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Posted By: Redsy Fire alarm system basics - 03/14/03 12:22 PM
Anyone know where I can get a good book on Basic Fire Alarm System operation and terminology?
I recall seeing an ad in one of my magazines, but can't find it.

Thanks
Posted By: BrianSparky Re: Fire alarm system basics - 03/14/03 03:27 PM
Hey Redsy,
Electrical Contractor mag has a good article in the Feb '03 issue on page 38 specifing some books.
It seems the "National Fire Alarm Code Handbook" by NFPA is recommended as well as NFPA's Fire Protection Handbook.
I'm interested in knowing more about that code as well, since I've been installing a bunch of fire alarm systems in commercial buildings.

By the by, how's the job market out there?
It's terrible in the commercial sector here in Denver. Haven't worked for a month...driving the wife crazy!
Posted By: jdevlin Re: Fire alarm system basics - 03/14/03 03:48 PM
I just found out that here in Ontario you are not allowed to work on fire alarm systems unless you are a certified fire alarm installer. Are there similar rules In any of the US states?
Posted By: Redsy Re: Fire alarm system basics - 03/14/03 04:09 PM
Thanks,

My main gig is Industrial E & I (Electrical & Instrumentation).
However, I operate a contracting business (mostly residential) as well.
I would like to take the NJ exam, but in addition to the NEC portion, they have Business Law & NFPA 72 tests.
I may be able to pass, but I would like to get a primer on Fire Protection Systems before taking the exams. That is why I was looking for a basic book on the systems.
Posted By: gramps Re: Fire alarm system basics - 03/14/03 05:01 PM
dont know about the other states but, here in ohio you have to have a state fire alarm license to install, repair, or test fire alarm systems. pretty serious fine if you get caught without one, and, on any subsequent violations, you can possibly lose your contractors license.


FYI, gramps
Posted By: Joe Tedesco Re: Fire alarm system basics - 03/14/03 06:37 PM
Redsy:

I'll recommend the following, it is available from NFPA:

NFPA Pocket Guide to Fire Alarm System Installation, 2001 Edition
Posted By: WebSparky Re: Fire alarm system basics - 03/15/03 12:54 AM
Hey gramps, where 'bouts?

I'm near Cleveland.

Dave
Posted By: gramps Re: Fire alarm system basics - 03/15/03 02:18 PM
dave,
columbus area

[Linked Image]
gramps
Posted By: go-go Re: Fire alarm system basics - 03/15/03 04:59 PM
http://www.powells.com/cgi-bin/biblio?inkey=91-007138958x-0
Posted By: harold endean Re: Fire alarm system basics - 03/15/03 06:56 PM
Redsy,

What about the NFPA? Would that help you? If you want, I will ask my ex-forman what was on the state test for fire alarms. He got his lic. about4-5 years ago. He took the test with the fire alarm section in it.

Harold
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