NFPA70 - ARTICLE 760 Fire Alarm Systems
Posted: Thu Jun 04, 2009 11:31 am
ARTICLE 760 Fire Alarm Systems
I. General
760.1 Scope. This article covers the installation of wiring and equipment of fire alarm systems including all circuits controlled and powered by the fire alarm system.
FPN No. 1: Fire alarm systems include fire detection and alarm notification, guard’s tour, sprinkler waterflow, and sprinkler supervisory systems. Circuits controlled and powered by the fire alarm system include circuits for the control of building systems safety functions, elevator capture, elevator shutdown, door release, smoke doors and damper control, fire doors and damper control and fan shutdown, but only where these circuits are powered by and controlled by the fire alarm system. For further information on the installation and monitoring for integrity requirements for fire alarm systems, refer to the NFPA 72®-2007, National Fire Alarm Code®.
FPN No. 2: Class 1, 2, and 3 circuits are defined in Article 725.
760.2 Definitions.
Abandoned Fire Alarm Cable. Installed fire alarm cable that is not terminated at equipment other than a connector and not identified for future use with a tag.
Fire Alarm Circuit. The portion of the wiring system between the load side of the overcurrent device or the power-limited supply and the connected equipment of all circuits powered and controlled by the fire alarm system. Fire alarm circuits are classified as either non–power-limited or power-limited.
Fire Alarm Circuit Integrity (CI) Cable. Cable used in fire alarm systems to ensure continued operation of critical circuits during a specified time under fire conditions.
Non–Power-Limited Fire Alarm Circuit (NPLFA). A fire alarm circuit powered by a source that complies with 760.41 and 760.43.
Power-Limited Fire Alarm Circuit (PLFA). A fire alarm circuit powered by a source that complies with 760.121.
760.3 Other Articles. Circuits and equipment shall comply with 760.3(A) through (G). Only those sections of Article 300 referenced in this article shall apply to fire alarm systems.
..(A) Spread of Fire or Products of Combustion. Section 300.21. The accessible portion of abandoned fire alarm cables shall be removed.
..(B) Ducts, Plenums, and Other Air-Handling Spaces. Section 300.22, where installed in ducts or plenums or other spaces used for environmental air.
Exception: As permitted in 760.53(B)(1) and (B)(2) and 760.154(A).
..(C) Hazardous (Classified) Locations. Articles 500 through 516 and Article 517, Part IV, where installed in azardous (classified) locations.
..(D) Corrosive, Damp, or Wet Locations. Sections 110.11, 300.6, and 310.9, where installed in corrosive, damp, or wet locations.
..(E) Building Control Circuits. Article 725, where building control circuits (e.g., elevator capture, fan shutdown) are associated with the fire alarm system.
..(F) Optical Fiber Cables. Where optical fiber cables are utilized for fire alarm circuits, the cables shall be installed in accordance with Article 770.
..(G) Installation of Conductors with Other Systems. Installations shall comply with 300.8.
760.21 Access to Electrical Equipment Behind Panels Designed to Allow Access. Access to electrical equipment shall not be denied by an accumulation of conductors and cables that prevents removal of panels, including suspended ceiling panels.
760.24 Mechanical Execution of Work. Fire alarm circuits shall be installed in a neat workmanlike manner Cables and conductors installed exposed on the surface of ceilings and sidewalls shall be supported by the building structure in such a manner that the cable will not be damaged by normal building use. Such cables shall be supported by straps, staples, cable ties, hangers, or similar fittings designed and installed so as not to damage the cable. The installation shall also comply with 300.4(D).
760.25 Abandoned Cables. The accessible portion of abandoned fire alarm cables shall be removed. Where cables are identified for future use with a tag, the tag shall be of sufficient durability to withstand the environment involved.
760.30 Fire Alarm Circuit Identification. Fire alarm circuits shall be identified at terminal and junction locations in a manner that helps to prevent unintentional signals on fire alarm system circuit(s) during testing and servicing of other systems.
760.32 Fire Alarm Circuits Extending Beyond One Building. Power-limited fire alarm circuits that extend beyond one building and run outdoors either shall meet the installation requirements of Parts II, III, and IV of Article 800 or shall meet the installation requirements of Part I of Article 300. Non–power-limited fire alarm circuits that extend beyond one building and run outdoors shall meet the installation requirements of Part I of Article 300 and the applicable sections of Part I of Article 225.
760.35 Fire Alarm Circuit Requirements. Fire alarm circuits shall comply with 760.35(A) and (B).
..(A) Non–Power-Limited Fire Alarm (NPLFA) Circuits. See Parts I and II.
..(B) Power-Limited Fire Alarm (PLFA) Circuits. See Parts I and III. II. Non–Power-Limited Fire Alarm (NPLFA) Circuits
760.41 NPLFA Circuit Power Source Requirements.
..(A) Power Source. The power source of non–powerlimited fire alarm circuits shall comply with Chapters 1 through 4, and the output voltage shall be not more than 600 volts, nominal.
..(B) Branch Circuit. An individual branch circuit shall be required for the supply of the power source. This branch circuit shall not be supplied through ground-fault circuit interrupters or arc-fault circuit interrupters.
FPN: See 210.8(A)(5),
Exception, for receptacles in dwelling-unit unfinished basements that supply power for fire alarm systems.
760.43 NPLFA Circuit Overcurrent Protection. Overcurrent protection for conductors 14 AWG and larger shall be provided in accordance with the conductor ampacity without applying the derating factors of 310.15 to the ampacity calculation. Overcurrent protection shall not exceed 7 amperes for 18 AWG conductors and 10 amperes for 16 AWG conductors. Exception: Where other articles of this Code permit or require other overcurrent protection.
760.45 NPLFA Circuit Overcurrent Device Location. Overcurrent devices shall be located at the point where the
conductor to be protected receives its supply.
Exception No. 1: Where the overcurrent device protecting the larger conductor also protects the smaller conductor.
Exception No. 2: Transformer secondary conductors. Non–power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors supplied by the secondary of a single-phase transformer that has only a 2-wire (single-voltage) secondary shall be permitted to be protected by overcurrent protection provided by the primary (supply) side of the transformer, provided the protection is in accordance with 450.3 and does not exceed the value determined by multiplying the secondary conductor ampacity by the secondary-to-primary transformer voltage ratio. Transformer secondary conductors other than 2-wire shall not be considered to be protected by the primary overcurrent protection.
Exception No. 3: Electronic power source output conductors. Non–power-limited circuit conductors supplied by the output of a single-phase, listed electronic power source, other than a transformer, having only a 2-wire (singlevoltage) output for connection to non–power-limited circuits shall be permitted to be protected by overcurrent protection provided on the input side of the electronic power source, provided this protection does not exceed the value determined by multiplying the non–power-limited circuit conductor ampacity by the output-to-input voltage ratio. Electronic power source outputs, other than 2-wire (single voltage), connected to non–power-limited circuits shall not be considered to be protected by overcurrent protection onthe input of the electronic power source.
FPN: A single-phase, listed electronic power supply whose output supplies a 2-wire (single-voltage) circuit is an example of a non–power-limited power source that meets the requirements of 760.41.
760.46 NPLFA Circuit Wiring. Installation of non– power-limited fire alarm circuits shall be in accordance with 110.3(B), 300.7, 300.11, 300.15, 300.17, and otherappropriate articles of Chapter 3.
Exception No. 1: As provided in 760.48 through 760.53.
Exception No. 2: Where other articles of this Code require
760.48 Conductors of Different Circuits in Same Cable, Enclosure, or Raceway.
..(A) Class 1 with NPLFA Circuits. Class 1 and non–power-limited fire alarm circuits shall be permitted to occupy the same cable, enclosure, or raceway without regard to whether the individual circuits are alternating current or direct current, provided all conductors are insulated for the maximum voltage of any conductor in the enclosure or raceway.
..(B) Fire Alarm with Power-Supply Circuits. Power supply and fire alarm circuit conductors shall be permitted in the same cable, enclosure, or raceway only where connected to the same equipment.
760.49 NPLFA Circuit Conductors.
(A) Sizes and Use. Only copper conductors shall be permitted to be used for fire alarm systems. Size 18 AWG and 16 AWG conductors shall be permitted to be used, provided they supply loads that do not exceed the ampacities given in Table 402.5 and are installed in a raceway, an approved enclosure, or a listed cable. Conductors larger than 16 AWG shall not supply loads greater than the ampacities given in 310.15, as applicable.
(B) Insulation. Insulation on conductors shall be suitable for 600 volts. Conductors larger than 16 AWG shall comply with Article 310. Conductors 18 AWG and 16 AWG shall be Type KF-2, KFF-2, PAFF, PTFF, PF, PFF, PGF, PGFF, RFH-2, RFHH-2, RFHH-3, SF-2, SFF-2, TF, TFF, TFN, TFFN, ZF, or ZFF. Conductors with other types and thickness of insulation shall be permitted if listed for non–power-limited fire alarm circuit use.
FPN: For application provisions, see Table 402.3.(C) Conductor Materials. Conductors shall be solid or stranded copper.
Exception to (B) and (C): Wire Types PAF and PTF shall be permitted only for high-temperature applications between
90°C (194°F) and 250°C (482°F). 760.51 Number of Conductors in Cable Trays and Raceways, and Derating.
