Can Ulc-S524 2019

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STANDARD FOR INSTALLATION OF FIRE ALARM
CAN/ULC-S524:2019
SYSTEMS
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CETTE NORME NATIONALE DU CANADA EST DISPONIBLE EN VERSIONS FRANÇAISE ET ANGLAISE

JUNE 27, 2019 - CAN/ULC-S524:2019 tr1
Standard for Installation of Fire Alarm Systems, CAN/ULC-S524
Seventh Edition, Dated June 27, 2019
Summary of Topics
This Seventh Edition of CAN/ULC-S524 includes:
• Updated and simplified drawings;
• Use of wireless (short-range radio frequency) devices;
• Circuit fault tolerance requirements and the installation of fault isolators;
• Circuit fault tolerance requirements and the installation of fault isolators;
• Data communication link style N (DCLN) circuits and ethernet wiring;
• Allowing a fire alarm system to also function as a mass notification system;
• Requirements on Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS);
• The use of smoke detectors in lieu of smoke alarms in suites of residential occupancy;
• Requirements for carbon monoxide or gas and vapour detectors connected to the fire
alarm system; and
• Use of carbon monoxide detectors in lieu of carbon monoxide alarms.
The new and revised requirements are substantially in accordance with Proposal(s) on this subject dated
November 23, 2018
PLEASE NOTE THAT CERTAIN CODES MAY REFER TO A SUPERSEDED VERSION OF THIS
STANDARD. IN THOSE INSTANCES, THE RELEVANT VERSIONS ARE AVAILABLE FOR
PURCHASE.
UL COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL –
NOT AUTHORIZED FOR FURTHER REPRODUCTION OR
DISTRIBUTION WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM UL
tr2 JUNE 27, 2019 - CAN/ULC-S524:2019
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CAN/ULC-S524:2019
STANDARD FOR INSTALLATION OF FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
ICS 13.220.20; 13.320
First Edition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February 1982

Second Edition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 1986
Third Edition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 1991
Fourth Edition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February 2001
Fifth Edition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 2006
Sixth Edition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 2014
Amendment 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 2016
SEVENTH EDITION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .JUNE 27, 2019
Copyright © 2019
ULC Standards
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, in an electronic retrieval
system or otherwise, without prior permission.
4 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 5
CONTENTS
ULC STANDARDS COMMITTEE ON FIRE ALARM AND LIFE SAFETY EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS..9
ULC STANDARDS SUBCOMMITTEE ON CONTROL UNITS FOR FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS ............... 11
PREFACE .......................................................................................................................................15
INTRODUCTION..............................................................................................................................17
1 Scope .................................................................................................................................17
2 Reference Publications.........................................................................................................17
3 Glossary..............................................................................................................................19
REQUIREMENTS OF FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS .................................................................................26
4 General ...............................................................................................................................26
5 Power Supply ......................................................................................................................30
5.1 General...................................................................................................................30
5.2 Primary power .........................................................................................................30
5.3 Secondary Power Supply .........................................................................................31
5.4 Emergency Power Supply ........................................................................................31
5.5 Engine-Driven Generators ........................................................................................32
5.6 Uninterruptible Power Supply....................................................................................32
6 Electrical Supervision ...........................................................................................................33
6.1 General...................................................................................................................33
6.2 Trouble Signals........................................................................................................39
7 Wiring .................................................................................................................................39
8 Optical Fibre Cables.............................................................................................................41
9 DCLN Circuit / Pathway ........................................................................................................42
10 Short-Range Radio Frequency Equipment (Wireless) ...........................................................42
11 Plans And Specifications.....................................................................................................43
INSTALLATION OF FIRE ALARM EQUIPMENT ...............................................................................44
12 Control Units and Transponders ..........................................................................................44

13 Annunciators and Display and Control Centre ......................................................................45
14 Control Switches ................................................................................................................47
15 Ancillary Display.................................................................................................................47
16 Remote Power Supplies .....................................................................................................47
17 Batteries............................................................................................................................48
18 Circuit Fault Tolerance ........................................................................................................48
19 Data Communication Link (DCL) .........................................................................................49
19.1 General .................................................................................................................49
19.2 Network Data Communication Link..........................................................................57
19.3 Field Device Data Communication Link....................................................................61
20 Large Scale Network Systems.............................................................................................62
VOICE COMMUNICATION ..............................................................................................................64
21 General .............................................................................................................................64
22 Automated Voice................................................................................................................65
NOT AUTHORIZED
23 Emergency FOR FURTHER REPRODUCTION OR
Telephones ......................................................................................................65
6 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS OF FIRE ALARM SYSTEM DEVICES...................................................66
24 General .............................................................................................................................66
25 Protective Covers And Accessories .....................................................................................67
INITIATING AND INPUT DEVICES ...................................................................................................67
26 Manual Stations .................................................................................................................67

27 General Requirements for Fire Detectors .............................................................................68
27.1 General .................................................................................................................68
27.2 Mounting of Fire Detectors......................................................................................68
27.3 Mounting of Spot Type Fire Detectors ......................................................................69
28 Spot Type Fire Detectors ....................................................................................................76
28.1 Smooth Ceiling Spacing .........................................................................................76
28.2 Sloped Ceiling Spacing ..........................................................................................80
28.3 Ceiling Height Variations.........................................................................................81
28.4 Galleries, Mezzanine and Interior Balconies .............................................................81
28.5 Partitions ...............................................................................................................84
28.6 Corridors ...............................................................................................................85
28.7 Special Applications ...............................................................................................85
28.8 High Ceilings .........................................................................................................85
28.9 Solid Joist Construction ..........................................................................................86
28.10 Beam Construction...............................................................................................87
28.11 Exit Stair Shafts....................................................................................................96
28.12 High Air Movements and Humidity .........................................................................97
28.13 Raised Floors and Suspended Ceilings..................................................................99
28.14 Elevator and Dumbwaiter Shafts (Hoistways) .........................................................99
29 Multi-Sensor Devices ....................................................................................................... 100
30 Smoke Detectors in lieu of Smoke Alarms .......................................................................... 100
31 Air Duct Type Smoke Detectors......................................................................................... 100
32 Beam Type Smoke Detectors............................................................................................ 104
33 Air Sampling Type Detectors ............................................................................................. 104
34 Flame Detectors............................................................................................................... 105
35 Other Fire Detectors ......................................................................................................... 105
36 Carbon Monoxide Detection Devices ................................................................................. 106
37 Carbon Monoxide Detectors in lieu of Carbon Monoxide Alarms .......................................... 106
38 Other Gas and Vapour Detection Devices .......................................................................... 107
NOTIFICATION AND OUTPUT DEVICES........................................................................................ 107
39 General ........................................................................................................................... 107

40 Audible Signal Devices Locations ...................................................................................... 108
41 Audible Signal Devices in Suites of Residential Occupancy ................................................. 108
42 Visible Signal Devices (Strobe Lights)................................................................................ 108
43 Combination Audible / Visible Signal Device (Strobe Lights) ................................................ 112
44 Strobe Synchronization Modules ....................................................................................... 112
45 Fire Do Not Enter Signs .................................................................................................... 112
46 Directional Signs for Evacuation ........................................................................................ 113
OTHER FIRE ALARM SYSTEM DEVICES ...................................................................................... 113
47 End-of-Line Devices ......................................................................................................... 113

48
Fault Isolators .................................................................................................................. 114
49 NOT
Suite AUTHORIZED
Fault FOR FURTHER REPRODUCTION OR
Isolators.......................................................................................................... 116
50 DISTRIBUTION
Door Holders (Hold-Open Devices) WITHOUT PERMISSION
and Door Closers FROM UL
......................................................... 117
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51 Interconnection to the Fire Signal Receiving Centre ............................................................ 117

52 Fire Suppression Releasing Systems ................................................................................ 118
52.1 General ............................................................................................................... 118
52.2 Fire Detectors for Suppression Releasing .............................................................. 118
52.3 Alarm Initiating Devices and Supervisory Devices for Suppression Systems ............. 118
52.4 Notification Devices for Suppression Systems ........................................................ 121
52.5 Releasing and Abort Stations for Suppression Systems .......................................... 122
52.6 Releasing Panels for Suppression Systems ........................................................... 122
ANNEX A (INFORMATIVE) EXPLANATORY MATERIALS ............................................................... 123
ANNEX B (INFORMATIVE) – FIRE DETECTION ZONES AND ANNUNCIATION OF FIRE ALARMS,

INCLUDING ALARM RESOUND OPERATION................................................................... 159
B1 NBC Fire Alarm Zoning Requirements............................................................................... 159

B2 Alarm Resound Operation ................................................................................................ 161
B3 NBC Zone Supervisory Zoning Requirements .................................................................... 161
B4 Good Engineering Practice ............................................................................................... 161
ANNEX C (INFORMATIVE) – SOUND LEVEL MEASUREMENTS .................................................... 163
ANNEX D (INFORMATIVE) – STROBE LIGHTS ............................................................................. 171
ANNEX E (INFORMATIVE) – RESPONSIBILITY DEMARCATIONS FOR INTERCONNECTION OF FIRE

SIGNAL RECEIVING CENTRE.......................................................................................... 175
E.1 Responsibility Demarcations – Supervised Communication Facility Installations.................. 175

E.2 Responsibility Demarcations – Dual Communications Signal Transmitter Installations ......... 176
E.3 Responsibility Demarcations – Fire Alarm Control Units with Integral Communication
Devices ......................................................................................................................... 177
E.4 Responsibility Demarcations – Fire Alarm Control Units with Integral Communication
Devices ......................................................................................................................... 178
E.5 Non-Removable Terminal Blocks ..................................................................................... 179
E.6 Removable Terminal Blocks............................................................................................. 180
ANNEX F (INFORMATIVE) – PRIORITY LEVELS FOR COMBINED MASS NOTIFICATION AND FIRE
ALARM SYSTEMS ........................................................................................................... 181
8 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 9
ULC STANDARDS COMMITTEE ON FIRE ALARM AND LIFE SAFETY

EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS
Name Representing Region Interest category
A.M. Leber (Chair) AML Encore Ontario Commercial/
Industrial User
S. Ames System Sensor Canada Canada Producer
K. Baird LRI Fire Engineering Canada Commercial/
Industrial User
D. Boynowski D Boynowski Fire Consulting Ontario Commercial/
Industrial User
P. Clarke Department of National Defence Canada Government
S. Crosby Jensen Hughes Consulting Canada Ltd. Canada Commercial/
Industrial User
D. Currie Canadian Security Association Canada General Interest
D. Dixon Morrison Hershfield Limited Canada Commercial/
Industrial User
D. Duggan Fire Detection Devices Ltd. Ontario Producer
L. Eisner Mircom Technologies Ltd. Canada Producer
G. Fawcett Society of Fire Protection Engineers Ontario General Interest
B. Fremis Defence Construction Canada Canada User
W.D. Goodyear D. Goodyear Fire Consulting Ontario Commercial/
Industrial User
R. Jagmohan Honeywell Security and Custom Electronics Canada Producer
K. Jess Alberta Municipal Affairs Alberta Regulator
F. Kurz Fire Technicians Network B.C. User
G. Landmesser Canadian Fire Alarm Association Canada General Interest
K. Lefebvre Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs Canada Regulator
D. Morris Canadian Fire Safety Association Canada General Interest
D. Nita Digital Security Controls Ltd. Canada Producer
A. Nolin Maple Armor Fire Alarm Device Co. Ontario Producer
B. Paterson Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management Ontario Regulator
S. Postma Health Canada Canada Government
L. Shudak UL LLC U.S.A. Testing &
Standards
S. Stroud ADT Security Services Canada, Inc. Canada Supply Chain
J. Tondang Siemens Canada Canada Producer
V. Tripp Ontario Municipal Fire Prevention Officers Association Ontario Regulator
J. Van Keuren Chubb Edwards – UTC Fire & Security Canada Canada Producer
A. Tsisserev (Associate AES Engineering Canada Non-Voting
Member)
T. Zhong (Associate ULC Inc. Canada Non-Voting
Member)
T. Espejo (Project ULC Standards Canada Non-Voting
Manager)
This list represents the membership at the time the committee balloted on the final text of this edition.
Since that time, changes in membership may have occurred.
10 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 11
ULC STANDARDS SUBCOMMITTEE ON CONTROL UNITS FOR FIRE

ALARM SYSTEMS
Member Representing
R. de Launay (Chair) Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management,
Ontario
M. Arruda Electrical Contractors Association of Ontario, Ontario
A. Berezowski Honeywell Security and Fire, U.S.A.
A. Cavers Underwriters Laboratories of Canada Inc., Canada
P. Clarke Department of National Defence
S. Crosby Jensen Hughes Consulting Canada, Canada
D. Dixon Morrison Hershfield Limited, Canada
M. Fortin National Research Council of Canada, Canada
B. Fremis Defence Construction Canada, Canada
W. D. Goodyear D. Goodyear Fire Consulting, Canada
M. Hugh Johnson Controls Inc., Canada
F. Kurz Fire Technicians Network, British Columbia
A.M. Leber AML Encore, Ontario
K. Lefebvre Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs, Canada
W. Liang QPS Evaluation Services, Canada
I. MacDonald R. J. Bartlett Engineering Ltd., N.B.
D. Morris Canadian Fire Safety Association, Canada
M. Prasad ULC Standards, Canada
A. Tsisserev AES Engieering, British Columbia.
J. Van Keuren Chubb Edwards – UTC Fire and Security Canada, Canada
T. Zhong ULC Inc., Canada
T. Espejo (Project Manager) ULC Standards, Canada
12 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 13
ULC STANDARDS WORKING GROUP ON INSTALLATION OF FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
Member Representing
W. D. Goodyear (Chair) D. Goodyear Fire Consulting
A. Berezowski Honeywell Security, U.S.A.
D. Boynowski D Boynowski Fire Consulting, Ontario
A. Cavers Underwriters Laboratories of Canada Inc., Canada
S. Crosby Jensen Hughes Consulting, Canada
S. Denn Brampton Fire and Emergency Services, Ontario
L. Durand Saskatoon Fire Department, Saskatchewan
T. Espejo ULC Standards, Canada
A. Friedman Toronto Fire Services, Ontario
D. Honsberger LRI Fire Engineering Ltd., Canada
M. Hugh Johnson Controls Inc, Canada
F. Kurz Fire Technicians Network, Canada
G. Landmesser Canadian Fire Alarm Association, Canada
F. Leber AML Encore, Ontario
I. MacDonald R. J. Bartlett Engineering Ltd., N.B.
B. Paterson Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management,
Ontario
R. Mcleod Mircom Group of Companies, Canada
P. Schuyler H.H. Angus and Associates, Ltd., Canada
L. Shudak UL LLC, U.S.A.
L. Solonovich City of West Kelowna, British Columbia
J. Tondang Siemens Canada, Canada
J. Van Keuren Chubb Edwards – UTC Fire & Security Co., U.S.A.
M. Zukov ARENCON, Inc., Canada
Associate Members / Alternates

R. De Launay Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management,
Ontario
L. Doucette R.J. Bartlett Engineering Ltd., New Brunswick
L.P. Gagnon ULC Inc., Canada
14 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 15
PREFACE
This is the Seventh Edition CAN/ULC-S524:2019, Standard for Installation of Fire Alarm Systems.
This Standard has been developed in compliance with the requirements of Standards Council of Canada
for accreditation of Standards Development Organizations.
This Edition of the Standard was developed by the ULC Standards Working Group on S524, reviewed by
the ULC Standards Subcommittee on Installation, Inspection and Verification of Fire Alarm Systems, and
has been formally approved by the ULC Standards Committee on Fire Alarm and Life Safety Equipment
and Systems. This Edition of the Standard was developed and coordinated as part of the following set of
companion standards:
• CAN/ULC-S527, Standard for Control Units for Fire Alarm Systems;
• CAN/ULC-S536, Standard for Inspection and Testing of Fire Alarm Systems; and
• CAN/ULC-S537, Standard for Verification of Fire Alarm Systems.
Only metric SI units of measurement are used in this Standard. If a value for measurement is followed by a
value in other units in parentheses, the second value may be approximate. The first stated value is the
requirement.
Annexes A to F, identified as Informative, are for guidance and informational purposes only.
In Canada, there are two official languages, French and English. All safety warnings must be in French
and English. Attention is drawn to the possibility that some Canadian authorities may require markings
and/or instructions to be in either or both official languages, except as stated elsewhere in this Standard.
This Seventh Edition National Standard of Canada is based on, and now supersedes, the Sixth Edition.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this Canadian standard may be the
subject of patent rights. ULC Standards shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent
rights.
Requests for interpretation of this Standard should be sent to ULC Standards. The requests should be
worded in such a manner as to permit a “yes” or “no” answer based on the literal text of the requirement
concerned.
This CAN/ULC-S524 Standard in under continuous maintenance, whereby each revision is approved in
compliance with the requirements of Standards Council of Canada for accreditation of a Standards
Development Organization. In the event that no revisions are issued for a period of four years from the
date of publication, action to revise, reaffirm, or withdraw the standard shall be initiated.
Comments or proposals for revisions on any part of the Standard may be submitted at any time. Proposals
should be submitted via a Proposal Request in the On-Line Collaborative Standards Development System
(CSDS) at https://csds.ul.com/canada.
This Standard is intended to be used for conformity assessment.
16 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 17
Introduction
1 Scope
1.1 This Standard describes the requirements for the design and installation of a fire alarm system with
or without voice communication capability.
NOTE 1: This Standard is intended to apply to both required and voluntary fire alarm installations.
NOTE 2: The requirements in this Standard address the installation for various types of fire alarm system equipment and devices.
These requirements are intended to apply when the equipment and devices are required by the fire alarm system design.
NOTE 3: This Standard recognizes that a fire alarm system may have additional features or functions differing from those detailed in
these requirements, if the features or functions enhance:
a) The life safety of the occupants of the building; and/or
b) The protection of the building or property.
Refer to Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.1.1.
1.2 The installation of devices not covered by these requirements shall be in accordance with good
engineering practice and manufacturer's published installation instructions and the following standards, as
applicable:
a) CAN/ULC-S553, Installation of Smoke Alarms;
b) CAN/ULC-S561, Installation and Services of Fire Signal Receiving Centres;
c) CAN/ULC-S573, Installation of Ancillary Devices Connected to Fire Alarm Systems;
d) CAN/ULC-S576, Standard for Mass Notification System Equipment and Accessories;
e) CAN/ULC-S588, Gas and Vapour Detectors and Sensors, Including Accessories; and
f) CAN/ULC-S1001, Integrated Systems Testing of Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems.
2 Reference Publications
2.1 The documents shown below are referenced in the text of this Standard. Unless otherwise stated
elsewhere in this Standard such reference shall be considered to indicate the edition and/or revisions of
the document available at the date on which the Committee approved this ULC Standard. All undated
references shall be interpreted as referring to the latest edition of that document.
Documents Published by the CSA Group

178 Rexdale Blvd., Toronto, ON M9W 1R3
Telephone: (416) 747-4000 or 1-800-469-6727
www.csagroup.ca
• CSA 6.19-17, Residential Carbon Monoxide Alarming Devices

• CSA C22.1:2018, Canadian Electrical Code (CEC), Part I, Safety Standard for Electrical Installations
• CSA C282-15, Emergency Electrical Power Supply for Buildings
• CAN/CSA Z32-15, Electrical Safety and Essential Electrical Systems in Health Care Facilities
Documents Published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
1 Batterymarch DISTRIBUTION WITHOUT
Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471 U.S.A. PERMISSION FROM UL
18 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Telephone: 1 (800) 344-3555

www.nfpa.org
• NFPA 13-2019, Standard for Installation of Sprinkler Systems

• NFPA 72-2019, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
Document Published by the National Research Council Canada (NRC)
1200 Montreal Road, Bldg. M-58, Ottawa, ON K1A 0R6 Canada
Telephone: (613) 993-9101 or 1-877-672-2672
www.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca
• National Building Code (NBC) of Canada 2015

• National Fire Code (NFC) of Canada 2015
Document Published by the Office of the Ontario Fire Marshal (OFM)

Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, Office of the Fire Marshal, 25 Morton Shulman,
Toronto, ON M3M 0B1Canada
Telephone: 1(800) 565-1842
www.ofm.gov.on.ca
• Technical Guideline TG-02-2016, Fire Alarm Audibility in Existing Residential Occupancies
Documents Published by ULC Standards

7 Underwriters Road, Toronto, ON M1R 3B4 Canada
Telephone: (416) 757-3611 or 1-866-9373-ULC
E-mail: publications@ulc.ca
www.ulc.ca
• CAN/ULC-S139:2017, Standard Method of Fire Test for Evaluation of Integrity of Electrical Cables
• CAN/ULC-S139:2017-REV1 (2018), Standard Method of Fire Test for Evaluation of Integrity of Electrical
Cables
• CAN/ULC-S525:2016, Audible Signal Devices for Fire Alarm Systems, Including Accessories
• CAN/ULC-S526:2016, Visible Signal Devices for Fire Alarm Systems, Including Accessories
• CAN/ULC-S526:2016-REV1 (2017), Visible Signal Devices for Fire Alarm Systems,
Including Accessories
• CAN/ULC-S527-11-AMD1 (2014), Standard for Control Units for Fire Alarm Systems
• CAN/ULC-S528-14-AMD1 (2017), Standard for Manual Stations for Fire Alarm Systems,
• CAN/ULC-S529:2016, Smoke Detectors for Fire Alarm Systems
• CAN/ULC-S530-M91 ((R2018)), Heat Actuated Fire Detectors for Fire Alarm Systems
• CAN/ULC-S533:2015, Egress Door Securing and Releasing Devices
• CAN/ULC-S541:2016, Speakers for Fire Alarm Systems, Including Accessories
• CAN/ULC-S541:2016–REV1 (2017), Speakers for Fire Alarm Systems, Including Accessories
• CAN/ULC-S548:2015, Devices and Accessories for Water Type Extinguishing Systems
• CAN/ULC-S553:2014, Installation of Smoke Alarms
• CAN/ULC-S553:2014 (R2019), Installation of Smoke Alarms
• CAN/ULC-S559-13 (R2018), Standard for Equipment for Fire Signal Receiving Centres and Systems
• CAN/ULC-S561:2013 (R2018), Standard for Installation and Services for Fire Signal Receiving Centres
and Systems UL COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL –
• CAN/ULC-S573:2014, Installation of Ancillary Devices Connected to the Fire Alarm System
• CAN/ULC-S576:2014, Standard for Mass Notification System Equipment and Accessories
DISTRIBUTION
• CAN/ULC-S588:2017, Standard for GasWITHOUT PERMISSION
and Vapour Detectors and Sensors, FROM UL
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 19
• CAN/ULC-S1001:2011 (R2018), Integrated Systems Testing of Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems
• ULC/ORD-C228-12, Door Closers and Holders
Document published by Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) /Electronic Industries Alliance
(EIA) 1320 N. Courthouse Road, Suite 200 Arlington, VA 22201 U.S.A.
Telephone: (703) 907-7700
www.tiaonline.org
• TIA EIA-568-[C1.1-2017], Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard, Part 1: General

Requirements.
• TIA EIA-568-[C.2-2010], Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard, Part 2: Balanced
Twisted-Pair Telecommunications Cabling Components.
• TIA EIA-568-[C.3-2011], Optical Fiber Cabling Components Standard- Cabled Optical Fiber and Array
Connectivity.
• TIA EIA-606-[B-2012], Administration Standard for the Commercial Telecommunications Infrastructure.
• TIA-598-[C-(2005)], Optical Fiber Cable Color Coding.
3 Glossary
NOTE: The following terms used in this Standard are defined as follows:
3.1 ACTIVE FIELD DEVICE – A field device that can be uniquely identified by a control unit and/or
transponder to determine its presence and operating status, and which may be commanded to operate or
to change its operating parameters independently of other field devices that share a common circuit.
3.2 ADDRESSABLE DEVICE – See definitions for active field device and supporting field device.
NOTE: Collectively, active field devices and supporting field devices are commonly referred to as addressable devices.
3.3 AIR DUCT TYPE SMOKE DETECTOR – A fire detector designed to activate when the concentration
of airborne combustion products in an air duct exceeds a pre-determined level.
3.4 AIR SAMPLING TYPE DETECTOR – A fire detector designed to activate when the concentration of
airborne combustion products exceeds a pre-determined level and is part of an air sampling system.
3.5 ALARM SIGNAL – A signal transmitted throughout a zone or zones or throughout a building to
advise occupants that a fire emergency exists.
3.6 ALERT SIGNAL – A signal to advise designated persons of a fire emergency.
3.7 AMBIENT NOISE LEVEL – The background sound or noise in an area or environment, being
composite of sounds from many sources, including building HVAC (heating, ventilating, air conditioning).
Ambient noise level measurements are typically recorded when temporary sound sources are absent or
are at their lowest level.
3.8 ANCILLARY CIRCUIT – A circuit which connects a control unit and/or transponder to ancillary
devices.
3.9 ANCILLARY DEVICE –UL A device which has a life-safety

