Is there anywhere in the code that requires a specific color for Fire Alarm Circuits?

[DownRiverGUy]

Hey all,

Has anyone run into a problem using FPLP cable for a fire alarm system where the outer protective coating was not red?

We have a contractor who is using yellow cable for a job and while our spec. indicates red we are trying to find if there is anything in any code related to wiring color...

Nothing has popped out at us in Art. 760.

Any information is appreciated! Thanks guys!

 

[muskiedog]

Nfpa 72

Nfpa 72

Take a look at this. I guess I have always seen red wiring to the fire system components.

 

[DownRiverGUy]

Checking thru the NFPA72 all I see that really applies to identification is this...

9.7.1.6.4.1 - Fire alarms circuits shall be identified by the use of red covers or doors. The words "public fire alarm circuit" shall be clearly marked on all terminal and junction locations to prevent unintentional interference.

Didn't see anywhere else that marked out what color anything should be :-x

Has anyone been flagged by an inspector for not using red? Does anyone use any color besides red?

 

[eric9822]

Take a look here: http://firealarm.org/myth_buster.html

 

[DownRiverGUy]

That link states in the Mythbuster #1 section that "FACT: There is no rule in the NEC or NFPA 72 or anywhere else, that junction boxes be painted red."

So.... if you're staying that the website is true where does this section fit in?

9.7.1.6.4.1 - Fire alarms circuits shall be identified by the use of red covers or doors. The words "public fire alarm circuit" shall be clearly marked on all terminal and junction locations to prevent unintentional interference.

Can't say I can agree with what the site says. I'm apprehensive about agreeing with a site when it seems to contradict the code? and is trying to sell something.

Does anyone else have any input or experience with this sort of thing?

 

[petersonra]

Just reading what was posted leads me to believe that only the door or cover has to be red, not the j-box. And it doesn't say the cover or door has to be on the j-box.

That link states in the Mythbuster #1 section that "FACT: There is no rule in the NEC or NFPA 72 or anywhere else, that junction boxes be painted red."

So.... if you're staying that the website is true where does this section fit in?

9.7.1.6.4.1 - Fire alarms circuits shall be identified by the use of red covers or doors. The words "public fire alarm circuit" shall be clearly marked on all terminal and junction locations to prevent unintentional interference.

Can't say I can agree with what the site says. I'm apprehensive about agreeing with a site when it seems to contradict the code… and is trying to sell something.

Does anyone else have any input or experience with this sort of thing?

 

[nakulak]

NFPA 72 (2007)
4.4.1.4.2.2
-disconnecting means shall have red marking . . . and identified as "Fire Alarm Ckt"


somewhere in there it says that pull stations have to contrast with background

other than that, I guess its just convention.

that being said, you should probably check with your ahj, statewide bldg code, or fire marshall
in case they have added any ammendments to the code in your jurisdiction. Spece for jobs we do
often have extra requirements which do indicate red junction boxes, sometimes red pipe or labelled
pipe etc.

 

[electricalperson]

ive done a job where we had to paint the 4 inch square covers red along with couplings and connectors for the emt. im sure the electrical inspector wont pick up on it but the fire inspector (the fire chief) might

 

[brennan]

By code Fire Alarm wire does not have to be red. But if it is in the specs I would clear it with the architects.

 

[DownRiverGUy]

Thanks for all the information and time guys

I appreciate it! Looks like we're going to let the contractor use the yellow cable. Because of the large amount of work that was done it would be a lot of work for the guy to tear out/redo. Thus why we're checking to see if there is anything "in the code" that would stop us from allowing this installation.

Thanks again for everyone?s input on the matter!

 

[eric9822]

I'm apprehensive about agreeing with a site when it seems to contradict the code? and is trying to sell something.

I agree that all information found on a vendors website should be independently verified but I don''t see anything that contradicts code, if you do then please share. If I can't find something in the code I am not always sure if it isn't there or if I just can't find it. A third party posting telling me it's not there makes me more confident that I did not overlook something.