..(A) NPLFA Circuits and Class 1 Circuits. Where only non–power-limited fire alarm circuit and Class 1 circuit conductors are in a raceway, the number of conductors shall be determined in accordance with 300.17. The derating factors given in 310.15(B)(2)(a) shall apply if such conductors carry continuous load in excess of 10 percent of the ampacity of each conductor.
..(B) Power-Supply Conductors and Fire Alarm Circuit Conductors. Where power-supply conductors and fire alarm circuit conductors are permitted in a raceway in accordance with 760.48, the number of conductors shall be determined in accordance with 300.17. The derating factors given in 310.15(B)(2)(a) shall apply as follows:
....(1) To all conductors where the fire alarm circuit conductors carry continuous loads in excess of 10 percent of the ampacity of each conductor and where the total number of conductors is more than three
....(2) To the power-supply conductors only, where the fire alarm circuit conductors do not carry continuous loads in excess of 10 percent of the ampacity of each conductor and where the number of power-supply conductors is more than three
..(C) Cable Trays. Where fire alarm circuit conductors are installed in cable trays, they shall comply with 392.9 through 392.11.
760.53 Multiconductor NPLFA Cables. Multiconductor non–power-limited fire alarm cables that meet the requirements
of 760.176 shall be permitted to be used on fire alarm circuits operating at 150 volts or less and shall be installed in accordance with 760.53(A) and (B).
..(A) NPLFAWiring Method. Multiconductor non–powerlimited fire alarm circuit cables shall be installed in accordance with 760.53(A)(1), (A)(2), and (A)(3).
.... (1) Exposed or Fished in Concealed Spaces. In raceway or exposed on surface of ceiling and sidewalls or fished in
concealed spaces. Cable splices or terminations shall be made in listed fittings, boxes, enclosures, fire alarm devices,
or utilization equipment. Where installed exposed, cables shall be adequately supported and installed in such a
way that maximum protection against physical damage is afforded by building construction such as baseboards, door
frames, ledges, and so forth. Where located within 2.1 m (7 ft) of the floor, cables shall be securely fastened in an
approved manner at intervals of not more than 450 mm (18 in.).
.... (2) Passing Through a Floor or Wall. In metal raceway or rigid nonmetallic conduit where passing through a floor
or wall to a height of 2.1 m (7 ft) above the floor unless adequate protection can be afforded by building construction
such as detailed in 760.53(A)(1) or unless an equivalent solid guard is provided.
.... (3) In Hoistways. In rigid metal conduit, rigid nonmetallic conduit, intermediate metal conduit, liquidtight flexible
nonmetallic conduit, or electrical metallic tubing where installed in hoistways.
Exception: As provided for in 620.21 for elevators and similar equipment.
..(B) Applications of Listed NPLFA Cables. The use of non–power-limited fire alarm circuit cables shall comply with 760.53(B)(1) through (B)(4).
.... (1) Ducts and Plenums. Multiconductor non–powerlimited fire alarm circuit cables, Types NPLFP, NPLFR, and NPLF, shall not be installed exposed in ducts or plenums. FPN: See 300.22(B).
.... (2) Other Spaces Used for Environmental Air. Cables installed in other spaces used for environmental air shall be Type NPLFP.
Exception No. 1: Types NPLFR and NPLF cables installed in compliance with 300.22(C).
Exception No. 2: Other wiring methods in accordance with 300.22(C) and conductors in compliance with 760.49(C).
Exception No. 3: Type NPLFP-CI cable shall be permitted to be installed to provide a 2-hour circuit integrity rated cable.
.... (3) Riser. Cables installed in vertical runs and penetrating more than one floor or cables installed in vertical runs in a
shaft shall be Type NPLFR. Floor penetrations requiring Type NPLFR shall contain only cables suitable for riser or
plenum use.
Exception No. 1: Type NPLF or other cables that are specified in Chapter 3 and are in compliance with 760.49(C) and encased in metal raceway.
Exception No. 2: Type NPLF cables located in a fireproof shaft having firestops at each floor. FPN: See 300.21 for firestop requirements for floor penetrations.
Exception No. 3: Type NPLF-CI cable shall be permitted to be installed to provide a 2-hour circuit integrity rated cable.
.... (4) Other Wiring Within Buildings. Cables installed in building locations other than the locations covered in
760.53(B)(1), (B)(2), and (B)(3) shall be Type NPLF.
Exception No. 1: Chapter 3 wiring methods with conductors in compliance with 760.49(C).
Exception No. 2: Type NPLFP or Type NPLFR cables shallbe permitted.
Exception No. 3: Type NPLFR-CI cable shall be permittedto be installed to provide a 2-hour circuit integrity rated cable. III. Power-Limited Fire Alarm (PLFA) Circuits
760.121 Power Sources for PLFA Circuits.
..(A) Power Source. The power source for a power-limited fire alarm circuit shall be as specified in 760.121(A)(1), (A)(2), or (A)(3).
FPN No. 1: Tables 12(A) and 12(B) in Chapter 9 provide the listing requirements for power-limited fire alarm circuit sources.
FPN No. 2: See 210.8(A)(5), Exception, for receptacles in dwelling-unit unfinished basements that supply power for fire alarm systems.
.... (1) A listed PLFA or Class 3 transformer.
.... (2) A listed PLFA or Class 3 power supply.
.... (3) Listed equipment marked to identify the PLFA powersource.
FPN: Examples of listed equipment are a fire alarm control panel with integral power source; a circuit card listed for use as a PLFA source, where used as part of a listed assembly; a current-limiting impedance, listed for the purpose or part of a listed product, used in conjunction with a non–power-limited transformer or a stored energy source, for example, storage battery, to limit the output current.
..(B) Branch Circuit. An individual branch circuit shall berequired for the supply of the power source. This branch circuit shall not be supplied through ground-fault circuitinterrupters or arc-fault circuit interrupters.
760.124 Circuit Marking. The equipment supplying PLFA circuits shall be durably marked where plainly visible to indicate each circuit that is a power-limited fire alarm circuit.
FPN: See 760.130(A),
Exception No. 3, where a powerlimited circuit is to be reclassified as a non–power-limited circuit.
760.127 Wiring Methods on Supply Side of the PLFA Power Source. Conductors and equipment on the supply
side of the power source shall be installed in accordance with the appropriate requirements of Part II and Chapters 1 through 4. Transformers or other devices supplied from power-supply conductors shall be protected by an overcurrent device rated not over 20 amperes.
Exception: The input leads of a transformer or other power source supplying power-limited fire alarm circuits shall be permitted to be smaller than 14 AWG, but not smaller than 18 AWG, if they are not over 300 mm (12 in.) long and if they have insulation that complies with 760.49(B).
760.130 Wiring Methods and Materials on Load Side of the PLFA Power Source. Fire alarm circuits on the load side of the power source shall be permitted to be installed using wiring methods and materials in accordance with 760.130(A), (B), or a combination of (A) and (B). (A) NPLFA Wiring Methods and Materials. Installation shall be in accordance with 760.46, and conductors shall be solid or stranded copper
Exception No. 1: The derating factors given in 310.15(B) (2)(a) shall not apply.
Exception No. 2: Conductors and multiconductor cables described in and installed in accordance with 760.49 and 760.53 shall be permitted.
Exception No. 3: Power-limited circuits shall be permitted to be reclassified and installed as non–power-limited circuits if the power-limited fire alarm circuit markings required by 760.124 are eliminated and the entire circuit is installed using the wiring methods and materials in accordance with Part II, Non–Power-Limited Fire Alarm Circuits.
FPN: Power-limited circuits reclassified and installed as non–power-limited circuits are no longer power-limited circuits, regardless of the continued connection to a power limited source.
..(B) PLFA Wiring Methods and Materials. Power-limited fire alarm conductors and cables described in 760.179 shall be installed as detailed in 760.130(B)(1), (B)(2), or (B)(3) of this section and 300.7. Devices shall be installed in accordance with 110.3(B), 300.11(A), and 300.15.
.... (1) Exposed or Fished in Concealed Spaces. In raceway or exposed on the surface of ceiling and sidewalls or fished in concealed spaces. Cable splices or terminations shall be made in listed fittings, boxes, enclosures, fire alarm devices, or utilization equipment. Where installed exposed, cables shall be adequately supported and installed in such a way that maximum protection against physical damage is afforded. by building construction such as baseboards, door frames, ledges, and so forth. Where located within 2.1 m (7 ft) of the floor, cables shall be securely fastened in an approved manner at intervals of not more than 450 mm (18 in.).
.... (2) Passing Through a Floor or Wall. In metal raceways or rigid nonmetallic conduit where passing through a floor or wall to a height of 2.1 m (7 ft) above the floor, unless adequate protection can be afforded by building construction such as detailed in 760.130(B)(1) or unless an equivalent solid guard is provided.
.... (3) In Hoistways. In rigid metal conduit, rigid nonmetallic conduit, intermediate metal conduit, or electrical metallic tubing where installed in hoistways.
Exception: As provided for in 620.21 for elevators and similar equipment.
760.133 Installation of Conductors and Equipment in Cables, Compartments, Cable Trays, Enclosures, Manholes, Outlet Boxes, Device Boxes, and Raceways for Power-Limited Circuits. Conductors and equipment for power-limited fire alarm circuits shall be installed in accordance with 760.136 through 760.143. 760.136 Separation from Electric Light, Power, Class 1, NPLFA, and Medium-Power Network-Powered Broadband Communications Circuit Conductors.