COPYRIGHTED application,–is connected to the fire alarm
MATERIAL
system, but is not part of the fire alarm system.
NOTE: Examples ofDISTRIBUTION WITHOUT
items which may be connected, PERMISSION
include elevators, FROM
smoke control and venting ULfire doors.
systems and
20 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
3.10 ANCILLARY DISPLAY – A component to visually indicate status information from a fire alarm
system or ancillary device.
3.11 ANNUNCIATOR – A component to visually indicate the National Building Code of Canada required
status information from a fire alarm system.
3.12 AUDIBLE SIGNAL DEVICE – A device which utilizes sound to notify the occupants of a building of
an emergency situation.
3.13 AUTHORITY HAVING JURISDICTION (AHJ) – The governmental body responsible for the
enforcement of any part of this Standard or the official or agency designated by that body to exercise such
a function.
3.14 AUTOMATED VOICE – A pre-recorded voice message that may be activated in response to an
emergency or other customized application event.
3.15 BEAM TYPE CEILING – Ceilings having solid structural or solid non-structural members or baffles
projecting down from the ceiling surface more than 100 mm and spaced more than 900 mm, centre to
centre.
NOTE: Open truss beam construction is not considered to impede the flow of fire by-products unless the upper member is in
continuous contact with the ceiling and projects more than 100 mm below the ceiling.
3.16 BEAM TYPE SMOKE DETECTOR – A fire detector where light from an internal source is
transmitted externally, monitored by a photosensitive receiver, and is designed to activate when the
concentration of airborne combustion products exceeds a predetermined level.
3.17 BUSS – A circuit that serves as a common connection for distribution of power, data, or audio to
multiple circuits or devices.
3.18 BUILDING – Any structure used or intended for supporting or sheltering any use or occupancy.
3.19 CARE – Means the provision of services other than treatment by or through care facility
management to residents who require these services because of cognitive, physical or behavioural
limitations.
3.20 CARE OCCUPANCY – The occupancy or use of a building or part thereof where care is provided to
residents. (See Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.3.20.)
3.21 CEILING – The upper surface of a space, regardless of height.
3.22 CEILING HEIGHT – The height from the continuous floor of a room or space to the continuous
ceiling of a room or space.
3.23 CENTRAL ALARM AND CONTROL FACILITY (CACF) – A location within a building in which fire
alarm control units, annunciators and other life safety related equipment may be located for the purpose of
command and control.
3.24 CIRCUIT – A path consisting of conductors and/or optical fibre cables used to convey status
information, alarm signaling, power, voice or other functions between two or more points.
3.25 CLASS NOT A CIRCUIT
AUTHORIZED(Return Loop Circuit)
FOR – A circuit having
FURTHER one continuous pathOR
REPRODUCTION connecting all
devices on the circuit and terminating through an alternate connection path in the source enclosure..
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 21
3.26 CLASS B CIRCUIT (Terminated Circuit) – A circuit having one continuous path connecting all
devices on the circuit and terminating at an end-of-line device.
3.27 COMPATIBLE – The correct electrical, electronic or mechanical interaction between a series of
system components that depend on individual unique characteristics that are connected together to meet
the requirements of this Standard (e.g. control unit and/or transponder and field devices).
3.28 CONTROL UNIT – A component that provides the control and logic processing for a fire alarm
system.
3.29 CONVENTIONAL FIELD DEVICE – A field device that is usually connected to a control unit and/or
transponder on a common wiring circuit with other devices so that all devices on the circuit provide a
common status change information (e. g. fire alarm detection or signaling). Such devices cannot be
uniquely identified by a control unit and/or transponder unless there is only one device on the circuit.
(Refer to 3.1, ACTIVE FIELD DEVICE).
3.30 DATA COMMUNICATION LINK (DCL) – The data channel between control units and/or
transponders, display and control centres, annunciators, active field devices and supporting field devices
of a distributed type system.
3.30.1 DATA COMMUNICATION LINK STYLE A (DCLA) – A data communication link style performing
similar to a Class A circuit with operational characteristics as detailed in Table 3.1, Performance of Data
Communication Links (DCL).
Table 3.1
Performance of Data Communication Links (DCL)
Abnormal Data communication link (DCL) styles

operating
condition in a link DCLN (Endpoint
at the same DCLN (Per
DCLA DCLB DCLC connected via
location (see pathway)
single pathway)
Note 1)
Single Open S T S S T
Single Ground S S See Note 2 See Note 3 See Note 3
Wire to Wire Short T T S1 S T
Wire to Wire Short T T S1 S T
& Ground
Open and Ground S T S S T
Loss of T T T See Note 4 See Note 4
Communication
Legend
T = Trouble indication at the control unit. S = Trouble indication at the control unit and alarm receipt capability during abnormal
operation.
S = Trouble indication at the control unit and alarm receipt capability during abnormal operation.
S1 = Trouble indication at the control unit and alarm receipt capability (beyond the isolated fault section of the link) during
abnormal operation.
NOTE 1: The abnormal operating conditions (faults) are to be applicable for the circuits / pathways technology (e.g., ground fault
and wire-to-wire fault is not applicable to optical fibre and wireless technology pathways).
NOTE 2: Systems utilizing data communication link(s) Style C (DCLC) do not require detection of a single ground on the data
communication link provided they meet the requirements of 19.1.1.3. All the field devices on the circuit may be shown in trouble
condition while the system resolves the fault condition.
NOTE 3: Systems utilizing data communication link(s) Style N (DCLN) do not require detection of a single ground on the data
communication link provided the DCL meets the requirements of 19.1.1.4.
NOTE 4: For loss of communication, refer to 19.1.1.4 (b) and (d).
22 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
3.30.2 DATA COMMUNICATION LINK STYLE B (DCLB) – A data communication link style performing
similar to a Class B circuit with operational characteristics as detailed in Table 3.1, Performance of Data
Communication Links (DCL).
3.30.3 DATA COMMUNICATION LINK STYLE C (DCLC) – A data communication link style with a
primary wiring circuit and an alternate wiring circuit with operational characteristics as detailed in Table
3.1, Performance of Data Communication Links (DCL).
3.30.4 DATA COMMUNICATION LINK STYLE N (DCLN) – A data communication link style with a
primary wiring circuit and an alternate wiring circuit with operational characteristics as detailed in Table
3.1, Performance of Data Communication Links (DCL).
3.31 DEGRADED MODE CAPABILITY – A feature where, under conditions of partial data
communication link failure, control units and/or transponders, which remain connected to each other, are
capable of receiving inputs and activating outputs in the areas served by the control units and/or
transponders which remain in communication with each other.
3.32 DESIGN – The selection, application and layout of the fire alarm system components.
3.33 DETECTOR SPACING – A horizontally measured dimension relating to the allowable coverage of
detectors.
3.34 DISPLAY AND CONTROL CENTRE (DCC) – Equipment used for the status display of the input
zones and for the manual control of a fire alarm system. It may also include manual control for emergency
voice alarm and emergency telephone functions. The display and control centre may be located remotely
from a fire alarm control unit and/or transponder.
3.35 DISTRIBUTED TYPE SYSTEM – A system consisting of two or more control units and/or
transponders, one (or more) of which operates as the display and control centre.
3.36 EFFECTIVE LUMINOUS INTENSITY – The quantity of directly perceived light produced by a
visible signal device, measured in candela (cd).
3.37 ELECTRICAL SUPERVISION – A means whereby a fault condition which would interfere with the
operation of a circuit / pathway in a fire alarm system is detected.
3.38 EMERGENCY TELEPHONE – A feature of a fire alarm system, which provides two-way voice
communication between each floor area and a display and control centre and/or the equipment at a central
alarm and control facility.
3.39 EMERGENCY POWER – A secondary source of electrical energy, independent of the main power
supply, used to power the fire alarm system in response to a failure of the main power supply.
3.40 EVENT – Status change that requires visual indication or visual and audible indication as
applicable.
3.41 FAULT ISOLATOR – A device used for wire-to-wire short circuit protection.
NOTE: Fault isolators can provide short circuit protection for various types of circuits including data, audio and power circuits. The
correct type of fault isolator needs to be installed for the circuit being isolated.
3.42 FIELD DEVICE – A device located remotely from, but communicates to, a control unit and/or
transponder to transmit or receive status change information (e.g. fire alarm detection or signaling).
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 23
3.43 FIRE ALARM SYSTEM – A combination of interconnected devices consisting of at least a control
unit, a manual station and an audible signal device, designed to warn the building occupants of an
emergency fire condition.
3.44 FIRE DETECTOR – A device which detects a fire condition and automatically initiates an electrical
signal to actuate an alert signal or an alarm signal and includes heat detectors and smoke detectors.
3.45 FIRE SIGNAL RECEIVING CENTRE – A facility that receives fire alarm system signals and at
which trained personnel and service persons are on duty at all times.
3.46 FIRMWARE – Basic operating program which is inherent to the system and is not field
programmable.
3.47 FLAME DETECTOR – A fire detector designed to activate at a predetermined level of infrared,
ultraviolet, or visible radiation emanating from the process of combustion.
3.48 FLOOR AREA – The space on any storey of a building between exterior walls and required
firewalls, including the space occupied by interior walls and partitions, but not including exits and vertical
service spaces and their enclosing assemblies.
3.49 GROUND – A connection to earth obtained by a grounding electrode.
Exception: This does not apply to optical fibre cables.
3.50 GROUND FAULT – A circuit impedance to ground sufficient to prevent normal operation.
3.51 HEAT DETECTOR – A fire detector designed to operate at a predetermined temperature or rate of
temperature rise.
3.52 INPUT CIRCUIT – A circuit connected directly to conventional field devices and employed to
provide a control unit or transponder with field device status information.
3.53 INPUT ZONE – An area or field device within a building which initiates annunciator indication as
required by the National Building Code of Canada.
3.54 MAIN POWER SUPPLY – The primary source of electrical energy used to power the fire alarm
system.
3.55 MANUAL STATION – A field device designed to initiate a signal when operated manually.
3.56 OPEN CIRCUIT FAULT – An increase of circuit impedance sufficient to prevent normal operation.
3.57 OPTICAL FIBRE CABLE – A cable consisting of one or more optical fibres which transmits
modulated light for the purpose of control, signaling or communication.
3.58 OPTICAL TIME DOMAIN REFLECTOMETER (OTDR) – A test instrument that analyzes the light
loss in an optical fibre to find faults, splices and bends.
3.59 OUTPUT CIRCUIT – A circuit connected directly to field devices and employed to provide an alert
signal, alarm signal or other output functions.
NOT AUTHORIZED
3.60 RELEASING DEVICE SERVICEFOR FURTHER
– The control REPRODUCTION
of building OR
safety systems by the fire alarm system
DISTRIBUTION
(e.g. sprinkler pre-action WITHOUT
systems and extinguishing PERMISSION FROM UL
systems).
24 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
3.61 REMOTE POWER SUPPLY – A power supply, battery, and charger combination, which is mounted
externally from a control panel or transponder to extend the power capabilities of fire alarm circuits serving
fire alarm devices and/or ancillary systems.
NOTE: Remote power supply is also known as booster power supply, signal booster power supply, adder power supply, expansion
power supply, signalling device extender or auxiliary power supply.
3.62 RESPONSE TIME – The time lapse from the occurrence of an alarm or supervisory input status
change, or trouble condition, to activation of system outputs.
3.63 RISK ANALYSIS – A process that will document the likelihood, vulnerability, and magnitude of
incidents associated with natural, technological, and man-made disasters and other emergencies that
address scenarios of concern, their probability, and their potential consequences.
3.64 SHORT CIRCUIT FAULT – A decrease of circuit impedance sufficient to prevent normal operation.
3.65 SHORT-RANGE RADIO FREQUENCY DEVICE – Any device that communicates with control /
receiving equipment by low-power radio signals.
NOTE: These devices are commonly referred to as wireless devices and may be subject to the requirements of Industry Canada
Radio Standards Specifications.
3.66 SHORT-RANGE RADIO FREQUENCY DEVICE LINK – A low-power radio signal that provides a
data channel between short-range radio frequency devices.
NOTE: Short-range radio frequency device links are commonly referred to as wireless device links and may be subject to the
requirements of Industry Canada Radio Standards Specification.
3.67 SITE SPECIFIC DATA – Alterable data required for the control unit to operate in a defined system
configuration (e.g. labelling, zoning, alarm organization).
3.68 SLOPED CEILING – Ceilings having a slope ratio greater than 1 in 8.
3.69 SLOPED CEILING-PEAKED TYPE – Ceilings which slope in two or more directions from the
highest point.
3.70 SLOPED CEILING-SHED TYPE – Ceilings in which the high point is at one side with the slope
extending toward the opposite side.
3.71 SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEM – An engineered system that utilizes mechanical fans and dampers
to produce airflows and pressure differences across smoke barriers to limit and direct smoke movement.
3.72 SMOKE DETECTOR – A fire detector designed to operate when the concentration of airborne
combustion products exceeds a predetermined level.
3.73 SMOOTH CEILING – Ceilings having a surface uninterrupted by continuous projections.
3.74 SOFTWARE – A program, or set of programs and associated data, procedures, rules,
documentation, and materials concerned with the use, operation, and maintenance of an automated
information or message processing or computing system. (Also refer to 3.75 , Software Program).
3.75 SOFTWARE PROGRAM UL –COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL

A series of instructions –
designed to achieve a certain result that is
NOT
translated into AUTHORIZED
machine-readable FOR FURTHER REPRODUCTION OR
form (code).
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 25
3.76 SPECIFIC TROUBLE INDICATION – A trouble signal which consists of a common trouble signal
and a specific visual indication which identifies the failed circuit or item of equipment, or operational
malfunction.
3.77 SPECIFICATION – A detailed and precise presentation of required work and performance
approved by the designer.
3.78 STAND-ALONE CAPABILITY – A feature where, under conditions of data communication link
failure, control units and/or transponders are capable of receiving inputs and activating outputs in the area
served by that control unit and/or transponder.
3.79 STATUS CHANGE CONFIRMATION (SMOKE DETECTOR ALARM VERIFICATION) – An optional

feature providing confirmation of the activation of a smoke detector.
3.80 STROBE LIGHT – A visible signal device which utilizes high intensity flashing light to notify
occupants of a building to the activation of the fire alarm system.
3.81 SUBSEQUENT ALARM – Activation of another input zone before the control unit is reset.
3.82 SUITE FAULT ISOLATOR – A fault isolator intended for use on signal circuits serving suites of a
residential or care occupancy to ensure that a short circuit fault on a signal circuit in one suite of a
residential or care occupancy does not prevent the normal operation of a signal device in another suite of
a residential or care occupancy.
3.83 SUPERVISORY DEVICE – A field device to detect a condition that could prevent the proper
operation of a fire protection system.
3.84 SUPERVISORY SIGNAL – A visual and audible indication of the off-normal status of equipment
that has been installed for the protection of life and property.
3.85 SUPPORTING FIELD DEVICE – An active field device that monitors and/or controls other field
devices on a separate circuit and reports the status of the separate circuit to a control unit and/or
transponder.
3.86 TAMPER DEVICE – A device to detect the removal or opening of a protective cover.
3.87 TRANSPONDER – A component in a distributed type system, which is capable of receiving inputs
and activating outputs, and that communicates the status of such devices to the fire alarm system.
3.88 TROUBLE SIGNAL – A visual and audible indication of equipment failure, circuit failure, fault
condition or operational malfunction.
3.89 VISIBLE SIGNAL DEVICE – A device which utilizes light to notify occupants of a building to an
emergency situation in a direct or indirect manner.
NOTE: Visible signal devices used to supplement audible signal devices are referred to as visual signal devices in the National
Building Code of Canada.
3.90 VOICE COMMUNICATION – A feature of a fire alarm system consisting of voice paging and/or
emergency telephone capability.
3.91 VOICE
NOT PAGING – A manual or
AUTHORIZED FORautomatic supervised
FURTHER paging system used toOR
REPRODUCTION transmit voice
messages (information, instructions, and directions) on a selective and/or all-call basis.
26 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
3.92 WATER FLOW DEVICE – A field device used to detect the flow of water through some portion of
the water-based fire protection system.
3.93 WIRELESS DEVICE – See definition for short-range radio frequency device.
3.94 ZONE – A building area or location that has a separate visible indication at the control unit or
transponder, and/or annunciator. Refer to Annex B (Informative), Fire Detection Zones and Annunciation
of Fire Alarms.
REQUIREMENTS OF FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS
4 General
4.1 A fire alarm system shall consist of at least the following interconnected devices: a control unit, a
manual station and an audible signal device.
4.2 A fire alarm system may include additional devices such as, but not limited to, fire detectors, visible
signal devices, annunciators and other equipment required to provide voice communication capability.
4.3 Devices and equipment used in a fire alarm system shall comply with the following standards, as
applicable:
a) CAN/ULC-S525, Audible Signal Devices for Fire Alarm Systems, Including Accessories;
b) CAN/ULC-S526, Visible Signal Devices for Fire Alarm Systems, Including Accessories;
c) CAN/ULC-S527, Standard for Control Units for Fire Alarm Systems;
d) CAN/ULC-S528, Standard for Manual Stations for Fire Alarm Systems, Including Accessories;
e) CAN/ULC-S529, Smoke Detectors for Fire Alarm Systems;
f) CAN/ULC-S530, Heat Actuated Fire Detectors for Fire Alarm Systems;
g) CAN/ULC-S533, Standard for Egress Door Securing and Releasing Devices;
h) CAN/ULC-S541, Speakers for Fire Alarm Systems, Including Accessories;
i) CAN/ULC-S548, Standard for Alarm Initiating and Supervisory Devices for Water Type
Extinguishing Systems;
j) CAN/ULC-S559, Standard for Equipment for Fire Signal Receiving Centres and Systems;
k) CAN/ULC-S576, Standard for Mass Notification System Equipment and Accessories; and
l) CAN/ULC-S588, Standard for Gas and Vapour Detectors and Sensors
NOTE: Residential carbon monoxide alarming devices meeting the requirements of CSA 6.19, Residential Carbon Monoxide
Alarming Devices may be acceptable for residential applications.
4.4 Interconnection of the fire alarm system with the fire signal receiving centres shall be in accordance
with CAN/ULC-S561, Standard for Installation and Services for Fire Signal Receiving Centres and
Systems.
4.5 All devices
NOTand equipment incorporated
AUTHORIZED FORin aFURTHER
fire alarm system shall be compatible.
REPRODUCTION OR
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 27
ancillary device examples?

4.6 The connection of ancillary devices or systems to the fire alarm system shall not interfere with the
operation of the fire alarm system and shall be in accordance with CAN/ULC-S573, Installation of Ancillary
Devices Connected to the Fire Alarm System.
4.7 Where ancillary devices are powered by a fire alarm system, the main power supply and emergency
power supply of the fire alarm system shall be of sufficient capacity to operate both the fire alarm system
and the ancillary devices.
4.8 Voice communication capability shall be compatible with the fire alarm system and shall not impair
the fire alarm’s ability to warn the building occupants of an emergency condition.
4.9 In a fire alarm system with voice communication capability, voice commands, issued by a person
using a microphone, shall not be used as the sole alarm signal or alert signal, but may be used to
supplement these signals.
4.10 An alarm input activation shall cause the fire alarm system to perform the required functions.
4.11 Control unit inputs shall be classified by priority level as indicated in Table 4.1, Control Unit Priority.
NOTE: The control unit may provide alternate input priority levels in addition to fire alarm system operation as described in Table F.1,
based on building specific emergency requirements, provided the selection of priorities is supported by a risk analysis acceptable to
the authority having jurisdiction. Refer to Annex F, Priority Levels for Combined Mass Notification and Fire Alarm Systems.
Why not just use Table F.1?

Table 4.1
Control Unit Priority
Input Priority level

Fire alarm signals 1
Signals related to life safety emergency conditions 2
Fire supervisory signals 3
Signals associated with property and building safety 4
Trouble signals associated with fire alarm, life and/or property 5
safety
Other 6
NOTE: Refer also to Annex A (Informative), Explanatory Materials A.-TABLE 4.1, Examples of Typical Conditions Resulting in
Status Changes.
Examples of the input column
4.12 All non-caution and non-warning label designations, including French equivalents of English
markings shall be provided in accordance with, or equivalent to, Table 4.2, Abbreviations for the Label
Designations, as applicable.
Table 4.2
Abbreviations for Label Designations
Abbreviation
Designated term / Terme désigné
English French
Acknowledge / accorder Ack Acc
Activate / active Act Act
Alarm / alarme UL COPYRIGHTED Alm MATERIAL – Alme
DISTRIBUTION WITHOUT
Table 4.2 ContinuedPERMISSION
on Next Page FROM UL
28 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Table 4.2 Continued
Abbreviation
Designated term / Terme désigné
English French
Automatic / automatique Auto Autom
Building / bâtiment Bldg Bat
Bypass / dériver Bypass Der
Circuit / circuit Ckt Cct
Emergency / urgence Emg Urg
Fault / faille Fit Déf
Pre-announce / pré-annonce Pre-ann Pré-ann
Releasing / déclanchement Rel Decl.
Signal / signal Signal Sig
Silence / neutraliser Sil Neutr
Supervisory / supervision Sup Sup
System / système Sys Syst
Telephone / téléphone Tel Tél
Timer / minuteur Tmr Temp
Trouble / défectuosité Tbl Déf
4.13 Control units and/or transponders arranged for single stage operation shall comply with the
following, in accordance with the system's designed sequence of operations:
a) Audible signal devices and visible signal devices in the entire building shall operate as intended
within 10 s as detailed in Table 4.3, Response Times for Control Units and Transponders, except
as noted in (b);
b) Audible signal devices and visible signal devices in the same building fire alarm zone shall
operate within 5 s upon the activation of a manual station located within the same fire alarm zone.
See Table 4.3, Response Times for Control Units and Transponders; and
c) Other functions, such as interconnection to signal transmitting unit, ancillary device start of
sequence, annunciation, central alarm and control facility annunciation and ancillary devices or
ancillary circuit functions shall perform as intended within the response time as detailed in Table
4.3, Response Times for Control Units and Transponders.
Table 4.3
Response Times for Control Units and Transponders
First input operation Subsequent input operation

Output
(S) (S)
Audible Signal Devices and Visible 5 Not applicable
Signal Devices within the same manually
initiated fire alarm zone
Audible Signal Devices and Visible 10 10
Signal Devices
Interconnection to Signal Transmitting 10 Not applicable
Unit
NOT AUTHORIZED
TableFOR FURTHER
4.3 Continued REPRODUCTION
on Next Page OR
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 29
Table 4.3 Continued
First input operation Subsequent input operation

