In a similar fashion, a fire alarm contractor would test a duct detector or the open area detection that may be interfaced with a fire/smoke damper. While they may hear the damper closing, they are not verifying that the damper has closed properly and is providing a barrier to heat and smoke. Likewise, the installer of the fire/smoke damper would verify the proper operation of the unit, but may not test the detection device(s) that have been installed to cause it to activate.

There are endless integration possibilities, depending on the complexity of the system. The goal of NFPA 4 is to provide guidelines for the testing of these systems so as to verify that the intent of the life-safety system design is operational.

NFPA 4 is not a long document; the mandatory text resides within seven pages. The text provides a framework for the requirements, but does not provide point-by-point descriptions on how each part of an integrated system test is to be executed. 

The scope of NFPA 4 is:

1.1.1The standard shall provide the minimum requirements for testing of integrated fire protection and life-safety systems where such testing is required by the design documents, commissioning plan, governing laws, codes, regulations, or standards.

1.1.2 This standard shall not provide requirements for testing of individual systems.

1.1.3 The requirements of this standard shall apply to new and existing systems.

1.1.4 This standard shall not be interpreted to require integrated fire protection and life-safety systems testing unless otherwise required by the design documents or commissioning plan, or by governing laws, codes, regulations, or standards.

Note that unless NFPA 4 is either adopted as a referenced standard by a code or authority having jurisdiction, or by the owner of a premises, that integrated testing is not a requirement.

The purpose of NFPA 4 is:

1.2.1 The purpose of this standard shall be to provide a testing protocol that will verify that integrated fire protection and life-safety systems perform as intended.

1.2.2 The integrated fire protection and life-safety system test shall verify the proper operation and function of all interconnected fire protection and life-safety systems.

While the scope and purpose describe where and how the standard is to be applied, it is the application section that describes what is to be achieved:

1.3.1 This standard shall apply to integrated passive and active fire protection and life-safety equipment and systems.

1.3.2 Integrated systems testing shall verify and document the following:

1. Performance in accordance with applicable codes and standards
2. Sequence of operation
3. Performance in accordance with manufacturers’ published instructions
4. Accuracy of record documents

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