Smoke Detector
A fire detection device that senses smoke particles in the air, triggering the fire alarm system to alert occupants.
In Detail
Smoke detectors are fire detection devices that sense smoke particles and trigger the fire alarm system. Two primary technologies are used: ionization detectors (respond faster to flaming fires with small particles) and photoelectric detectors (respond faster to smoldering fires with larger particles). Many modern detectors are multi-criteria, combining both technologies with CO detection and heat sensing. NFPA 72 requires functional testing annually, sensitivity testing within 1 year of installation and every 2 years thereafter, and replacement if sensitivity is outside the listed range and cannot be adjusted. Smoke detectors are the most numerous fire alarm component in most buildings — a large commercial building may have hundreds or thousands. Proper documentation of each detector's location, test date, and sensitivity reading is essential for compliance. FireLog manages detector inventories and testing schedules at the device level.
Related Terms
NFPA 72
The National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code — the standard for fire alarm system installation, inspection, testing, and maintenance.
Fire Alarm Testing
Periodic functional testing of fire alarm system components to verify proper detection, notification, and monitoring.
Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP)
The central hub of a fire alarm system that receives signals from detection devices, activates notification, and communicates with monitoring.