NFPA 72 code sections · NFPA 72 Overview
The code says who is qualified to design, install, and test
Chapter 10 requires fire alarm systems to be designed by qualified personnel, installed by qualified personnel, and inspected, tested, and maintained by qualified personnel. "Qualified" is shown by state or local licensing or certification, certification by a nationally recognized program (such as NICET), or factory training on the specific equipment — any of which must be acceptable to the AHJ. Qualification evidence is often requested at plan review and at the acceptance test.
NFPA 72 reference
Chapter 10 — Fundamentals
10.4 Personnel Qualifications (10.4.1 designer, 10.4.2 installer, 10.4.3 inspection/testing personnel, 10.4.4 service personnel)
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
At a final inspection the fire marshal asks who programmed the panel and who will do the annual test. Your company produces the installer's state license, the designer's NICET Level III card, and the factory certificate for the panel line. Without that paperwork the acceptance test can be refused even if every device works.
Quick check
1. Which of these is NOT listed by NFPA 72 as a way to show qualification?
2. Qualified personnel are required for:
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