Fire Alarm and Fire Suppression System Testing
All life safety devices are monitored 24/7 by a third-party monitoring service. Alarms are received via private radio frequency in a secure location. On campus Reed College staff are notified and respond immediately when a monitored alarm comes in.
The College is required to perform annual full functionality tests on our notification and alarm monitoring systems. These systems include smoke detectors, heat detectors, beam detectors, alarm panels, and monitoring devices. All fire alarm devices are tested with smoke or heat and the activations are recorded by the monitoring device and received by the offsite monitor. These systems are tested with support from specialized contractors and Facilities Services staff. All fire alarm testing is completed over winter break in order to minimize impact on community members.
Wet and dry fire suppression systems are tested annually over summer break. All sprinkler heads on campus are inspected. Trip devices are triggered and timed to meet Federal requirements. Monitored devices are all triggered and results are logged.
Dry agent/gas fire suppression systems provide protection for special areas, such as, kitchen hoods and fryers, paint booths server rooms or specialized equipment. All of these equipment types are tested at least annually. Some are tested more frequently due to location and occupancy.
Fire Department connections are tested every 5 years. Valves are tested and lines are backflushed by a certified contractor.
Fire hydrants are exercised and inspected annually on campus and receive flow tests every 5 years.
If you have specific questions about these or any other testing protocol please contact Facilities Services at facilities-services@reed.edu.