Which standard governs the number of smoke detectors selected for sensitivity testing?

Which standard governs the number of smoke detectors selected for sensitivity testing?

• A. NFPA 70
• B. UL 217
• C. NFPA 72
• D. IEEE 802.11

Answer: (C)

NFPA 72 governs fire alarm system testing, including how sensitivity testing of smoke detectors is carried out. It specifies the procedures for sensitivity testing and requires testing a representative sample of detectors across zones to verify they operate within the required sensitivity range. This ensures the system’s overall detection capability remains reliable and that detectors haven’t drifted out of spec. The other standards don’t cover this aspect: NFPA 70 is the electrical wiring code, UL 217 covers standalone residential smoke alarms, and IEEE 802.11 is a wireless networking standard.

NFPA 72 governs fire alarm system testing, including how sensitivity testing of smoke detectors is carried out. It specifies the procedures for sensitivity testing and requires testing a representative sample of detectors across zones to verify they operate within the required sensitivity range. This ensures the system’s overall detection capability remains reliable and that detectors haven’t drifted out of spec. The other standards don’t cover this aspect: NFPA 70 is the electrical wiring code, UL 217 covers standalone residential smoke alarms, and IEEE 802.11 is a wireless networking standard.