..(A) General. Power-limited fire alarm circuit cables and conductors shall not be placed in any cable, cable tray, compartment, enclosure, manhole, outlet box, device box, raceway, or similar fitting with conductors of electric light, power, Class 1, non–power-limited fire alarm circuits, and medium-power network-powered broadband communications circuits unless permitted by 760.136(B) through (G).
..(B) Separated by Barriers. Power-limited fire alarm circuit cables shall be permitted to be installed together with Class 1, non–power-limited fire alarm, and medium-power network-powered broadband communications circuits where they are separated by a barrier.
..(C) Raceways Within Enclosures. In enclosures, powerlimited fire alarm circuits shall be permitted to be installed in a raceway within the enclosure to separate them from Class 1, non–power-limited fire alarm, and medium-power network-powered broadband communications circuits.
..(D) Associated Systems Within Enclosures. Powerlimited fire alarm conductors in compartments, enclosures,device boxes, outlet boxes, or similar fittings shall be permitted to be installed with electric light, power, Class 1, non–power-limited fire alarm, and medium power networkpowered broadband communications circuits where they are introduced solely to connect the equipment connected to power-limited fire alarm circuits, and comply with either of the following conditions:
.... (1) The electric light, power, Class 1, non–power-limited fire alarm, and medium-power network-powered broadband communications circuit conductors are routed to maintain a minimum of 6 mm (0.25 in.) separation from the conductors and cables of power-limited fire alarm circuits.
.... (2) The circuit conductors operate at 150 volts or less to ground and also comply with one of the following:
...... a. The fire alarm power-limited circuits are installed using Type FPL, FPLR, FPLP, or permitted substitute cables, provided these power-limited cable conductors extending beyond the jacket are separated by a minimum of 6 mm (0.25 in.) or by a nonconductive sleeve or nonconductive barrier from all other conductors.
...... b. The power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors are installed as non–power-limited circuits in accordance with 760.46.
..(E) Enclosures with Single Opening. Power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors entering compartments, enclosures, device boxes, outlet boxes, or similar fittings shall be permitted to be installed with electric light, power, Class 1, non–power-limited fire alarm, and medium-power networkpowered broadband communications circuits where they are introduced solely to connect the equipment connected to power-limited fire alarm circuits or to other circuits controlled by the fire alarm system to which the other conductors in the enclosure are connected. Where power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors must enter an enclosure that is provided with a single opening, they shall be permitted to enter through a single fitting (such as a tee), provided the conductors are separated from the conductors of the other circuits by a continuous and firmly fixed nonconductor, such as flexible tubing.
..(F) In Hoistways. In hoistways, power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors shall be installed in rigid metal conduit, rigid nonmetallic conduit, intermediate metal conduit, liquidtight flexible nonmetallic conduit, or electrical metallic tubing. For elevators or similar equipment, these conductors shall be permitted to be installed as provided in 620.21.
..(G) Other Applications. For other applications, powerlimited fire alarm circuit conductors shall be separated by at least 50 mm (2 in.) from conductors of any electric light, power, Class 1, non–power-limited fire alarm, or mediumpower network-powered broadband communications circuits unless one of the following conditions is met:
.... (1) Either (a) all of the electric light, power, Class 1, non– power-limited fire alarm, and medium-power networkpowered broadband communications circuit conductors or (b) all of the power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors are in a raceway or in metal-sheathed, metalclad, nonmetallic-sheathed, or Type UF cables.
.... (2) All of the electric light, power, Class 1, non–powerlimited fire alarm, and medium-power networkpowered broadband communications circuit conductors are permanently separated from all of the powerlimited fire alarm circuit conductors by a continuous and firmly fixed nonconductor, such as porcelain tubes or flexible tubing, in addition to the insulation on the conductors.
760.139 Installation of Conductors of Different PLFA Circuits, Class 2, Class 3, and Communications Circuits in the Same Cable, Enclosure, Cable Tray, or Raceway.
..(A) Two or More PLFA Circuits. Cable and conductors of two or more power-limited fire alarm circuits, communications circuits, or Class 3 circuits shall be permitted within the same cable, enclosure, cable tray, or raceway.
..(B) Class 2 Circuits with PLFA Circuits. Conductors of one or more Class 2 circuits shall be permitted within the same cable, enclosure, cable tray, or raceway with conductors of power-limited fire alarm circuits, provided that the insulation of the Class 2 circuit conductors in the cable, enclosure, or raceway is at least that required by the powerlimited fire alarm circuits.
..(C) Low-Power Network-Powered Broadband Communications Cables and PLFA Cables. Low-power networkpowered broadband communications circuits shall be permitted in the same enclosure, cable tray, or raceway with PLFA cables.
..(D) Audio System Circuits and PLFA Circuits. Audio system circuits described in 640.9(C) and installed using Class 2 or Class 3 wiring methods in compliance with 725.133 and 725.154 shall not be permitted to be installed in the same cable, cable tray, or raceway with powerlimited conductors or cables.
760.142 Conductor Size. Conductors of 26 AWG shall be permitted only where spliced with a connector listed as suitable for 26 AWG to 24 AWG or larger conductors that are terminated on equipment or where the 26 AWG conductors are terminated on equipment listed as suitable for 26 AWG conductors. Single conductors shall not be smaller than 18 AWG.
760.143 Support of Conductors. Power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors shall not be strapped, taped, or attached
by any means to the exterior of any conduit or other raceway as a means of support.
760.145 Current-Carrying Continuous Line-Type Fire Detectors.
..(A) Application. Listed continuous line-type fire detectors, including insulated copper tubing of pneumatically operated detectors, employed for both detection and carrying signaling currents shall be permitted to be used in power-limited circuits.
..(B) Installation. Continuous line-type fire detectors shall be installed in accordance with 760.124 through 760.130 and 760.133.
760.154 Applications of Listed PLFA Cables. PLFA cables shall comply with the requirements described in either 760.154(A), (B), or (C) or where cable substitutions are made as shown in 760.154(D).
..(A) Plenum. Cables installed in ducts, plenums, and other spaces used for environmental air shall be Type FPLP. Types FPLP, FPLR, and FPL cables installed in compliance with 300.22 shall be permitted. Type FPLP-CI cable shall be permitted to be installed to provide a 2-hour circuit integrity rated cable.
..(B) Riser. Cables installed in risers shall be as described in either (1), (2), or (3):
.... (1) Cables installed in vertical runs and penetrating more than one floor, or cables installed in vertical runs in a shaft, shall be Type FPLR. Floor penetrations requiring Type FPLR shall contain only cables suitable for riser or plenum use. Type FPLR-CI cable shall be permitted to be installed to provide a 2-hour circuit integrity rated cable.
.... (2) Other cables shall be installed in metal raceways or located in a fireproof shaft having fire stops at each floor.
.... (3) Type FPL cable shall be permitted in one- and twofamily dwellings.
FPN: See 300.21 for firestop requirements for floor penetrations.
..(C) Other Wiring Within Buildings. Cables installed in building locations other than those covered in 760.154(A) or (B) shall be as described in either (C)(1), (C)(2), (C)(3), or (C)(4). Type FPL-CI cable shall be permitted to be installed as described in either (C)(1), (C)(2), (C)(3), or (C)(4) to provide a 2-hour circuit integrity rated cable.
.... (1) General. Type FPL shall be permitted.
.... (2) In Raceways. Cables shall be permitted to be installed in raceways.
.... (3) Nonconcealed Spaces. Cables specified in Chapter 3 and meeting the requirements of 760.179(A) and (B) shall be permitted to be installed in nonconcealed spaces where the exposed length of cable does not exceed 3 m (10 ft).
.... (4) Portable Fire Alarm System. A portable fire alarm system provided to protect a stage or set when not in use shall be permitted to use wiring methods in accordance with 530.12.
..(D) Fire Alarm Cable Substitutions. The substitutions for fire alarm cables listed in Table 760.154(D) and illustrated in Figure 760.154(D) shall be permitted. Where substitute cables are installed, the wiring requirements of Article 760, Parts I and III, shall apply.
FPN: For information on communications cables (CMP, CMR, CMG, CM), see 800.179. IV. Listing Requirements
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760.176 Listing and Marking of NPLFA Cables. Non– power-limited fire alarm cables installed as wiring within buildings shall be listed in accordance with 760.176(A) and (B) and as being resistant to the spread of fire in accordance with 760.176(C) through (F), and shall be marked in accordance with 760.176(G). Cable used in a wet location shall be listed for use in wet locations or have a moisture impervious metal sheath.
A B Cable A shall be permitted to be used in place of Cable B.
Multiconductor
cables
26 AWG minimum
Plenum
Figure 760.154(D) Cable Substitution Hierarchy.
Table 760.154(D) Cable Substitutions
Cable Type........... References Permitted.............Substitutions
FPLP..................... 760.154(A).......................... CMP
FPLR 760.154(B) CMP, FPLP, CMR
FPL 760.154(C) CMP, FPLP, CMR,
FPLR, CMG, CM
..(A) NPLFA Conductor Materials. Conductors shall be 18 AWG or larger solid or stranded copper.
..(B) Insulated Conductors. Insulated conductors shall be suitable for 600 volts. Insulated conductors 14 AWG and larger shall be one of the types listed in Table 310.13(A) or one that is identified for this use. Insulated conductors 18 AWG and 16 AWG shall be in accordance with 760.49.
