During a primary power failure, what is the maximum delay allowed for alarm signals?

During a primary power failure, what is the maximum delay allowed for alarm signals?

• A. 10 Seconds
• B. 5 Seconds
• C. 15 Seconds
• D. 30 Seconds

Answer: (A)

When primary power fails, the fire alarm system must still alert promptly using its backup power. The maximum time allowed to transmit alarm signals after an initiating condition is detected is ten seconds. This keeps occupants warned and the monitoring service notified quickly, even during a power outage. A shorter limit would be stricter than needed, while longer delays (such as fifteen or thirty seconds) would delay critical notification and could compromise safety.

When primary power fails, the fire alarm system must still alert promptly using its backup power. The maximum time allowed to transmit alarm signals after an initiating condition is detected is ten seconds. This keeps occupants warned and the monitoring service notified quickly, even during a power outage. A shorter limit would be stricter than needed, while longer delays (such as fifteen or thirty seconds) would delay critical notification and could compromise safety.