Test each detector’s sensitivity per the manufacturer’s recommended procedure within one year of installation and every alternate year thereafter, or per the current edition of NFPA 72.
- Calibrated test method
- Manufacturer’s calibrated sensitivity test instrument
- Listed control equipment arranged for the purpose
- Smoke detector/control unit arrangement whereby the detector causes a signal at the control unit when its sensitivity is outside its listed sensitivity range
- Other calibrated sensitivity test methods approved by the Authority Having
Detectors listed as field adjustable may be adjusted within the listed and marked sensitivity range, cleaned, and recalibrated, or replaced. Detectors found to have a sensitivity of 0.25 percent per foot obscuration or more outside the listed and marked sensitivity range should be cleaned and recalibrated or replaced.
The detectors should be tested in place to ensure:
- Operation of the sensing chamber
- An alarm response by the control unit. Testing with smoke or listed aerosol approved by the manufacturer are acceptable test methods to ensure functionality of the detector and control unit. Other methods approved by the manufacturer that ensure operation of the sensing chamber are permitted.
Be sure to follow the written manufacturer’s instructions and recommendation on test gas, aerosol, or smoke
Restore the zone or system to normal operating condition at the completion of testing.
Notify all persons notified at the beginning of the test that testing has been completed, and the system is operational again.