NFPA 25, Standard for Inspection Testing and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems, has had requirements addressing deficiencies and impairments since their introduction in the 2011 edition. It was not until the 2024 edition of NFPA 17A, Standard for Wet Chemical Extinguishing Systems, that NFPA followed suit and added requirements on this topic to help users of the standard categorize and prioritize work needed to correct problems with systems protecting restaurant cooking areas. Previously, only impairments were addressed, but there was nothing addressing deficiencies. Since adding this material, service companies, restaurant owners and managers, and the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) now have specific criteria that can be relied upon for critical decisions impacting the performance of systems protecting commercial cooking area fire protection systems. Here is an overview of the information in NFPA 17A that will help you, your customers, and the AHJ understand the difference between system deficiencies and impairments. The information in this article is based on the most recent 2024 edition of NFPA 17A.

An impairment is any condition where a system, component of a system, or function of a system will not perform as intended [17A, 3.3.7]. Parts that are found during maintenance that could cause impairment or failure of operation of the system are required to be replaced by listed components in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions [17A, 8.3.3.5]. Until such repairs are accomplished, the systems must be tagged as impaired. The owner or owner’s representative responsible for the system and the authority having jurisdiction must be notified of the impairment by the end of the following business day [17A, 8.3.3.5.1]. Only when all repairs have been accomplished and the system has been restored to full operation are the AHJ and the owner or owner’s representative (responsible for the system) informed [17A, 8.3.3.5.2].

For the purposes of inspection, testing, and maintenance of a restaurant system, a deficiency is a condition that will affect the performance of a system or portion thereof or has the potential to adversely affect performance but does not rise to the level of an impairment [17A, 3.3.2]. Some deficiencies, if not corrected, can or will affect the ability of the fire protection system to function as intended during a fire. Those deficiencies do not prevent a system from functioning properly when discovered, but if not corrected, could lead to an impairment. Despite the new definition, some deficiencies will likely not affect the ability of the system to function during a fire, but correction is needed for safety to meet the requirements of NFPA 17A or the system manufacturer’s manual. An example is damaged of missing labeling. In any case, whenever a deficiency is found, appropriate corrective action is required to be taken immediately. If the corrective action necessitates maintenance, it must be conducted by a service technician.

Definitions of deficiency and impairment were added to the 2024 edition of the standard to help categorize problems found during ITM. A new Annex C was also added that provides examples of common deficiencies and impairments found during system inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM).

Tables were developed based on Annex C of NFPA 17A and are provided to assist technicians in the field in identifying and properly classifying impairments and deficiencies found during routine ITM of restaurant systems. Click here for a writeable PDF.

Safety is enhanced when the classification system outlined in NFPA 17A is used. When impairments and deficiencies are discovered and correctly classified during ITM of restaurant systems, appropriate corrective actions can be taken to restore system conditions to normal. This ensures that employees and customers of commercial cooking establishments will receive the best protection offered by these fire protection systems and that a reasonable level of safety is maintained.

Simply put, a fire alarm control unit (FACU) receives signals from initiating devices (e.g., smoke detectors or pull stations) and processes the signals to determine the necessary response. FACUs are either conventional type (zone protection) or addressable (each device sends a signal). Just because your technicians mostly service and are familiar with conventional FACUs does not mean they are the right choice for new construction and major retrofits. The pros and cons should be analyzed before deciding on the most appropriate FACU for each new installation. Here is information to help you make the best decisions for your customers.

Conventional FACU

The most common type in commercial settings is a conventional FACU. This type divides a structure into zones. For example, each floor could be its own zone in a multi-story building. A series of initiating devices work together within a zone. The zones are all connected to the conventional FACU panel. When an alarm is triggered, the panel can recognize each zone but cannot determine which specific device activated the alarm.

Addressable FACU

On the other hand, an addressable FACU utilizes a signaling line circuit (SLC) for input devices. Its advantage is that it can report which detector, device, or other component in a building triggered the alarm. These fire alarm system components have discrete identification and can individually identify their status. Since an addressable FACU has digital signaling, it has more advanced functionality than a conventional FACU and can perform functions that are impossible with a conventional FACU.

While they have a higher upfront cost per unit, an addressable FACU is more technologically advanced than a conventional one. Addressable systems can increase the speed of first responders to fire because point identification of an addressable FACU means that the precise location of a fire within a building can be pinpointed. Therefore, emergency responders can quickly be directed to an area of fire origin and begin an attack. That means an upgrade to an addressable FACU can save lives and reduce business interruptions, reducing revenue losses.

Another advantage of an addressable FACU is that it is more reliable and more straightforward to maintain. The devices can report faults so that a problem device can be quickly identified and serviced or replaced.

Conventional FACU for Small Buildings

A conventional FACU is generally the most appropriate choice for small businesses, small buildings, single-story buildings, and buildings with simple layouts where just a couple of zones will protect the entire building. The main advantage is the low cost of installation. Fewer devices and appliances are needed in these smaller buildings, and the installation is not overly complex. Troubleshooting is usually more straightforward, too, and maintenance costs are often very reasonable.

Addressable FACU for Medium and Large Buildings

Medium and large buildings should have addressable FACUs, but most owners are unwilling to spend money to replace an existing conventional FACU. Your best bet is to install a fire alarm system for a new building or if you are involved in a major retrofit of an existing building. The logical choice is an addressable FACU for medium and large buildings. It is less expensive in the long run, but addressable FACU allows more flexibility for changes and expansions. A major advantage when a fire occurs is quicker response times, reduced losses, and often continued business operations. Business continuity and revenue generation are extremely important to your customers. Moreover, these systems have more programming options and can address complex safety needs, which are also important to customers.

Conclusion

Although a conventional FACU might be right for a small building, an addressable FACU is almost always the way to go with larger buildings. Addressable FACUs provide first responders with pinpoint accuracy prior to arrival for effective initial extinguishment. Safety is enhanced, losses are reduced, and business interruptions are minimized. The result is a win-win for your bottom line and your customer’s revenue generation.