..(C) Type NPLFP. Type NPLFP non–power-limited fire alarm cable for use in other space used for environmental air shall be listed as being suitable for use in other space used for environmental air as described in 300.22(C) and shall also be listed as having adequate fire-resistant and low smoke-producing characteristics.
FPN: One method of defining low smoke-producing cable is by establishing an acceptable value of the smoke produced when tested in accordance with NFPA 262-2007, Standard Method of Test for Flame Travel and Smoke of Wires and Cables for Use in Air-Handling Spaces, to a maximum peak optical density of 0.5 and a maximum average optical density of 0.15. Similarly, one method of defining fire-resistant cables is by establishing a maximum allowable flame travel distance of 1.52 m (5 ft) when tested in accordance with the same test.
..(D) Type NPLFR. Type NPLFR non–power-limited fire alarm riser cable shall be listed as being suitable for use in a vertical run in a shaft or from floor to floor and shall also be listed as having fire-resistant characteristics capable of preventing the carrying of fire from floor to floor.
FPN: One method of defining fire-resistant characteristics capable of preventing the carrying of fire from floor to floor is that the cables pass ANSI/UL 1666-2002, Test for Flame Propagation Height of Electrical and Optical-Fiber Cables Installed Vertically in Shafts.
..(E) Type NPLF. Type NPLF non–power-limited fire alarm cable shall be listed as being suitable for general-purpose fire alarm use, with the exception of risers, ducts, plenums, and other space used for environmental air, and shall also be listed as being resistant to the spread of fire.
FPN: One method of defining resistant to the spread of fire is that the cables do not spread fire to the top of the tray in the “UL Flame Exposure, Vertical Tray Flame Test” in UL 1685-2000, Standard for Safety for Vertical-Tray Fire- Propagation and Smoke-Release Test for Electrical and Optical-Fiber Cables. The smoke measurements in the test method are not applicable. Another method of defining resistant to the spread of fire is for the damage (char length) not to exceed 1.5 m (4 ft 11 in.) when performing the CSA “Vertical Flame Test — Cables in Cable Trays,” as described in CSA C22.2 No. 0.3-M-2001, Test Methods for Electrical Wires and Cables.
..(F) Fire Alarm Circuit Integrity (CI) Cable or Electrical Circuit Protective System. Cables used for survivability of critical circuits shall be listed as circuit integrity (CI) cable. Cables specified in 760.176(C), (D), and (E), and used for circuit integrity shall have the additional classification using the suffix “-CI.” Cables that are part of a listed electrical circuit protective system shall be considered to meet the requirements of survivability.
FPN No. 1: Fire alarm circuit integrity (CI) cable and electrical circuit protective systems may be used for fire alarm circuits to comply with the survivability requirements of NFPA 72®-2007, National Fire Alarm Code®, 6.9.4.3 and 6.9.4.6, that the circuit maintain its electrical function during fire conditions for a defined period of time.
FPN No. 2: One method of defining circuit integrity (CI) cable is by establishing a minimum 2-hour fire resistance rating for the cable when tested in accordance with UL 2196-1995, Standard for Tests of Fire Resistive Cables.
..(G) NPLFA Cable Markings. Multiconductor non– power-limited fire alarm cables shall be marked in accordance with Table 760.176(G). Non–power-limited fire alarm circuit cables shall be permitted to be marked with a maximum usage voltage rating of 150 volts. Cables that are listed for circuit integrity shall be identified with the suffix “CI” as defined in 760.176(F).
FPN: Cable types are listed in descending order of fire resistance rating.
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760.179 Listing and Marking of PLFA Cables and Insulated Continuous Line-Type Fire Detectors. Type FPLcables installed as wiring within buildings shall be listed as
Table 760.176(G) NPLFA Cable Markings
Cable Marking--------------Type-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Reference
NPLFP............. Non–power-limited fire alarm circuit cable for use in “other space used for environmental air”.....760.176(C) and
(G)
NPLFR Non–power-limited fire
alarm circuit riser cable
760.176(D) and
(G)
NPLF Non–power-limited fire
alarm circuit cable
760.176(E) and
(G)
--------------
Note: Cables identified in 760.176(C), (D), and (E) and meeting the requirements for circuit integrity shall have the additional classification using the suffix “CI” (for example, NPLFP-CI, NPLFR-CI, and NPLF-CI). being resistant to the spread of fire and other criteria in accordance with 760.179(A) through (H) and shall be marked in accordance with 760.179(I). Insulated continuous line-type fire detectors shall be listed in accordance with 760.179(J). Cable used in a wet location shall be listed for use in wet locations or have a moisture-impervious metal sheath.
..(A) Conductor Materials. Conductors shall be solid or stranded copper.
..(B) Conductor Size. The size of conductors in a multiconductor cable shall not be smaller than 26 AWG. Single conductors shall not be smaller than 18 AWG.
..(C) Ratings. The cable shall have a voltage rating of not less than 300 volts.
..(D) Type FPLP. Type FPLP power-limited fire alarm plenum cable shall be listed as being suitable for use in ducts, plenums, and other space used for environmental air and shall also be listed as having adequate fire-resistant and low smoke-producing characteristics.
FPN: One method of defining low smoke-producing cable is by establishing an acceptable value of the smoke produced when tested in accordance with NFPA 262-2007, Standard Method of Test for Flame Travel and Smoke of Wires and Cables for Use in Air-Handling Spaces, to a maximum peak optical density of 0.5 and a maximum average optical density of 0.15. Similarly, one method of defining fire-resistant cables is by establishing a maximum allowable flame travel distance of 1.52 m (5 ft) when tested in accordance with the same test.
..(E) Type FPLR. Type FPLR power-limited fire alarm riser cable shall be listed as being suitable for use in a vertical run in a shaft or from floor to floor and shall also be listed as having fire-resistant characteristics capable of preventing the carrying of fire from floor to floor.
FPN: One method of defining fire-resistant characteristics capable of preventing the carrying of fire from floor to floor is that the cables pass the requirements of ANSI/UL 1666-2002, Standard Test for Flame Propagation Height of Electrical and Optical-Fiber Cable Installed Vertically in Shafts.
..(F) Type FPL. Type FPL power-limited fire alarm cable shall be listed as being suitable for general-purpose fire alarm use, with the exception of risers, ducts, plenums, and other spaces used for environmental air, and shall also be listed as being resistant to the spread of fire.
FPN: One method of defining resistant to the spread of fire is that the cables do not spread fire to the top of the tray in the “UL Flame Exposure, Vertical Tray Flame Test” in UL 1685-2000, Standard for Safety for Vertical-Tray Fire- Propagation and Smoke-Release Test for Electrical and Optical-Fiber Cables. The smoke measurements in the test method are not applicable. Another method of defining resistant to the spread of fire is for the damage (char length) not to exceed 1.5 m (4 ft 11 in.) when performing the CSA “Vertical Flame Test —Cables in Cable Trays,” as described in CSA C22.2 No. 0.3-M-2001, Test Methods for Electrical Wires and Cables.
..(G) Fire Alarm Circuit Integrity (CI) Cable or Electrical Circuit Protective System. Cables used for survivability of critical circuits shall be listed as circuit integrity (CI) cable. Cables specified in 760.179(D), (E), (F), and (H) and used for circuit integrity shall have the additional classification using the suffix “-CI.” Cables that are part of a listed electrical circuit protective system shall be considered to meet the requirements of survivability.
FPN No. 1: Fire alarm circuit integrity (CI) cable and electrical circuit protective systems may be used for fire alarm circuits to comply with the survivability requirements of NFPA 72-2007, National Fire Alarm Code, 6.9.4.3 and 6.9.4.6, that the circuit maintain its electrical function during fire conditions for a defined period of time.
FPN No. 2: One method of defining circuit integrity (CI) cable is by establishing a minimum 2-hour fire resistance rating for the cable when tested in accordance with UL 2196-1995, Standard for Tests of Fire Resistive Cables.
..(H) Coaxial Cables. Coaxial cables shall be permitted to use 30 percent conductivity copper-covered steel center conductor wire and shall be listed as Type FPLP, FPLR, or FPL cable.
..(I) Cable Marking. The cable shall be marked in accordance with Table 760.179(I). The voltage rating shall not be marked on the cable. Cables that are listed for circuit integrity shall be identified with the suffix CI as defined in
760.179(G).
FPN: Voltage ratings on cables may be misinterpreted to suggest that the cables may be suitable for Class 1, electric light, and power applications.
Exception: Voltage markings shall be permitted where the cable has multiple listings and voltage marking is required for one or more of the listings.
Table 760.179(I) Cable Markings
Cable Marking Type
FPLP Power-limited fire alarm
plenum cable
FPLR Power-limited fire alarm riser
cable
FPL Power-limited fire alarm cable
---------------------------------------
Note: Cables identified in 760.179(D), (E), and (F) as meeting the requirements for circuit integrity shall have the additional classification using the suffix “CI” (for example, FPLP-CI, FPLR-CI, and FPL-CI).
FPN: Cable types are listed in descending order of fire resistancerating.
..(J) Insulated Continuous Line-Type Fire Detectors. Insulated continuous line-type fire detectors shall be rated in accordance with 760.179(C), listed as being resistant to the spread of fire in accordance with 760.179(D) through (F), marked in accordance with 760.179(I), and the jacket compound shall have a high degree of abrasion resistance.
