A fire alarm system may utilize listed speakers as alarm notification appliances.

A fire alarm system may utilize listed speakers as alarm notification appliances.

• A. False
• B. True
• C. Only with approval
• D. Not allowed

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that any device used to notify occupants must be listed for fire alarm use. Speakers can be used as alarm notification appliances, but only if they are specifically listed for that purpose and wired to the fire alarm control system in accordance with the relevant standards. Listing confirms the speaker design meets the required performance criteria—such as adequate sound output, reliability, electrical compatibility, and fire environment survivability—so it will behave predictably during an alarm. When a speaker is listed for alarm use, it can deliver audible alerts or even voice messages as part of the notification strategy, making it a legitimate option in many systems. Non-listed speakers aren’t approved for fire alarm use, which is why this statement is true.

The key idea is that any device used to notify occupants must be listed for fire alarm use. Speakers can be used as alarm notification appliances, but only if they are specifically listed for that purpose and wired to the fire alarm control system in accordance with the relevant standards. Listing confirms the speaker design meets the required performance criteria—such as adequate sound output, reliability, electrical compatibility, and fire environment survivability—so it will behave predictably during an alarm. When a speaker is listed for alarm use, it can deliver audible alerts or even voice messages as part of the notification strategy, making it a legitimate option in many systems. Non-listed speakers aren’t approved for fire alarm use, which is why this statement is true.