Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance
Domain 6 covers acceptance testing, periodic inspection and testing, sensitivity verification, and documentation. The exam expects you to know that testing is a defined process with records, not simply pressing the alarm button.
Core rules
- Acceptance testing is performed after installation and before the system is placed in service, with the AHJ notified and often present.
- NFPA 72 sets periodic frequencies: most initiating devices and notification appliances are tested annually; some supervisory devices have different intervals.
- Smoke detector sensitivity must be checked within one year after installation and at least every alternate year thereafter, and after cleaning or repair.
- Test records must identify the device, test method, result, date, and tester.
- Impairments require notification to the AHJ and building occupants, and a documented restoration procedure.
Worked example
A smoke detector installed in 2019 has no sensitivity test record. During an annual inspection, the tester finds it still alarms when tested with smoke but has never been checked for sensitivity. NFPA 72 requires sensitivity verification within one year of installation and every alternate year thereafter. The correct action is to perform the sensitivity test, clean or recalibrate if needed, and record the result. A functional alarm test alone does not satisfy the sensitivity requirement.
Traps
- Equating an alarm activation test with a sensitivity test.
- Failing to notify the AHJ before acceptance testing.
- Not documenting the test method and result.
- Leaving a system impaired without notifying occupants and the AHJ.