Frequently Asked Questions
Fire Alarm | |
| Can employees of the original manufacturer work on/troubleshoot the equipment without being a recognized tradesperson? | |
| Can I reset the fire panel at my work if I have been trained on the panel and I am a fire captain here? | |
| Can isolation modules of an adresssable fire alarm system be installed in a room with 1 hr fire rating in a 4 story comercial bldg? | |
| I am interested in certified fire alarm electrician. I want to know the differences between CFAA And CFAE certification. Could a certified fire alarm electrician do annual inspection work in Ontario? | |
| I have a licensed electrician in my maintenance department within the hospital and I am inquiring if he can isolate and reactivate a fire zone on the addressable system. Does he have to have the Fire Alarm Certification. | |
| My fire alarm certification has expired. How do I renew it? | |
| Please advise which institutions are offering Certified Fire Alarm Electrician update exams/courses in 2011. | |
| What courses are required for a 309A electrician to achieve the Fire Alarm Technician Certification through the ECAO? How long would the training take and are there any other requirements? | |
| What fire alarm testing restrictions does Article 1.1.5.3. of the Ontario Fire Code place on persons that have not completed a fire alarm training course acceptabe to the Fire Marshal? | |
| What is the purpose of the "end of line resistor (EOL)" in a fire alarm? | |
| Where can I take the Certified Fire Alarm Electrician (CFAE) program? | |
| Can "authorities having jurisdiction" conduct spot tests of fire alarm systems during fire safety inspections if they have not completed an acceptable fire alarm training course? | |
| What fire alarm servicing/repair restrictions does Article 1.1.5.3. of the Ontario Fire Code place on persons that have not completed a fire alarm training course acceptable to the Fire Marshal? | |
| Does the replacement of a plug-in or screw-ontype smoke detector require a fire alarm technician that has successfully completed an accepted training program? | |
| Does thr removal of a plug-in or screw-on type smoke detector for cleaning purposes require a fire alarm technician that has successfully completed an accepted training program? | |
| Do single stations or interconnected smoke alarms, usually found in dwelling units, require a fire alarm technicial that has successfully completed an accepted fire alarm training program to replace or service them? | |
| What do the daily and monthly fire alarm testing requirements of CAN/ULC-S536 consist of? | |
| Can Sprinkler system technicians service/repair or conduct monthly sprinkler alarm testing as required by Articles 6.5.5.2. of Ontario Fire Code if they have not successfully completed a fire alarm training program acceptable to the Fire Marshal? | |
| Are persons who test on-site equipment for the transmittal of fire alarm signals to a central alarm station subject to Subsection 1.1.5. of the Fire Code? | |
| Are persons that install central alarm stations interface panels on site subject to Article 1.1.5.3. of the Fire Code? | |
| Where fire alarm upgrades or modifications are amde as a result of retrofit requirements in Part 9 of the Ontario Fire Code, do the requirements of Subsection 1.1.5. of the Fire Code apply? | |
| Where a heat detector or smoke detector is included as part of a monitored security system does Subsection 1.1.5. of the Fire Code apply to security technicians testing the systems? | |
| What other fire safety steps should fire alarm technicians take when the fire alarm system is taken out of service for alterations or repairs? | |
| Where fire alarm programming, hardware or software changes are made on CPU controlled fire alarm systems, does this have to be done by a fire alarm technician who has completed a training program acceptable to the Fire Marshal? | |
| Can employees of the original manufacturer work on/troubleshoot the equipment without being a recognized tradesperson? Anyone with an up to date CFAE or CFAA certificate may troubleshoot fire alarm systems. (OFC Division C, Clauses 1.2.1.1 and 1.2.1.2) Last Updated: 9-29-2011 | Top
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| Can I reset the fire panel at my work if I have been trained on the panel and I am a fire captain here? Your title and your responsibilities are all subject to your place of employment's "Fire Plan" as approved by the OFM's office. (OFC Division B, Clause 6.3.1.5) Last Updated: 9-29-2011 | Top
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| Can isolation modules of an adresssable fire alarm system be installed in a room with 1 hr fire rating in a 4 story comercial bldg? According to the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), Isolators module equipment should follow "Transponders" in location and fire rating. Please refer to CAN/ULC-S524-06 (rule #4.3.7 and 5.4). Last Updated: 8-26-2010 | Top
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| I am interested in certified fire alarm electrician. I want to know the differences between CFAA And CFAE certification. Could a certified fire alarm electrician do annual inspection work in Ontario? The benefits of taking this accredited course are to obtain certification under the Ontario Fire Code Section 1.2. Division C “This subsection applies to every person who performs annual tests or annual inspections of a fire alarm system required under Article 6.3.2.2 of Division B and every person who repairs, replaces or alters components of a fire alarm system” which qualifies the holder to do annual testing and inspection, verification, alterations and maintenance of fire alarm systems. Last Updated: 7-5-2011 | Top
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| I have a licensed electrician in my maintenance department within the hospital and I am inquiring if he can isolate and reactivate a fire zone on the addressable system. Does he have to have the Fire Alarm Certification. If he is trained to operate the panel the ULC regulations will allow him to do this. To Repair, Replace or Alter any part of the Fire Alarm System requires a Certified Fire Alarm Electrician. Last Updated: 3-5-2009 | Top
