All fire alarm contractors should be aware of the requirements set forth in UL864, 9th Edition, for qualifying fire detection equipment as UL certified. Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL), is an American safety and certification company, recognized globally for examining and applying Certification Marks for products that pass their testing and inspection standards.
UL864 is the Standard for Control Units and Accessories for Fire Alarm Systems, governing the fire protection industry worldwide, with the most recent ninth edition revised in 2008. UL864 is the most widely accepted regulation recognized globally, with the exception of Europe which adheres to regulations set forth by the European Commission.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 72
UL864 follows the life safety code issued by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), NFPA72, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code. NFPA72 is the standard that details the latest provisions set forth for fire detection, fire alarm signals and requirements for emergency communications. NFPA72 also includes standards and regulations for Mass Notification Systems (MNS) utilized during weather emergencies, biological, nuclear and chemical emergencies and terrorist events and threats.
NFPA72 is updated and managed on regular intervals, typically every three years, by a committee of industry and subject matter experts to incorporate technological changes. The most recent edition of NFPA72 was revised and updated in 2016. UL864 requires that all fire alarm equipment that was manufactured after 2005 must comply with NFPA72, 2002 revision. Manufacturers had until December of 2008 to comply with those revision.
UL864 Ninth Edition
UL864 Ninth Edition incorporates a minimum of four areas of NFPA72, and forced manufacturers of fire alarms to update all product lines so that they comply with NFPA72. Areas of focus in UL864 Ninth Edition include:
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- Changing the scope of the standard itself
- Changes that make UL864 consistent with UL’s methods of testing products
- Changes that bring UL864 congruent with other UL safety standards
- Changes to make UL864 consistent with the current edition of NFPA72
The new standard with its expanded scope covers:
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- NFPA13 Sprinklers
- NFPA15 Water Spray Systems
- NFPA16 Foam Water Systems
- NFPA17 Dry Chemical Extinguishers
- NFPA17A Wet Chemical Extinguishers
- NFPA92A Smoke Control
- NFPA92B Smoke management in malls
- NFPA2001 Clean Agent Extinguishing Systems
These are in addition to the standards previously covered in UL864 Eighth Edition, which include NFPA12, 12A, 12B and 72.
UL864 Ninth Edition Applies to Fire Alarm Equipment Only
Fire alarm design and installation companies will not be affected by UL864 as this applies solely to the actual fire alarm equipment, with no impact on how fire detection systems are installed. Fire alarm design firms have been adhering to NFPA72 along with other various building codes, federal and local. An example is the response time for fire alarms to be ten seconds or less during a minimum of two cycles, this requirement is included into the equipment standard of UL864.
Additional key requirements are as follows:
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- Enhanced resistance to RF Interface
- Better synchronization of Notification Appliances
- Greater software integrity
- Broader programming requirements
- Updates in Supervision, Monitoring, Compatibility, Power transmission
UL864 Ninth Edition made great strides in providing assurance and confidence of meeting and exceeding the most recent industry fire safety standards.
HRSS Provides Compliant Fire Alarm Equipment and Design
High Rise Security Systems is a leading fire, life and safety consulting firm providing system design, UL certified equipment, implementation, testing, repairs, maintenance and monitoring 24/7/365. We offer decades of experience in meeting all fire safety code regulations, and exceeding the bare minimum requirements to provide the best system possible no matter the building design.
We are experienced at designing fire and smoke detection systems for all types of commercial properties including low-rise, high-rise, college campuses and medical complexes. We employ highly skilled design engineers experienced with all local, state and federal regulations to design the optimum fire system with AutoCAD software.
HRSS Provides Fire Extinguisher Service
HRSS is licensed in the state of Illinois to provide portable fire extinguisher service for all fire extinguisher types. We provide annual fire extinguisher service, 6-year and 12-year maintenance, and all portable fire extinguisher services.
High Rise Security Systems is experienced with all National Fire Protection Association standards related to fire alarm equipment, design, installation, notification and testing requirements. We work closely with building owners, safety managers and electrical engineers to ensure a compliant fire detection system that goes above and beyond actual code requirements, to provide maximum safety to building properties and occupants.
UL864 Ninth Edition is a springboard for safer, better fire alarm equipment and products, providing confidence to building engineers, architects and owners that their fire detection system will meet the technological demands required of buildings today.
High Rise Security Systems is a leading fire, life and safety company with decades of experience to ensure total compliance and safety for all commercial properties. Contact us today to speak with an engineer to learn more about how we can assist with your fire and safety requirements.