness of these drawings.
TRAINING OF USA EMPLOYEES
An employee of the installing contractor or the fire alarm equipment distributor who has NICET Level III certification
shall provide instruction to key employees of the University on the operation and maintenance of the complete
system. The contractor shall contemplate a minimum of three training sessions of one to two hours in length. These
training sessions may need to be conducted after normal working hours in order to accommodate all working shifts.
At least one of these training sessions shall be carried out for key personnel prior to the system being initially placed
on-line for the beginning of the burn-in period.
Three bound copies, which summarize the training instruction, shall be submitted to the Owner for future reference.
UPDATED - JANUARY 3, 2014 (Revised 4/22/16)
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BID DOCUMENTATION
Finalized agreements for all equipment deviations from the drawings and specification shall be completed prior to
award of the installation contract.
For those instances where the contractor cannot conform to the drawings and specification, a proposed variance
shall be submitted in writing to the Engineer at least ten (10) working days prior to the bidding date. The Engineer will
respond to all proposed variances within two (2) working days of receipt
All questions concerning interpretation of the design drawings and specification shall be submitted to the Engineer in
writing no later than ten (10) working days prior to the bidding date. Requests for interpretations received after this
date will not be answered. The Engineer will respond to all requests for interpretations in writing and will provide a
summary of each request and the response to all bidding contractors. The Engineer will respond to all requests for
interpretations within two (2) working days of receipt.
To verify the qualifications, the contractor, installing subcontractor, and the fire alarm equipment distributor shall
submit a brief narrative which covers at least five similar sized fire alarm systems installed within the last 3 years.
This narrative shall indicate the project location, approximate contract value, system size by device counts, and a
functional overview. These narratives shall provide an end-user contact name and telephone number for each
referenced system. Where a fire alarm equipment distributor is a branch office of a fire alarm manufacturer, the
references shall be chosen from projects in which the branch office completed both the design implementation and
the installation.
BID DOCUMENTS
Bid documentation shall be arranged in a package, which contains sufficient information to allow the Owner and
Engineer to fully evaluate compliance with all aspects of specifications and design drawings. The information shall
include, but is not limited to, the following:
Manufacturer's original equipment data sheets for each system component and devices proposed for use.
A Bill of Materials covering each component and device proposed for use including the manufacturer,
quantity and part number.
Letter of Certification from the equipment manufacturer certifying the qualifications of the fire alarm
equipment distributor to design, install, test and service the fire alarm system proposed for installation.
This letter shall also indicate that the fire alarm equipment distributor is a factory authorized distributor
of the fire alarm system manufacturer when not a branch office of a manufacturer.
A signed letter from an officer of the manufacturing company certifying that the equipment distributor
maintains an adequate spare parts inventory to properly service the fire alarm system proposed in a timely
manner.
A written outline detailing the proposed method of training Owner's employees on system operation
and maintenance is required.
A copy of the equipment manufacturer's complete warranty, which covers workmanship, periodic service,
and emergency service which has been signed by an officer of the company.
Pricing information according to the following schedule:
System Cost Itemization
Equipment and materials
Labor including engineering, installation, project management
Annual cost for extended warranty and servicing of the Year 1 Included
(Exclude labor per Item 4 below).
System in accordance with Section 1.10 guaranteed Year 2
Through the first 5 full years after the system is Year 3
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Commissioned and placed in service: Year 4 Year 5
Cost on a per-device basis including all device components, installation, testing, programming and warranty
of the following:
System smoke detector with base
System duct detector with all related components and base
System heat detector with base
Electronic horn
Speaker
Electronic horn/strobe
Speaker/strobe
System interface module
System programmable relay
CRT
Printer
LCD remote annunciator
Typical costs for circuits with and without conduit on a linear foot basis
Costs for holding training sessions on a per session basis
System manual pull station
For development of all of the above component prices, the contractor shall indicate a firm percentage increase in cost
for provision of this equipment beginning the second year following system turnover. Similarly, a percentage increase
shall be given for equipment purchased anytime during the third year following system turnover. All base costs
indicated by the contractor shall be maintained throughout the first year following system turnover.
Additions to the contract amount due to changes in the scope of work will be based upon 100% of the stated unit
prices. Deductions to the contract amount due to changes in the scope of work will be based upon 100% of the stated
unit prices.
END OF SECTION 28 31 00
UPDATED - JANUARY 3, 2014 (Revised 4/22/16)
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