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COMMENT ON SMOKE DETECTORS (FROM NOVEMBER 10 & 11, 2015 ARTICLES)
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Ken
    A smoke alarm is a self-contain smoke detector with a sounding device built in (stand alone) and not connected to a fire alarm systems as opposed to a smoke detector that works with a fire alarm system.  The smoke alarm is installed by the electrical contractor not alarm contractor.  This topic has been the subject of several recent articles on your forum questioning if one can replace the other.  
     In the past the answer was no, but in the future it will be yes.  New houses when built get a smoke alarm that no one tests or services but has to stay even if you put in a smoke detector.   This change in the law now allows one over the other.
SG
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Note:  The Residential All in One covers burglar and fire alarm systems in residences.  For commercial jobs use the Fire All in One.  
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COMMENTS ON FIRE ALARM INSPECTIONS (FROM NOVEMBER 16, 2015 ARTICLE)
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Ken
    Your reply to Demitry was right on target in all respects.
    The Readers Digest version though in addition to your contracts is what he should own a current copy of NFPA 72, NFPA 101 and follow the codes and standards contained. It is there he can get the information he needs to accurately advise his customers of the requirements for inspection. (He can then site chapter and verse.)
    Also the requirements for residential inspections by a licensed technician have recently been changed from once every three years to annually...  (NOTE: He must first be sure if his state is a NFPA state or IBC/IFC state.)
    NTS FAIM, Life Safety and IBC courses are available.
Enhancement through Education
From under the covers on a New England fall day,,,,,
Joel Kent FBN / NTS Instructor
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Ken
    The first question is a typical question of stupidity.   Why would he ask you for the specific requirements of NFPA instead as an installing and servicing company of fire alarm systems looking it up on his own.   That is like not having the installation book and doing an installation that does not conform to the requirements as stated in it and thus installing it wrong.   Your response was not harsh enough for those who do work without the resources and knowledge to do it as well as not willing to purchase the book (NFPA) that tells you how to.
SG