Output
(S) (S)
Releasing Device Service Start of 10 Not applicable
Sequence
Annunciation 10 10
Central Alarm and Control Facility 10 10
Ancillary Circuit 10 30
Trouble Signal 90 90
1
Water flow Devices 10 10
NOTE 1: For the purposes of testing for response time, the determination of input operation shall be the operation of a contact
device or the operation of the means to indicate a latched-in alarm condition of a smoke detector (e.g. operation of local LED).
NOTE 2: Outputs shall operate within the specified time under worst case loading conditions.
NOTE 3: Manually operated control activations for paging and alarm selection shall have indication to confirm output operation in
a maximum of 5 s. There shall be a means of providing sensory indication to the operator within 2 s that the function has been
requested.
1
Refer to 52.3.3.
4.14 Control units and/or transponders arranged for two stage operation shall comply with the following,
in accordance with the system's designed sequence of operations:
a) Initiation of a first stage signal input activation shall result in an alert signal. Activation of all or
selected signal devices connected to the system shall operate as intended, and within the
response time as detailed in Table 4.3, Response Times for Control Units and Transponders;
b) Initiation of a second stage signal input activation, either manual or automatic, shall result in an
alarm signal. Activation of all or selected signal devices connected to the system shall operate as
intended, and within the response time as detailed in Table 4.3, Response Times for Control Units
and Transponders; and
c) Other functions, such as interconnection to signal transmitting unit, releasing device service start
of sequence, annunciation, central alarm and control facility annunciation and ancillary devices or
ancillary circuit functions shall perform during first stage and/or second stage, as intended or
required, and within the response time as detailed in Table 4.3, Response Times for Control Units
and Transponders.
4.15 Visible signal devices that supplement audible signal devices to advise occupants that a fire
emergency exists, shall be turned off automatically when audible signals are silenced and shall be turned
on automatically when audible signals are reactivated.
4.16 Silenced fire alarm signaling devices shall reactivate only upon activation of a subsequent alarm
from a different fire alarm zone.
NOTE: Activation of multiple alarm initiating devices located within the same fire alarm zone does not constitute a subsequent alarm.
4.17 Visible signal devices used to advise occupants to not enter an area, indicate activation of a fire
suppression system, or for a similar purpose shall remain on until the fire alarm system is reset.
4.18 Where a fire alarm system incorporates a status change confirmation (smoke detector alarm
verification) function, such aULfunction shall only be invoked
COPYRIGHTED upon its acceptance
MATERIAL – by the authority having
jurisdiction. (Refer to Annex A (Informative), Explanatory Materials, A.4.18, Status Change Confirmation
NOTAlarm
(Smoke Detector AUTHORIZED
Verification).) FOR FURTHER REPRODUCTION OR
30 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
5 Power Supply
5.1 General
NOTE: Installation requirements for fire alarm system equipment providing power to fire alarm systems (e.g., remote power supplies
and batteries) are detailed in Sections 12 – 20, Installation of Fire Alarm Equipment, of this Standard.
5.1.1 Two independent power supplies shall be provided: one primary and one secondary.
NOTE: Battery operated wireless field devices in compliance with 10, Short-Range Radio Frequency Equipment (Wireless), are
permitted to use the field device battery as the only source of power.
5.1.2 Emergency power, in accordance with the National Building Code of Canada and this Standard,
shall be provided.
5.1.3 The transfer from primary power to emergency power shall not cause any loss of data, or cause an
adverse change of state of the fire alarm system.
5.1.4 The fire alarm system power supply equipment and wiring shall be installed in conformance with
this Standard and the requirements of CSA C22.1, Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, Safety Standard for
Electrical Installations, Section 32.
5.1.5 The fire alarm system power supply equipment, including all power sources, shall be installed so
that it is capable of performing its intended function at any supply voltage between 85% and 110% of the
rated supply voltage.
5.1.6 Overcurrent protection for the primary electrical supply circuit to the fire alarm system equipment
shall be:
a) Not less than 150% of the manufacturer's rating as shown on the equipment name plate;
b) Not greater than 100% of the ampacity of the branch circuit conductors supplying the system;
c) Capable of interrupting the maximum short circuit current to which it may be subjected; and
d) Provided in all ungrounded conductors of the circuit.
5.1.7 For distributed type systems or where remote power supplies are provided, primary power supplied
for individual components may be obtained from separate electrical supply circuits provided that each
circuit complies with 5.1.4. A caution label shall be installed at each primary source of supply with the
following or similar wording:
a) “The fire alarm system power is supplied from more than one primary power source”; and
b) “Il y plus d'une alimentation primaire pour le système d'alarme incendie”.
5.1.8 The overcurrent devices and disconnecting means shall be clearly identified as the fire alarm
power in a permanent, conspicuous, and legible manner and the disconnecting means shall be coloured
red and lockable in the “on” position to prevent unintended disconnection.
5.2 Primary power
ULsupplied
5.2.1 A primary power supply, COPYRIGHTED
from one or moreMATERIAL
120 VAC power–sources, shall be provided for
each fire alarm system.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 31
5.2.2 Primary power, supplied to the fire alarm system shall be provided from a separate dedicated
circuit, except where a distributed type system or remote power supplies are provided as described in
5.1.5 and 5.3.2.
5.2.3 The primary power supply shall be capable of continuously supplying power for operating the fire
alarm system under the installed full load condition.
5.2.4 Loss of the primary power supply shall result in a specific trouble signal and shall result in
automatic transfer to the secondary power supply.
5.3 Secondary Power Supply
5.3.1 A secondary power supply, supplied from one or more 24 VDC power sources integral to the fire
alarm system (i.e., dedicated batteries), shall be provided for each fire alarm system.
5.3.2 The source end of the circuit conductors for the secondary power supply shall be connected
through an over-current device and circuit disconnecting means. The over-current and disconnecting
means shall be connected as close as practical to the source of secondary power supply (i. e., battery
terminals).
5.3.3 The disconnecting means may be omitted provided such batteries are not more than 3600 mm
from the control unit or transponder.
5.3.4 The secondary power supply shall be sized to meet one of the following requirements:
a) 24 h of standby load plus the duration of rated alarm load as required by the National Building
Code of Canada if the emergency power supply (see 5.4, Emergency Power Supply) is provided
entirely by the secondary power supply; or
b) 4 h of standby load plus the rated alarm load for the duration required by the National Building
Code of Canada if the emergency power supply (see 5.4, Emergency Power Supply) is provided by
an engine-driven generator.
NOTE: Where uninterrupted power supplies (UPS) are installed, refer to 5.6, Uninterruptible Power Supply.
5.3.5 Loss of the secondary power supply shall result in a specific trouble signal on the fire alarm
system.
5.4 Emergency Power Supply
5.4.1 The duration of the emergency power supply shall be as required by the Section on Emergency
Power for Fire Alarm Systems in the National Building Code of Canada.
5.4.2 The emergency power supply may be provided by one of the following methods:
a) An engine-driven generator installed in accordance with 5.5, Engine-Driven Generators, of this

Standard which supplements the fire alarm system’s primary power supply;
b) An uninterruptable power supply, independent of the fire alarm system, and installed in
accordance with 5.6, Uninterruptible Power Supply, of this Standard which supplements either the
fire alarm system’s primary power supply or secondary power supply;
c) The fire alarm secondary power supply; or
DISTRIBUTION
d) Any combination of the above.WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM UL
32 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
NOTE: Refer to 5.3.3 regarding the sizing of the fire alarm system secondary power supply.
5.5 Engine-Driven Generators
5.5.1 Emergency power supply from an engine-driven generator shall be installed in accordance with
CSA C282, Emergency Electrical Power Supply for Buildings. (Refer to Annex A (Informative),
Explanatory Materials, A4.2.5.1.)
5.5.2 Where the emergency power supply is an engine-driven generator, a warning condition from the
generator safety control panel shall provide a latching supervisory signal on the fire alarm system
indicating a common generator fault condition.
5.5.3 Where provided, a “generator running” condition shall cause a non-latching supervisory signal on
the building’s fire alarm system.
5.5.4 The disconnecting means for a generator emergency power supply shall be fitted with a locking
device to prevent unauthorized operation.
5.5.5 Where the emergency power supply is an engine-driven generator, the transfer from primary power
supply to emergency power supply shall not cause any loss of data, or cause an adverse change of state
of the fire alarm system.
5.6 Uninterruptible Power Supply
5.6.1 Emergency power supply for the fire alarm system may be provided from an uninterruptible power
supply (UPS).
5.6.2 The input and output of a UPS system shall have hard-wired permanent connections. The
permanent connections shall be in accordance with CSA C22.1, Safety Standard for Electrical
Installations, Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, Safety Standard for Electrical Installations, Section 32.
Exception: Display and control centre for portable use, complying with Subsection 4.16.4 of CAN/ULC-
S527, Control Units for Fire Alarm Systems, is exempted from this requirement.
5.6.3 The UPS shall be installed in accordance with CSA C22.1, Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, Safety
Standard for Electrical Installations, Section 46 – Emergency Power Supply, Unit Equipment, Exit Signs,
and Life Safety Systems.
5.6.4 In order to perform maintenance and repair service, a means for disconnecting the UPS while
maintaining continuity of power to the fire alarm system, shall be provided. The disconnecting means shall
be fitted with a locking device to prevent unauthorized operation.
5.6.5 The off-normal position of the UPS disconnecting means as described in 5.5.3 shall result in a non-
latching supervisory signal or specific trouble signal.
5.6.6 Where power is provided by a UPS designed to provide service for essential building operation and
services, it must be backed up by emergency generators that comply with the following:
a) Sufficient fuel to operate the emergency generators for the combined load of the building
services and the full fire alarm load cycle as is required by CSA C282 Emergency Electrical Power
Supply for Buildings; UL COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL –
NOT indication
b) Provide AUTHORIZED FORsystem
to the fire alarm FURTHER REPRODUCTION
upon failure OR service;
of the building utility electrical
and DISTRIBUTION WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM UL
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 33
c) Provide supervisory signal on the fire alarm system indicating any common UPS fault that may
affect operation of the fire alarm system.
5.6.7 Where emergency power is provided from a self-contained uninterruptible power supply (UPS) the
following requirements shall apply:
a) The UPS shall meet the requirements of CAN/ULC-S527, Standard for Control Units for Fire
Alarm Systems and the applicable requirements of this Standard;
b) The UPS shall have capacity to maintain fire alarm system operation in accordance with 5.3.4
(a); and
c) The UPS system shall provide a trouble signal to the fire alarm system indicating the following
abnormal conditions:
1) UPS switches from the primary power source to the secondary power source;
2) A charging circuit failure, which causes charging voltage to decrease below the marked
nominal rated battery voltage; and
3) UPS trouble.
5.6.8 The UPS shall be located in the same room as the equipment served or in an electrical service
room or a dedicated room within the same fire compartment.
5.6.9 The UPS shall be located in an area having an average ambient temperature in accordance with
manufacturer's published installation instructions.
5.6.10 The UPS shall be installed and located to permit access for routine maintenance by authorized
personnel only.
5.6.11 Each UPS battery shall be individually labelled with the in-service date.
6 Electrical Supervision
6.1 General
6.1.1 Electrical supervision of the circuit / pathway shall be provided for the following:
a) Manual stations;
b) Fire detectors;
c) Water flow devices;
d) National Building Code of Canada required supervisory devices for water based fire protection
systems;
e) Audible signal devices;
f) Visible signal devices;
g) Voice communication equipment;

h) Emergency telephone handsets;
DISTRIBUTION
i) Main power WITHOUT
supplies and emergency PERMISSION FROM UL
power supplies;
34 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
j) Power supplied to field devices;
k) Annunciators;
l) Display and control centres;
m) Common fault indication from the engine-driven generator, as required by Clause 5.5; and
n) Common fault indication from the UPS, as required by 5.5.2.
NOTE: Electrical supervision of ancillary devices is covered by CAN/ULC-S573, Installation of Ancillary Devices Connected to Fire
Alarm Systems.
6.1.2 Fire alarm system devices shall be connected so that removal or disconnection of any device shall
cause a trouble signal to be initiated.
6.1.3 In circuits with a primary and alternate wiring path, the primary wiring circuit and the alternate
wiring circuit shall be installed in separate raceways or cable assemblies having a minimum separation of
300 mm where the cables are installed vertically and 1200 mm where the cables are installed horizontally
(Refer to Figure 6.1, Separation of Wiring Circuits), except under the following conditions:
a) Single conduit/raceway not exceeding 3000 mm in length in the same fire compartment or room
to enclosures for control units, transponders, annunciators, display and control centres or remote
power supplies located in the same room. (Refer to Figure 6.2);
b) Single conduit/raceway drops to individual field devices (Refer to Figure 6.3); or
c) Single conduit/raceway drops to multiple field devices installed within a single room not
exceeding 100 m2 in area (Refer to Figure 6.4).
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 35
Figure 6.1
Separation of Wiring Circuits
PRIMARY WIRING RACEWAY
OR CABLE ASSEMBLY
1200 mm
MINIMUM
ALTERNATE WIRING RACEWAY

OR CABLE ASSEMBLY
300 mm
MINIMUM
su3508
NOTE 1: For Class A circuit, Data Communication Link Style A (DCLA), Data Communication Link Style C (DCLC), and Data
Communication Link Style N (DCLN) circuits to be separated by a minimum 300 mm when installed vertically and 1200 mm when
installed horizontally. Refer to Figure 6.2 through Figure 6.4 for Exceptions.
NOTE 2: To enable survivability, a best practice is to utilize construction elements of the building to provide the maximum distance
between the primary and alternative paths.
36 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure 6.2
Separation of Wiring Circuits: Exception A
PRIMARY WIRING RACEWAY OR

CABLE ASSEMBLY
IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII
PRIMARY AND ALTERNATE WIRING
RACEWAY OR CABLE ASSEMBLY
CONTROL UNIT
OR
TRANSPONDER
3000 mm MAXIMUM within Same Fire

Compartment or Room

IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII
OR CABLE ASSEMBLY
su3509
Exception: (refer also to Figure 6.1): For a distance not to exceed 3000 mm where the primary and return conductors enter and exit
the field devices, or control unit and transponder enclosure, and are located in the same fire compartment or room.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 37
Figure 6.3
Separation of Wiring Circuits: Exception B
CLASS A CIRCUIT,
DATA COMMUNICATION LINK STYLE “A” OR
DATA COMMUNICATION LINK STYLE “C” CIRCUIT
PRIMARY AND ALTERNATE

WIRING CIRCUITS
INDIVIDUAL FIELD DEVICE
EXAMPLE 2
CLASS A CIRCUIT,
DATA COMMUNICATION LINK STYLE “A” OR
DATA COMMUNICATION LINK STYLE “C” CIRCUIT PRIMARY AND ALTERNATE
WIRING CIRCUITS
INDIVIDUAL FIELD DEVICE
su3510
Exception: (refer also to Figure 6.1): Single conduit/raceway drops to individual field devices.
38 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure 6.4
Separation of Wiring Circuits: Exception C
CLASS A CIRCUIT,
DATA COMMUNICATION LINK STYLE “A” OR PRIMARY AND ALTERNATE
DATA COMMUNICATION LINK STYLE “C” CIRCUIT WIRING CIRCUITS
A
X
A
X
A ROOM NOT TO EXCEED 100 M2

X FIELD DEVICE
su3511
Exception: (refer also to Figure 6.1): Single conduit/raceway drops to multiple field devices installed within a single room not
exceeding 100 m2.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 39
6.1.4 Circuits for ancillary devices shall be installed such that open circuit faults, short circuit faults or
ground faults shall not interfere with the operation of the fire alarm system.
6.1.5 Except as noted in 6.1.8, each circuit of a fire alarm system shall be installed such that open circuit
faults or ground faults shall not interfere with the operation of other circuits of the fire alarm system, and
such faults shall initiate a trouble signal.
NOTE: In conventional two-stage systems, input circuits for first stage and second stage shall not share conductors.
6.1.6 Except as required by 6.1.8, wiring to an annunciator and/or display and control centre remotely
located from a control unit or transponder shall be supervised for open circuit faults, short circuit faults or
ground faults, with indication at the control unit.
6.1.7 Interconnecting data communication link wiring between annunciators and/or display and control
centres remotely located from a control unit and/or transponder shall be supervised such that any fault
(open circuit faults, short circuit faults, ground faults or loss of data transmission) which prevents proper
annunciation or control is indicated at the annunciator and display and control centre.
6.1.8 Where equipment for control units or transponders is installed in multiple enclosures within the
same room, wiring between these enclosures need not be electrically supervised where installed in
metallic raceways not exceeding 18 m in length.
6.2 Trouble Signals
6.2.1 A common audible and visible trouble signal shall be provided and located at each control unit,
annunciator and display and control centre.
6.2.2 Trouble signals shall:
a) Be distinctive from the alarm signal, alert signal, and supervisory signal;
b) Sound at least once every 10 s with a minimum on-time duration of 0.5 s when an intermittent
signal is used; and
c) Be visually distinct when a common audible signal is used.
6.2.3 An audible trouble signal shall continue to sound until manually silenced or until the trouble
condition is restored to normal.
6.2.4 A remote trouble signal shall be permanently identified by the following or similar wording:
a) "Fire Alarm Trouble Signal"; and/or
b) “Signal de dérangement".
6.2.5 Audible trouble signal silencing switch or switches shall be designed or installed to be operable
only by authorized personnel.
7 Wiring
NOTE 1: Refer to Annex A (Informative), A.7, Suggested Wiring and Installation.
NOTE 2: Wiring requirements of 7, Wiring, do not apply to linear heat detection cable. Refer to 35.4.
NOTE 3: For wiring DISTRIBUTION WITHOUT
requirements of optical fibre cables, PERMISSION
refer to 8, Optical Fibre Cables. FROM UL
40 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
NOTE 4: For wiring requirements of DCLN circuit / pathway, refer to 9., DCLN Circuit / Pathways.
7.1 Wiring and wiring methods including raceways shall be suitable for the location and environment in
which they are installed in accordance with the requirements of C22.1, Canadian Electrical Code, Part I,
Safety Standard for Electrical Installations.
NOTE: The Canadian Electrical Code defines locations including “ordinary locations”, “hazardous locations”, “damp locations”, "wet
locations", “outdoor locations”, etc.
7.2 The installation of field wiring shall be in accordance with CSA C22.1, Canadian Electrical Code, Part
I, Safety Standard for Electrical Installations, Section 12, Wiring Methods, and Section 32, Fire Alarm
Systems and Fire Pumps, the manufacturer's published installation instructions, and the requirements of
7.4 through 7.14.
7.3 Conductors shall be protected as required by Article 3.2.7.10 of the National Building Code of
Canada and the requirements in this Standard.
7.4 When utilizing existing wiring, the wiring shall meet the intent of CSA C22.1, Canadian Electrical
Code, Part I, Safety Standard for Electrical Installations, Section 32, the requirements of 7.5 through 7.14,
and be satisfactory for the intended use.
7.5 Where wires for multiple circuits are installed in the same raceway or wiring compartment, the
induced voltage or current of one circuit shall not adversely affect the operation of another circuit.
7.6 The voltage drop and power dissipation on any circuit shall not prevent the proper operation of that
circuit and shall be in accordance with the manufacturer's published installation instructions.
7.7 The field wiring of a fire alarm system shall test free of ground faults. The combined accumulative
impedance shall be in accordance with the manufacturer's published installation instructions.
7.8 Field wiring entry points for the various circuits and circuit separations shall be in accordance with the
manufacturer's published installation instructions and CSA C22.1, Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, Safety
Standard for Electrical Installations, Section 12, Wiring Methods.
7.9 A fire alarm system shall not depend on the effectiveness of any ground connection for intended
operation, except parts of circuits or equipment which are intentionally and permanently grounded.
7.10 Where fire rated/circuit integrity cables are used, these cables shall:
a) Be installed in accordance with the fire rated cable manufacturer's published installation
instructions; and
b) Conform to CAN/ULC-S139, Fire Test for Evaluation of Integrity of Electrical Power, Data and
Optical Fibre Cables, including the hose stream application, to provide a circuit integrity rating of
not less than 1 hour.
7.11 Where electrically conductive lines leave a building, lightning arresters and low voltage surge
protective devices shall be provided as per CSA C22.1, Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, Safety Standard
for Electrical Installations, Section 26, Installation of Electrical Equipment.
7.12 Where cables leave a building, non-current carrying conductive components shall be bonded as per
ULCode,
CSA C22.1, Canadian Electrical COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL
Part I, Safety Standard for Electrical –
Installations, Section 26.
7.13 When using shielded cable, the shield shall be:
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 41
a) Continuous and isolated from ground through all junction boxes;
b) Bonded in accordance with the CSA C22.1, Canadian Electrical Code and the manufacturer's
published installation instructions; and
c) The shields for groups of cables shall not be commonly connected.
NOTE: These requirements prevent multiple ground loops that can disrupt proper system communications.
7.14 Shielded cable assemblies used for data communication links located in the same raceway shall
each have a separate shielded wiring cable assembly unless individually shielded within a multiple
conductor cable assembly.
7.15 Ancillary circuits shall not be used to activate circuits of a voltage level greater than 30 V directly
within the control unit or transponder. Multiple voltage relays or devices, mounted external to the control
unit or transponder, shall be utilized to activate circuits of a voltage level greater than 30 V.
8 Optical Fibre Cables
NOTE: Requirements of 8, Optical Fibre Cable, do not apply to linear heat detection cable.
8.1 Optical fibre cable used for the interconnection of equipment shall be installed in accordance with:
a) CSA C22.1, Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, Safety Standard for Electrical Installations,
Section 56, Optical Fibre Cables;
b) The fire alarm system manufacturer's published installation instructions; and
c) The cable manufacturer's published installation instructions.
8.2 Prior to connection to fire alarm system equipment, the overall dB loss of a fibre optic circuit shall be
measured using an optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR), confirmed to be within the operating range
of the equipment, and recorded as per 11.4 .
8.3 Optical fibre cable installations used with fire alarm systems shall be provided with mechanical
protection for the cable similar to electrical conduit installations or conductors within raceways in
accordance with Section 32 of CSA C22.1, Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, Safety Standard for Electrical
Installations.
8.4 Optical fibre cable shall be dedicated to the fire alarm system except as permitted in 8.6.
8.5 Each junction access enclosure shall have a marking or label stating:
a) “Fire Alarm”; and/or
b) “Alarme Incendie”.
8.6 Where the multiple strand optical fibre cable used with a fire alarm system is not dedicated to the fire
alarm system, the fire alarm system shall continue to function as required despite any impairment to other
systems or common components, which share the cable.
8.7 Where optical fibre cable systems are used with fire alarm systems, the optical fibre cable system
shall be designed to ensure UL COPYRIGHTED
that MATERIAL
the system is provided – equivalent to that required
with protection
elsewhere NOT
in this AUTHORIZED FOR FURTHER
Standard and CAN/ULC-S527, Control UnitsREPRODUCTION
for Fire Alarm Systems,OR
including items
such as circuit protection and primary and secondary power supplies.
42 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
8.8 Where electrically conductive lines, including an electrical conductive component of an optical fibre
cable, leave a building, lightning arresters and/or bonding shall be provided in accordance with CSA
C22.1, Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, Safety Standard for Electrical Installations, Sections 26 and 56,
and surge arrester protection as per the manufacturer's published installation instructions.
8.9 Where optical fibre cables leave a building, non-current carrying conductive components shall be
grounded in accordance with CSA C22.1, Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, Safety Standard for Electrical
Installations, Sections 26 and 56.
9 DCLN Circuit / Pathway
9.1 DCLN wiring used for the interconnection of equipment shall be installed in accordance with:
a) CSA C22.1, Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, Safety Standard for Electrical Installations Section
32, Fire Alarm Wiring;
b) The fire alarm system manufacturer's published installation instructions; and
c) The cable manufacturer's published installation instructions; and
d) Fibre optic cables used for DCLN wiring shall be installed in accordance with 8, Optical Fibre
Cables.
9.2 DCLN wiring installations used with fire alarm systems shall be provided with mechanical protection
for the cable similar to electrical conduit installations or conductors within raceways.
9.3 DCLN shall be dedicated to the fire alarm system.
9.4 Each junction access enclosure shall have a marking in accordance with 8.5.
9.5 Where DCLN wiring systems are used with fire alarm systems, the DCLN wiring system shall be
designed to ensure that the system is provided with protection equivalent to that required elsewhere in this
Standard and CAN/ULC-S527, Control Units for Fire Alarm Systems, including items such as circuit
protection and primary and secondary power supplies.
9.6 Where electrically conductive lines leave a building, lightning arresters and/or bonding shall be
provided in accordance with CSA C22.1, Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, Safety Standard for Electrical
Installations, Sections 26 and 56, and surge arrester protection as per the manufacturer's published
installation instructions.
10 Short-Range Radio Frequency Equipment (Wireless)
10.1 Short-range radio frequency (wireless) devices shall comply with the Standards listed in 4.3.
10.2 Short-range radio frequency devices shall be installed in accordance with the applicable
requirements of this Standard.
10.3 Short-range radio frequency devices shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's
published installation instructions including, but not limited to:
a) Distance from device to receiver/transceiver;

b) Quantity of devices per receiver/transceiver;
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 43
c) Compatible with other short-range radio frequency devices communicating on the same short-
range radio frequency device link; and
d) Primary and secondary power supplies (see Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials,
A.10.3)
10.4 Each short-range radio frequency device shall be securely mounted.
NOTE: Battery operated short-range radio frequency devices are not required to be mounted to a utility box.
10.5 AC-powered short-range radio frequency devices shall be mechanically supported independent of
wiring in accordance with CSA C22.1, Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, Safety Standard for Electrical
Installation.
10.6 A fire alarm system incorporating short-range radio frequency devices shall operate in accordance
with Table 4.3, Response Times for Control Units and Transponders, for fire alarm system response times.
10.7 The removal of a short-range radio frequency device from the system or its installed location shall
cause a specific trouble signal that indicates its removal and individually identifies the affected device. See
Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.10.7.
11 Plans And Specifications
11.1 The plans and specifications for the fire alarm system shall include a complete and detailed
description of the following:
a) Sequence of operation;
b) Installation instructions;
c) Description of each type of field device;
d) Details of input to programmed output functions for programmed systems;
e) Air sampling pipe network design details, including calculations showing the flow characteristics
and transport times; and
f) Connection to a fire signal receiving centre, if required by the National Building Code of Canada.
11.2 The plans of the building shall show the fire alarm zoning, device address and the location of each
control unit, transponder, remote power supply, and field devices of the fire alarm system, including fault
isolators, ancillary devices and annunciators, or display and control centres.
11.3 In addition to the plans required by 11.2, a separate wiring block diagram (i.e. schematic and riser
diagram) shall be provided showing the interconnection of field devices, control units, transponders,
annunciators, ancillary devices, and power supplies external to control units or transponders.
11.4 Documentation for the fire alarm system shall include the information pertaining to the fire alarm
system:
a) Instructions for resetting the system and silencing alarm signals;
b) Instructions for silencing the trouble signal and

