MIL-HDBK-1191
13.7
Fire Detection and Alarm Systems (FDAS). Fire alarm systems shall
be provided for all medical facilities in accordance with MIL-HDBK-1008
(reference 13b), and NFPA 101 (reference 13a), NFPA 99 (reference 13e), and
NFPA 90A (reference 13f). These systems shall be installed in accordance with
NFPA 72 (reference 13g) and NFPA 70 (reference 13n).
NOTE: Combining FDAS with other building systems such as building automation,
energy management, security, etc, is not permitted. Down-time caused by any
of these non-life safety systems will also take the FDAS out of service which
is unacceptable.
13.7.1
Clinics. Free standing clinics shall be provided with a
supervised, manually operated, non-coded general fire alarm system.
Exception: Large clinics over 50,000 square feet may be provided with a coded
system.
13.7.2
Fire Alarm System Zoning. Each smoke compartment shall be zoned
(annunciated at the FDAS panel and at any remote annunciator panels)
separately. Maximum area of each smoke compartment shall be as required by
NFPA 101 (reference 13a).
13.7.3
Alarm Indicators and Control Panels. Locate the main control
panel at the emergency area reception desk or at a 24-hour supervised location
and coordinated with the facility. Large medical facilities may require
additional locator panels at designated nursing stations and major lobbies.
The fire detection system panel shall be provided with audible signals for
power failure, open circuit, ground, smoke detector failure, sprinkler valve
water-flow detection, and fire pumps.
13.7.4
Automatic Smoke Detection. Smoke detection shall be provided
where required in accordance with NFPA 101 (reference 13a), NFPA 101A
(reference 13d), NFPA 90A (reference 13f), NFPA 72 (reference 13g), ASTM A17.1
(reference 13r) and MIL-HDBK-1008 (reference 13b). Where many smoke detectors
are required to be installed, analog addressable systems are encouraged. Spot
type, ceiling mounted smoke detectors shall be photoelectric type.
NOTE: Smoke detection systems require significant testing and maintenance.
It is critical that required detectors are properly installed and maintained.
Providing detectors in locations that are not required increases the already
high maintenance costs of alarm systems and strains the maintenance program
for critical detection systems. If a facility or design warrants protection
and criteria do not require detection, protection should be accomplished by
sprinkler protection, preferably wet pipe sprinklers which provide superior
protection with very little maintenance.
13.7.5
Manual Fire Alarm Boxes. Manual alarm initiation stations shall
be located within 5 feet of each stairway exit door, exit doors to the
outside, horizontal exits and normal means of egress, and shall comply with
the requirements of NFPA 72 (reference 13g) and NFPA 101 (reference 13a).
13.7.6
Occupant Notification. Where "defend-in-place" evacuation is
provided, alarm signals shall be coded. Audible notification device shall not
be located within surgical operating rooms. Provide subdued audible
indicating appliances in critical care areas.
13.7.6.1
Visual Alarms. Visual alarm notification is required for all
medical facilities in accordance with NFPA 101. Visual alarms shall be in
view of all nurses stations, exits, and at locations such as mechanical rooms
where the operating noise levels (sound pressure) exceed the level of the
audible alarm. For facilities that have a fire safety evacuation plan, which
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