Fire alarm systems are critical for ensuring the safety of occupants in any building. Among the various components of these systems, strobe lights play a crucial role. They provide visible alerts that complement the audible alarms, making them particularly vital for individuals with hearing impairments.
What are Fire Alarm Strobe Lights?
Strobe lights in fire alarms are high-intensity flashing lights designed to alert occupants visually when the fire alarm system triggers. They are especially critical in noisy environments where the alarm sound may be hard to hear . Or in scenarios where occupants are hearing impaired.
**Key Takeaway**: Fire alarm strobe lights provide visual alerts to complement audible alarms, ensuring that everyone in the building is aware of the alarm regardless of hearing abilities or environmental noise.
Why are Strobe Lights Used in Fire Alarms?
The primary purpose of fire alarm strobe lights is to provide an equal signaling mechanism for individuals . Who are deaf or hard of hearing. This requirement became more prominent after the implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990. Notably, before the ADA, the primary purpose of visible signals in fire alarms was to assist occupants in locating exits during a fire.
Installation and Placement of Fire Alarm Strobe Lights
Strobe light installation in a fire alarm system should comply with the guidelines specified in Chapter 18 of NFPA 72 (National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code). This code provides detailed specifications about the placement and installation of strobe lights, based on the building’s layout and the area to be covered.
Ceiling vs. Wall Mounting: Strobe lights can be installed on the ceiling (up to a height of 30 feet) or the wall (between 80 and 96 inches). The choice between ceiling and wall mounting depends on the environment. For instance, in an office with cubicles, ceiling-mounted strobe lights may provide better visibility than wall-mounted ones.
Candela Rating: The fire alarm system designer must indicate the candela rating based on the area to be covered and the installed location. The candela rating refers to the light’s intensity and directly impacts the strobe light’s coverage area.
Common Pitfalls in Strobe Light Placement
While placing strobe lights within a room or corridor, certain common errors can compromise the effectiveness of the visual alert system. Here are a few possible pitfalls:
Direct vs. Indirect Viewing: For corridor installations, direct viewing of each strobe light is required. In other spaces, indirect viewing (reflected light from surfaces) is used. NFPA 72 now allows the use of either direct or indirect viewing in corridors, which can potentially reduce the number of strobe lights needed.
Room Usage: The room’s intended use should be considered when deciding the number of strobe lights needed. Depending on the room’s contents or layout, more than one strobe light may be necessary.
Strobe Placement: The exact placement of the strobe light also impacts its coverage. For instance, a strobe light placed at the center of a wall can cover a larger area compared to one placed towards a corner.
**Pro Tip**: Always consider the specific layout and usage of the room when deciding the placement and number of strobe lights.
Types and Features of Strobe Lights
Strobe lights come in various types and feature sets to cater to different requirements. Here are a few types one may encounter:
AC/DC Strobe Lights: These strobe lights can work with both AC and DC power supplies and are known for their long-lasting dependability. They are designed for easy installation, making them a popular choice for safety and facility professionals.
Hazard Warning Strobe Lights: These strobe lights are designed for industrial settings to provide visual signals for hazard warnings. They are perfect for manufacturing, distribution, and construction settings.
Combination Strobe Lights: Some fire alarms feature combination devices that include a horn and a strobe light. These devices provide both audible and visual alerts, ensuring maximum alert coverage.
Color Options: Strobe lights are available in different colors, including amber, blue, clear, and red. The choice of color can be based on specific regulations or preferences.
Strobe Light Specifications and Standards
Fire alarm strobe lights need to meet certain specifications and standards to be effective and compliant with regulations. Here are some key considerations:
ADA Compliance: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has set requirements for visual alarms like strobe lights. These specifications are intended to ensure that the alarms are visible to individuals with hearing impairments.
UL 1971 Compliance: UL 1971 is a standard for signaling devices for the hearing impaired. Fire alarm strobe lights should be UL listed, indicating that they meet the requirements of this standard.
Candela Rating: The candela rating of a strobe light refers to the intensity of its flash. The required candela rating may vary depending on the location and the size of the room.
**Note**: Always ensure that fire alarm strobe lights meet required standards and are installed following the guidelines of NFPA 72.
Fire Alarm Strobe Lights: A Critical Safety Component
In conclusion, fire alarm strobe lights are a critical component of any fire alarm system. They provide a visual alert mechanism to complement audible alarms, ensuring that all occupants, including those who are hearing impaired, are alerted in case of a fire. When installing strobe lights, it’s essential to follow the guidelines set out in NFPA 72 and ensure that the lights meet ADA and UL 1971 standards. With the right placement and specifications, strobe lights can significantly enhance a building’s fire safety measures.
**Conclusion**: Fire alarm strobe lights are a crucial component of a comprehensive fire safety system, providing visual alerts that complement audible alarms. Proper installation and adherence to standards can maximize their effectiveness.
