Fire Alarm Systems

A life safety system

Fire alarm systems are designed around the building's use, size and layout under the National Building Code, Alberta Edition, and related standards. Panels, detectors, pull stations, horns and strobes, and connections to sprinkler monitoring all have to work together.

Design is the job of qualified professionals, and our in-house engineering group coordinates with the consultants on each project. Our electricians then install to the approved drawings.

Typical components

• Fire alarm control panel and annunciator
• Smoke and heat detectors
• Manual pull stations
• Audible and visual notification devices
• Sprinkler flow and tamper monitoring
• Door holders and elevator recall connections where required
• Monitoring connection to a central station

Renovations and tenant improvements

In existing buildings, the new work has to connect to the base building system. That often means working with the building's alarm contractor or owner. We find out early what system is in place, what changes are allowed and how the shutdowns will be handled.

Moving a wall or adding a ceiling can change detector coverage. We plan device locations along with the ceiling and lighting layout, so they do not clash with diffusers or fixtures.

Testing and verification

Every device must be tested before the system is accepted. Verification is carried out against the standards, and the local authority and fire department may need to attend. We book these steps in the schedule, since they are on the critical path to occupancy.

During testing and construction, the system is sometimes out of service. We set up fire watch arrangements and impairment notices as needed and follow the owner's procedures.

Because HSM self-performs electrical work, fire alarm wiring stays on the same schedule as the rest of the building. Our low voltage team and electricians share pathways, which keeps ceilings tidy and reduces rework.