Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to Your Fire Protection Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

At Alliance Fire Protection Services (AFPS), we understand that fire protection systems are essential to protecting lives, property, and businesses. Whether you’re responsible for a single commercial building or multiple facilities, you likely have questions about inspections, maintenance, code compliance, and life safety systems.

Below are answers to some of the questions we hear most often. If you don’t see your question listed, our knowledgeable team is always happy to help.

Fire Alarms

What does a Fire Alarm Inspection consist of?

Testing all initiating devices (pull stations, smoke detectors, duct detectors)
Visual inspection and testing of notification appliances
Testing of building system interconnections (Elevator Recall, HVAC Shutdown, etc.)

Will my tenants or building occupants be distubed during the inspection?

AFPS can schedule the sound test portion of the alarm inspection during a time when the facility is least occupied. We will need access to all areas of the building that have alarm devices.

Fire Sprinklers

Will all the sprinklers in my building go off during the inspection?

No. No fire sprinklers should operate during required inspections. Sprinklers are designed to go off individually due to heat. Even in a fire, typically only one to two sprinklers operate.

What is a "Green Tag" and will I get one after my inspection?

The State of Georgia requires a color coded tag to be placed on each fire sprinkler system to identify if the system is operational and code compliant. A “Green” tag means that the system has no operational deficiencies. A “Yellow” tag means that there are deficiencies that hinder the operation of the system and should be corrected to ensure proper operation. A “Red” tag means that the system is out of service and should be immediately corrected (the owner is responsible for notifying the local AHJ of this within 24 hours and must immediately take action to correct the issue). A “Green Tag” is not guaranteed following an inspection. AFPS sprinkler reports will list the tag color for each system and any deficiencies or recommendations in the report summary.

Fire Extinguishers

Besides the annual inspection, what other service or inspections are required for fire extinguishers?

Fire extinguishers are required to visually inspected monthly, and, depending on the type of extinguisher and environment, are required to be serviced or hydrostatically tested every 5, 6, or 12 years.

Does AFPS offer fire extiguisher training?

Yes, AFPS can perform training for your employees that meets OSHA requirements.

How many extinguishers do I need?

The general rule is that there should be a fire extinguisher approximately every 75 feet for Class A hazards (wood, paper, plastic) and every 50 feet for Class B hazards (flammable liquids).

Kitchen Hood / Industrial Suppression

How often do kitchen hood suppression systems need to be inspected?

At 6 month intervals.

What services are typically performed during service of a hood suppression system?

Inspection of system piping and nozzles
Replacement of fusible actuation links
Replacement of actuation cartridges (if so equipped)
Replacement of protective nozzle caps
Aiming of nozzles
Additional service items may be required such as hydrostatic cylinder testing – customer will be advised in writing and a quote prepared for any additional services needed

Monitoring

Do I have to have fire system monitoring?

The International Fire Code, as adopted by the State of Georgia, requires that all fire systems, to include fire sprinkler water flow switches and tamper switches, report signals to a central station for fire department notification.

What options are there for fire system monitoring?

Depending on your location, traditional “land line” monitoring using two phone lines or cellular radio monitoring may be available. Cellular radio monitoring can save hundreds to thousands of dollars per year over land line monitoring.

What if I don't have a fire alarm system, but I do have a sprinkler system? Can I still be monitored?

Yes. AFPS can install a fire alarm communicator that is capable of reporting water flow and tamper switch activation to a central station without having a full fire alarm system. The communicators are capable of reporting up to six zones.

Exit / Emergency Lights

What inspections are required on exit / emergency lights?

Monthly testing of battery operated lights (Quick Check)
Annual 90 Minute Test

What if my exit / emergency lights aren't working?

AFPS can replace existing lights, bulbs, and batteries in devices that aren’t working. We can retrofit old units that use incandescent bulbs to new, LED bulbs that last longer and use less power.

Do I have to have my exit / emergency lights tested?

Yes, both OSHA and NFPA 101 require that exit/emergency lights be tested at regular intervals to make sure they are in proper working order.

Still Have Questions?

Every building is different, and every fire protection system has unique requirements. If you have questions about your facility, inspections, maintenance schedules, repairs, code compliance, or any of our services, we’re here to help.

Our knowledgeable team is happy to answer your questions, discuss your fire protection needs, and recommend solutions tailored to your business.

Contact Alliance Fire Protection Services today to speak with one of our experienced professionals or request a free consultation. We’re committed to helping businesses throughout Metro Atlanta stay safe, compliant, and prepared.