Are Your Smoke Detectors Out of Range?
Why Surveyors Keep Asking for This One Document
Sensitivity testing checks to see if a smoke detector still works the way it should. Over time, dust, dirt, and age can affect how well it can “sense” smoke.
NFPA 72 sets three main timeframes when this testing must be done:
1. Test Within 1 Year of Installation
Code Reference: NFPA 72 - 14.4.5.3.1
This is often missed—especially by new or smaller facilities. If you’ve had a new system installed or even just replaced one smoke detector, the one-year sensitivity test applies.
Survey Tip 1:
Schedule your 1-year sensitivity test as soon as your new system (or detector) is installed.
Even newer systems that test automatically still need documentation. Ask your fire alarm vendor if your system qualifies for this.
2. Test Every 2 Years (Alternate Years)
Code Reference: NFPA 72 - 14.4.5.3.2
After the first year, you need to check sensitivity every other year—unless your system meets special conditions.
Survey Tip 2:
Include this in your fire alarm service contract. If it’s not written in, it may be forgotten—and that puts you at risk.
Simple tip: Write “Even Years” or “Odd Years” on a quick reference sheet in your Life Safety Binder.
3. Test Every 5 Years (Only If You Qualify)
Code Reference: NFPA 72 - 14.4.5.3.3 & 14.4.5.3.3.1
Yes—you can test every 5 years if two things are true:
You’ve had two successful 2-year tests in a row.
You keep monthly logs of nuisance alarms (or “No Alarms” if none occurred).
Survey Tip 3:
Keep a monthly log showing nuisance alarms or write “No Alarms” if none happened. If it’s not documented, it didn’t happen.
Automatic Sensitivity Testing – Are You Covered?
Code Reference: NFPA 72 - 14.4.5.3.4
Many newer fire alarm systems and smoke detectors automatically monitor sensitivity. There are five ways sensitivity can be tested—and method 4 is now very common:
Smoke detector/control panel arrangement where the system alerts you when a detector is out of range.
Survey Tip 4:
Ask your fire alarm vendor: Does my system do this automatically? If yes, get it in writing and keep that for your documentation.
What If a Detector Fails the Test?
Code References: 14.4.5.3.5 & 14.4.5.3.6
If your detector is outside the proper sensitivity range, you must:
Clean it and recalibrate it,
Or replace it.
If it’s field adjustable, it can be adjusted, cleaned, recalibrated, or replaced.
Always document what action was taken.
Final Thoughts
Smoke detector sensitivity testing is a common issue during surveys because it’s easily forgotten or misunderstood. But it doesn’t have to be.
Whether you’re managing a large hospital or a small surgery center, here’s the plan:
Know what kind of detectors and fire alarm panel you have.
Keep a schedule and records.
Ask your vendor about automatic testing.
Add sensitivity testing to your fire alarm contract.
Need help getting your testing schedule on track or reviewing your documentation before your next survey? That’s what I’m here for.
Let’s make your next survey easier.
How I Can Help
Staying ahead of Life Safety Compliance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Dustin Phillips Consulting, I make it easier for your team to understand what’s required, prepare for surveys, and improve safety across your facility.
Whether it’s mock surveys, staff training, or reviewing your documentation and fire plans, I bring real-world experience with practical solutions. My job isn’t just to point out issues—it’s to help you fix them before they become citations.
If you're looking for clear guidance and a partner who makes life safety surveys easier, let’s connect. A quick conversation today could save you a major headache tomorrow.
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