December 2007 Tech Talk Online Q & A
Q: I have been having a lot of trouble with technicians labeling cable on new installs. Do you have any suggestions that would help do a better job?
A: Yes. I can think a couple of ideas that will make the installation go smoother. Make sure to mark cables in two locations: one at the end and the other a foot or so up the cable. This will help eliminate the problem of stripping the markings off the end of the cable jacket. Another idea is to take a plain letter-size envelope, cut off some of the top, and tape the cut folder to the inside door of your alarm panel. This will make a nice big pocket on the inside of the door. Start out with a cabling identification list of the cables you have labeled and where they go. Keep the list in the alarm panel pocket for reference.
Q: What is the correct height for wiring in a fire alarm pull station? I have heard some say 54 inches, while others say 48 inches. Which is correct?
A: Actually, both are somewhat correct. You must comply with Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines which state: “If the clear floor space only allows forward approach to an object, the maximum forward reach height allowed is 48 inches (1,220 mm). If the clear floor space allows parallel approach by a person in a wheelchair, the maximum side reach height allowed is 54 inches (1,370 mm).
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