Fire Alarm System Impairment Notification

Step-by-step checklist for managing fire alarm system impairments. Covers notifications, fire watch, and system restoration procedures.

NFPA 72 §14.2.2 / NFPA 25 §15.5

INSPECTOR

LOCATION / FACILITY

DATE

Progress: 0 / 10 items0%

Pre-Impairment

Notify the fire alarm monitoring company of the planned impairment and expected durationNFPA 72 §14.2.2

Obtain confirmation number or written acknowledgment

Notify the local fire department / AHJ of the impairment

Some jurisdictions require written notification — check local requirements

Notify building management and facility safety officer

Include scope, duration, and areas affected

Assign trained fire watch personnel for the duration of the impairmentNFPA 101 §9.6.1.8

Fire watch must patrol affected areas at intervals not exceeding 30 minutes

During Impairment

Document the impairment start date and time in the impairment log

Include system zones or devices affected

Post impairment signage at the fire alarm control panel and affected areas

Sign should state: "Fire alarm system impaired — fire watch in effect"

Notify building occupants of the impairment and alternate notification methods

Use PA announcements, email, or posted notices as appropriate

Ensure alternate detection/notification methods are in place (air horns, portable radios, manual patrols)

Fire watch personnel must have a reliable means to alert occupants and summon the fire department

Restoration

Verify the fire alarm system has been fully restored to normal operation — all zones clearNFPA 72 §14.2.2

Perform a walk test or device activation test to confirm functionality

Notify all parties of restoration: monitoring company, fire department, building management, and occupants

Document the restoration date, time, and name of person verifying restoration

Notes & Deficiencies

IMPORTANT

Fire alarm impairments lasting more than 4 hours in a 24-hour period require notification to the AHJ in most jurisdictions. In healthcare occupancies, ILSM (Interim Life Safety Measures) must be activated per NFPA 101 §4.6.10 whenever a fire alarm system is impaired. Always document impairments in the facility impairment log.