I. General
760.1 Scope. This article covers the installation of wiring and equipment of fire alarm systems including all circuits controlled and powered by the fire alarm system.
FPN No. 1: Fire alarm systems include fire detection and alarm notification, guard’s tour, sprinkler waterflow, and sprinkler supervisory systems. Circuits controlled and powered by the fire alarm system include circuits for the control of building systems safety functions, elevator capture, elevator shutdown, door release, smoke doors and damper control, fire doors and damper control and fan shutdown, but only where these circuits are powered by and controlled by the fire alarm system. For further information on the installation and monitoring for integrity requirements for fire alarm systems, refer to the NFPA 72®-2007, National Fire Alarm Code®.
FPN No. 2: Class 1, 2, and 3 circuits are defined in Article 725.
760.2 Definitions.
Abandoned Fire Alarm Cable. Installed fire alarm cable that is not terminated at equipment other than a connector and not identified for future use with a tag.
Fire Alarm Circuit. The portion of the wiring system between the load side of the overcurrent device or the power-limited supply and the connected equipment of all circuits powered and controlled by the fire alarm system. Fire alarm circuits are classified as either non–power-limited or power-limited.
Fire Alarm Circuit Integrity (CI) Cable. Cable used in fire alarm systems to ensure continued operation of critical circuits during a specified time under fire conditions.
Non–Power-Limited Fire Alarm Circuit (NPLFA). A fire alarm circuit powered by a source that complies with 760.41 and 760.43.
Power-Limited Fire Alarm Circuit (PLFA). A fire alarm circuit powered by a source that complies with 760.121.
760.3 Other Articles. Circuits and equipment shall comply with 760.3(A) through (G). Only those sections of Article 300 referenced in this article shall apply to fire alarm systems.
..(A) Spread of Fire or Products of Combustion. Section 300.21. The accessible portion of abandoned fire alarm cables shall be removed.
..(B) Ducts, Plenums, and Other Air-Handling Spaces. Section 300.22, where installed in ducts or plenums or other spaces used for environmental air.
Exception: As permitted in 760.53(B)(1) and (B)(2) and 760.154(A).
..(C) Hazardous (Classified) Locations. Articles 500 through 516 and Article 517, Part IV, where installed in azardous (classified) locations.
..(D) Corrosive, Damp, or Wet Locations. Sections 110.11, 300.6, and 310.9, where installed in corrosive, damp, or wet locations.
..(E) Building Control Circuits. Article 725, where building control circuits (e.g., elevator capture, fan shutdown) are associated with the fire alarm system.
..(F) Optical Fiber Cables. Where optical fiber cables are utilized for fire alarm circuits, the cables shall be installed in accordance with Article 770.
..(G) Installation of Conductors with Other Systems. Installations shall comply with 300.8.
760.21 Access to Electrical Equipment Behind Panels Designed to Allow Access. Access to electrical equipment shall not be denied by an accumulation of conductors and cables that prevents removal of panels, including suspended ceiling panels.
760.24 Mechanical Execution of Work. Fire alarm circuits shall be installed in a neat workmanlike manner Cables and conductors installed exposed on the surface of ceilings and sidewalls shall be supported by the building structure in such a manner that the cable will not be damaged by normal building use. Such cables shall be supported by straps, staples, cable ties, hangers, or similar fittings designed and installed so as not to damage the cable. The installation shall also comply with 300.4(D).
760.25 Abandoned Cables. The accessible portion of abandoned fire alarm cables shall be removed. Where cables are identified for future use with a tag, the tag shall be of sufficient durability to withstand the environment involved.
760.30 Fire Alarm Circuit Identification. Fire alarm circuits shall be identified at terminal and junction locations in a manner that helps to prevent unintentional signals on fire alarm system circuit(s) during testing and servicing of other systems.
760.32 Fire Alarm Circuits Extending Beyond One Building. Power-limited fire alarm circuits that extend beyond one building and run outdoors either shall meet the installation requirements of Parts II, III, and IV of Article 800 or shall meet the installation requirements of Part I of Article 300. Non–power-limited fire alarm circuits that extend beyond one building and run outdoors shall meet the installation requirements of Part I of Article 300 and the applicable sections of Part I of Article 225.
760.35 Fire Alarm Circuit Requirements. Fire alarm circuits shall comply with 760.35(A) and (B).
..(A) Non–Power-Limited Fire Alarm (NPLFA) Circuits. See Parts I and II.
..(B) Power-Limited Fire Alarm (PLFA) Circuits. See Parts I and III. II. Non–Power-Limited Fire Alarm (NPLFA) Circuits
760.41 NPLFA Circuit Power Source Requirements.
..(A) Power Source. The power source of non–powerlimited fire alarm circuits shall comply with Chapters 1 through 4, and the output voltage shall be not more than 600 volts, nominal.
..(B) Branch Circuit. An individual branch circuit shall be required for the supply of the power source. This branch circuit shall not be supplied through ground-fault circuit interrupters or arc-fault circuit interrupters.
FPN: See 210.8(A)(5),
Exception, for receptacles in dwelling-unit unfinished basements that supply power for fire alarm systems.
760.43 NPLFA Circuit Overcurrent Protection. Overcurrent protection for conductors 14 AWG and larger shall be provided in accordance with the conductor ampacity without applying the derating factors of 310.15 to the ampacity calculation. Overcurrent protection shall not exceed 7 amperes for 18 AWG conductors and 10 amperes for 16 AWG conductors. Exception: Where other articles of this Code permit or require other overcurrent protection.
760.45 NPLFA Circuit Overcurrent Device Location. Overcurrent devices shall be located at the point where the
conductor to be protected receives its supply.
Exception No. 1: Where the overcurrent device protecting the larger conductor also protects the smaller conductor.
Exception No. 2: Transformer secondary conductors. Non–power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors supplied by the secondary of a single-phase transformer that has only a 2-wire (single-voltage) secondary shall be permitted to be protected by overcurrent protection provided by the primary (supply) side of the transformer, provided the protection is in accordance with 450.3 and does not exceed the value determined by multiplying the secondary conductor ampacity by the secondary-to-primary transformer voltage ratio. Transformer secondary conductors other than 2-wire shall not be considered to be protected by the primary overcurrent protection.
Exception No. 3: Electronic power source output conductors. Non–power-limited circuit conductors supplied by the output of a single-phase, listed electronic power source, other than a transformer, having only a 2-wire (singlevoltage) output for connection to non–power-limited circuits shall be permitted to be protected by overcurrent protection provided on the input side of the electronic power source, provided this protection does not exceed the value determined by multiplying the non–power-limited circuit conductor ampacity by the output-to-input voltage ratio. Electronic power source outputs, other than 2-wire (single voltage), connected to non–power-limited circuits shall not be considered to be protected by overcurrent protection onthe input of the electronic power source.
FPN: A single-phase, listed electronic power supply whose output supplies a 2-wire (single-voltage) circuit is an example of a non–power-limited power source that meets the requirements of 760.41.
760.46 NPLFA Circuit Wiring. Installation of non– power-limited fire alarm circuits shall be in accordance with 110.3(B), 300.7, 300.11, 300.15, 300.17, and otherappropriate articles of Chapter 3.
Exception No. 1: As provided in 760.48 through 760.53.
Exception No. 2: Where other articles of this Code require
760.48 Conductors of Different Circuits in Same Cable, Enclosure, or Raceway.
..(A) Class 1 with NPLFA Circuits. Class 1 and non–power-limited fire alarm circuits shall be permitted to occupy the same cable, enclosure, or raceway without regard to whether the individual circuits are alternating current or direct current, provided all conductors are insulated for the maximum voltage of any conductor in the enclosure or raceway.
..(B) Fire Alarm with Power-Supply Circuits. Power supply and fire alarm circuit conductors shall be permitted in the same cable, enclosure, or raceway only where connected to the same equipment.
760.49 NPLFA Circuit Conductors.
(A) Sizes and Use. Only copper conductors shall be permitted to be used for fire alarm systems. Size 18 AWG and 16 AWG conductors shall be permitted to be used, provided they supply loads that do not exceed the ampacities given in Table 402.5 and are installed in a raceway, an approved enclosure, or a listed cable. Conductors larger than 16 AWG shall not supply loads greater than the ampacities given in 310.15, as applicable.
(B) Insulation. Insulation on conductors shall be suitable for 600 volts. Conductors larger than 16 AWG shall comply with Article 310. Conductors 18 AWG and 16 AWG shall be Type KF-2, KFF-2, PAFF, PTFF, PF, PFF, PGF, PGFF, RFH-2, RFHH-2, RFHH-3, SF-2, SFF-2, TF, TFF, TFN, TFFN, ZF, or ZFF. Conductors with other types and thickness of insulation shall be permitted if listed for non–power-limited fire alarm circuit use.
FPN: For application provisions, see Table 402.3.(C) Conductor Materials. Conductors shall be solid or stranded copper.
Exception to (B) and (C): Wire Types PAF and PTF shall be permitted only for high-temperature applications between
90°C (194°F) and 250°C (482°F). 760.51 Number of Conductors in Cable Trays and Raceways, and Derating.