UL COPYRIGHTED action to be taken
MATERIAL – when the trouble signal
sounds;
DISTRIBUTION
c) Description WITHOUT
of the function of each PERMISSION
operating control FROM
and indicator on the fire UL
alarm unit;
44 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
d) Description of the area of fire zone protected by each alarm detection circuit (this may be in the
form of a list or plan drawing);
e) Description of the sequence of operation, including any deviation from the default programming;
f) Description of ancillary devices controlled by the fire alarm system;
g) Equipment operating instructions or manuals;
h) Equipment maintenance or testing instructions;
i) Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR) report for fibre optical circuits;
j) Name and contact information of the installing and servicing company of the fire alarm system;
and
k) Access levels and the functions permitted by the equipment. Refer to Annex A (Informative)
Explanatory Materials, A.11.4.
11.5 Documentation for a fire alarm system that provides logical control of a smoke control system shall:
a) Include a sequence of operation of the smoke control system,
b) Include a building diagram that clearly indicates the type and location of all smoke-control
equipment (fans, dampers, etc.), and
c) Identify the building areas that the smoke control system serves as either;
1) A part of the Firefighters Smoke Control Station (FSCS); or
2) A separate drawing with instructions to mount adjacent to the FSCS.
NOTE: Refer to the National Building Code of Canada for the smoke control system controls required to be provided.
11.6 Documentation for a fire alarm system that provides logical control of a smoke venting system shall
include a sequence of operation, and identify building areas and equipment (fans, dampers, etc.) where
building exhaust systems serve as a means for smoke venting.
11.7 The documentation required by 11.1 to 11.6 shall be:
a) Readily available to the inspection authority;
b) Retained on site in a single location (refer to Annex A, Explanatory Materials, A.11.7); and
c) Revised and maintained throughout the life of the fire alarm system.
INSTALLATION OF FIRE ALARM EQUIPMENT
12 Control Units and Transponders
12.1 Control units and transponders shall be installed in locations in accordance with the requirements of
the National Building Code of Canada.
12.2 A clear space shall be maintained around control units and transponders to provide access for
UL COPYRIGHTED
maintenance and testing in accordance MATERIAL
with the manufacturer's –
published installation instructions.
12.3 DISTRIBUTION
A minimum WITHOUT
clearance of 1000 mm PERMISSION
shall be maintained FROM
in front of control UL
units and transponders.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 45
12.4 The top of control units and transponders shall be not more than 2400 mm above the finished floor
level.
12.5 Visual displays and operating controls shall be installed in accordance with the applicable
requirements of 13, Annunciators and Display and Control Centre.
12.6 Control units and transponders shall be permanently installed such that the control units and
transponders cannot be inadvertently removed, powered down, or disconnected.
12.7 Except as permitted by 12.8 , control units and transponders shall be located in an area with an
average ambient temperature range between 10 ° C to 25 ° C and where the relative humidity does not
exceed 90 %.
12.8 Control units and transponders installed in areas exceeding the ambient conditions noted in 12.7
shall be compatible with the environmental conditions in which they are installed.
NOTE: Refer to Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.12.8, Installation Environment, for designed for the temperature
range.
12.9 Control units and transponders shall be located in an area so as not to be exposed to
electromechanical interference, radio frequency interference and noise transients exceeding the tested
limits.
12.10 Control unit and transponder response times shall not exceed the times prescribed in Table 4.3,
Response Times for Control Units and Transponders.
13 Annunciators and Display and Control Centre
13.1 Annunciators and display and control centres shall be located in accordance with the requirements
of the National Building Code of Canada.
13.2 A clear space shall be maintained around annunciators and display and control centres to provide
access for maintenance and testing in accordance with the manufacturer's published installation
instructions.
13.3 A minimum clearance of 1000 mm shall be maintained in front of annunciators and display and
control centres.
13.4 All manual controls shall be:
a) Physically protected within a locked cabinet or equivalent; and
b) Secured against operation by unauthorized personnel;
13.5 Where alarm initiating zoning of the fire alarm system is required by the National Building Code of
Canada, the appropriate circuits shall be installed to indicate the alarm initiating zone on an annunciator or
display and control centre.
13.6 Each annunciator or display and control centre required by the National Building Code of Canada
and this Standard shall be permanently installed.
13.7 Visual displays and operating controls of the annunciator or display and control centre shall be
located andNOT AUTHORIZED
logically FOR
grouped for convenient FURTHER
viewing, REPRODUCTION
function and operation. OR
46 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
13.8 The visual displays and operating controls of the annunciator or display and control centre shall be
not less than 600 mm and not more than 1800 mm above the finished floor level.
13.9 The input zone from which the event has originated shall be clearly identified on the display without
the need to consult a separate chart.
13.10 Each input zone shall be annunciated for activation, utilizing annunciators or display and control
centres that are in conformance with CAN/ULC-S527, Standard for Control Units for Fire Alarm Systems.
13.11 Each input zone shall be annunciated for activation on any annunciator or display and control
centre installed to comply with the requirements of the National Building Code of Canada or installed as
part of the emergency response procedures for the building. Refer to Annex B (Informative), Fire Detection
Zones and Annunciation of Fire Alarms.
13.12 Each annunciator or display and control centre shall provide specific annunciation of each input
zone as required by the National Building Code of Canada and the fire alarm system design. Refer to
Annex A (Informative), Explanatory Materials, A.13.12.
13.13 Specific annunciation of each input zone shall be provided via:
a) Discrete indicator (i.e. LED) with or without alphanumeric display; or
b) Sequential alphanumeric display capable of displaying discrete text messages consisting of a

minimum of eight input zones simultaneously, with a status line (summary display).
NOTE: Sequential alphanumeric displays which only display eight individual devices simultaneously, rather than eight input
zones simultaneously, do not meet the requirements of this Clause but may be used for ancillary displays.
13.14 Ancillary display installed to indicate the actuation of smoke detectors in sleeping rooms of a care,
treatment or detention occupancy as defined by the National Building Code need only provide individual
indication, so that the room or location containing the actuated smoke detector can be easily identified.
13.15 Operating controls on a display and control centre shall be located and arranged so as to be
operated by authorized personnel only.
13.16 Where a fire alarm system incorporates multiple display and control centres intended to be used
for command and control purposes during a fire emergency, the following shall apply:
a) Manual controls and voice alarm features can only be operated from one location at any given
time;
b) Indication shall be continuously displayed at all display and control centres as to which is in
control, either by a dedicated indicator or a text message where alphanumeric displays are used;
c) Complete loss of communication to a display and control centre shall not inhibit other
communicating display and control centres from being able to gain control; and
d) Ability to request, grant, or deny system control with provision for fail-safe auto-transfer from one
command centre to another shall be provided.
NOTE 1: Display and control centres intended to be used for command and control during a fire emergency could include central
alarm and control facility (CACF), fire command centres or security control centres. This requirement is not intended to apply to
display and control centres provided only for maintenance and service purposes.
NOTE 2: Where a fire alarm system with multiple display and control centres is also used for building emergency systems such as
mass notification, a risk analysis acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction is required to review command and control features to
ensure priority messaging is not adversely delayed or affected.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 47
Refer to Annex A, Explanatory Materials, A.13.16.
13.17 Except as permitted by 13.18, an annunciator or display and control centre shall be located in an
area with an average ambient temperature range between 10 °C to 25 °C and where the relative humidity
does not exceed 90 %.
13.18 Annunciators or display and control centres installed in areas exceeding the ambient conditions
noted in 13.17 shall be listed for the environmental conditions in which they are installed.
NOTE: Refer to Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.12.8, Installation Environment, for listed temperature range.
13.19 Annunciators or display and control centres shall be located in an area so as not to be exposed to
electromechanical interference, radio frequency interference and noise transients exceeding the tested
limits.
14 Control Switches
14.1 Control switches, where provided, shall be installed as part of a display and control centre and only
be operable by authorized personnel.
15 Ancillary Display
15.1 This Subsection is intended to cover display units provided on the system not intended for life safety
function which provide supplementary information required by the building owner.
NOTE: Examples of ancillary displays include those installed in maintenance areas that are not used as part of the building's
emergency response procedures.
15.2 These ancillary displays shall meet the requirements of Subsection 4.11.4, Ancillary Display, of
CAN/ULC-S527, Standard for Control Units for Fire Alarm Systems.
15.3 Local controls on an ancillary display shall be located and arranged so as to be operated by
authorized personnel only.
NOTE: If control functions are part of the ancillary display, these controls only affect the ancillary display, and shall not affect the
operation of the fire alarm control unit.
15.4 The ancillary display shall be clearly identified as an ancillary display.
16 Remote Power Supplies
16.1 The top of a remote power supply shall be mounted not less than 1500 mm and not more than 2400
mm above the finished floor level.
16.2 A remote power supply shall be installed in an accessible location and shall not be installed in a
concealed space or a restricted access room. Refer to Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials,
A.16.2.
16.3 Except as permitted by 16.4, remote power supplies shall be located in an area with an average
ambient temperature range between 10 °C to 25 °C and where the relative humidity does not exceed 90%.
16.4 Remote power supplies installed in areas exceeding the ambient conditions noted in 16.3 shall be
NOT
listed for the AUTHORIZED
environmental conditions inFOR FURTHER
which they REPRODUCTION OR
are installed.
48 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
16.5 A remote power supply shall be located in an area so as not to be exposed to electromechanical
interference, radio frequency interference or noise transients exceeding the manufacturer's published
16.6 A remote power supply serving a large scale network system shall be located in an electrical
service room or a dedicated room separated from the remainder of the building by a 1 h fire separation.
16.7 A remote power supply shall only serve devices in the same areas as the transponder which it is
serving.
16.8 A remote power supply shall comply with the synchronization requirements of 42.2, when serving
visible signal devices.
16.9 Any fault on a remote power supply shall result in a specific trouble indication on the fire alarm
system.
17 Batteries
17.1 Batteries providing the emergency power supply shall conform to 17.2 through 17.6 and to Section
26 of CSA C22.1, Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, Safety Standard for Electrical Installations.
17.2 Batteries shall be installed in a ventilated cabinet, battery room, remote power supply, control unit or
transponder, and shall be located so that no damage shall occur to the batteries or associated equipment.
17.3 Fire alarm systems supplied by batteries located outside a control unit and/or transponder
enclosure shall be provided with over-current protection in accordance with CSA C22.1, Canadian
Electrical Code, Part I, Safety Standard for Electrical Installations. Refer to 5.3.1.
17.4 Batteries shall be located in an area having an average ambient temperature in accordance with
17.5 Batteries shall be installed and located to permit access by authorized personnel for routine
maintenance.
17.6 Batteries shall be labelled with the in-service date.
18 Circuit Fault Tolerance
NOTE: Refer to Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.18, Circuit Fault Tolerance.
18.1 Except as permitted in 18.3, where any type of fire alarm circuit serves more than one National
Building Code of Canada required fire alarm zone, a single fault (open circuit fault, short circuit fault or
ground fault) shall not prevent the normal operation of input or output field devices in more than one
National Building Code of Canada required fire alarm zone.
NOTE 1: As described in Table 4.3, Response Times for Control Units and Transponders, the normal operation time is applied
outside of the fire alarm zone affected by the fault condition.
NOTE 2: Fault Isolators, or an equivalent method, may be utilized to meet the requirements of 18.1.
NOTE 3: Fault isolators that employ a unique identifier (addressable) are considered active field devices.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 49
18.2 Where a short circuit occurs during an alarm condition, detection operation outside the affected
zone may be interrupted to a maximum of 10 s. Refer to Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials,
A.18.2.
18.3 Where a short circuit occurs during an alarm condition, signaling operation outside the affected
zone may be interrupted to a maximum of 30 s. Refer to Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials,
A.18.2.
18.4 Field devices that are located within a National Building Code of Canada required fire alarm zone
which serve other National Building Code of Canada required fire alarm zones, need not comply with the
required circuit fault tolerance of 18.1 for the fire alarm zone in which the field devices are located.
NOTE 1: This Clause includes such field devices as water flow devices and supervisory devices on fire suppression systems, duct
type smoke detectors on HVAC systems and ancillary device.
NOTE 2: Fire suppression systems within the same National Building Code required fire alarm zone that are separately annunciated
need not be separately fault isolated from other devices within that fire alarm zone.
18.5 Circuits connecting control units, transponders or annunciators shall be subject to the requirements
of 18.1.
19 Data Communication Link (DCL)
19.1 General
19.1.1.1 Data Communication Links (DCL) shall meet the requirements in Table 3.1, Performance of
Data Communication Links (DCL) in accordance with their specified style.
NOTE: See Figure 19.1,Figure 19.2 , Figure 19.3, Figure 19.4, Figure 19.5, Figure 19.6, Figure 19.7 and Figure 19.8 for examples
and guidance.
50 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure 19.1
Active Field Devices and Supporting Field Devices Connected to Data Communication Link Style A
ELECTRICAL TYPICAL FLOOR DCLA MECHANICAL

ROOM ALTERNATE WIRING RACEWAY ROOM
OR CABLE ASSEMBLY
CTL MON MON

E E
O FS SV O
L L
DCLA
OR CABLE ASSEMBLY

OR CABLE ASSEMBLY
CTL MON MON

E E
O FS SV O
L L
DCLA
OR CABLE ASSEMBLY
CONTROL UNIT
OR TRANSPONDER
E
ADDRESSABLE ADDRESSABLE O END OF LINE
CTL ISO ISOLATOR
CONTROL DEVICE SMOKE DETECTOR L DEVICE
ADDRESSABLE ADDRESSABLE SV SUPERVISED VALVE J JUNCTION BOX

MON
MONITOR DEVICE HEAT DETECTOR
EXHAUST ADDRESSABLE WATER-FLOW SWITCH CONTINUATION

FS
DAMPER MANUAL STATION
CIRCUIT LINE
WALL
su3512
ZONE DELINEATION
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 51
Figure 19.2
Active Field Devices and Supporting Field Devices Connected to Data Communication Link Style B
TYPICAL FLOOR MECHANICAL

ELECTRICAL
ROOM
ROOM
CTL MON MON
E E
O FS SV O
L L
DCLB

ELECTRICAL
ROOM
ROOM
CTL MON MON

E E
O FS SV O
L L
DCLB

ELECTRICAL
ROOM
ROOM
CTL MON MON

E E
O FS SV O
L L
DCLB

ELECTRICAL
ROOM
ROOM
CTL MON MON

E E
O FS SV O
L L
CONTROL UNIT DCLB

OR TRANSPONDER
E
CTL ISO ISOLATOR

MON

FS
CIRCUIT LINE
WALL
su3513
ZONE DELINEATION
52 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure 19.3
Active Field Devices and Supporting Field Devices Connected to Data Communication Link Style C
ELECTRICAL TYPICAL FLOOR MECHANICAL

ROOM ROOM
ISO CTL MON MON ISO
E E
O FS SV O
L L
DCLC

ROOM ROOM
ISO CTL MON MON ISO

E E
O FS SV O
L L
DCLC

ROOM ROOM
ISO CTL MON MON ISO

E E
O FS SV O
L L
ALTERNATE WIRING RACEWAY DCLC

OR CABLE ASSEMBLY

ROOM ROOM
ISO ISO CTL MON MON ISO

E E
O FS SV O
PRIMARY WIRING RACEWAY L L
OR CABLE ASSEMBLY
CONTROL UNIT DCLC
OR TRANSPONDER
E
CTL ISO ISOLATOR

MON

FS
CIRCUIT LINE
WALL
su3514
ZONE DELINEATION
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 53
Figure 19.4
Example of Fault Isolator Serving a Single Field Device in an Exit Stair
Stairwell
Zone
A To Control
S ISO Unit or Next
Zone
From
Control Unit
or Previous ISO
Zone
A
S = ADDRESSABLE SMOKE DETECTOR
su3515
54 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure 19.5
Floor Data Communication Link B (DCLB) Circuits Connected to Data Communication Link A
(DCLA) Installed In Fire-Rated Stacked Electrical Rooms
ROOM ROOM
ISO
J CTL MON MON

E E
ISO O FS SV O
L L
DCLB
ELECTRICAL TYPICAL FLOOR

ROOM
ISO
J CTL MON MON

E E
ISO O FS SV O
L L
DCLA DCLB
OR CABLE ASSEMBLY
DCLA
OR CABLE ASSEMBLY
CONTROL UNIT
OR TRANSPONDER
E
CTL ISO ISOLATOR

MON

FS
CIRCUIT LINE
WALL
su3516
ZONE DELINEATION
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 55
Figure 19.6
(DCLA) Installed in a Single Fire-Rated Electrical Room
ROOM
DCLB
CTL MON MON
E E
O FS SV O
L L

ROOM
DCLB
CTL MON MON
E E
O FS SV O
L L

ROOM
DCLB
CTL MON MON
E E
O FS SV O
L L

ROOM ROOM
DCLB
ISO ISO ISO ISO CTL MON MON
E E
CONTROL UNIT OR O FS SV O
DCLA L L
TRANSPONDER
DCL CONVENTIONAL CIRCUIT WALL ZONE DELINEATION
ADDRESSABLE BIDIRECTIONAL ADDRESSABLE E END OF LINE

CTL ISO O
CONTROL DEVICE ISOLATION MODULE SMOKE DETECTOR L DEVICE
ADDRESSABLE SUPERVISED ADDRESSABLE JUNCTION
MON SV JB
MONITOR DEVICE VALVE HEAT DETECTOR BOX
EXHAUST WATER FLOW ADDRESSABLE BREAK LINE
FS
DAMPER SWITCH MANUAL STATION (CONTINUATION)
su3557
56 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure 19.7
Example of Fault Isolators Installed on Opposite Sides of Same Fire Separation
Zone X Zone Y
From
Control Unit
or Previous ISO ISO
Zone
Minimum 400 mm offset
To Control
Zone Fire Separation ISO ISO Unit or Next
Zone
(not less than 45 min)
su3518
Figure 19.8
Example of Fault Isolator Installed per 48.6
Zone X Zone Y
Single Isolator required
From
To Control
Control Unit
ISO ISO Unit or Next
or Previous ISO Zone
Zone
Zone Demarcation Line with no

Fire Separation or fire separation
less than 45 min
su3519
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 57
19.1.1.2 A fault in a data communication link shall not cause an alarm condition.
19.1.1.3 Systems utilizing data communication link(s) Style C (DCLC) do not require detection of a single
ground on the data communication link. Refer to Table 3.1, Performance of Data Communications Links
(DCL), provided:
a) A ground fault on an input circuit or output circuit shall be indicated by at least one common
ground fault indication and common trouble signal; and
b) The presence of a second ground fault on the data communications link would not prevent the
transmission of data.
19.1.1.4 A pathway designated as data communication link(s) Style N (DCLN) shall perform as follows:
a) It includes two or more pathways where operational capability of the primary pathway and a
redundant pathway to each device shall be verified through end-to-end communication;
Exception: When only one field device is served, only one pathway shall be required.
b) A loss of intended communications between endpoints shall be annunciated as a trouble signal;
c) A single open, ground, short, or combination of faults on one pathway shall not affect any other
pathway;
d) Conditions that affect the operation of the primary pathway(s) and redundant pathway(s) shall be
annunciated as a trouble signal when the system’s minimal operational requirements cannot be
met; and
e) Primary and redundant pathways shall not be permitted to share traffic over the same physical
segment.
19.2 Network Data Communication Link
19.2.1 A data communication link interconnecting control units or transponders shall be Style C (DCLC)
or Style N (DCLN). Refer to Figure 19.9. For campus style network, see Annex A (Informative) Explanatory
Materials, A.19.2.1, Campus Style Network.
58 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure 19.9
Network Data Communication Link Interconnecting Control Units and Transponders

ROOM
ISO
CONVENTIONAL INPUT
CONTROL UNIT ADDRESSABLE DATA COMMUNICATION LINKS
OR TRANSPONDER CONVENTIONAL OUTPUT
ISO
DCLC
ELECTRICAL
TYPICAL FLOOR
ROOM
ISO
CONVENTIONAL INPUT
OR TRANSPONDER
CONVENTIONAL OUTPUT
ISO
DCLC
ELECTRICAL DCLC TYPICAL FLOOR

ROOM
ISO
DISPLAY COMMAND ANNUNCIATOR
CENTER
ISO
DCLA OR DCLB
su3520
NOTE 1: For primary and alternate wiring distances refer to Figure 6.1.
NOTE 2: Isolators shown integral to the control unit or transponder may be external to the control unit or transponder.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 59
19.2.2 Data communication link Style A or data communication link Style B are permitted for dedicated
communication circuit to annunciators. Refer to Figure 19.9, Figure 19.10 and Figure 19.11.
Figure 19.10
Campus Network with Monitoring and Control
BUILDING BUILDING
F A NETWORK
DCLC
CONTROL UNIT CONTROL UNIT

OR TRANSPONDER OR TRANSPONDER
NETWORK
NETWORK DCLC
DCLB
BUILDING CONTROL FACILITY BUILDING

BUILDING
D E B
DCC
CONTROL UNIT CONTROL UNIT CONTROL UNIT

OR TRANSPONDER OR TRANSPONDER OR TRANSPONDER
NETWORK
DCLC
C
NETWORK NETWORK
DCLC CONTROL UNIT DCLC
OR TRANSPONDER
su3521
NOTE 1: Building E, connected via DCLC to Building A, B, C, D and E, is permitted to provide monitoring and control for those
buildings.
NOTE 2: Building E, connected via DCLB to Building F, is limited to provide monitoring capability only (and no control) for that
building.
NOTE 3: Refer to Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.19.2.1, Campus Style Network.