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| My fire alarm certification has expired. How do I renew it? For renewal of the CFAE certification contact the ECAO office at 1-800-387-3226 ex 316 or 416-675-3226 ex 316. Last Updated: 9-29-2011 | Top
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| Please advise which institutions are offering Certified Fire Alarm Electrician update exams/courses in 2011. In 2011, the following Local Unions are offering the CFAE Update Course (Level V): 105, 353, 586, 773, 804 and 1739. For contact information, please visit the "Industry Links" page of the ECAO website and Click on "Local Associations/Unions". Last Updated: 3-8-2011 | Top
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| What courses are required for a 309A electrician to achieve the Fire Alarm Technician Certification through the ECAO? How long would the training take and are there any other requirements? Send your request to sboorman@ecao.org for information pertaining to the Certified Fire Alarm Electrician program. Last Updated: 7-10-2012 | Top
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| What fire alarm testing restrictions does Article 1.1.5.3. of the Ontario Fire Code place on persons that have not completed a fire alarm training course acceptabe to the Fire Marshal? These persons are limited to doing only the daily and monthly testing/inspections required by CAN/ULC-S536, except when supervised on-site by a person that has completed an acceptable fire alarm training course. Last Updated: 2-11-2008 | Top
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| What is the purpose of the "end of line resistor (EOL)" in a fire alarm? The purpose of the "end of line resistor (EOL)" in a fire alarm detection, supervisory or signal circuit is to allow a current flow in the circuit in order to provide supervision against missing devices or breaks in the wiring loop. EOL's are not necessary in detection and supervisory circuits in an adressable system. Last Updated: 8-16-2011 | Top
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| Where can I take the Certified Fire Alarm Electrician (CFAE) program? Contact Susan Boorman at sboorman@ecao.org for information pertaining to the CFAE program. Last Updated: 3-30-2011 | Top
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| Can "authorities having jurisdiction" conduct spot tests of fire alarm systems during fire safety inspections if they have not completed an acceptable fire alarm training course? Persons wishing to provide a spot test to determine the operability of a fire alarm system may carry out any of the monthly testing functions listed in CAN/ULC-S536. This includes the testing of manual pull stations, detection devices and audibility devices for operability, the silencing, acknowledging and resetting of the fire alarm panel, and the testing of fire alarm panel lights. Last Updated: 2-11-2008 | Top
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| What fire alarm servicing/repair restrictions does Article 1.1.5.3. of the Ontario Fire Code place on persons that have not completed a fire alarm training course acceptable to the Fire Marshal? Fire alarm maintenance tasks that include the altering of the internal components of a fire alarm panel, wiring operations, or the replacing of an external device shall only be carried out by technicians that have successfully completed an acceptable fire alarm training program. Tasks such as "pulling" alarm or detection circuit cards/modules in the alarm panel, and the replacement detectors are also placed in this group. An exception to this is when on-site supervision is being provided by persons that have completed an acceptable fire alarm training course. Last Updated: 2-11-2008 | Top
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| Does the replacement of a plug-in or screw-ontype smoke detector require a fire alarm technician that has successfully completed an accepted training program? Yes, as it is possible to install an improper smoke detector under these conditions. This is especially critical in an addressable fire alarm system. Last Updated: 2-11-2008 | Top
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| Does thr removal of a plug-in or screw-on type smoke detector for cleaning purposes require a fire alarm technician that has successfully completed an accepted training program? No, as long as the smoke detector is removed, cleaned and replaced immediately. Last Updated: 2-11-2008 | Top
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| Do single stations or interconnected smoke alarms, usually found in dwelling units, require a fire alarm technicial that has successfully completed an accepted fire alarm training program to replace or service them? Subsection 1.1.5. of the Fire Code is intended to only deal with fire alarm systems. Single stations or interconnected smoke alarms are generally not deemed to be fire alarm systems. An exception however is interconnected smoke alarms (usually with manual pull stations) installed in lieu of a traditional fire alarm system in existing residential buildings, for compliance with Fire Code Part 9 retrofit. Under these conditions the interconnected smoke alarm system shall be tested and serviced in conformance with Subsection 1.1.5. of the Fire Code. Last Updated: 2-11-2008 | Top
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| What do the daily and monthly fire alarm testing requirements of CAN/ULC-S536 consist of? CAN/ULC-S536 requires the following daily and monthly testing and inspecations of fire alarm systems: Daily Inspections: Consists of confirming the operability of the fire alarm system by visually checking for: 1) trouble signal indicators on the alarm panel 2) status of the "power on" indicator. Monthly Inspections and Testing: Conduct a series of tests with fire alarm operating on EMERGENCY POWER SUPPLY. Test include: ~ the initiating of at least one field device or manual pull station on a rotational basis, while confirming the alert or alarm signal in the zone of activation (and annunciator panel if provided) ~ operation of common audible and visual trouble signals ~inspecting of battery for clean and lubricated terminals, secure gravity to manufacturer's specifications (unless sealed beattery) ~ TEST one emergency telephone on rotational basis for two-waycommunication and correct indication at the control unit (where provided) ~TEST voice paging capability to one zone confirmed on a rotational basis (where provided) Last Updated: 2-11-2008 | Top