..(A) NPLFA Circuits and Class 1 Circuits. Where only non–power-limited fire alarm circuit and Class 1 circuit conductors are in a raceway, the number of conductors shall be determined in accordance with 300.17. The derating factors given in 310.15(B)(2)(a) shall apply if such conductors carry continuous load in excess of 10 percent of the ampacity of each conductor.
..(B) Power-Supply Conductors and Fire Alarm Circuit Conductors. Where power-supply conductors and fire alarm circuit conductors are permitted in a raceway in accordance with 760.48, the number of conductors shall be determined in accordance with 300.17. The derating factors given in 310.15(B)(2)(a) shall apply as follows:
....(1) To all conductors where the fire alarm circuit conductors carry continuous loads in excess of 10 percent of the ampacity of each conductor and where the total number of conductors is more than three
....(2) To the power-supply conductors only, where the fire alarm circuit conductors do not carry continuous loads in excess of 10 percent of the ampacity of each conductor and where the number of power-supply conductors is more than three
..(C) Cable Trays. Where fire alarm circuit conductors are installed in cable trays, they shall comply with 392.9 through 392.11.
760.53 Multiconductor NPLFA Cables. Multiconductor non–power-limited fire alarm cables that meet the requirements
of 760.176 shall be permitted to be used on fire alarm circuits operating at 150 volts or less and shall be installed in accordance with 760.53(A) and (B).
..(A) NPLFAWiring Method. Multiconductor non–powerlimited fire alarm circuit cables shall be installed in accordance with 760.53(A)(1), (A)(2), and (A)(3).
.... (1) Exposed or Fished in Concealed Spaces. In raceway or exposed on surface of ceiling and sidewalls or fished in
concealed spaces. Cable splices or terminations shall be made in listed fittings, boxes, enclosures, fire alarm devices,
or utilization equipment. Where installed exposed, cables shall be adequately supported and installed in such a
way that maximum protection against physical damage is afforded by building construction such as baseboards, door
frames, ledges, and so forth. Where located within 2.1 m (7 ft) of the floor, cables shall be securely fastened in an
approved manner at intervals of not more than 450 mm (18 in.).
.... (2) Passing Through a Floor or Wall. In metal raceway or rigid nonmetallic conduit where passing through a floor
or wall to a height of 2.1 m (7 ft) above the floor unless adequate protection can be afforded by building construction
such as detailed in 760.53(A)(1) or unless an equivalent solid guard is provided.
.... (3) In Hoistways. In rigid metal conduit, rigid nonmetallic conduit, intermediate metal conduit, liquidtight flexible
nonmetallic conduit, or electrical metallic tubing where installed in hoistways.
Exception: As provided for in 620.21 for elevators and similar equipment.
..(B) Applications of Listed NPLFA Cables. The use of non–power-limited fire alarm circuit cables shall comply with 760.53(B)(1) through (B)(4).
.... (1) Ducts and Plenums. Multiconductor non–powerlimited fire alarm circuit cables, Types NPLFP, NPLFR, and NPLF, shall not be installed exposed in ducts or plenums. FPN: See 300.22(B).
.... (2) Other Spaces Used for Environmental Air. Cables installed in other spaces used for environmental air shall be Type NPLFP.
Exception No. 1: Types NPLFR and NPLF cables installed in compliance with 300.22(C).
Exception No. 2: Other wiring methods in accordance with 300.22(C) and conductors in compliance with 760.49(C).
Exception No. 3: Type NPLFP-CI cable shall be permitted to be installed to provide a 2-hour circuit integrity rated cable.
.... (3) Riser. Cables installed in vertical runs and penetrating more than one floor or cables installed in vertical runs in a
shaft shall be Type NPLFR. Floor penetrations requiring Type NPLFR shall contain only cables suitable for riser or
plenum use.
Exception No. 1: Type NPLF or other cables that are specified in Chapter 3 and are in compliance with 760.49(C) and encased in metal raceway.
Exception No. 2: Type NPLF cables located in a fireproof shaft having firestops at each floor. FPN: See 300.21 for firestop requirements for floor penetrations.
Exception No. 3: Type NPLF-CI cable shall be permitted to be installed to provide a 2-hour circuit integrity rated cable.
.... (4) Other Wiring Within Buildings. Cables installed in building locations other than the locations covered in
760.53(B)(1), (B)(2), and (B)(3) shall be Type NPLF.
Exception No. 1: Chapter 3 wiring methods with conductors in compliance with 760.49(C).
Exception No. 2: Type NPLFP or Type NPLFR cables shallbe permitted.
Exception No. 3: Type NPLFR-CI cable shall be permittedto be installed to provide a 2-hour circuit integrity rated cable. III. Power-Limited Fire Alarm (PLFA) Circuits
760.121 Power Sources for PLFA Circuits.
..(A) Power Source. The power source for a power-limited fire alarm circuit shall be as specified in 760.121(A)(1), (A)(2), or (A)(3).
FPN No. 1: Tables 12(A) and 12(B) in Chapter 9 provide the listing requirements for power-limited fire alarm circuit sources.
FPN No. 2: See 210.8(A)(5), Exception, for receptacles in dwelling-unit unfinished basements that supply power for fire alarm systems.
.... (1) A listed PLFA or Class 3 transformer.
.... (2) A listed PLFA or Class 3 power supply.
.... (3) Listed equipment marked to identify the PLFA powersource.
FPN: Examples of listed equipment are a fire alarm control panel with integral power source; a circuit card listed for use as a PLFA source, where used as part of a listed assembly; a current-limiting impedance, listed for the purpose or part of a listed product, used in conjunction with a non–power-limited transformer or a stored energy source, for example, storage battery, to limit the output current.
..(B) Branch Circuit. An individual branch circuit shall berequired for the supply of the power source. This branch circuit shall not be supplied through ground-fault circuitinterrupters or arc-fault circuit interrupters.
760.124 Circuit Marking. The equipment supplying PLFA circuits shall be durably marked where plainly visible to indicate each circuit that is a power-limited fire alarm circuit.
FPN: See 760.130(A),
Exception No. 3, where a powerlimited circuit is to be reclassified as a non–power-limited circuit.
760.127 Wiring Methods on Supply Side of the PLFA Power Source. Conductors and equipment on the supply
side of the power source shall be installed in accordance with the appropriate requirements of Part II and Chapters 1 through 4. Transformers or other devices supplied from power-supply conductors shall be protected by an overcurrent device rated not over 20 amperes.
Exception: The input leads of a transformer or other power source supplying power-limited fire alarm circuits shall be permitted to be smaller than 14 AWG, but not smaller than 18 AWG, if they are not over 300 mm (12 in.) long and if they have insulation that complies with 760.49(B).
760.130 Wiring Methods and Materials on Load Side of the PLFA Power Source. Fire alarm circuits on the load side of the power source shall be permitted to be installed using wiring methods and materials in accordance with 760.130(A), (B), or a combination of (A) and (B). (A) NPLFA Wiring Methods and Materials. Installation shall be in accordance with 760.46, and conductors shall be solid or stranded copper
Exception No. 1: The derating factors given in 310.15(B) (2)(a) shall not apply.
Exception No. 2: Conductors and multiconductor cables described in and installed in accordance with 760.49 and 760.53 shall be permitted.
Exception No. 3: Power-limited circuits shall be permitted to be reclassified and installed as non–power-limited circuits if the power-limited fire alarm circuit markings required by 760.124 are eliminated and the entire circuit is installed using the wiring methods and materials in accordance with Part II, Non–Power-Limited Fire Alarm Circuits.
FPN: Power-limited circuits reclassified and installed as non–power-limited circuits are no longer power-limited circuits, regardless of the continued connection to a power limited source.
..(B) PLFA Wiring Methods and Materials. Power-limited fire alarm conductors and cables described in 760.179 shall be installed as detailed in 760.130(B)(1), (B)(2), or (B)(3) of this section and 300.7. Devices shall be installed in accordance with 110.3(B), 300.11(A), and 300.15.
.... (1) Exposed or Fished in Concealed Spaces. In raceway or exposed on the surface of ceiling and sidewalls or fished in concealed spaces. Cable splices or terminations shall be made in listed fittings, boxes, enclosures, fire alarm devices, or utilization equipment. Where installed exposed, cables shall be adequately supported and installed in such a way that maximum protection against physical damage is afforded. by building construction such as baseboards, door frames, ledges, and so forth. Where located within 2.1 m (7 ft) of the floor, cables shall be securely fastened in an approved manner at intervals of not more than 450 mm (18 in.).
.... (2) Passing Through a Floor or Wall. In metal raceways or rigid nonmetallic conduit where passing through a floor or wall to a height of 2.1 m (7 ft) above the floor, unless adequate protection can be afforded by building construction such as detailed in 760.130(B)(1) or unless an equivalent solid guard is provided.
.... (3) In Hoistways. In rigid metal conduit, rigid nonmetallic conduit, intermediate metal conduit, or electrical metallic tubing where installed in hoistways.
Exception: As provided for in 620.21 for elevators and similar equipment.
760.133 Installation of Conductors and Equipment in Cables, Compartments, Cable Trays, Enclosures, Manholes, Outlet Boxes, Device Boxes, and Raceways for Power-Limited Circuits. Conductors and equipment for power-limited fire alarm circuits shall be installed in accordance with 760.136 through 760.143. 760.136 Separation from Electric Light, Power, Class 1, NPLFA, and Medium-Power Network-Powered Broadband Communications Circuit Conductors.