60 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure 19.11
Campus Network with Monitoring Only
BUILDING BUILDING
F A
CONTROL UNIT CONTROL UNIT
OR TRANSPONDER OR TRANSPONDER
NETWORK NETWORK
DCLB DCLB
BUILDING CENTRAL ALARM BUILDING

BUILDING
D E B
DCC
CONTROL UNIT CONTROL UNIT CONTROL UNIT

OR TRANSPONDER OR TRANSPONDER OR TRANSPONDER
NETWORK NETWORK
DCLB DCLB
NETWORK
DCLB
BUILDING
C
CONTROL UNIT
OR TRANSPONDER
su3522
NOTE 1: Building E is limited to monitoring of Buildings A, B, C, D and F, as network connections are Data Communications Link B
(DCLB)
NOTE 2: The DCC in Building E is permitted to provide control and monitoring to Building E only.
NOTE 3: Refer to Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.19.2.1, Campus Style Network.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 61
19.2.3 Where a fire alarm system contains more than 1000 active and supporting field devices and
utilizes more than one control unit or transponder, it shall also comply with the requirements of 20, Large
Scale Network Systems. (Refer to Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.19.2.1, Campus Style
Network)
19.2.4 Except as permitted in 19.2.5, distributed systems utilizing control units and transponders with
stand-alone capability shall be in accordance with the following:
a) Control units and transponders shall have signal silence, reset, and trouble silence switches with
visual indicators, and stand-alone capability indicators, which are active only in stand-alone mode;
and
b) Inputs and outputs serving the same area shall be connected to a common control unit or
transponder.
19.2.5 Multiple control units or transponders installed in the same room within 18 m of each other, which
are interconnected to operate as a single unit, may be considered as a single control unit or transponder to
meet the requirements of 19.2.4(b).
19.3 Field Device Data Communication Link
19.3.1 The number of active and supporting field devices configured to each field device data
communication link shall be limited by the data communication link style (Refer to Table 19.1, Capacities of
Systems Utilizing Data Communication Links Within a Single Building).
62 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Table 19.1
Capacities of Systems Utilizing Data Communication Links within a Single Building
Application of data Max number of active field devices and supporting field devices
communication links
DCLA* DCLB* DCLC* DCLN
(DCL)
PART I 300** 200** 300** 300**
Each field device data
communication link
** This includes all addressable devices on the CIRCUIT
originating in a control
unit or transponder
PART II DCLA* DCLB* DCLC* DCLN
Network data Not permitted Not permitted 1000*** 1000***
communications link
(See Note 5) (See Note 5)
interconnecting control
units, transponders, or
display and control
centres *** This includes all addressable devices on the SYSTEM.
See Notes 1, 2, 4 and 5
PART III DCLA* DCLB* DCLC* DCLN
Large scale network Not permitted Not permitted Unlimited*** Unlimited***
data communications
(See Note 5) (See Note 5)
links inter-connecting
control units,
transponders, or
display and control
centres as a large
scale network in ***Note: This includes all addressable devices on the SYSTEM.
compliance with
subsection 5.9, large
scale network systems.
See Notes 1, 4 and 5
General Note: Refer to Table 3.1, Performance of Data Communication Links, to assist in the selection of the most applicable data
communication links wiring style shown in this Table, based on the corresponding performance.
* For definitions, refer to Clauses 3.30.1 data communication link style A, 3.30.2 data communication link style B, and c data
communication link style C.
NOTE 1: Refer to Figure 19.1 through Figure 19.4 for examples of Part I. Refer to Figure 19.9 for Parts II and III.
NOTE 2: Where this capacity is exceeded, refer to 20, Large Scale Network Systems.
NOTE 3: Where the capacity is exceeded on a single data communication link, additional links shall be added.
NOTE 4: Also refer to other limiting factors such as, response time (refer to Table 4.3, Response Times for Control Units and
Transponders), National Building Code of Canada zoning requirements, and need for data fault isolators (refer to 18, Circuit Fault
Tolerance).
NOTE 5: Data communication link Style A or data communication link Style B are permitted for dedicated network communication
to annunciators.
19.3.2 The types of devices to be considered when establishing the total number of connected devices
shall include active field devices and supporting field devices.
NOTE: Conventional field devices monitored by a supporting field device are not considered in the maximum data communication
link capacity.
20 Large Scale Network Systems
NOTE 1: Refer to Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.19.2.1, Campus Style Network, for good engineering practices or
design guidance where these systems are applied to campus style network.

NOTE 2 Large scale network systems may incorporate mass notification systems. Refer to CAN/ULC-S576, Standard for Mass
DISTRIBUTION
Notification System Equipment and Accessories. WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM UL
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 63
20.1 Fire alarm systems that utilize more than one control unit or transponder and meet one or more of
the following criteria, shall comply with the requirements of this Subsection:
a) Contains more than 1000 total active field devices, supporting field devices, and fire detectors
(see Annex A (Informative), Explanatory Materials, A.19.2.1 with respect to campus style fire alarm
systems); or
b) Are located in a building within the scope of Subsection 3.2.6 of the National Building Code of
Canada.
20.2 Each control unit and transponder shall have stand-alone capability.
20.3 Large scale network systems shall have degraded mode capability. This capability, through pre-
programmed software, shall maintain communication to all communicating control units and transponders
using the data communication link. Any control unit or transponder not able to communicate by degraded
mode shall default to operations in stand-alone mode.
NOTE: Where network data communication link faults cause the network to be severed into multiple sections, it is intended for each
portion of the network to function independently as intended within the capacities of each section.
20.4 In degraded mode the activation of an alarm input shall cause the segment of the system remaining
in communication to:
a) Operate the alert signals and alarm signals in accordance with the system sequence of
operation; and
b) Operate local relays in control units and transponders connected to ancillary devices in
accordance with the system sequence of operation.
20.5 Each control unit and transponder shall have signal silence, reset and trouble silence switches with
visual indicators, degraded mode, and stand-alone capability indicators. Except at the primary display and
control centre(s), signal silence and reset are only active in degraded and stand-alone mode.
20.6 Buildings equipped with voice communication systems that are required by the National Building
Code of Canada, shall have at least one control unit or transponder in addition to the primary display and
control centre, incorporating the following:
a) Annunciation capability as required by the National Building Code of Canada;
b) A means to transmit voice messages (where applicable); and
c) A minimum of one "All Call" switch to enable voice messages to be transmitted (where
applicable).
20.7 Each control unit and transponder shall be located in a suitable service room and/or central alarm
and control facility, separated from the remainder of the building by a minimum 1 h fire separation.
NOTE 1: Suitable service rooms may include, but are not limited to, a dedicated fire alarm room, electrical room, telecommunication
room or information technology server room, but should not include rooms with significant combustible materials, hazardous
equipment or high voltage equipment installations. Refer also to 12.9.
NOTE 2: Refer to requirements for the protection of electrical conductors in the National Building Code of Canada.
NOTE 3: Multiple control units or transponders installed in the same room within 18 m of each other, which are interconnected to
operate as a single unit, may be considered as a single control unit or transponder to meet the requirement of 18.2(b).
64 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
20.8 Each control unit or transponder shall house all system components required to provide complete
functionality for both inputs and outputs for the area served.
NOTE: In a system that provides voice communication, the system components include amplifiers and related audio equipment. See
also 19.2.5. See also Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.20.8.
20.9 Each control unit and transponder shall provide alert and alarm signal tone generators or digitized
voice messages as required by the system sequence of operation for stand-alone mode operation.
20.10 All data communication links between control units, transponders and display and control centres
installed within a building shall conform to data communication link style C (DCLC) or data communication
link style N (DCLN).
20.11 To ensure integrity of the data communication link conductors interconnecting control units and
transponders, the following shall be provided:
a) Conductors shall be located in two physically separated 1 h fire rated compartments, except at
terminations to control units or transponders; or
b) 1 h fire rated conductors in accordance with CAN/ULC-S139, Standard Method of Fire Test for
Evaluation of Integrity of Electrical Cables.
NOTE: For some life safety applications 2 hr fire protection rating for the conductors may be required. Refer to the Protection of
Electrical Conductors in the applicable Building Code.
VOICE COMMUNICATION
21 General
21.1 A voice communication buss used for paging, alert signal, alarm signal, and emergency telephone
communication circuits, shall perform as follows:
a) An open circuit fault, or short circuit fault, or operation of an overcurrent protective device
provided for the purpose, shall result in a specific trouble indication specific to the faulted buss or
circuit;
b) Fault detection is not required while the buss or circuit is in use for purposes related to fire
safety; and
c) Fault detection and indication shall be maintained during the time a buss or circuit is used for
purposes not related to life safety (i.e. general paging)
NOTE: See also 6.1.8
21.2 Fire alarm systems utilizing voice communication busses do not require detection of a single ground
fault on the voice communication buss, provided the presence of a second ground fault on the voice
communication buss would not prevent voice communication.
21.3 During a fire alert / alarm condition, live and automated voice inputs to a fire alarm system shall
originate:
a) Only from within the premises protected by the fire alarm system; or
UL COPYRIGHTED
b) From a remote display MATERIAL
and control centre connected to the –
fire alarm system by a data
NOT AUTHORIZED
communication FOR
link style C (DCLC) FURTHER
or style N (DCLN). REPRODUCTION OR
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 65
21.4 Audio inputs shall operate in the following priority:
a) Emergency live voice;
b) Emergency automated voice;
c) Alarm signaling operation; and
d) Alert signaling operation.
21.5 The voice message shall be clear and intelligible. (Refer to Annex A (Informative) Explanatory
Materials, A.21.5, Automated Voice Message Example (Typical).)
21.6 Where an occupant can hear the same audio tones and/or voice messages from multiple outputs,
all audible signals of the same type shall be synchronized.
22 Automated Voice
22.1 Where automated voice is used, the recorded voice message shall be clear, readily discernible, and
provided at a constant level with no background noise. (Refer to Annex A (Informative) Explanatory
Materials, A.22.1, Use of Automated Voice in a Fire Alarm System.)
22.2 Where automated voice messages are provided, they shall:
a) Be part of an approved fire safety plan;
b) Not provide detailed information or event-specific messages;
c) Be integral to the control unit or transponder;
d) Only be transmitted upon the initial alarm and only after expiry of the voice inhibit period required
by the National Building Code of Canada. Activation of a second device in a separate zone of a 2-
stage system (subsequent alarm) shall not initiate a subsequent automated voice; and
e) Be suspended or temporarily interrupted, by any live voice message.
(Refer to Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.21.5, Automated Voice Message Example
(Typical).)
23 Emergency Telephones
23.1 Telephone handsets shall be installed in a lockable enclosure and provided with an emergency
means for gaining access to the telephone without the use of a key.
Exception: In areas where telephone handsets are not subject to tampering and vandalism, the units need
not be installed in lockable enclosures.
23.2 Telephone handset enclosures shall be installed in an accessible location between 1350 mm and
1500 mm above the finished floor level measured to the centre of the enclosure.
23.3 Telephone handsets shall be compatible with the control unit, transponder or supporting field device
to which it is connected.
66 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS OF FIRE ALARM SYSTEM DEVICES
24 General
24.1 Each field device shall be connected to circuits installed in accordance with Section 12, Wiring
Methods, of CSA C22.1, Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, Safety Standard for Electrical Installations.
24.2 Field devices shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's published installation
instructions, recommendations, and design.
24.3 A clear space shall be provided around field devices so that they can be accessed for operation,
maintenance and testing, in accordance with the manufacturer's published installation instructions.
24.4 Field devices shall be installed in such a manner that the required height is measured from the
centre of the field device to the finished floor level, unless specified elsewhere in this Standard.
24.5 Field devices shall be located and installed so that vibration, jarring and anticipated ambient
conditions will not cause accidental operation or malfunction.
24.6 The field device enclosures shall be securely fastened to the walls, ceiling or structural elements.
24.7 Field devices shall not be painted or modified.
24.8 Field devices subject to obvious mechanical damage or vandalism shall be equipped with a
protective cover or accessory to protect the device in accordance with 25, Protective Covers and
Accessories. (See Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.24.8.)
24.9 Field devices shall be mechanically supported independent of their attachments to the circuit
conductors. (See Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.24.9.)
24.10 Each conductor for field devices shall be cut, stripped and terminated.
24.11 Field devices shall be wired with the correct polarity as specified in the manufacturer's published
24.12 Field devices installed in concealed spaces shall be provided with means to identify the device
location at a readily visible location. When the use of an identifying mark is not practical, the device
location shall be documented at the control unit.
24.13 Each supporting field device, regardless of installation location, shall have an identifying label
securely attached so that it is visible in the installed position, identifying the system or function served.
Exception: Where a supporting field device serves a single field device and is installed within the same
enclosure as that field device, labelling is not required.
24.14 Except as permitted by 24.15, field devices, shall be located in an area with an average ambient
temperature range between 10 °C to 25 °C and where the relative humidity does not exceed 90 %.
24.15 Field devices installed in areas exceeding the ambient conditions noted in 24.14 shall be designed
for the environmental conditions in which they are installed
24.16 Field NOT AUTHORIZED
devices shall be locatedFORin anFURTHER
area so as not REPRODUCTION OR
to be exposed to electromechanical
DISTRIBUTION
interference, radio WITHOUT
frequency interference PERMISSION
and noise transients exceeding theFROM UL
tested limits.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 67
25 Protective Covers And Accessories
25.1 Except as permitted elsewhere in this Subsection, the protective cover or accessory required by
24.8 shall:
a) Be compatible with the field device;
b) Not affect or impair the operation;
c) Not affect the ability to reset, maintain and test the device; and
d) Be installed in accordance with manufacturer's published installation instructions.
25.2 Protective covers for manual stations shall be compatible for use with the protected device. The
compatibility of protective covers for manual stations shall be in accordance with the applicable Standard
referenced in 4.3.
25.3 Protective covers for visible signal devices and audible signal devices, by nature of their design,
may impact the operation of the protected device. Where these protective covers are installed, the
manufacturer's published installation instructions shall be consulted and suitable system design
modifications shall be made to compensate for the published derating factor.
25.4 Protective covers for visible signal devices and audible signal devices shall be compatible for use
with the protected device. The compatibility of protective covers for visible signal devices and audible
signal devices shall be in accordance with the applicable Standard referenced in 4.3.
25.5 Protective covers for fire detectors shall be compatible for use with the specific manufacturer's
model of fire detector. The compatibility of protective covers for fire detectors shall be confirmed by an
accredited testing organization when tested in combination, in accordance with the applicable Standards
referenced in 4.3.
INITIATING AND INPUT DEVICES
26 Manual Stations
26.1 Manual stations shall be installed 1050 mm to 1150 mm above the finished floor level measured
from the centre of the manual station.
NOTE: Refer to National Building Code of Canada Section 3.8. for accessibility requirements. (Refer to Annex A (Informative)
Explanatory Materials, A.26.1).
26.2 Manual stations shall be installed so as to be visible at all times.
NOTE: Where possible, install the manual station on the latch side of a single door at a maximum lateral distance of 1500 mm from
the door opening.
26.3 Each key operated function of the manual stations in a fire alarm system shall be keyed alike.
NOTE: Separate functions on the same station are permitted to be keyed differently.
26.4 Tamper or protective covers for manual stations shall be installed in accordance with 25, Protective
Covers and Accessories.
26.5 ManualNOT AUTHORIZED
stations shall be installedFOR FURTHER
on both REPRODUCTION
sides of a series of doors exceeding 12OR
m in total width
and within 1500DISTRIBUTION
mm of each side of theWITHOUT
opening. PERMISSION FROM UL Elevation?
68 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
27 General Requirements for Fire Detectors
27.1 General
NOTE: Refer to Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.27.1, Fire Detector Applications.
27.1.1 Fire detectors receiving power from the initiating circuit of a fire alarm system control unit and/or
transponder shall be compatible with the control unit and/or transponder.
27.1.2 Each fire detector shall be accessible for periodic maintenance and testing. Where spot type fire
detectors are not readily accessible due to safety considerations (e. g. continuous process operations,
energized electrical equipment, radiation, and excessive height) alternate methods of detection shall be
utilized (e.g. beam type smoke detector or aspiration type smoke detector).
27.1.3 Fire detectors installed in concealed spaces shall be provided with means to indicate detector
activation at a readily visible location.
27.1.4 Fire detectors installed in buildings during construction or renovation phase shall be protected
from contamination (e.g., by dust and/or paint).
NOTE: It is recommended that fire detectors should not be installed until after the construction clean-up of all trades is complete and
final.
27.1.5 Unless specifically designed for the expected conditions, fire detectors shall not be installed if any
of the following ambient conditions exist:
a) Temperature below 0 °C;
b) Temperature above 38 °C;
c) Relative humidity above 93%; or
d) Air velocity greater than 1.5 m/sec.
27.1.6 Fire detector spacing shall be reduced based on the type of ceiling construction.
27.2 Mounting of Fire Detectors
27.2.1 Tamper or protective covers for fire detectors shall be installed in accordance with 25, Protective
Covers and Accessories.
27.2.2 Recessed fire detectors shall be of a type compatible for such recessed mounting.
27.2.3 Fire detectors installed in areas that are not within the range specified in 27.1.5 shall be of a type
compatible for such applications.
27.2.4 Fire detectors in areas of condensation, steam or corrosion shall be designed for such
applications.
27.2.5 A fire detector required in a service shaft by the National Building Code of Canada shall be
mounted at the highest point of the shaft.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 69
27.3 Mounting of Spot Type Fire Detectors
27.3.1 Spot type fire detectors shall be mounted on the ceiling except as otherwise permitted in this
Standard.
27.3.2 Spot type fire detectors may be installed on the wall between 100 mm and 300 mm from the
ceiling, measured to the top edge of the detector, in accordance with the manufacturer’s published
installation instructions. (Refer to Figure 27.1, Installation of Spot Type Fire Detectors.)
Figure 27.1
Installation of Spot Type Fire Detectors
100 mm
CEILING
100 mm
ACCEPTABLE HERE MINIMUM
NEVER HERE
300 mm
MAXIMUM
TOP OF DETECTOR
ACCEPTABLE HERE
NOTE: MEASUREMENTS SHOWN ARE TO

THE CLOSEST EDGE OF THE DETECTOR
SIDEWALL
su3524
NOTE 1: Measurements shown are to the closest edge of the detector.
NOTE 2: This applies to both spot type fire detectors or aspiration detectors.
What is that?
70 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
27.3.3 Spot type heat detector temperature ratings shall be selected in accordance with Table 27.1, Heat
Detector Temperature Selection.
Table 27.1
Heat Detector Temperature Selection
Detector temperature range Maximum ceiling temperatures
Temperature classifications
(°C) (°C)
Low 39 – 57 28
Ordinary 58 – 79 47
Intermediate 80 – 121 69
High 122 – 162 111
Extra High 163 – 204 152
27.3.4 The area protected by a spot type smoke detector shall be based on a 9.1 m spacing and shall
not exceed 83 m2. 83 m2 is already governed by 70% of 9.1 m per 28.1.2.
27.3.5 Spot type fire detectors shall be located on the ceiling above the open grid ceiling where the
following conditions prevail:
inside the ceiling space above the tiles?
a) The minimum opening in the grid is 6 mm or larger;
b) The thickness of the grid material does not exceed the maximum dimension of the opening; and
c) The openings constitute 70% or more of the area of the ceiling material.
27.3.6 A clear space of at least 450 mm shall be maintained between a spot type fire detector and any
obstruction, except as specified in 27.3.8. (Refer to Figure 27.2). Obstructions and protrusions not
exceeding 100 mm from the ceiling need not be considered as impinging on this clear space.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 71
Figure 27.2
Mounting of Spot Type Fire Detectors
CEILING
100 mm SPEAKER F LIGHT FIXTURE 100 mm
450 mm
(minimum)
SHELVES
SIDEWALL
su3525 F - SPOT TYPE FIRE DETECTORS
NOTE: This applies to both spot type fire detectors or aspiration detectors.
27.3.7 Spot type fire detectors shall be installed on the ceiling not less than 100 mm from the wall,
measured to the edge of the detector, except as permitted in 27.3.2 and 27.3.3. (Refer to Figure 27.3.)
Redundant
72 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure 27.3
Ceiling Mounting of Spot Type Fire Detectors
CEILING
S
100 mm
(minimum)
Side Wall
su3526
NOTE: This applies to both spot type fire detectors or aspiration detectors.
27.3.8 Spot type fire detectors shall not be located closer than 1000 mm horizontally from the tip of the
blade of a ceiling suspended (paddle) fan measured to the edge of the detector. See Figure 27.4.
Figure 27.4
CEILING
S
1000 mm
(minimum)
AIR MOVING EQUIPMENT
su3527
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 73
27.3.9 Spot type fire detectors shall not be located in a direct airflow or closer than 1000 mm from a unit
heater measured to the edge of the detector.
27.3.10 Spot type fire detectors shall not be located in a direct airflow or closer than 450 mm from an air
supply outlet or from an air exhaust outlet measured to the edge of the detector. (Refer to Figure 27.5.)
Figure 27.5
CEILING CEILING
450 mm 450 mm
(minimum) (minimum)
Side Wall Side Wall
= SPOT TYPE FIRE DETECTOR
su3528
27.3.11 Where a spot type fire detector is subject to positive and negative airflow, the raceway entry
points and other openings to the enclosure shall be sealed. Alternatively, a special seal plate between
detector base and enclosure shall be installed. (Refer to Figure 27.6 and Figure 27.7.)
not related to design
74 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure 27.6
Mounting of Spot Type Fire Detectors and Smoke Detectors: Floor/Roof Assembly – Plenum
Floor or Roof
INCORRECT
PLENUM AIR
(FLOOR/ROOF ASSEMBLY) AIR
Conduit
Ceiling
AIR AIR
SMOKE
Floor or Roof CORRECT
PLENUM
(FLOOR/ROOF ASSEMBLY)
Conduit
Alternatively, Use Seal Plate

Ceiling
Use Sealing Compound on

Conduit and other openings
SMOKE
su3529
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 75
Figure 27.7
Mounting of Spot Type Fire Detectors and Smoke Detectors: Floor/Roof Assembly – No Plenum
Floor or Roof
INCORRECT
SOLID FLOOR
(e.g. CONCRETE)
Conduit
Ceiling
AIR AIR
SMOKE
Floor or Roof CORRECT
SOLID FLOOR
(e.g. CONCRETE)
Conduit
Alternatively, Use Seal Plate

Ceiling

Conduit and other openings
SMOKE
su3530
76 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
28 Spot Type Fire Detectors
NOTE 1: For additional information on spot type smoke detectors, refer to Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.28, Spot
Type Smoke Detectors.
NOTE 2: This Subsection prescribes the layout of spot type fire detectors. In consideration of 27.1.2 which requires all devices to be
accessible for testing and maintenance, alternate types of heat and smoke detectors installed in accordance with 32, Beam Type
Smoke Detectors, and 33, Air Sampling Type Detectors, may be used in place of spot type fire detectors (e.g., aspiration, linear heat
detectors, etc.)
28.1 Smooth Ceiling Spacing
28.1.1 For a smooth ceiling, the distance between spot type fire detectors shall not exceed their rated
Redundant (flat-ceiling) detector spacing and there shall be spot type fire detectors within a distance of 50% of the
perpendicular
later on detector spacing, measured at a right angle, from the walls or partitions extending to within 15% of the
height of the ceiling, except as permitted in 28.1.2 and 28.1.3. but not supposed to be full height
28.1.2 The maximum distance from a spot type fire detector to the furthest point of a side wall or corner
within its zone of protection shall be not greater than 70% of the detector spacing. (Refer to Figure 28.1
and Figure 28.2.)
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 77
Figure 28.1
Spot Type Fire Detector Flat-Ceiling Detector Spacing – Rectangular Areas
NOTE: Examples shown apply to a 9.1 m detector spacing (coverage of 83 m2)
3.1 m
4.6 m
6.1 m
corner
7.6 m
0.7 x DETECTOR
SPACING = 6.4 m
0.7 x 9.1 = 6.4
6.4 m
side wall F 10.4 m

11.3 m
11.9 m
12.5 m
Rectangle D
su3532
NOTE: 0.7 of the rated may be used to draw a circle with this value as the radius and the detector in the centre. Any square or
rectangle that can be drawn within this circle is deemed as being equivalent to the detectors' rated spacing.
AREA NOTED BELOW IS EQUIVALENT TO RATED SPACING:
Rectangle A: 3.1 m x 12.5 m = 38.75 m2
Rectangle B: 4.6 m x 11.9 m = 54.74 m2
Rectangle C: 6.1 m x 11.3 m = 68.93 m2
Rectangle D: 7.6 m x 10.4 m = 79.04 m2 Square, 9.051 m x 9.051 m, has the largest area under 83 m2.
78 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Redundant
Figure 28.2
Spot Type Fire Detector Flat-Ceiling – Rectangular Areas
3.1 m
4.6 m
6.1 m
7.6 m
6.4 m
6.4 m
6.4 m
6.4 m
F 12.5 m F 11.9 m F 11.3 m F 10.4 m
79.04 m 2
2
68.93 m 2
54.74 m
38.75 m 2
su3533
EXAMPLES APPLY TO A 9.1 M DETECTOR SPACING

AREA NOTED BELOW IS EQUIVALENT TO RATED SPACING:
Rectangle A: 3.1 m x 12.5 m = 38.75 m2
Rectangle B: 4.6 m x 11.9 m = 54.74 m2
Rectangle C: 6.1 m x 11.3 m = 68.93 m2
Rectangle D: 7.6 m x 10.4 m = 79.04 m2
F
: Spot type fire detector
28.1.3 For irregularly shaped areas, the distance between spot type fire detectors may be greater than
the specified detector spacing, provided the maximum distance from a spot type fire detector to the
furthest point of a side wall or corner within its zone of protection is not greater than 70% of the detector
spacing. (Refer to Figure 28.3.)
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 79
Figure 28.3
Typical Spot Type Detector
Detector Spacing Layout for Irregular Areas
6.4 m
6.4 m
6.4 m
S
6.4 m
6.4 m
6.4 m
S 6.4 m
6.4 m 3.1 m 6.4 m
S S
12.2 m 6.0 m
5.6 m 11.3 m 5.6 m
S S
6.4 m 3.1 m 6.4 m
22.6 m
3.1 m S S
6.3 m 12.4 m 6.3 m
25 m
NOT AUTHORIZED FOR
S - SPOT TYPE SMOKE FURTHER
DETECTOR OR SPOTREPRODUCTION
TYPE HEAT DETECTOR OR
su3534 DISTRIBUTION WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM UL
80 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
28.2 Sloped Ceiling Spacing
28.2.1 A sloped ceiling-peaked type shall have a row of spot type fire detectors spaced and located not
closer than 900 mm to the peak of the ceiling, measured horizontally to the edge of the spot type fire
detectors. The number and distance between additional spot type fire detectors shall be based on the type
of ceiling construction, measured on the basis of the horizontal projection of the ceiling (Refer to Figure
28.4). Curved or domed ceilings may be considered peaked with the slope figured as the slope of the
chord from the highest to lowest point.
Figure 28.4
Detector Spacing of Spot Type Fire Detectors: Sloped Ceiling – Peak Type
900 900
mm mm
F F
F F
NOT IN
THIS AREA
50% OF 50% OF
DETECTOR DETECTOR
DETECTOR DETECTOR
SPACING SPACING
SPACING SPACING
Not smooth ceiling anymore
su3535 F - SPOT TYPE FIRE DETECTOR
28.2.2 The sloped ceiling-shed type shall have a row of spot type fire detectors located on the ceiling not
closer than 900 mm to the highest point of the ceiling measured horizontally to the edge of the detector.
The remaining detectors shall be located in the remaining area based on the type of ceiling construction,
measured on the basis of the horizontal projection of the ceiling (Refer to Figure 28.5).
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 81
Figure 28.5
Detector Spacing of Spot Type Fire Detectors: Sloped Ceiling – Shed Type
Like slope, treat
this as the peak.
F
less than 30 degree
50% OF
DETECTOR 900
DETECTOR
SPACING mm
SPACING
28.3 Ceiling Height Variations
28.3.1 Spot type fire detectors on ceilings with flat height variations less than 300 mm, shall be installed
as per smooth ceiling detector spacing allowable, with at least one detector within the highest point.
Example?
28.4 Galleries, Mezzanine and Interior Balconies
28.4.1 Where the depth of such structures exceeds 25% of the rated (flat-ceiling) detector spacing of
spot type fire detectors, spot type fire detectors shall be mounted beneath the structure, but not closer
than 300 mm to the edge. (Refer to Figure 28.6.)
82 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure 28.6 This is about the lower ceiling.

