Which of the following is an example of a supervisory signal initiating device?

Which of the following is an example of a supervisory signal initiating device?

• A. OS&Y valve with a normally open switch
• B. Smoke detector
• C. Horn
• D. Heat detector

Answer: (A)

The concept being tested is supervisory signaling, which reports the status of critical equipment to the fire alarm panel rather than detecting a fire condition. A valve with a normally open switch attached to an OS&Y sprinkler valve acts as a supervisory initiating device because it monitors the valve position and sends a signal to the panel when the valve status changes. This alerts to conditions like the valve being closed or not in its normal state, which is a status condition the system must supervise. Smoke detectors and heat detectors are automatic fire-initiating devices that start alarms in response to heat or smoke, while a horn is a notification appliance that audibly indicates an alarm. Therefore, the valve with a supervisory switch best fits the idea of a supervisory initiating device.

The concept being tested is supervisory signaling, which reports the status of critical equipment to the fire alarm panel rather than detecting a fire condition. A valve with a normally open switch attached to an OS&Y sprinkler valve acts as a supervisory initiating device because it monitors the valve position and sends a signal to the panel when the valve status changes. This alerts to conditions like the valve being closed or not in its normal state, which is a status condition the system must supervise. Smoke detectors and heat detectors are automatic fire-initiating devices that start alarms in response to heat or smoke, while a horn is a notification appliance that audibly indicates an alarm. Therefore, the valve with a supervisory switch best fits the idea of a supervisory initiating device.