Fire Alarm Cable in patient care areas

[Fishn sparky]

Good morning team,

I have a quick question regarding open air fire alarm cabling in patient care areas of an assisted living project. Is open air fire alarm cabling an acceptable method in patient care areas? Under Art. 517, emergency systems, there are requirements for installation and protection. Under part VI. Communications, Signaling Systems, Data Systems, Fire Alarm Systems, and Systems less than 120v nominal, Class 2 or 3 Communications, Signaling Systems, Data Systems, Fire Alarm Systems are not required to meert the requirements of 517.13 or to meet the mechanical protection of 517.30(C)(3)(5), or to be enclosed in raceways unless otherwise specified in CHP 7 or 8.

So, I believe that open air installation of FA cable is permitted in patient care area's of an assisted living home. Correct??

Thanks, and hope everyone had a merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!

 

[gadfly56]

Good morning team,

I have a quick question regarding open air fire alarm cabling in patient care areas of an assisted living project. Is open air fire alarm cabling an acceptable method in patient care areas? Under Art. 517, emergency systems, there are requirements for installation and protection. Under part VI. Communications, Signaling Systems, Data Systems, Fire Alarm Systems, and Systems less than 120v nominal, Class 2 or 3 Communications, Signaling Systems, Data Systems, Fire Alarm Systems are not required to meert the requirements of 517.13 or to meet the mechanical protection of 517.30(C)(3)(5), or to be enclosed in raceways unless otherwise specified in CHP 7 or 8.

So, I believe that open air installation of FA cable is permitted in patient care area's of an assisted living home. Correct??

Thanks, and hope everyone had a merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!

Yes, all other things (local amendments, etc) being equal you can run fire alarm cables exposed, subject to a few restrictions that have to do with the potential for cable damage. However, if you are dealing with a suppression system of any kind the requirements are more stringent; see NPA-2001.