Detector Spacing of Spot Type Fire Detectors: Galleries, Mezzanine and Interior Balconies
6.4 from corner or side wall?
F F
CEILING
GALLERY, MEZZANINE OR INTERIOR BALCONY
MORE THAN 25% OF RATED
(FLAT CEILING) SPACING
9.1 x 25%? FLOOR
F
CEILING
300 mm
min
FLOOR
28.4.2 Where the depth of such structures exceeds 2400 mm and a beam, draft stop, or obstruction
along the outer edge projects more than 300 mm below the underside of the structure, the area formed
shall be treated as a separate area. (Refer to Figure 28.7.) 28.4.1 can still be used?
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 83
Figure 28.7
Detector Spacing of Spot Type Fire Detectors: Galleries, Mezzanine and Interior Balconies
F F
CEILING
GALLERY, MEZZANINE OR INTERIOR BALCONY
MORE THAN 2400 mm
FLOOR
F
MORE THAN
CEILING 300 mm
RATED (FLAT CEILING) SPACING
FLOOR
F - SPOT TYPE FIRE DETECTOR
su3538
28.4.3 Smoke detectors installed in compliance with the requirements of Subsection 3.2.8 of the National
Building Code shall be installed within 300 mm of the opening through the floor assembly and shall be
spaced at a maximum spacing of 4.6 m. Refer to Figure 28.8.
84 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure 28.8 This is about the upper ceiling.

Detector Spacing of Smoke Detectors: Galleries, Mezzanine and Interior Balconies
300 mm
Maximum
S
300 mm
Maximum S
This area
is OPEN 300 mm
4.6 m
Maximum
Maximum to FLOOR
BELOW
300 mm
S
Maximum
S 300 mm
Maximum
Plan (TOP) view Sectional (side) view
su3539
S = Smoke detector top view
S
= Smoke detector side view
28.5 Partitions
28.5.1 Where partitions, walls or storage furniture extend upwards to within 15% of the ceiling height of a
room, each area formed by the partition, wall or storage furniture shall be considered as a separate room
in accordance with 28, Spot Type Fire Detectors. (Refer to Figure 28.9.)
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 85
Figure 28.9
Spot Type Heat Detector: Partitions
S/2 S/2 S/2 S
< 0.15H
≥ 0.15H
su3540
EXAMPLE 1: PARTITIONS EXTEND TO <0.15 OF CEILING HEIGHT (H) SPACE DETECTORS IN AREA BASED ON CEILING
TYPE
EXAMPLE 2: FURNITURE IS ≥ 0.15 OF CEILING HEIGHT (H), SPACE DETECTORS BASED ON CEILING TYPE.
28.6 Corridors Shouldn't have even be mentioned.
28.6.1 Spacing of spot type fire detectors in corridors shall be in accordance with Figure 28.1 and Figure
28.2.
28.7 Special Applications
28.7.1 For applications other than those noted in this standard, spot type fire detectors are to be located
based on manufacturer's published installation instructions and good engineering practice.
28.8 High Ceilings
28.8.1 On 3000 to 9000 mm high ceilings, spot type heat detector spacing shall be reduced in
accordance with Figure 28.10.
NOTE: In areas with high ceilings (e.g. atriums), beam type smoke detectors or aspiration detectors should be considered to provide
better maintenance and testing access. Data is not available for ceilings higher than 9000 mm, therefore, in such installations, fire
type, growth rate, engineering judgement and manufacturer's published installation instructions should be used. For additional
information refer to NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code – Annex B, Fire Detector Applications.
86 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure 28.10
Spot Type Heat Detector: Ceiling Height vs Coverage
further less than 83 m2
9.0
8.0
CEILING HEIGHT (metres)
7.0
6.0
5.0
4.0
3.0
100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30
COVERAGE IN % OF RATED SPACING

su3541
Redundant 28.8.2 Spot type heat detector spacing shall further be reduced based on the type of ceiling construction,
later on as required by 28.10, Beam Construction.
28.8.3 The detector spacing of spot type heat detectors is not required to be reduced to less than 0.4
times the height of the ceiling. Example?
28.8.4 For a roof slope of less than 30°, all spot type heat detectors shall be spaced utilizing the ceiling
height at the peak in accordance with Figure 28.5. For a roof slope greater than 30°, the average slope
height shall be used for all spot type heat detectors other than those located in the peak. (Refer to Figure
28.10.)
28.8.5 Spot type smoke detector spacing is not required to be reduced for ceiling height, but may be
affected by beam construction. On ceilings above 3600 mm in room height, spot type smoke detector
spacing shall be based on fire type, growth rate, engineering judgement and manufacturer's published
28.9 Solid Joist Construction
28.9.1 The spacing between spot-type heat detectors measured at right angles to solid joist construction
shall not exceed 50% of the listed spacing of the device.
28.9.2 Spot-type heat detectors shall be mounted to the bottom of solid joists.
28.9.3 Solid
NOT joistsAUTHORIZED
shall be considered equivalent
FOR FURTHERto beams for REPRODUCTION
smoke detector spacing. OR
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 87
28.10 Beam Construction
28.10.1 Beam type ceilings shall be treated as a smooth ceiling if the beams project no more than 100
mm below the ceiling and spot type heat detectors shall be installed in accordance with 28, Spot Type Fire
Detectors.
28.10.2 Where the beams project more than 100 mm below the ceiling, the detector spacing of spot type
heat detectors at right angles to the direction of beam travel shall be a maximum of 66 % of the smooth
ceiling detector spacing allowable in accordance with 28, Spot Type Fire Detectors. (Refer to Figure
28.11.)
NOTE: As an alternative to 28.10.2, detector spacing for spot type heat detectors may be based on calculations as specified in
28.10.3.1 and 28.10.3.2.
88 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure 28.11
Spacing of Spot Type Heat Detectors for Beam Construction
SECTION VIEW
BEAM HEIGHT (X) IS:
MORE THAN 100 mm AND
LESS THAN 450 mm
Ceiling
H H H
X
33% 66% 66% 33%
% OF RATED SPACING
ISOMETRIC VIEW
H H
%
66
H H
%
66
H 100% H
% OF RATED SPACING
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 89
TOP VIEW
H H H
100% 100% 100%
H 66% H 66% H
% OF RATED SPACING
NOTE: Adjust rated spacing in accordance with Figure 28.10. Refer also to 28.8.1 for coverage based on ceiling height .
90 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
28.10.3 Where the beams project more than 450 mm below the ceiling, and are more than 2400 mm
apart from the centres, each bay or area formed by the beams shall be treated as a separate area, in
accordance with 28, Spot Type Fire Detectors. (Refer to Figure 28.12.)
NOTE: As an alternative to 28.10.3, detector spacing for spot type heat detectors may be based on calculations as specified in
28.10.3.1 and 28.10.3.2.
Figure 28.12
Spacing of Spot Type Heat Detectors in Beam Pockets
Ceiling
≥450 mm
Each Bay = Separate Area
≥2400 mm
su3543
28.10.3.1 Spot type heat detectors shall be located in each beam pocket where (refer to Figure 28.13):
a) The ratio of beam depth (D) to ceiling height (H) is greater than 0.1; and
b) The ratio of beam spacing (W) to ceiling height (H), is greater than 0.4.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 91
Figure 28.13
Location of Spot Type Heat Detectors in Beam Pockets
Ceiling
DEPTH (D)
WIDTH (W)
HEIGHT (H)
Floor Surface
su3544
NOTE 1: If D : H > 0.1 and W : H . 0.4, spot type heat detectors shall be located in each beam pocket.
NOTE 2: If D : H ≤ 0.1 or W : H ≤ 0.4, spot type heat detectors shall be installed on the bottom of the beams.
28.10.3.2 Spot type heat detectors shall be installed on the bottom of the beams where (refer to Figure
28.13) either the:
a) Ratio of beam depth (D) to ceiling height (H) is less than or equal to 0.1; or
b) Ratio of beam spacing (W) to ceiling height (H) is less than or equal to 0.4.
28.10.4 Where beams project more than 450 mm below the ceiling and are 2400 mm or less on centres,
28.10.3.1 or 28.10.3.2 shall apply.
28.10.5 Where beams are less than 300 mm in depth and less than 2400 mm on centre, heat detectors
shall be installed on the bottom of the beams.
28.10.6 Spot type heat detector spacing shall be further reduced based on the ceiling height, as required
by 28.8, High Ceilings.
28.10.7 Girders, support beams or joists, which run at right angles to the beams or joists, and are within
100 mm of the ceiling, shall be considered as beams.
28.10.8 Where beams and/or joists cross each other to form a "honeycomb" or "grid style" pattern, and
the minimum measurement in the compartments is less than 2400 mm across, the spot type heat detector
shall be mounted at the cross point of the beams. The spacing shall be a maximum of 66% of the smooth
UL COPYRIGHTED
ceiling detector spacing allowable MATERIAL
in accordance with 28, Spot –
Type Fire Detectors.
92 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
28.10.9 Where the beams project more than 100 mm and less than 300 mm below the ceiling, and the
ceiling height is less than 3600 mm, the detector spacing of spot type smoke detectors at right angles to
the direction of beam travel shall be a maximum of 50% of the smooth ceiling detector spacing allowable.
(Refer to Figure 28.14.)
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 93
Figure 28.14
Detector Spacing of Spot Type Smoke Detectors
SECTION VIEW
BEAM HEIGHT (X) IS:
MORE THAN 100 mm AND
LESS THAN 300 mm
Ceiling
S S S
Not mentioned? X
25% 50% 50% 25%
CEILING
HEIGHT % OF RATED SPACING
< 3600 MM
Floor Surface
ISOMETRIC VIEW
S S
%
50
S S
%
50
S 100% S
% OF RATED SPACING
94 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
TOP VIEW
S S S
100% 100% 100%
S 50% S 50% S
% OF RATED SPACING
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 95
What does "treated as a separate area" even mean? What's the %?

28.10.10 Where the beams project more than 300 mm below the ceiling, each bay or area formed by the
beams shall be treated as a separate area. (Refer to Figure 28.15.)
Figure 28.15
Detector Spacing of Spot Type Smoke Detectors
Ceiling
≥300 mm
Each Bay = Separate Area
Floor Surface
su3546
28.10.11 For level ceilings with beams extending less than 10 % of the ceiling height (0.1 H) from the
ceiling, the smooth ceiling spacing for spot-type smoke detectors shall be used. Spot-type smoke
detectors shall be located on the ceiling or on the bottom of beams.
28.10.12 For level ceilings with beams extending 10 % or more of the ceiling height (0.1 H) and from the
ceiling, the following shall be applied:
a) Where the beam spacing is equal to or greater than 40 % of the ceiling height (0.4 H), spot-type
smoke detectors shall be located on the ceiling in each beam pocket; or
b) Where the beam spacing is less than 40 % of the ceiling height (0.4 H), spot-type smoke
detectors shall be installed using the smooth ceiling spacing in the direction parallel to the beams
and at one-half smooth ceiling spacing in the direction perpendicular to the beams. The spot-type
smoke detectors shall be mounted either on the ceiling or on the bottom of the beams.
28.10.13 For level ceilings with beam pockets formed by intersecting beams, including waffle or pan-type
ceilings, the spacing shall be in accordance with 28.10.12.
28.10.14 For corridors with level ceilings that are 4.6 m in width or less having ceiling beams or solid
joists perpendicular to the corridor length, spot-type smoke detectors shall be installed using the smooth
UL mounted
ceiling spacing with the detectors COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL
on the ceiling, sidewalls, –
or the bottom of beams or solid joists.
96 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
28.10.15 For rooms measuring 84 m2 or less with ceiling beams or solid joists, spot type smoke
detectors shall be installed using the smooth ceiling spacing with the detectors mounted on the ceiling or
the bottom of beams or solid joists.
28.11 Exit Stair Shafts
28.11.1 Where required by the National Building Code of Canada, a smoke detector shall be mounted at
the highest point of the exit stair shaft.
28.11.2 In exit stair shafts exceeding 18 m in height, measured from the lowest point to the highest point
of the shaft, additional smoke detectors shall be installed at every third floor. (Refer to Figure 28.16.)
Figure 28.16
Installation of Spot Type Smoke Detectors in Exit Stair Shafts
Roof
S
7th Floor
6th Floor
S = SPOT TYPE
5th Floor SMOKE DETECTOR
S
4th Floor
If more than 18.0 m in height,
additional detectors must be
provided every third floor
3rd Floor
2nd Floor
Door between
S
Basement and
1st Floor Upper Floor
BASEMENT
su3547
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 97
28.11.3 Horizontal portions of exit stair shafts exceeding 18 m in height shall be provided with smoke
detectors in accordance with 28.1, Smooth Ceiling Spacing, and 28.6, Corridors.
28.11.4 When smoke detectors cannot be used due to the ambient temperature being below 0 °C, heat
detectors suitable for the environment may be installed.
28.12 High Air Movements and Humidity
28.12.1 Spot type smoke detector spacing in areas with high air movements shall be in accordance with
Figure 28.17 and the smoke detector shall not be installed directly in the stream of the air supply.
98 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure 28.17
Installation of Spot Type Smoke Detectors in Areas with High Air Movements
High Air Movement Areas (Not to be Used for under-Floor or above-Ceiling Spaces)
83.6
74.3
65.0
55.7
m2/DETECTOR
46.5
37.2
27.9
18.6
9.3
NORMAL
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
SPACING
AIR CHANGES/HOUR
su3548
Spot Type Smoke Detector Spacing Based on Air Movement
Air Changes/h m2/Detector

6 83.61
6.7 83.61
7.5 83.61
8.6 81.29
10 69.68
12 58.06
15 56.45
20 34.84
30 23.23
60 11.61
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 99
28.12.2 Spot type smoke detectors in areas above a relative humidity of 93 % or an air velocity greater
than 1.5 m/s shall be of a type suitable for the environment.
28.13 Raised Floors and Suspended Ceilings
28.13.1 Spot type fire detectors installed below raised floors or above suspended ceilings shall not be
used in lieu of providing detection within the floor area.
28.13.2 Spot type fire detectors provided below raised floors shall be orientated as per manufacturer's
published installation instructions. Refer to Figure 28.18.
Figure 28.18
Fire Detector Mounting: Raised Floor
Raised Floor
ELECTRICAL BACKBOX 300 mm MAXIMUM

SECURED TO FLOOR to Underside of Floor
EMT
SUPPORT
STEEL
STEEL
EMT BRACKET
BRACKET
F
F
F
CLAMP EMT EMT
Subfloor
su3549
28.13.3 Spaces beneath raised floors and above suspended ceilings shall be treated as separate rooms
for fire detector spacing purposes.
28.13.4 Where spot type fire detectors installed below raised floors are mounted vertically, they shall be
installed so as to avoid entry of debris into the detectors.
28.14 Elevator and Dumbwaiter Shafts (Hoistways)
28.14.1 A fire detector required in a shaft by the National Building Code of Canada shall be mounted at
the highest point of the shaft.
UL COPYRIGHTED
28.14.2 Heat detectors installed MATERIAL
in the bottom of a shaft (pit) – between 100 mm and 300
shall be mounted
mm below NOT AUTHORIZED
the lowest FOR
point of travel of each car FURTHER
within the shaft. REPRODUCTION OR
100 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
NOTE: Heat detectors installed within shafts can be mechanically affixed to a bracket in a ceiling-mounted orientation or mounted in
a side wall orientation.
28.14.3 In lieu of spot type heat detection, linear heat detection cable installed around the inside
perimeter of the shaft enclosure may be used to protect the bottom of a shaft (pit) per 28.14.2.
29 Multi-Sensor Devices
29.1 Fire detectors that contain multiple types of sensing elements shall meet the applicable installation
requirements for all types of sensing elements incorporated into the device.
30 Smoke Detectors in lieu of Smoke Alarms
30.1 In suites of residential occupancy equipped with smoke detectors in lieu of smoke alarms in
accordance with the National Building Code of Canada, the smoke detectors shall:
a) Upon activation, cause localized audible and required visible signals within the affected suite to
operate;
b) Not activate an alarm signal or alert signal throughout the building; and
c) Provide a visible indication means that describes the physical location of the activated smoke
detector on the fire alarm annunciator and/or display and control centre.
30.2 The audible signals required by 30.1 shall:
a) Conform to the temporal pattern defined in National Building Code of Canada; and
b) Be not less than 75 dBA where installed in a sleeping room within a building of residential or care
occupancy when any intervening doors between the device and the sleeping room are closed.
31 Air Duct Type Smoke Detectors
31.1 Smoke detectors in air duct systems shall not be used as a substitute for open area protection.
31.2 Air duct type smoke detectors shall be installed in the main supply duct, downstream of the mixing
box, filters and fan. Where air duct type smoke detectors cannot be installed in the main supply duct, they
shall be installed in each of the branch lines as close as practical to the supply fan downstream of the
mixing box, filters and fan. (Refer to Figure 31.1.)
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 101
Figure 31.1
Installation of Air Duct Type Smoke Detectors
INSTALLATION 1
RETURN
FAN
EXHAUST
RETURN
S
SUPPLY
FILTER SUPPLY FAN
COOLING COIL
AIR DUCT TYPE
SMOKE
HEATING COIL DETECTOR
OR INSTALLATION 2
RETURN
FAN
EXHAUST
RETURN
SUPPLY
S
FILTER SUPPLY FAN
S
COOLING COIL
AIR DUCT TYPE
SMOKE S
HEATING COIL DETECTOR
su3550
102 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
31.3 Where air velocities are greater than 1.5 m/s, one air duct type smoke detector shall be installed for
every 1.5 m2 of cross-sectional duct area.
31.4 Where air velocities are less than 1.5 m/s, one air duct type smoke detector shall be installed for
every 0.5 m2 of cross-sectional duct area.
31.5 Air duct type smoke detectors shall be securely installed in such a way as to obtain a representative
sample of the air stream from the central area of the duct by being:
a) Rigidly mounted to the surface of the duct with the sensing element protruding into the duct; or
b) Outside the duct with rigidly mounted sampling tubes protruding across the duct.
NOTE 1: Duct smoke detector sampling tubes may be mounted vertically in the duct with the detector mounted at the top of the duct.
NOTE 2: Duct smoke detector sampling tubes are designed to maintain the ratio between the length and cross-sectional area of the
sampling tube and the cumulative area of the holes in the tube. When shortening sampling tubes ensure that none of the holes are
removed or that the size of the remaining holes is adjusted to maintain the proper ratio per the manufacturer’s installation
instructions.
31.6 Air duct type smoke detectors mounted outside of a duct utilizing sampling tubes, shall permit
access for verification of airflow from the duct to the smoke detector.
31.7 The air duct type smoke detector location shall be selected to permit access to the entire assembly.
Where necessary, access doors or panel shall be provided.
31.8 Air duct type smoke detectors shall be installed in a straight section of duct. (Refer to Figure 31.2-A
and Figure 31.2-B.)
Figure 31.2-A
Installation of Air Duct Type Smoke Detectors
AIR FLOW
STRAIGHT SECTION WITH
A LAMINAR OR
STRAIGHT AIR FLOW
AIR
FLOW
S
AIR DUCT TYPE

SMOKE DETECTOR
su3551
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 103
Figure 31.2-B
Sealing Compound on Conduit Entries of Air Duct Type Smoke Detectors
AIR SAMPLING and
S EXHAUST TUBES

Conduit Entries to prevent AIR DUCT TYPE
air flow through conduit SMOKE DETECTOR
su3531a
31.9 Where the air duct type smoke detector is subject to positive and negative airflow, the raceway
entry points and other openings to the enclosure shall be sealed. (Refer to Figure 31.3.)
104 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure 31.3
Mounting of Air Duct Smoke Detectors
AIR SAMPLING and
S EXHAUST TUBES