..(A) General. Power-limited fire alarm circuit cables and conductors shall not be placed in any cable, cable tray, compartment, enclosure, manhole, outlet box, device box, raceway, or similar fitting with conductors of electric light, power, Class 1, non–power-limited fire alarm circuits, and medium-power network-powered broadband communications circuits unless permitted by 760.136(B) through (G).
..(B) Separated by Barriers. Power-limited fire alarm circuit cables shall be permitted to be installed together with Class 1, non–power-limited fire alarm, and medium-power network-powered broadband communications circuits where they are separated by a barrier.
..(C) Raceways Within Enclosures. In enclosures, powerlimited fire alarm circuits shall be permitted to be installed in a raceway within the enclosure to separate them from Class 1, non–power-limited fire alarm, and medium-power network-powered broadband communications circuits.
..(D) Associated Systems Within Enclosures. Powerlimited fire alarm conductors in compartments, enclosures,device boxes, outlet boxes, or similar fittings shall be permitted to be installed with electric light, power, Class 1, non–power-limited fire alarm, and medium power networkpowered broadband communications circuits where they are introduced solely to connect the equipment connected to power-limited fire alarm circuits, and comply with either of the following conditions:
.... (1) The electric light, power, Class 1, non–power-limited fire alarm, and medium-power network-powered broadband communications circuit conductors are routed to maintain a minimum of 6 mm (0.25 in.) separation from the conductors and cables of power-limited fire alarm circuits.
.... (2) The circuit conductors operate at 150 volts or less to ground and also comply with one of the following:
...... a. The fire alarm power-limited circuits are installed using Type FPL, FPLR, FPLP, or permitted substitute cables, provided these power-limited cable conductors extending beyond the jacket are separated by a minimum of 6 mm (0.25 in.) or by a nonconductive sleeve or nonconductive barrier from all other conductors.
...... b. The power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors are installed as non–power-limited circuits in accordance with 760.46.
..(E) Enclosures with Single Opening. Power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors entering compartments, enclosures, device boxes, outlet boxes, or similar fittings shall be permitted to be installed with electric light, power, Class 1, non–power-limited fire alarm, and medium-power networkpowered broadband communications circuits where they are introduced solely to connect the equipment connected to power-limited fire alarm circuits or to other circuits controlled by the fire alarm system to which the other conductors in the enclosure are connected. Where power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors must enter an enclosure that is provided with a single opening, they shall be permitted to enter through a single fitting (such as a tee), provided the conductors are separated from the conductors of the other circuits by a continuous and firmly fixed nonconductor, such as flexible tubing.
..(F) In Hoistways. In hoistways, power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors shall be installed in rigid metal conduit, rigid nonmetallic conduit, intermediate metal conduit, liquidtight flexible nonmetallic conduit, or electrical metallic tubing. For elevators or similar equipment, these conductors shall be permitted to be installed as provided in 620.21.
..(G) Other Applications. For other applications, powerlimited fire alarm circuit conductors shall be separated by at least 50 mm (2 in.) from conductors of any electric light, power, Class 1, non–power-limited fire alarm, or mediumpower network-powered broadband communications circuits unless one of the following conditions is met:
.... (1) Either (a) all of the electric light, power, Class 1, non– power-limited fire alarm, and medium-power networkpowered broadband communications circuit conductors or (b) all of the power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors are in a raceway or in metal-sheathed, metalclad, nonmetallic-sheathed, or Type UF cables.
.... (2) All of the electric light, power, Class 1, non–powerlimited fire alarm, and medium-power networkpowered broadband communications circuit conductors are permanently separated from all of the powerlimited fire alarm circuit conductors by a continuous and firmly fixed nonconductor, such as porcelain tubes or flexible tubing, in addition to the insulation on the conductors.
760.139 Installation of Conductors of Different PLFA Circuits, Class 2, Class 3, and Communications Circuits in the Same Cable, Enclosure, Cable Tray, or Raceway.
..(A) Two or More PLFA Circuits. Cable and conductors of two or more power-limited fire alarm circuits, communications circuits, or Class 3 circuits shall be permitted within the same cable, enclosure, cable tray, or raceway.
..(B) Class 2 Circuits with PLFA Circuits. Conductors of one or more Class 2 circuits shall be permitted within the same cable, enclosure, cable tray, or raceway with conductors of power-limited fire alarm circuits, provided that the insulation of the Class 2 circuit conductors in the cable, enclosure, or raceway is at least that required by the powerlimited fire alarm circuits.
..(C) Low-Power Network-Powered Broadband Communications Cables and PLFA Cables. Low-power networkpowered broadband communications circuits shall be permitted in the same enclosure, cable tray, or raceway with PLFA cables.
..(D) Audio System Circuits and PLFA Circuits. Audio system circuits described in 640.9(C) and installed using Class 2 or Class 3 wiring methods in compliance with 725.133 and 725.154 shall not be permitted to be installed in the same cable, cable tray, or raceway with powerlimited conductors or cables.
760.142 Conductor Size. Conductors of 26 AWG shall be permitted only where spliced with a connector listed as suitable for 26 AWG to 24 AWG or larger conductors that are terminated on equipment or where the 26 AWG conductors are terminated on equipment listed as suitable for 26 AWG conductors. Single conductors shall not be smaller than 18 AWG.
760.143 Support of Conductors. Power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors shall not be strapped, taped, or attached
by any means to the exterior of any conduit or other raceway as a means of support.
760.145 Current-Carrying Continuous Line-Type Fire Detectors.
..(A) Application. Listed continuous line-type fire detectors, including insulated copper tubing of pneumatically operated detectors, employed for both detection and carrying signaling currents shall be permitted to be used in power-limited circuits.
..(B) Installation. Continuous line-type fire detectors shall be installed in accordance with 760.124 through 760.130 and 760.133.
760.154 Applications of Listed PLFA Cables. PLFA cables shall comply with the requirements described in either 760.154(A), (B), or (C) or where cable substitutions are made as shown in 760.154(D).
..(A) Plenum. Cables installed in ducts, plenums, and other spaces used for environmental air shall be Type FPLP. Types FPLP, FPLR, and FPL cables installed in compliance with 300.22 shall be permitted. Type FPLP-CI cable shall be permitted to be installed to provide a 2-hour circuit integrity rated cable.
..(B) Riser. Cables installed in risers shall be as described in either (1), (2), or (3):
.... (1) Cables installed in vertical runs and penetrating more than one floor, or cables installed in vertical runs in a shaft, shall be Type FPLR. Floor penetrations requiring Type FPLR shall contain only cables suitable for riser or plenum use. Type FPLR-CI cable shall be permitted to be installed to provide a 2-hour circuit integrity rated cable.
.... (2) Other cables shall be installed in metal raceways or located in a fireproof shaft having fire stops at each floor.
.... (3) Type FPL cable shall be permitted in one- and twofamily dwellings.
FPN: See 300.21 for firestop requirements for floor penetrations.
..(C) Other Wiring Within Buildings. Cables installed in building locations other than those covered in 760.154(A) or (B) shall be as described in either (C)(1), (C)(2), (C)(3), or (C)(4). Type FPL-CI cable shall be permitted to be installed as described in either (C)(1), (C)(2), (C)(3), or (C)(4) to provide a 2-hour circuit integrity rated cable.
.... (1) General. Type FPL shall be permitted.
.... (2) In Raceways. Cables shall be permitted to be installed in raceways.
.... (3) Nonconcealed Spaces. Cables specified in Chapter 3 and meeting the requirements of 760.179(A) and (B) shall be permitted to be installed in nonconcealed spaces where the exposed length of cable does not exceed 3 m (10 ft).
.... (4) Portable Fire Alarm System. A portable fire alarm system provided to protect a stage or set when not in use shall be permitted to use wiring methods in accordance with 530.12.
..(D) Fire Alarm Cable Substitutions. The substitutions for fire alarm cables listed in Table 760.154(D) and illustrated in Figure 760.154(D) shall be permitted. Where substitute cables are installed, the wiring requirements of Article 760, Parts I and III, shall apply.
FPN: For information on communications cables (CMP, CMR, CMG, CM), see 800.179. IV. Listing Requirements
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760.176 Listing and Marking of NPLFA Cables. Non– power-limited fire alarm cables installed as wiring within buildings shall be listed in accordance with 760.176(A) and (B) and as being resistant to the spread of fire in accordance with 760.176(C) through (F), and shall be marked in accordance with 760.176(G). Cable used in a wet location shall be listed for use in wet locations or have a moisture impervious metal sheath.
A B Cable A shall be permitted to be used in place of Cable B.
Multiconductor
cables
26 AWG minimum
Plenum
Figure 760.154(D) Cable Substitution Hierarchy.
Table 760.154(D) Cable Substitutions
Cable Type........... References Permitted.............Substitutions
FPLP..................... 760.154(A).......................... CMP
FPLR 760.154(B) CMP, FPLP, CMR
FPL 760.154(C) CMP, FPLP, CMR,
FPLR, CMG, CM
..(A) NPLFA Conductor Materials. Conductors shall be 18 AWG or larger solid or stranded copper.
..(B) Insulated Conductors. Insulated conductors shall be suitable for 600 volts. Insulated conductors 14 AWG and larger shall be one of the types listed in Table 310.13(A) or one that is identified for this use. Insulated conductors 18 AWG and 16 AWG shall be in accordance with 760.49.
