ADAAG AND CEILING MOUNTED VISUAL APPLIANCES

[mshields]

Until today I was still under the impression that the ADAAG and NFPA 72 were in conflict on the subject of ceiling mounted visual appliances. I heard today from a reliable source (although he couldn't be specific on the spot) that not too long ago the ADAAG changed its requirement of a strict 80 inches (no more no less) to making their requirement match NFPA 72. The latter has always allowed ceiling mounted appliances and with this change, so too, according to my source does the ADAAG.

I'm trying to verify this and would like to see it in black and white. Can anybody help?

 

[luckylerado]

He is right. Here it is.

http://www.ada.gov/regs2010/2010ADAStandards/2010ADAstandards.htm#Alarm

702.1 General. Fire alarm systems shall have permanently installed audible and visible alarms complying with NFPA 72 (1999 or 2002 edition) (incorporated by reference, see "Referenced Standards" in Chapter 1), except that the maximum allowable sound level of audible notification appliances complying with section 4-3.2.1 of NFPA 72 (1999 edition) shall have a sound level no more than 110 dB at the minimum hearing distance from the audible appliance. In addition, alarms in guest rooms required to provide communication features shall comply with sections 4-3 and 4-4 of NFPA 72 (1999 edition) or sections 7.4 and 7.5 of NFPA 72 (2002 edition).

EXCEPTION: Fire alarm systems in medical care facilities shall be permitted to be provided in accordance with industry practice.