NFPA 72 code sections · System Testing & Maintenance
Every component has its own clock: the inspection and test tables
Chapter 14 gives two frequency tables. The visual inspection table covers things like control equipment (weekly for unmonitored systems, annually when monitored), batteries (semiannual) and initiating devices (annual or semiannual). The testing table sets how often each component is functionally tested: control-unit functions annually, sealed lead-acid batteries with a semiannual load-voltage test and an annual discharge test, smoke detectors functionally tested annually, waterflow switches semiannually, and so on. The manufacturer's instructions can require more — never less.
NFPA 72 reference
Chapter 14 — Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance
Table 14.3.1 Visual Inspection Frequencies; Table 14.4.3.2 Testing Frequencies (control equipment, batteries, initiating devices, notification appliances, supervising station interfaces)
References use NFPA 72 2019/2022 numbering — section numbers can shift between editions, so confirm in the edition your AHJ has adopted.
On the job
A service company tests a hospital's 600 smoke detectors annually and the waterflow switches annually to match. The AHJ points out that waterflow switches are on a semiannual test frequency. The contract is rewritten with a spring sprinkler visit and a fall full-system visit, and the owner finally understands why the two tests were never on the same invoice.
Quick check
1. Waterflow alarm switches are functionally tested how often?
2. A sealed lead-acid battery set gets a load-voltage test:
3. If the manufacturer calls for more frequent testing than Table 14.4.3.2:
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