What standards govern fire alarm systems in the United States?

The standards that govern fire alarm systems in the United States are primarily set forth by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), specifically through NFPA 72, which is known as the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code. This code outlines the requirements for the installation, performance, testing, and maintenance of fire alarm systems, ensuring that they operate effectively to detect fires and alert occupants in a timely manner.

NFPA 72 is crucial because it provides guidelines that help minimize risks associated with fire emergencies and ensures compliance with local and national safety regulations. The code is widely adopted by states and municipalities, serving as a benchmark for fire alarm system implementation across the country.

Other organizations, such as OSHA and the FCC, focus on different aspects of safety and communication regulations, which do not specifically address the standards for fire alarm systems. Similarly, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) sets a variety of global standards but is not directly associated with the fire protection standards specific to the United States.