..(C) Type NPLFP. Type NPLFP non–power-limited fire alarm cable for use in other space used for environmental air shall be listed as being suitable for use in other space used for environmental air as described in 300.22(C) and shall also be listed as having adequate fire-resistant and low smoke-producing characteristics.
FPN: One method of defining low smoke-producing cable is by establishing an acceptable value of the smoke produced when tested in accordance with NFPA 262-2007, Standard Method of Test for Flame Travel and Smoke of Wires and Cables for Use in Air-Handling Spaces, to a maximum peak optical density of 0.5 and a maximum average optical density of 0.15. Similarly, one method of defining fire-resistant cables is by establishing a maximum allowable flame travel distance of 1.52 m (5 ft) when tested in accordance with the same test.
..(D) Type NPLFR. Type NPLFR non–power-limited fire alarm riser cable shall be listed as being suitable for use in a vertical run in a shaft or from floor to floor and shall also be listed as having fire-resistant characteristics capable of preventing the carrying of fire from floor to floor.
FPN: One method of defining fire-resistant characteristics capable of preventing the carrying of fire from floor to floor is that the cables pass ANSI/UL 1666-2002, Test for Flame Propagation Height of Electrical and Optical-Fiber Cables Installed Vertically in Shafts.
..(E) Type NPLF. Type NPLF non–power-limited fire alarm cable shall be listed as being suitable for general-purpose fire alarm use, with the exception of risers, ducts, plenums, and other space used for environmental air, and shall also be listed as being resistant to the spread of fire.
FPN: One method of defining resistant to the spread of fire is that the cables do not spread fire to the top of the tray in the “UL Flame Exposure, Vertical Tray Flame Test” in UL 1685-2000, Standard for Safety for Vertical-Tray Fire- Propagation and Smoke-Release Test for Electrical and Optical-Fiber Cables. The smoke measurements in the test method are not applicable. Another method of defining resistant to the spread of fire is for the damage (char length) not to exceed 1.5 m (4 ft 11 in.) when performing the CSA “Vertical Flame Test — Cables in Cable Trays,” as described in CSA C22.2 No. 0.3-M-2001, Test Methods for Electrical Wires and Cables.
..(F) Fire Alarm Circuit Integrity (CI) Cable or Electrical Circuit Protective System. Cables used for survivability of critical circuits shall be listed as circuit integrity (CI) cable. Cables specified in 760.176(C), (D), and (E), and used for circuit integrity shall have the additional classification using the suffix “-CI.” Cables that are part of a listed electrical circuit protective system shall be considered to meet the requirements of survivability.
FPN No. 1: Fire alarm circuit integrity (CI) cable and electrical circuit protective systems may be used for fire alarm circuits to comply with the survivability requirements of NFPA 72®-2007, National Fire Alarm Code®, 6.9.4.3 and 6.9.4.6, that the circuit maintain its electrical function during fire conditions for a defined period of time.
FPN No. 2: One method of defining circuit integrity (CI) cable is by establishing a minimum 2-hour fire resistance rating for the cable when tested in accordance with UL 2196-1995, Standard for Tests of Fire Resistive Cables.
..(G) NPLFA Cable Markings. Multiconductor non– power-limited fire alarm cables shall be marked in accordance with Table 760.176(G). Non–power-limited fire alarm circuit cables shall be permitted to be marked with a maximum usage voltage rating of 150 volts. Cables that are listed for circuit integrity shall be identified with the suffix “CI” as defined in 760.176(F).
FPN: Cable types are listed in descending order of fire resistance rating.
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760.179 Listing and Marking of PLFA Cables and Insulated Continuous Line-Type Fire Detectors. Type FPLcables installed as wiring within buildings shall be listed as
Table 760.176(G) NPLFA Cable Markings
Cable Marking--------------Type-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Reference
NPLFP............. Non–power-limited fire alarm circuit cable for use in “other space used for environmental air”.....760.176(C) and
(G)
NPLFR Non–power-limited fire
alarm circuit riser cable
760.176(D) and
(G)
NPLF Non–power-limited fire
alarm circuit cable
760.176(E) and
(G)
--------------
Note: Cables identified in 760.176(C), (D), and (E) and meeting the requirements for circuit integrity shall have the additional classification using the suffix “CI” (for example, NPLFP-CI, NPLFR-CI, and NPLF-CI). being resistant to the spread of fire and other criteria in accordance with 760.179(A) through (H) and shall be marked in accordance with 760.179(I). Insulated continuous line-type fire detectors shall be listed in accordance with 760.179(J). Cable used in a wet location shall be listed for use in wet locations or have a moisture-impervious metal sheath.
..(A) Conductor Materials. Conductors shall be solid or stranded copper.
..(B) Conductor Size. The size of conductors in a multiconductor cable shall not be smaller than 26 AWG. Single conductors shall not be smaller than 18 AWG.
..(C) Ratings. The cable shall have a voltage rating of not less than 300 volts.
..(D) Type FPLP. Type FPLP power-limited fire alarm plenum cable shall be listed as being suitable for use in ducts, plenums, and other space used for environmental air and shall also be listed as having adequate fire-resistant and low smoke-producing characteristics.
FPN: One method of defining low smoke-producing cable is by establishing an acceptable value of the smoke produced when tested in accordance with NFPA 262-2007, Standard Method of Test for Flame Travel and Smoke of Wires and Cables for Use in Air-Handling Spaces, to a maximum peak optical density of 0.5 and a maximum average optical density of 0.15. Similarly, one method of defining fire-resistant cables is by establishing a maximum allowable flame travel distance of 1.52 m (5 ft) when tested in accordance with the same test.
..(E) Type FPLR. Type FPLR power-limited fire alarm riser cable shall be listed as being suitable for use in a vertical run in a shaft or from floor to floor and shall also be listed as having fire-resistant characteristics capable of preventing the carrying of fire from floor to floor.
FPN: One method of defining fire-resistant characteristics capable of preventing the carrying of fire from floor to floor is that the cables pass the requirements of ANSI/UL 1666-2002, Standard Test for Flame Propagation Height of Electrical and Optical-Fiber Cable Installed Vertically in Shafts.
..(F) Type FPL. Type FPL power-limited fire alarm cable shall be listed as being suitable for general-purpose fire alarm use, with the exception of risers, ducts, plenums, and other spaces used for environmental air, and shall also be listed as being resistant to the spread of fire.
FPN: One method of defining resistant to the spread of fire is that the cables do not spread fire to the top of the tray in the “UL Flame Exposure, Vertical Tray Flame Test” in UL 1685-2000, Standard for Safety for Vertical-Tray Fire- Propagation and Smoke-Release Test for Electrical and Optical-Fiber Cables. The smoke measurements in the test method are not applicable. Another method of defining resistant to the spread of fire is for the damage (char length) not to exceed 1.5 m (4 ft 11 in.) when performing the CSA “Vertical Flame Test —Cables in Cable Trays,” as described in CSA C22.2 No. 0.3-M-2001, Test Methods for Electrical Wires and Cables.
..(G) Fire Alarm Circuit Integrity (CI) Cable or Electrical Circuit Protective System. Cables used for survivability of critical circuits shall be listed as circuit integrity (CI) cable. Cables specified in 760.179(D), (E), (F), and (H) and used for circuit integrity shall have the additional classification using the suffix “-CI.” Cables that are part of a listed electrical circuit protective system shall be considered to meet the requirements of survivability.
FPN No. 1: Fire alarm circuit integrity (CI) cable and electrical circuit protective systems may be used for fire alarm circuits to comply with the survivability requirements of NFPA 72-2007, National Fire Alarm Code, 6.9.4.3 and 6.9.4.6, that the circuit maintain its electrical function during fire conditions for a defined period of time.
FPN No. 2: One method of defining circuit integrity (CI) cable is by establishing a minimum 2-hour fire resistance rating for the cable when tested in accordance with UL 2196-1995, Standard for Tests of Fire Resistive Cables.
..(H) Coaxial Cables. Coaxial cables shall be permitted to use 30 percent conductivity copper-covered steel center conductor wire and shall be listed as Type FPLP, FPLR, or FPL cable.
..(I) Cable Marking. The cable shall be marked in accordance with Table 760.179(I). The voltage rating shall not be marked on the cable. Cables that are listed for circuit integrity shall be identified with the suffix CI as defined in
760.179(G).
FPN: Voltage ratings on cables may be misinterpreted to suggest that the cables may be suitable for Class 1, electric light, and power applications.
Exception: Voltage markings shall be permitted where the cable has multiple listings and voltage marking is required for one or more of the listings.
Table 760.179(I) Cable Markings
Cable Marking Type
FPLP Power-limited fire alarm
plenum cable
FPLR Power-limited fire alarm riser
cable
FPL Power-limited fire alarm cable
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Note: Cables identified in 760.179(D), (E), and (F) as meeting the requirements for circuit integrity shall have the additional classification using the suffix “CI” (for example, FPLP-CI, FPLR-CI, and FPL-CI).
FPN: Cable types are listed in descending order of fire resistancerating.
..(J) Insulated Continuous Line-Type Fire Detectors. Insulated continuous line-type fire detectors shall be rated in accordance with 760.179(C), listed as being resistant to the spread of fire in accordance with 760.179(D) through (F), marked in accordance with 760.179(I), and the jacket compound shall have a high degree of abrasion resistance.