Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) Systems is a term that frequently refers to Emergency Responder Communication Enhancement Systems (ERCES). The purpose of these systems is to ensure hand-held radio coverage in buildings for first responders. Firefighters are first responders, but the term also includes police and emergency medical personnel. ERCES were developed due to the lack of in-building communication during operations at the World Trade Center terrorist attack on September 11, 2001. The design and installation of BDA systems are required to be performed by qualified individuals. The operation of BDA systems, or lack of, can result in the loss of life.
The Fire Alarm Basic Bundle (FABB) consists of five core fire alarm courses: Fire Alarm System Fundamentals; Fire Alarm System Documentation; Fire Alarm System Initiating Devices; Fire Alarm System Notification Appliances; and Protected Premises Alarm Systems.
IDG University offers a no-cost fire alarm technician qualification evaluation. The Fire Alarm Qualification Calculator is a free online evaluation of basic fire alarm system knowledge. The 20-question quiz will present five topics, with four questions each. The topics are: Fire Alarm System Fundamentals; Fire Alarm System Documentation; Fire Alarm System Initiating Devices; Fire Alarm System Notification Appliances; and Protected Premises Alarm Systems. The Qualification Calculator can be used to identify areas of weakness and training needed.
The Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, NFPA 72, requires that all aspects of a fire alarm system design, testing, service, repair and acceptance be documented. This requirement applies to new and existing systems, and it does not limit additional documentation from being generated. NFPA 72 has combined all the documentation requirements into Chapter 7 of the code. The documentation associated with fire alarm and signaling systems ensure the equipment is properly maintained and will perform as designed during a fire or other emergency. The Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) will make periodic inspections to ensure fire alarm and signaling systems are properly maintained by examining required documentation.
The purpose of fire alarm and signaling systems is to protect life and property. NFPA 72, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, provides the requirements for the basic functions and fundamentals for fire alarm systems. Fire alarm system fundamentals govern the aspects of the equipment; system design and installation; the qualification requirement of personnel; power supplies; and system signals. Documentation is a fundamental, and the topic is covered in its own course; Fire Alarm System Documentation.
Fire alarm and signaling systems rely on initiating devices to transmit a change-of-state, which signal is processed by programming to activate outputs. Initiating devices attached to a fire alarm system are either automatic, or manually activated. Initiating devices detect particles of combustion, heat, gases, temperature, position of valves and monitors equipment. The performance of initiating devices requires the proper selection, location according to NFPA 72, the Fire Alarm and Signaling Code.
Notification Appliances attached to fire alarm and signaling systems provide indication to occupants using visual, audible, tactile and textual methods. Notification appliances are designed to be perceived by any person and the appliances stimulate either the sense of sight, touch or hearing. Fire alarm and signaling system designers will select the appropriate appliance for the application. Sleeping areas will have low-frequency sounders, occupancies where large number or people gather will have voice instructions, or those with extreme hearing loss may have devices to shake their bed to awaken them. Fire alarm system notification appliances are required and it is essential to the protection of life.
Foam suppression systems are utilized in applications involving hazardous materials, dangerous chemicals or flammable liquids, to prevent or suppress a fire. Foam suppression systems are either mobile, or fixed and are also found in marine applications. The characteristics of foam enable the agent to disrupt the chemical reaction of fire by removing heat and oxygen. The standards used today for foam suppression systems was developed by the National Fire Protection Association in 1921 to address fire hazards in manufacturing. The evolution of the use of foam to suppress fires considers the impact on the environment and the health of humans.
Ohm’s Law is a formula that was first published in 1827, and was derived from the observations of the relationship between voltage, current and resistance that was made by Georg Ohm. Ohm’s Law is used in the design of electrical circuits; the troubleshooting of electrical circuits using measurements compared to known values; and calculating the proper battery and power supply sizing. Ohm’s Law applies to any device, equipment, or component that is electrical in nature. Knowledge and practical application of Ohm’s Law is a skill that will enhance electrical competence.
The Protected Premises Alarm and Signaling System is the basis of all other systems found in the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, NFPA 72. The requirements for a Protected Premises will apply to fire alarm systems and signaling systems that utilize voice instructions during non-fire emergencies. The purpose of a Protected Premises Alarm and Signaling Systems is to protect life and property from the losses due to fire within the building they are installed, and NFPA 72 allows Dedicated Systems. Dedicated systems will perform emergency control functions to enhance the survivability during a fire when building codes do not require a fire alarm system. The features of a protected premises are the basic fundamentals that are found in dedicated systems, fire alarm systems and emergency voice and communication systems.