PHOTO SHOWS → OPERATIONAL BUT UNTAGGED FACP & ANNUNCIATOR → Green normal status, but no visible current tag → Potential undetected faults and code violation
What You Are Looking At
- Main Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP) – central red cabinet with LCD display, buttons, and zone indicators
- Remote Annunciator – smaller wall-mounted unit for remote system status monitoring
Why This Is a Serious Concern
- Missing/expired tags indicate unverified annual testing → system may fail silently during a fire, leading to delayed evacuation
- Obstructed access delays firefighter reset → unnecessary water damage or prolonged disruption
- NFPA 72 non-compliance risks $15,625+ fines per violation (OSHA 1910.165 cross-reference) and claim denials
Good Condition (Acceptable)
- Steady green “NORMAL” light on both FACP and annunciator (no yellow/red trouble signals or beeps)
- Current NFPA 72 annual inspection tag attached (dated within past 12 months, showing technician license and next due date)
- Panel doors unlocked; minimum 36-inch working clearance in front (no storage or obstructions)
- Backup batteries replaced within 5 years (sealed lead-acid type) and load-tested annually
Fix Needed – HIGH PRIORITY (Life-Safety Impairment)
- Missing or expired annual service tag
- Trouble lights, alarms, or error messages active
- Doors locked or front obstructed by storage
- Annunciator blank, damaged, or fault-indicating
Corrective Actions & Proper Recommendation
- Immediate – Clear ≥36 inches in front of panels, unlock doors, and silence any active trouble signals.
- Within 7 days – Schedule NICET Level III+ or factory-certified technician for full annual inspection, testing, and sensitivity checks.
- Within 30 days – Attach new NFPA 72-compliant tag post-inspection; verify/replace batteries if >5 years old.
Exact Report Wording Suggestions
“Good” – “Fire alarm control panel and annunciator in normal green status, current annual NFPA 72 tag attached, doors unlocked with 36-inch clearance.”
“Fix Needed – HIGH RISK” – “Fire alarm panels missing current annual inspection tag and/or obstructed. System reliability unverified. Recommend clearing access today and scheduling certified NFPA 72 annual inspection with new tag within 30 days.”
LCA Certified Inspector Motto
“Tag it. Clear it. Test it. Rec it.”
Disclosure:
This card highlights critical life-safety requirements. Always verify NFPA 72 (2025 ed.), Chapters 7 & 14, and OSHA 1910.165. When in doubt — recommend immediate licensed fire alarm contractor service.
© 2026 SpotRisk, Inc.