Fire Alarm Tests | Policies

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Fire Alarm Tests

Policy regarding Fire Alarms.

Owner: Environmental Health and Safety

All Teachers College Interior Fire Alarm systems are tested annually in accordance with NFPA code 72 standards. EHS maintains, inspects and tests fire alarm systems, smoke detectors, sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers and fire hoses. In accordance with State Law, fire alarms are tested at least once a year to make sure they are working properly in case of a real fire. No one is required to evacuate a building during a fire alarm test.

During a fire alarm test, all bells and/or horns are sounded first to make sure they are operating properly. This takes approximately three to five minutes. Then the bells are silenced and the rest of the system is tested. If a bell or horn does not work, it is scheduled for repair. If you notice that a nearby bell or horn made no sound, bring it to the attention of EHS personnel conducting the test or call the EHS office at (212) 678-8164.

For the safety of students, fire alarm systems in all campus apartments and residence halls are tested twice a year (usually during August and December) in accordance with State law. The battery-powered smoke detectors in older residence halls are inspected twice a year to make sure they are functioning properly.

Fire alarm tests are scheduled at least 2 weeks in advance, with notices sent to Teachers College community and posted on the EH&S website.

Responsible Office: Environmental Healthy and Safety

Effective Date: January 2015

Last Updated: January 2015

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