How often are fire alarm systems typically inspected and tested?

• A. Annually by the building owner.
• B. At prescribed intervals by the AHJ or authority having jurisdiction, with functional tests of initiating and notification devices.
• C. Monthly by occupants.
• D. Only after a major incident.

Answer: (B)

Regular, scheduled inspections and tests are required to ensure a fire alarm system will operate correctly when needed. The authority having jurisdiction sets the intervals for these checks based on local codes and the building type, ensuring the system is kept up to date and compliant. What makes the answer the best is the emphasis on prescribed intervals and the need to perform functional tests of initiating devices (like pull stations and detectors) and notification devices (such as horns and strobes). These functional tests demonstrate that signals can be generated, transmitted, and audible/visible throughout the building, not just that components exist.

This isn’t something occupants can reliably do monthly, and it isn’t appropriate to rely only on a building owner, nor to wait until after a major incident. The tests must be carried out by qualified personnel under the AHJ’s guidelines, and the schedule can vary by jurisdiction and system type, but the underlying practice remains: regular, jurisdiction-driven inspections with hands-on functional testing to verify proper operation.