Conduit Entries AIR DUCT TYPE
SMOKE DETECTOR
su3531
32 Beam Type Smoke Detectors
32.1 Location and detector spacing of beam type smoke detectors shall be in accordance with the
NOTE: It is recommended that the beam type smoke detector be installed near the ceiling free of obstructions, such that smoke and
other fire-related gases will pass through the beam as they rise to the ceiling.
32.2 Beam type smoke detectors shall be located near the ceiling above the open grid ceiling where the
following conditions prevail:
a) The minimum opening in the grid is 6 mm or larger;
b) The thickness of the grid material does not exceed the maximum dimension of the opening; and
c) The openings constitute 70% or more of the area of the ceiling material.
33 Air Sampling Type Detectors
33.1 The installation, location and detector spacing of air sampling type detectors shall be in accordance
with the manufacturer's published installation instructions.
33.2 Air sampling type networks shall be designed on the basis of, and be supported by, sound dynamic
fluid principles to ensure proper performance. Network design details shall include calculations showing
the flow characteristics of the ULpiping
COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL
network and for each – The calculations shall be
sampling point.
included in the fire alarm documentation in accordance
NOT AUTHORIZED FOR FURTHER REPRODUCTION OR with 11.1.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 105
33.3 Air sampling type detectors shall provide a trouble signal where the airflow is outside the designed
installation parameters and manufacturer's specified range.
33.4 Where sampling ports are not readily accessible, a test port shall be provided in an area which is
readily accessible to permit inspection and testing to comply with 27.1.2.
33.5 Where used, location of in-line filters, test ports, condensate traps and drainage valves shall be
selected to permit access to the entire assembly for maintenance.
33.6 Air sampling pipe networks shall:
a) Be airtight;
b) Be permanently fixed;
c) Be conspicuously labelled as smoke detector sampling pipe;
d) Have warning signs not to disturb or alter the sampling pipe affixed at direction changes, each
side of wall, floors or similar barriers and at intervals on piping not more than 6000 mm apart; and
e) Have inlet ports not less than 100 mm from the wall or ceiling.
33.7 The air sample transport time from the farthest sampling port to the detector shall not exceed 120 s.
33.8 Each sample port of an air sampling-type detector shall be conspicuously labeled as a sample port.
33.9 Air sampling-type detectors are permitted to be installed below raised floors and above suspended
ceilings for smoke detection applications.
34 Flame Detectors
34.1 Flame detectors shall be utilized in accordance with manufacturer's published installation
instructions.
34.2 Spacing and positioning of the flame detectors shall be so that no point requiring detection in the
hazard area is obstructed or outside of the field view of at least one flame detector.
35 Other Fire Detectors
35.1 The location and spacing of other fire detectors shall be based on the principle of operation and an
engineering survey of the condition anticipated in service and in accordance with documented
35.2 Other fire detectors shall be spaced based on all factors with consideration to the location and
sensitivity to occupancies, architectural, mechanical features and other fire hazards.
35.3 Other fire detector types installed to comply with the requirements of the National Building Code of
Canada shall be installed in accordance with the applicable Clauses in this Standard and manufacturer's
published installation instructions
35.4 Linear heat detection cable shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's published
installation instructions. UL COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL –
106 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
36 Carbon Monoxide Detection Devices
36.1 Location and detector spacing of carbon monoxide detection devices shall be in accordance with
the manufacturer's published installation instructions.
36.2 Audible signals initiated by carbon monoxide detection device shall be a localized Temporal 4
pattern as specified in CAN/ULC-S588, Standard for Gas and Vapour Detectors and Sensors.
36.3 The activation of a carbon monoxide detection device shall cause a Priority 2 signal in accordance
with Table 4.1, Control Unit Priority, and provide a visual indication means that describes the physical
location of the activated carbon monoxide detection device on the fire alarm annunciator and/or display
and control centre.
36.4 Signals generated by carbon monoxide detection devices shall activate a distinctive carbon
monoxide event notification (requiring acknowledgement) to the building operator via the fire alarm control
unit.
NOTE: Prolonged concentrations of carbon monoxide levels above prescribed thresholds may activate audible and visible alarm
signals beyond the localized alarm.
36.5 An end-of-life signal from a carbon monoxide detection device shall initiate a trouble signal at the
control unit.
36.6 Where a combination system includes carbon monoxide signaling, the emergency power supply
shall provide not less than 12 h of carbon monoxide signaling, in addition to the requirements of fire alarm
signaling required in 5.3.3 and 5.3.4.
Exception: The 12 h period is permitted to be eliminated when the system is monitored by a fire signal
receiving centre with emergency response.
37 Carbon Monoxide Detectors in lieu of Carbon Monoxide Alarms
37.1 Where carbon monoxide detectors are installed in lieu of carbon monoxide alarms as required by
the National Building Code of Canada, the activation of the carbon monoxide detectors shall:
a) Cause localized audible signal within the affected area to operate;

NOTE: Where multiple carbon monoxide detectors are installed within a suite of residential occupancy, they shall be
designed so that activation of one detector will activate all carbon monoxide detectors within the suite.
b) Not generate signals throughout the building; and
c) Provide a local audible indication, and a visible indication that describes the physical location of
the activated carbon monoxide detector on the fire alarm annunciator and/or display and control
centre.
37.2 The audible signals required by 37.1 shall:
a) Conform to the temporal 4 pattern defined in CAN/ULC-S588, Standard for Gas and Vapour
Detectors and Sensors;
b) Be not less than 75 dBA measured in a sleeping room within a building of residential occupancy
when any intervening doors between the device andMATERIAL
UL COPYRIGHTED the sleeping room
– are closed;
c) BeNOT AUTHORIZED
not less than 10dBA above FOR
ambientFURTHER REPRODUCTION
but not less than OR and
65 dBA in non-sleeping rooms;
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 107
37.3 Where ambient noise levels are above 87 dBA or where occupants wear hearing protection, carbon
monoxide detectors audible signals shall be supplemented by visible signals which are visually distinct
from fire alarm visible signals.
38 Other Gas and Vapour Detection Devices
38.1 Location and detector spacing of gas and vapour detection devices shall be in accordance with the
38.2 Gas and vapour detection devices shall initiate a gas alarm signal as described in CAN/ULC-S588,
Standard for Gas and Vapour Detectors and Sensors.
NOTIFICATION AND OUTPUT DEVICES
NOTE: For additional information on sound level measurements, refer to Annex C (Informative) – Sound Level Measurements.
39 General
NOTE: For additional information on sound level measurements, refer to Annex C (Informative) – Sound Level Measurements.
39.1 Where ceiling heights allow, audible signal devices shall be installed so that the top of the device
will not be less than 2300 mm above the finished floor level.
Exception: This requirement does not apply to in-suite signaling devices with integral silencing means.
(Refer to 41.1.)
39.2 Wall-mounted audible signal devices shall be installed at least 150 mm below the ceiling, measured
to the top edge of the device.
39.3 Protective covers for signaling devices shall be installed in accordance with 25, Protective Covers
and Accessories. The compatibility of protective covers shall be in accordance with the applicable
Standard referenced in 4.3.
39.4 Audible signal devices and visible signal devices shall be supported independently of their
attachments to the circuit conductors.
39.5 Audible signal devices and visible signal devices shall be installed in sufficient numbers to meet the
audibility and visibility requirements of the National Building Code of Canada.
39.6 Signaling devices shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's published installation
instructions and the designed layout.
39.7 Except as permitted in 52.4.5, audible signal devices within a building shall generate similar sounds
and sound patterns when activated.
39.8 Alert signals within a fire alarm system shall be synchronized, where the signals are audible from
any single location. See Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.39.8, Notification and Output
Devices – General.
39.9 Alarm signals within a fire alarm system shall be synchronized, where the signals are audible from
UL ACOPYRIGHTED
any single location. See Annex MATERIAL
(Informative) Explanatory –
Materials, A.39.8, Notification and Output
Devices – General.
108 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
40 Audible Signal Devices Locations
40.1 Audible signal devices shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's published
installation instructions. For recommended installation criteria, refer to Annex C, (Informative) Sound Level
Measurements.
NOTE: To deliver highly intelligible voice announcement, a voice enabled fire alarm system often requires a greater number of lower
powered signal devices. This provision often results in speaker layouts which may be much different than non-voice enabled audible
signal layouts. See Annex A, (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.40.1, Voice Intelligibility Guide.
41 Audible Signal Devices in Suites of Residential Occupancy
41.1 Where silencing means are separately installed, or incorporated in the audible signal device, the
silencing means shall be clearly identified and installed 1050 mm to 1150 mm above the finished floor level
measured from the centre of the silencing means.
41.2 The silencing means shall be installed so as to be visible and accessible.
41.3 Where required, suite fault isolators which serve signaling devices which are installed within suites
of residential occupancies shall be in accordance with 49, Suite Fault Isolators.
42 Visible Signal Devices (Strobe Lights)
NOTE 1: This Subsection is intended for strobe lights that are used to advise occupants that a fire emergency exists.
NOTE 2: Refer to Annex D (Informative) – Strobe Lights, for installation criteria that should be considered.
42.1 Except as noted in 42.19, the effective luminous intensity of each strobe light shall be rated not less
than 15 candela (cd).
42.2 More than two strobe lights in corridors or rooms in the same field of view shall flash in
synchronization regardless of whether the strobe light is served from one or more control units /
transponders. Refer to Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.42.2. not related to design
42.3 Where ceiling heights allow, wall-mounted strobe lights shall be installed such that the entire lens is
not less than 2000 mm and not more than 2400 mm above the finished floor. not related to design
NOTE: In all applications the visible signal device should be located to provide optimal viewing by the occupants. There may be
applications where mounting heights outside of the range described in 42.3 would be more suitable based upon good engineering
practice.
42.4 Wall-mounted strobe lights shall be installed in accordance with Table 42.1, Light Output for Wall-
Mounted Strobe Lights for Various Room Sizes, using one of the following:
a) A single strobe light;
b) Two strobe lights located on opposite walls; or
c) Four strobe lights. Refer to Annex D (Informative), Figure D.3, for guidance.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 109
Table 42.1
Light Output for Wall-Mounted Strobe Lights for Various Room Sizes
Maximum area of coverage Minimum light output, candela (effective luminous intensity)
(m)
One light per area Two lights per area Four lights per area
6.10 x 6.10 15 Not allowable Not allowable
8.53 x 8.53 30 15 Not allowable
9.14 x 9.14 34 15 Not allowable
12.2 x 12.2 60 30 15
13.7 x 13.7 75 60 30
15.2 x 15.2 94 60 30
16.5 x16.5 110 60 30
18.3 x 18.3 135 95 30
21.3 x 21.3 184 95 60
24.4 x 24.4 240 135 60
27.4 x 27.4 304 185 95
30.5 x 30.5 375 240 95
33.5 x 33.5 455 240 135
36.6 x 36.6 540 305 135
39.6 x 39.6 635 375 185
Only up to 4 lights even for huge room?

42.5 In rooms with wall-mounted strobe lights centered at the mid-point of the wall, spacing shall be in
accordance with Table 42.1, Light Output for Wall-Mounted Strobe Lights for Various Room Sizes, and
Figure 42.2, Room Spacing for Wall-Mounted Strobe Lights.
42.6 Wall mounted strobe lights shall be provided within rooms such that all portions of the room floor
area are located within the coverage area of at least one strobe light.
NOTE: Refer to Figure D.1 (Spacing of Wall-Mounted Strobe Lights in Room), Figure D.2 (Room Spacing Allocation-Incorrect), and
Figure D.3 (Room Spacing Allocation-Correct) for examples of correct and incorrect spacing allocations.
42.7 In square rooms with strobe lights not centred on a wall or in non-square rooms, the effective
luminous intensity (candela) from one wall-mounted strobe light shall be determined by maximum room
size dimensions obtained either by measuring the distance to the furthest wall or by doubling the distance
from the device to the furthest adjacent wall, whichever is greater, as required by Table 42.1, Light Output
for Wall-Mounted Strobe Lights for Various Room Sizes and Figure 42.2, Room Spacing for Wall-Mounted
Strobe Lights.
42.8 Where a room configuration is not square, the square room size that allows the entire room to be
encompassed or allows the room to be subdivided into multiple squares shall be used and the selection of
the device output and location shall be in accordance with Table 42.1, Light Output for Wall-Mounted
Strobe Lights for Various Room Sizes, and Figure 42.2, Room Spacing for Wall Mounted Strobe Lights.
110 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure 42.2
Room Spacing for Wall-Mounted Strobe Lights
15 Candella
6.10 M
VISIBLE
9.14 M
SIGNAL
34 Candella DEVICE
12.2 M
15.2 M
60 Candella
95 Candella
6.10 M
9.14 M
12.2 M
15.2 M
su3554
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 111
42.9 Where multiple wall-mounted strobe lights are used within a room, the room shall be subdivided into
multiple squares and the selection of the device output and location shall be in accordance with Table
42.1, Light Output for Wall-Mounted Strobe Lights for Various Room Sizes and Figure 42.2, Room Spacing
for Wall Mounted Strobe Lights.
42.10 Ceiling-mounted strobe lights shall be suspended or mounted at not more than 9000 mm above
the finished floor level in accordance with Table 42.2, Light Output for Ceiling-Mounted Strobe Lights for
Various Room Sizes.
Table 42.2
Light Output for Ceiling-Mounted Strobe Lights for Various Room Sizes
Minimum light output, candela (effective luminous intensity)

Maximum area of coverage (m)
Maximum mounting height (m) One light
6.10 x 6.10 3 15
9.14 x 9.14 3 30
12.2 x 12.2 3 60
15.2 x 15.2 3 95
6.10 x 6.10 6 30
9.14 x 9.14 6 45
12.2 x 12.2 6 80
15.2 x 15.2 6 115
6.10 x 6.10 9 55
9.14 x 9.14 9 75
12.2 x 12.2 9 115
15.2 x 15.2 9 150
42.11 Where a single ceiling-mounted strobe light is not located at the centre of the room, the effective
luminous intensity (candela) shall be determined by doubling the distance from the device to the furthest
wall to obtain the maximum room size in accordance with Table 42.2, Light Output for Ceiling-Mounted
Strobe Lights for Various Room Sizes.
42.12 Installation of strobe lights in corridors 6000 mm or less in width shall be in accordance with the
requirements of Table 42.3, Corridor Spacing Allocation for Ceiling or Wall-Mounted Strobe Lights. Refer
to Figure D.4, Spacing of Visible Signal Devices in Corridors.
Table 42.3
Corridor Spacing Allocation for Ceiling or Wall-Mounted Strobe Lights
Corridor length
Minimum number of 15 cd strobe lights
(m)
0–9 1
10 – 40 2
41 – 70 3
71 – 100 4
UL COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL – 5
101 – 130
NOT AUTHORIZED FOR FURTHER REPRODUCTION

131 – 160 6 OR
112 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
42.13 Installation of strobe lights in corridors greater than 6000 mm wide shall comply with the spacing
requirements for rooms in accordance with Table 42.1, Light Output for Wall-Mounted Strobe Lights for
Various Room Sizes, and Figure 42.2, Room Spacing for Wall-Mounted Strobe Lights.
42.14 Strobe lights shall be located not more than 4600 mm from the end of the corridor with spacing not
greater than 30 m between adjacent visible signal devices.
42.15 Wall-mounted strobe lights in corridors shall be permitted to be installed on either the end wall or
the side wall of the corridor.
42.16 Where there is an interruption of the concentrated viewing path, such as a fire door, an elevation
change, or any other obstruction, the area shall be treated as a separate corridor.
42.17 A design that provides a minimum of 0.404 lx (0.0375 lumens/ft2) of illumination at any point within
the covered area at all angles specified by the polar dispersion planes for wall- or ceiling-mounted visual
appliances in CAN/ULC-S526, Standard for Visible Signal Devices for Fire Alarm Systems, Including
Accessories, shall be permitted in lieu of the requirements of Table 42.1, (Light Output for Wall-Mounted
Strobe Lights for Various Room Sizes) Wall, Table 42.2 (Light Output for Ceiling-Mounted Strobe Lights for
Various Room Sizes), Ceiling, and Table 42.3 (Corridor Spacing Allocation for Ceiling or Wall-Mounted
Strobe Lights), Corridor.
42.18 Addressable strobe lights shall comply with the requirements of both this Subsection and the
requirements of 18, Circuit Fault Tolerance.
42.19 Where visible signal devices are installed in sleeping rooms, each visible signal device shall have
a minimum candela rating of 177 cd where the device is installed less than 610 mm from the ceiling and a
minimum candela rating of 110 cd for all other locations.
NOTE: The visible signal device should be located within 4.87 m of the pillow.
43 Combination Audible / Visible Signal Device (Strobe Lights)
43.1 Where combination audible signal devices/strobe lights are installed, the location of the device shall
be determined by the requirements of 39, General; and 42, Visible Signal Devices (Strobe Lights).
NOTE: For further installation criteria that should be considered, refer to Annex C (Informative) – Sound Level Measurements; and
Annex D (Informative) – Strobe Lights.
44 Strobe Synchronization Modules
44.1 Strobe synchronization modules that are not integral to a visible signal device, control unit,
transponder or remote power supply and installed in concealed spaces shall be provided with a means to
identify the device location at a readily visible location.
44.2 Strobe synchronization modules that are not integral to the visible signal device, control unit,
transponder or remote power supply shall have an identifying mark or label on the cover plate. The
identifier shall be visible after installation.
45 Fire Do Not Enter Signs
NOTE: “Fire Do Not Enter” signs are intended for installation in applications that include, but are not limited to, interconnected
buildings, walkways, and vestibules, for the purpose of providing visual warning to persons about to enter a building, that a fire
emergency currently exists in that building.

JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 113
45.1 “Fire Do Not Enter” signs and their accessories, shall comply with CAN/ULC-S527, Standard for
Control Units for Fire Alarm Systems and/or CAN/ULC-S526, Standard for Visible Signal Devices for Fire
Alarm and Signaling Systems, Including Accessories, as applicable, based on their intended
interconnection to the fire alarm system.
45.2 "Fire Do Not Enter" signs shall be powered by the fire alarm system, including from both the main
power supply and emergency power supply.
45.3 Circuits for “Fire Do Not Enter” signs shall be electrically supervised output circuits (refer to 6,
Electrical Supervision).
45.4 Circuits for “Fire Do Not Enter” signs shall not be affected by signal silence.
46 Directional Signs for Evacuation
NOTE: “Directional Signs for Evacuation” are intended for installation in applications that include, but are not limited to, large
buildings, areas and rooms utilizing multiple exit paths for the purpose of providing visual guidance to the occupants regarding the
safest exit route for their evacuation during a fire emergency. That guidance is based on the particular events associated with that fire
emergency.
46.1 “Directional Signs for Evacuation” and their accessories, shall comply with CAN/ULC-S527
Standard for Control Units for Fire Alarm Systems and/or CAN/ULC-S526, Standard for Visible Signal
Devices for Fire Alarm and Signaling Systems, Including Accessories, as applicable, based on their
intended interconnection to the fire alarm system.
46.2 "Directional Signs for Evacuation" shall be powered by the fire alarm system, including from both
the main power supply and emergency power supply.
46.3 Circuits for activating “Directional Signs for Evacuation” shall be any of the following:
a) Electrically supervised output circuits (refer to 6 , Electrical Supervision);
b) Unsupervised output circuits; or
c) Unsupervised relay outputs, e.g. from a smoke detector.
46.4 Circuits for “Directional Signs for Evacuation” shall not be affected by signal silence.
OTHER FIRE ALARM SYSTEM DEVICES
47 End-of-Line Devices
47.1 Except as permitted by 47.2, end-of-line devices for electrical supervision shall be located in a
separate enclosure, installed not more than 1800 mm above finished floor level measured from the centre
of the end-of-line device, and located beyond the last device in the circuit or terminated in a control unit or
transponder.
47.2 End-of-line devices which serve a single field device on a circuit may be located within that field
device provided that the end-of-line device is easily accessible for inspection and voltage testing.
47.3 End-of-line devices shall have an identifying label securely attached to the front of the cover plate,
listing the zone served. UL COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL –
47.4 Where end-of-line devices are located within a field device, as permitted by 47.2, an identifying
DISTRIBUTION
label visible after WITHOUT
installation shall be affixed to the field PERMISSION
device. FROM UL
114 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
48 Fault Isolators
48.1 Where provided to meet the requirements of 18.1, fault isolators shall be utilized when entering and
leaving each National Building Code of Canada required fire alarm zone. See also Annex A (Informative)
Explanatory Materials, A.18, Circuit Fault Tolerance.
NOTE 1: Refer to Figure 48.1, Example of Fault Isolator Installations.
NOTE 2: Where available, fault isolators should be located in a fire separated electrical room.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 115
Figure 48.1
Example of Fault Isolator Installations
CORRECT
DCLC
OR CABLE ASSEMBLY
ZONE 2
+
-
+ ISOLATOR
- MODULE
DCLB
JUNCTION
BOX
+
-
+ ISOLATOR
- MODULE
ZONE 1
+
-
+ ISOLATOR
- MODULE
DCLB
JUNCTION
BOX
+
-
+ ISOLATOR
- MODULE
CONTROL UNIT
OR TRANSPONDER
NOTE: This wiring method is acceptable as a short circuit fault on the DCLA riser will be isolated so that the impairment of fire alarm
devices will be limited to one National Building Code of Canada required fire alarm zone.
DCLC
OR CABLE ASSEMBLY INCORRECT
ZONE 2
DCLB
+
-
+ ISOLATOR DATA LINK UNPROTECTED
- MODULE FROM FROM ZONE BELOW
ZONE 1
DCLB
+
-
+ ISOLATOR
- MODULE
CONTROL UNIT
OR TRANSPONDER
NOTE: This wiring method is not acceptable as a short circuit fault on the DCLA or DCLB riser will impair the operation of fire alarm
devices in more than one National Building Code of Canada required fire alarm zone.
116 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
48.2 Except as noted in 48.3, fault isolators, shall be located in a separate enclosure and installed so as
to be visible and accessible at all times.
48.3 Fault isolators that are integral to a field device shall be mounted in accordance with the
requirements of the field device.
NOTE: Field devices incorporating fault isolators complying with 48.3 do not require additional dedicated fault isolators.
48.4 Where a fire separation having a fire resistance rating of not less than 45 min is provided between
National Building Code of Canada required fire alarm zones, fault isolators required by 48.1 shall be
installed on each side of that fire separation. See Figure 19.7.
48.5 Fault isolators installed on opposite sides of the same fire separation shall be offset horizontally a
minimum of 400 mm, and not located within the same stud space. See Figure 19.7..
48.6 Where no fire separation, or a fire separation having a fire resistance rating of less than 45 min, is
provided between National Building Code of Canada required fire alarm zones, a single fault isolator shall
be utilized when isolating zones within the same floor area. See Figure 19.8
NOTE: This Clause would be applicable to large horizontal buildings, e.g., warehouses, shopping malls, factories, etc.
48.7 Fault isolators serving a single field device in an exit or vertical service space shall be installed on
the floor area side.
NOTE: Fault isolators are not required on the exit or vertical service space side. See Figure 19.4.
48.8 Where provided to meet the requirements of 18.4, fault isolators shall be utilized on circuits when
entering and leaving each fire alarm control unit, transponder or annunciator, except as permitted by 6.1.8.
See Figure 19.9, Network Data Communication Link Interconnecting Control Units and Transponders.
48.9 Fault isolators that are not integral to a control unit or transponder shall be mounted in the same fire
compartment and within 1.5 m of the control unit or transponder.
48.10 Fault isolators shall have an identifying label on the cover plate or field device. The identifier shall
be visible after installation. Where field devices incorporating data fault isolators are used to comply with
48.1, the first field device entering and the last field device leaving each National Building Code of Canada
required fire alarm zone shall be marked.
49 Suite Fault Isolators
49.1 This Subsection applies to the installation of suite fault isolators where provided as one option to
meet the requirements of the National Building Code of Canada for signaling devices serving residential or
care occupancies.
NOTE 1: Supervision for open circuit, ground fault and short circuit fault shall be maintained in each defined suite where suite fault
isolation is used
NOTE 2: Refer to Annex A (Informative), Explanatory Materials, A.49.1, Examples of Wiring Configurations for Residential
Notification Devices, for alternate methods to comply with the National Building Code of Canada requirements for signaling devices
serving residential occupancies.
49.2 Each fault condition shall be separately applied and

