A building inspector is reviewing the plans for a new three-story office building (Group B). The building has a total floor area of 30,000 square feet per floor. The plans indicate the use of a fire alarm control unit (FACU). Which of the following statements regarding the FACU is TRUE according to IBC?
- AThe FACU must be located in an area accessible only to building occupants.
- BThe FACU is permitted to be located in an unsupervised mechanical room, provided it has an annunciator at a constantly attended location.
- CThe FACU must be located in a continuously attended principal control room.
- DThe FACU is permitted to be located in an electrical room accessible to authorized personnel, provided it is not subject to damage.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. The FACU is permitted to be located in an electrical room accessible to authorized personnel, provided it is not subject to damage.
According to IBC Section 907.6.3.1, the fire alarm control unit (FACU) and associated system components shall be protected from unauthorized access and shall be located in an area where they are not subject to damage. This often includes electrical rooms or dedicated fire alarm closets, accessible to authorized personnel. While a continuously attended location is ideal, it's not universally mandated for the FACU itself, provided proper annunciation is present.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Accessible only to building occupants is incorrect; it needs to be accessible to authorized personnel, including emergency responders.
- B. While an annunciator is required, locating the FACU in an unsupervised mechanical room is generally not preferred and could be problematic for maintenance and emergency access, unless specific protections are in place. The primary concern is protection from damage and unauthorized access, not just supervision.
- C. A continuously attended principal control room is ideal for high-rise or complex buildings, but not a universal requirement for all FACUs in a Group B occupancy.
FACU Location Requirements
The Fire Alarm Control Unit (FACU) must be located in a secure, protected area accessible to authorized personnel, ensuring its operational integrity and serviceability.
- Protected from unauthorized access.
- Protected from physical damage.
- Accessible to authorized personnel and emergency responders.
- Often in electrical rooms or dedicated closets.
Memory trick: FACU location: Secure, safe, and for the right hands only.