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| Can Sprinkler system technicians service/repair or conduct monthly sprinkler alarm testing as required by Articles 6.5.5.2. of Ontario Fire Code if they have not successfully completed a fire alarm training program acceptable to the Fire Marshal? Sprinkler systems are a life safety component that may be separate from or an integral part of a fire alarm system. In the first case, technicians not trained in conformance with Subsection 1.1.5. if the Fire Code can test or service the sprinkler system. Where this sprinkler system is monitored by the fire alarm system, sprinkler technicians shall not manipulate the fire alarm panel (with the exception of alarm reset or silencing)in order to conduct the sprinkler testing or servicing. Only appropriately trained fire alarm technicians may manipulate the fire alarm panel. The same criterion also pretains to persons testing special extinguishing systems, fire pumps and emergency generators. In the second case, sprinklers are often installed in lieu of heat detectors in conformance with the Building Code (see Article 3.2.4.15. if the 1997 OBC). In this case monthly testing of sprinkler flow is permitted by persons not trained in conformance with Subsection 1.1.5. of the Fire Code. Where malfunctioning sprinklers flow switches, valve supervisory switches or pressure switches are serviced or replaced by a sprinkler technician, a properly trained fire alarm technician shall verify that the work has been done without effecting proper function of the fire alarm system. Last Updated: 2-12-2008 | Top
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| Are persons who test on-site equipment for the transmittal of fire alarm signals to a central alarm station subject to Subsection 1.1.5. of the Fire Code? No, unless the interface equipment is an integral component within the fire alarm panel. In most cases however, this interface equipment is separate from the fire alarm panel and there is generally no need to manipulate the fire alarm panel to conduct this test. Last Updated: 2-12-2008 | Top
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| Are persons that install central alarm stations interface panels on site subject to Article 1.1.5.3. of the Fire Code? Yes, if this work requires that they hardwire this interface unit to the building fire alarm panel. An improper electrical connection can damage the fire alarm panel. An exception to this is if the work is being conducted under a building permit, in which case the Building Code applies and verification of the of the alteration is required under Sentence 3.2.4.5.(2) of the 1997 of the Ontario Building Code. Last Updated: 6-23-2008 | Top
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| Where fire alarm upgrades or modifications are amde as a result of retrofit requirements in Part 9 of the Ontario Fire Code, do the requirements of Subsection 1.1.5. of the Fire Code apply? In cases where a significant revision or addition is made to an existing fire alarm system as a result of application of Fire Code part 9 retrofit, a building permit is generally required by the municipal building department. Building offcials should apply Building Code to the work being done without exceeding the requirements of Part 9 of the Fire Code. Good installation practices as prescribed in CAN.ULC-S524 and verification requirements in conformance with CAN.ULC-S537, as called for in the Building Code are applicable. If done in this manner, Subsection 1.1.5. of the Fire Code does not apply. If the building offcial chooses not to apply the Building Code to this work, then Subsection 1.1.5. applies. If the retrofit alteration requires an Initial Inspection and Test (see Part4 of CAN/ULC- S536) be done in lieu of a Verification, then Subsection 1.1.5. also applies. Last Updated: 2-13-2008 | Top
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| Where a heat detector or smoke detector is included as part of a monitored security system does Subsection 1.1.5. of the Fire Code apply to security technicians testing the systems? Security systems are not deemed a fire alarm system, and therefore do not fall within the scope of Subsection 1.1.5. Last Updated: 2-13-2008 | Top
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| What other fire safety steps should fire alarm technicians take when the fire alarm system is taken out of service for alterations or repairs? Article 6.3.1.3. of the Fire Code requires building supervisory staff to be notified when the fire alarm system is being taken out of service in accordance with Section 2.8 of the Fire Code. This would include fire alarm systems controlled through CPU's as well. Supervisory staff may then take additional life safety measures during this period. Last Updated: 2-13-2008 | Top
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| Where fire alarm programming, hardware or software changes are made on CPU controlled fire alarm systems, does this have to be done by a fire alarm technician who has completed a training program acceptable to the Fire Marshal? Persons who install or upgrade computer programming or software affecting the fire alarm system are required to have successfully completed or be supervised by someone who has completed a fire alarm program acceptable to the fire Marshal. An exception to this is if the work is being done under permit in conformance with the Building Code. Last Updated: 3-2-2012 | Top
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