| CODE: | 1994 State Regulations for Barrier-Free Facilities |
| SECTION: | Section 1105.4.9, Alarms |
| QUESTION: | Is it the intent of Section 1105.4.9 to require installation of an audible device together with each visible device installed in a fire alarm system? |
| ANSWER: | The intent of the code, as provided in Section 1101.1, is to provide
standards equivalent to the ADA Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG).
Visual alarms have specific placement requirements to service specified areas, whereas audible alarm requirements apply only when provided under Section 1105.4.9. Audible decibel alarm requirements are found in Section 1007.2.12.9.2.1 of the Uniform Fire Code. Therefore, an audible alarm does not need to be provided with each visible alarm, provided that both audible and visual alarms meet minimum requirements under the following sections: Section 1105.4.9 and Section 1106.15 of the Barrier-Free Code, and Section 1007.2.12.9.2 of the Uniform Fire Code. Where provided, both audible and visible alarms are required to be included in an alarm system, but it is possible to have more visual alarm devices than audible alarm devices. They both are required to meet the minimum requirements under the Code. See also Interpretations 92-107 and 93-80. |
| SUPERSEDES: | None |
| REQUESTED BY: | King County |