UL COPYRIGHTED removed and
MATERIAL – the control unit returned to
normal before the next fault condition is applied, except where operation under multiple fault conditions is
required. Suite fault isolators shall be installed outside of the suite protected by the device.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 117
49.3 Suite fault isolators shall be installed so as to be visible and accessible at all times.
49.4 Suite fault isolators shall have an identifying label on the cover plate identifying the suite served.
The identifier shall be visible after installation.
50 Door Holders (Hold-Open Devices) and Door Closers
NOTE: Door holders (“hold-open” devices) and “door closers” are intended for installation in applications that include, but are not
limited to, fire doors interconnected to the fire alarm system. They may include an integral smoke detector. Refer to Annex A
(Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.50, Smoke Detectors for Door Release Service.
50.1 Door holders (hold-open devices) and door closers and their accessories, shall comply with the
following, as applicable:
a) ULC-ORD-C228, Door Closers and Holders;
b) CAN/ULC-S533, Standard for Egress Door Securing and Releasing Devices; or
c) CAN/ULC-S529, Standard for Smoke Detectors for Fire Alarm Systems (for models
incorporating an integral smoke detector).
50.2 Circuits for door holders (hold-open devices) and door closers shall be such that the door controlled
by the device shall close upon failure of power or data communication associated with the control of that
device (i. e. fail-safe). Emergency power supply is therefore not required for door holders (hold-open
devices) and door closers.
50.3 Door holders (hold-open devices) and door closers shall be released as follows:
a) Automatically in accordance with the National Building Code of Canada, Division B, Part 3,
Article 3.1.8.14 Hold-Open Devices; and
b) In buildings subject to the requirements of the National Building Code of Canada, Division B,
Part 3, Subsection 3.2.6 High Buildings, hold-open devices on doors to vestibules shall also be
released manually by a switch at the Central Alarm and Control Facility in accordance with the
National Building Code of Canada, Division B, Part 3, Article 3.2.6.7. Sentence (2)(f).
NOTE: If installed on doors between interconnected buildings or walkways, the releasing may require control from equipment in both
buildings.
51 Interconnection to the Fire Signal Receiving Centre
51.1 The interconnection wiring from the fire alarm control unit or transponder to the fire signal receiving
centre shall comply with CAN/ULC-S561, Standard for Installation and Services for Fire Signal Receiving
Centres and Systems.
51.2 The interconnection between the fire alarm control unit and the fire alarm transmitter shall utilize
direct connection to the outputs on the fire alarm control unit or through a demarcation terminal box.
51.3 Where a demarcation terminal box is provided for the interconnection between the fire alarm control
unit and the fire alarm transmitter, the terminal box shall have a minimum of 12 terminals to facilitate the
electrical supervision of fire alarm, fire trouble and fire supervisory connections.
NOTE: Refer to Annex E (Informative) – Responsibility Demarcations for Interconnection of Fire Signal Receiving Centre, for
examples of responsibility demarcations.
118 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
51.4 The fire alarm demarcation terminal box, where provided, shall be located in the same room as the
fire alarm control unit it is connected to.
51.5 The fire alarm demarcation terminal box, where provided, shall be labelled “FIRE ALARM
DEMARCATION”.
51.6 The conductors installed between the fire alarm control unit and the demarcation terminal box,
where provided, shall comply with 7, Wiring.
52 Fire Suppression Releasing Systems
52.1 General
52.1.1 Except as detailed within this Section, fire alarm system equipment installed for the detection,
notification, and control of fire suppression systems shall be installed in accordance with the applicable
requirements for fire alarm systems, as detailed elsewhere in this Standard.
52.1.2 Each releasing device (e.g., solenoid, relay) and circuit provided for use with a fire suppression
releasing system shall be electrically supervised.
52.2 Fire Detectors for Suppression Releasing
52.2.1 In addition to the requirements for fire detector spacing detailed elsewhere in the Standard, where
two or more fire detectors are required to activate the release of a suppression system, detector spacing
shall be reduced in accordance with good engineering practice. See Annex A (Informative) Explanatory
Materials, A.52.2.1.
NOTE: An alarm initiated by the first fire detector connected to the fire suppression system shall activate an alarm or alert condition
on the building fire alarm system. See 52.3.1.
52.2.2 Where fire detectors provided with pre-alarm functions are used for the releasing of suppression
systems, the fire detection threshold to activate the release of the suppression system shall be in
accordance with good engineering practice. See Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.52.2.2.
NOTE: Where fire detectors are provided with pre-alarm functions, signaling and annunciation should be in accordance with good
engineering practice.
52.3 Alarm Initiating Devices and Supervisory Devices for Suppression Systems
NOTE: Refer to Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.52.3, Building Annunciation for High Value Asset Fire Protection
Systems.
52.3.1 Activation of suppression systems shall be annunciated at the building fire alarm system.
52.3.2 Where alarm initiating devices and supervisory devices require adjustment, they shall be installed
so as to permit the removal of covers for adjustment purposes.
52.3.3 Water flow devices shall be installed to ensure activation within 90 s of water flowing in the
system that is equal to or greater than that of a single sprinkler of the smallest orifice size installed on the
system. Refer to Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.52.3.3.
NOTE: The 90 s delay may be a feature of the water flow device or may be part of the programming of the fire alarm system.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 119
52.3.4 Water flow devices incorporating an adjustable time delay shall be set with a sufficient delay to
reduce the possibility of a false indication (e.g. caused by water hammer).
52.3.5 Supervisory devices shall be connected to a latching type supervisory circuit of a control unit or
transponder.
52.3.6 Supervisory devices shall be wired to allow the circuit operation to differentiate between an open
circuit wiring fault and the operation of a device.
52.3.7 A supervisory device used to monitor the position of a valve handle, shall be set to operate within
two turns of the valve handle or when the stem of the valve has moved 20% of the distance from its normal
open position.
52.3.8 A supervisory device used to monitor the position of a valve handle, shall remain activated while
the valve is in any off-normal position.
52.3.9 Where actuating lever type supervisory devices cannot be used, plug type switches may be used,
provided:
a) The cable is tight when plugged in normal position; and
b) The supervisory circuit operates on one-half turn of the valve handle.
52.3.10 Water temperature type supervisory devices shall be set to provide an indication of low water
temperature that could affect operation of the system. The set temperature shall be suited to site
conditions but shall not be any lower than 4 °C.
52.3.11 Tamper devices, where utilized with alarm initiating devices, shall be wired so that the activation
of the tamper device shall cause a trouble signal and shall not prevent the reception of an alarm from any
alarm initiating device on that circuit. Refer to Figure 52.1, Example of Tamper Device Serving Fire
Suppression Systems.
120 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure 52.1
Example of Tamper Field Devices Serving Fire Suppression System
Convenonal
Iniang Device
Tamper Cover
Fire Alarm
Control Normally
Unit Conventional Open Normally Closed END OF LINE
Initiating Contacts Contacts DEVICE
Circuit (Device (Tamper Cover Secured)
Activation)
su3552
NOTE: Normally closed with secure tamper cover.
52.3.12 Tamper devices, where utilized with supervisory devices, shall be wired so that the activation of
the tamper device shall cause a trouble signal and shall not prevent the reception of a supervisory function
indication from any supervisory device on that circuit. Refer to Figure 52.1, Example of Tamper Device
Serving Fire Suppression Systems.
52.3.13 Supporting field devices not installed in fire protection equipment rooms (e.g., sprinkler and fire
pump rooms) and not installed in exit stair shafts shall be installed in the same floor area served by the fire
suppression system devices. Refer to Figure 52.2, Example of Supporting Field Devices Serving Fire
Suppression System Devices.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 121
Figure 52.2
Example of Supporting Field Devices Serving Fire Suppression System Devices
Electrical Room Stairwell

A A A
ISO MON SV
ZONE 2 MON FS
ISO
ISO
ZONE 1
Control Unit MON SV
or A A A
ISO FS
Transponder MON
A
ADDRESSABLE SMOKE DETECTOR MON MONITOR DEVICE
A
ADDRESSABLE HEAT DETECTOR SV SUPERVISED VALVE
ISO FAULT ISOLATION MODULE

FS WATER-FLOW SWITCH
su3553
52.4 Notification Devices for Suppression Systems
52.4.1 Notification devices provided for local notification of fire suppression system operation shall be
installed in accordance with the requirements detailed elsewhere in the Standard, as appropriate for the
device type.
52.4.2 Notification devices provided to warn occupants within the protected space of the activation of the
suppression system shall be installed within the protected space and shall initiate upon activation of the
first fire detector.
52.4.3 Notification devices provided to warn persons not to enter a protected space due to suppression
system activation shall be installed at all entries to the protected space and shall initiate upon discharge or
activation of the first fire detector as required by the suppression system design.
52.4.4 Where notification devices to warn occupants to evacuate a protected space and not to enter a
protected space are provided, each type of notification device shall provide unique notification. Refer to
Annex A (Informative), Explanatory Materials, A.52.4.4.
52.4.5 Audible signal devices providing local notification of fire suppression system operation shall
produce a sound that is different from the building fire alarm system audible signal devices.
52.4.6 Visible signal devices providing local notification of fire suppression system operation shall
produce a visual signal that is different from the building fire alarm system visible signal devices, or be
UL toCOPYRIGHTED
labelled or provided with signage MATERIAL
indicate they are unique signal devices.–
122 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
52.5 Releasing and Abort Stations for Suppression Systems
52.5.1 Releasing stations for manual activation of suppression systems shall be installed in accordance
with the appropriate requirements for manual stations, as detailed elsewhere in the Standard.
52.5.2 Releasing stations shall be of a unique appearance and colour from building fire alarm manual
stations, and shall comply with the requirements of CAN/ULC-S528, Standard for Manual Stations for Fire
Alarm Systems, Including Accessories.
52.5.3 Abort stations shall be of a constant pressure type and comply with the requirements of CAN/
ULC-S527, Standard for Control Units for Fire Alarm Systems, Subsection 4.25.2.3, Abort Feature.
52.6 Releasing Panels for Suppression Systems
52.6.1 Control units and transponders installed to provide releasing service (releasing panels) for fire
suppression system operation shall be installed in accordance with the requirements for control units and
transponders, as detailed elsewhere in the Standard.
52.6.2 Releasing panels shall be annunciated for alarm, supervisory, and trouble conditions, as
appropriate, at the building fire alarm system.
52.6.3 Where releasing panels are installed in buildings not required to be provided with a fire alarm
system, alarm, supervisory, and trouble conditions shall be annunciated at the releasing panel.
52.6.4 Each releasing panel shall be provided with a physical disconnect switch to allow testing without
actuation of the fire suppression system(s) controlled by the releasing panel. Activation of the switch shall
cause a non-latching supervisory signal on the building fire alarm system.
52.6.5 The sequence of operation for the releasing panel shall be consistent with the requirements of the
applicable Codes and Standards for the controlled fire suppression system, and good engineering
practices.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 123
ANNEX A (INFORMATIVE) EXPLANATORY MATERIALS
NOTE 1: The numbering of this Annex corresponds to the Clause numbers in the normative body of this Standard.
NOTE 2: This Annex is intended for informative purposes only.
A.1.1 Scope
The National Building and Fire Codes of Canada require that where a performance-based design
approach is proposed for a fire alarm system, the design is required to be prepared as an alternative
solution. The information prepared for submission as an alternative solution for review should include the
required documentation, as may be prescribed by the authority having jurisdiction, as well as calculations,
modeling, or other technical documentation used in preparing the fire alarm system design.
A.3.20 Care Occupancy
For the purposes of this Standard, care occupancies means the occupancy or use of a building or part
thereof where care is provided to residents including but not limited to assisted/ supportive living facilities,
facilities without treatment, children's custodial homes, convalescence/recovery/rehabilitation centres
without treatment, group homes, hospices without treatment, nursing homes without treatment,
reformatories without detention quarters and respite centres without treatment.
A.4.18 Status Change Confirmation (Smoke Detector Alarm Verification)
Status change confirmation (smoke detector alarm verification) should be installed only under the
following conditions:
a) Reduction of false alarms from smoke detectors generating spurious alarms. Such false alarms
should be documented for submittal to the authority having jurisdiction as may be required;
b) Area being protected by the smoke detectors subject to the confirmation contains a "light" fire
load and any combustion would be expected to produce a "slow rate of burn";
c) Only smoke detectors are to be subject to alarm confirmation. Where other initiating devices are
present on the same wiring circuit or zone as smoke detectors, the circuit shall be arranged to
override the confirmation function and provide an immediate alarm; and
d) Application of the status change confirmation (smoke detector alarm verification) circuit is
accepted by the authority having jurisdiction.
A.5 The National Building Code of Canada permits emergency power for the fire alarm system to be
supplied from an engine driven generator. This could result in a fire alarm system power being supplied
through a combined circuit for both normal and emergency power that has a single disconnect switch and
overcurrent protector. The installation of the fire alarm system requires that a fire alarm trouble signal be
initiated by loss of power through this disconnect switch or overcurrent protector. It may be necessary to
provide a separate second branch circuit or battery to provide this function.
The use of the engine driven generator for the emergency power supply for fire alarm system is permitted
provided the fuel supply on site is sufficient to run the generator for the duration prescribed in the National
Building Code. Additionally, a battery will also be required to provide emergency power to the fire alarm
system during the generator start-up.
Co-gen systems are now being installed to supply power for all building electrical systems. These often
include replacing the existing emergency generator configuration. Where Co-generation facilities use fuel-
fired generators, these Co-gen systems are not prohibited from providing emergency power for building
services provided they meet UL COPYRIGHTED
the requirements of CSA 282MATERIAL
and the Building–Code. It is recommended that
the presence of utility power is monitored
NOT AUTHORIZED FOR FURTHER by the fire alarm system and a trouble signal isOR
REPRODUCTION initiated on the
loss of utility power to the building.
124 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
A.7 Suggested Wiring and Installation
The following is suggested wiring practice. Some manufacturers may have requirements specified in their
wiring installation drawings which may differ from those stated below and, where they differ, the
manufacturer's published installation instructions should be followed:
a) Cable capacitance should be observed and be as per the manufacturer's published installation
instructions;
NOTE: Cable capacitance is a factor that must be considered in communications type circuits in order to maintain good
reliable systems operation.
b) When conductors or commercial lines leave a building, there is a need to provide lightning and
surge protection. The specific requirements should be as per the manufacturer's published
installation instructions;
c) Shielding and grounding of conductors should meet the specific requirements of the fire alarm
system manufacturer;
d) When using fire rated cable, caution should be observed to select the cable construction which
meets the specific requirements of the fire alarm manufacturer;
e) Where fire rated cable is required to achieve a fire rating, special attention should be made to
any intermediate junction points or boxes to maintain the fire rating; and
f) Where fire rated cable is used, the wiring termination may restrict the space within the box for
component mounting.
A.10.3 (d) Power supply requirements including the use of AC-power or batteries are specified in the
individual equipment Standards. The duration of power supplies and associated warnings (e. g., battery
depletion) should be considered when determining power supply requirements.
A.10.7 As short-range radio frequency (wireless) devices may be easily removed or relocated, which
could impact the effectiveness of the device, the indication of the removal of the device from where it was
installed is important so the building owner is aware of system changes. To ensure wireless devices can
be confirmed as being installed in the correct location, it is important that accurate as-built drawings and
any approved changes to the system are documented.
A.11.4 (k) Access Levels
A commonly used method of protecting against unauthorized changes can be described as follows (in
ascending levels of access):
a) ACCESS LEVEL 1: Access by persons having a general responsibility for safety supervision,
who might be expected to investigate and initially respond to a fire alarm or trouble signal;
b) ACCESS LEVEL 2: Access by persons who have a specific responsibility for safety, and who are
trained to operate the control unit or a display and control centre;
c) ACCESS LEVEL 3: Access by persons who are trained and certified by the manufacturer and
authorized by the authority having jurisdiction to do the following:
1) Reconfigure the site-specific data held within the control unit, or controlled by it; and
2) Maintain the control unit in accordance with the manufacturer’s published instructions
and data; and
d) ACCESS LEVEL 4:UL Access by persons who holdMATERIAL

COPYRIGHTED valid training certification
– by the manufacturer
and authorized by the authority having jurisdiction to either repair and maintain the control unit, or
NOT
to alter AUTHORIZED
its site FOR thereby
specific data or firmware, FURTHER
changingREPRODUCTION
its basic mode of operation.OR
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 125
A.11.7 (b) Recommended Document Storage
Fire alarm system documentation should be housed in a Document Cabinet, which:
a) Is securely mounted (1.5 to 1.8 m above the floor) and installed adjacent to the Main Fire Alarm
Panel Location;
b) Is sized to adequately accommodate all documentation as described in 11 Plans and
Specifications;
c) Is prominently labeled with the words: “Fire Alarm System Documents”;
d) Is only accessible by authorized personnel; and
e) May provide storage space to accommodate both hard-copy and electronic documentation
media.
A.12.8 Installation Environment
The intended installation environment (indoor or outdoor) and location (dry, damp or wet) for which a
control unit or transponder is listed, appears on the product's marking.
The control unit or transponder marking also includes the rated prevailing ambient temperature when
higher than 25 °C or when the product is intended for outdoor use.
A control unit or transponder marked as being listed for “indoor dry” locations, is typically tested for the
following environment:
a) Maximum prevailing ambient of 25 °C unless control unit or transponder is marked with higher
ambient value;
b) Short-term temperature excursions between 0 °C and 49 °C (or between the lowest and highest
ambient temperatures specified in the product's marking); and
c) A relative humidity of 93 ±2%.
A control unit or transponder marked as being listed for “indoor damp and wet” locations, is typically tested
for the following environment:
a) Maximum prevailing ambient of 25 ° C unless the control unit or transponder is marked with
higher ambient value;
b) Short-term temperature excursions between 0 °C and 49 °C (or between the lowest and highest
c) A relative humidity of 95 ±2%.
A control unit or transponder marked as being listed for “outdoor damp and wet” locations, is typically
tested for the following environment:
a) An average temperature range between -40 °C and 66 °C (or between the lowest and highest
b) A relative humidity of 95 ±2%.
A.13.12 Annunciators or display and control centres may be installed in buildings for emergency
UL(e.g.,
response by building personnel COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL
security centres, operations rooms, –
etc.). These displays are used
as part of the building’s emergency response procedures, such as the Fire Safety Plan. These
NOT
annunciators AUTHORIZED
or display FOR
and control centres areFURTHER REPRODUCTION
to be installed in OR
accordance with the requirements of 13,
DISTRIBUTION
Annunciators and WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM UL
Display and Control Centre.
126 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
A.13.16 Shared Control Functions and Indicators for Multiple Display and Control Centres
Many fire alarm systems incorporate multiple operator interface locations which provide the ability to
control Fire Alarm System functions. The provision of multiple command centre locations can provide a
viable alternative if a primary command centre fails, or if the operators are forced to abandon the primary
command centre location. While additional command centres can be beneficial to operators, a need to
designate and manage which command centre is granted control function privileges, especially during an
alarm event scenario, is also important. Maintaining a single point of system control for fire alarm systems
is currently documented in CAN/ULC-S524, Installation of Fire Alarm Systems and CAN/ULC-S527,
Control Units for Fire Alarm Systems (see excerpts below).
CAN/ULC-S524, Section 13.6:
Where a fire alarm system incorporates multiple display and control centres intended to be used for
command and control purposes during a fire emergency the following shall apply:
a) Manual controls and voice alarm features can only be operated from one location at any given
time;
b) Indication shall be provided at each display and control centres as to which is in control, either
by a dedicated indicator or a text message where alphanumeric displays are used;
c) Complete loss of communication to a display and control centre shall not inhibit other
communicating display and control centres from being able to gain control; and
d) Ability to request, grant, or deny system control with provision for fail-safe auto-transfer from one
command centre to another shall be provided. CAN/ULC-S527, Section 4.16.1 C
CAN/ULC-S527, Section 4.16.1 C
Where a fire alarm system is capable of multiple display and control centres and where the fire
alarm system either incorporates voice alarm features or allows only one display and control centre
to be in control at any one time
ii. Indication shall be continuously displayed at all display and control centres as to which is in
control, either by a dedicated indicator or a text message where alphanumeric displays are used;
It is important to note that the requirements above are intended to apply to the entire command centre
location and not only to specific functions or specific pieces of equipment provided in a given location. In
order to achieve conformance with 13.16 (C) of CAN/ULC-S524, a DCLC would be required.
For example, a large building may have the equivalent of three Central Alarm and Control Facilities
(CACFs), the main one may be located near the front entrance of the building for use by the Fire
Department, a second one may be located in the building’s operations centre for use by the building’s
operating and maintenance staff, and a third control centre with reduced set of controls may be located
elsewhere in the building.
Each of the above locations may consist of a set of controls for the Fire Alarm System, the Voice Paging
System, and a Graphical User Interface used to display and control various functions in the system. Each
location may or may not have the capability of controlling the entire system. During non-emergency
situations, it may be permissible that all control locations be granted system control function privileges.
In an emergency, however, control operation of these systems should be from only one location at any
given time – either from the main entrance, the operations centre, or from another location. It is generally
not acceptable to have control at the main entrance while simultaneously allowing the unit located in the
Operations Centre to provide control of system functions. It is acceptable however to be able to view the
status of the fire alarm system or to examine a floor plan on the graphic display from the other location(s)
NOT
as long as the AUTHORIZED
ability FOR
to activate controls is FURTHER REPRODUCTION OR
prohibited.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 127
In some situations, the need to re-locate operators to an alternative command centre location requires that
the system provides an ability for command centre control privileges to be moved from one location to
another. As such, each Control Location is required to have “Request, Grant, and Deny” controls and a
means to indicate which Control Location is currently “in control”.
Indicators and Controls:
Request Control – Request Control Function Privileges be Granted:
When a Control Location requests access to Control Functions, an indicator should activate for the
requesting location.
Grant Access – Grant Control Function Privileges to a Control Location:
When a Control Location requests access to Control Functions, the Control Location presently “in
control” should manually transfer Control Function Privileges to the Requesting Control Location.
Deny Access – Deny Control Function Privileges to a Control Location:
When a Control Location requests access to Control Functions, the Control Location presently “in
control” should manually deny the transfer of Control Function Privileges to the Requesting Control
Location. As a result, an indication at the requesting Control Location should activate to signify that
access to Control Functions has been denied.
Access Status – Displays the status of access to Control Function Privileges:
At each Control Location, the current status and the location of Control Function Privileges should
be displayed for all Control Locations.
Fail Safe Auto Transfer – Automatic transfer of Control Function Privileges:
When a Control Location which currently holds Control Function Privileges fails to respond to a
Request to Grant Control Function Privileges, all Control Function Privileges should automatically
transfer to the requesting Control Location.
A.16.2 An electrical closet is considered to be an accessible space. Restricted access rooms are areas
where building owners or operators do not have normal access such as municipal electrical equipment
vaults, telecommunication equipment rooms, etc. A high voltage electrical room is such an area.
A.18 Circuit Fault Tolerance
The 2018 Edition of CAN/ULC-S524, Standard for Installation of Fire Alarm Systems, revised the
approach for fire alarm circuit fault tolerance to a performance based approach.
The intent of 18, Circuit Fault Tolerance, is to maintain an equivalent level of circuit fault tolerance for
circuits serving multiple fire alarm zones as would be provided with a conventional system where one
circuit serves each zone. This circuit fault tolerance is applicable to all fire alarm circuits, including data
communication links, network data communication links, power circuits, audio circuits, etc.
While this can be achieved through the use of fault isolators, located and installed in accordance with
CAN/ULC-S524, the standard does not prohibit the use of alternative approaches.
Alternative approaches as described in Note 2 of 18.1 are intended to provide equivalent protection
against the loss of more than one fire alarm zone due to fire. Alternative approaches should be done on a
project by project basis. What
UL may work for a low rise small
COPYRIGHTED business occupancy
MATERIAL – may not be acceptable
for a high rise residential occupancy. Alternative approaches need to consider as a minimum, the
occupancyNOT AUTHORIZED
type, the FOR
occupant load and the FURTHER
egress time requiredREPRODUCTION
to evacuate the building. OR
128 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
An example of an alternative approach may be the use of circuit integrity cable (CI) as described in 7.10 of
this standard without the fault isolators to interconnect transponders / control units. This approach would
not be acceptable for individual branch circuits. Trouble supervision of opens, shorts and ground faults
applied to these circuits shall be maintained in accordance with Table 4.3.
Examples of design approaches utilizing fault isolators that can be used are shown in the succeeding
pages:
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 129
Figure A18-1
Active Field Devices and Supporting Field Devices Connected to Data Communication Link Style A

OR CABLE ASSEMBLY
CTL MON MON

E E
O FS SV O
L L
DCLA
OR CABLE ASSEMBLY

OR CABLE ASSEMBLY
CTL MON MON

E E
O FS SV O
L L
DCLA
OR CABLE ASSEMBLY
CONTROL UNIT
OR TRANSPONDER
E
CTL ISO ISOLATOR

MON

FS
CIRCUIT LINE
WALL
su3512 ZONE DELINEATION
130 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure A18-2
Active Field Devices and Supporting Field Devices Connected to Data Communication Link Style B

ELECTRICAL
ROOM
ROOM
CTL MON MON
E E
O FS SV O
L L
DCLB

ELECTRICAL
ROOM
ROOM
CTL MON MON

E E
O FS SV O
L L
DCLB

ELECTRICAL
ROOM
ROOM
CTL MON MON

E E
O FS SV O
L L
DCLB

ELECTRICAL
ROOM
ROOM
CTL MON MON

E E
O FS SV O
L L
CONTROL UNIT DCLB

OR TRANSPONDER
E
CTL ISO ISOLATOR

MON

FS
CIRCUIT LINE
WALL
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 131
Figure A18-3
Active Field Devices and Supporting Field Devices Connected to Data Communication Link Style C

ROOM ROOM
ISO CTL MON MON ISO
E E
O FS SV O
L L
DCLC

ROOM ROOM
ISO CTL MON MON ISO

E E
O FS SV O
L L
DCLC

ROOM ROOM
ISO CTL MON MON ISO

E E
O FS SV O
L L
ALTERNATE WIRING RACEWAY DCLC

OR CABLE ASSEMBLY

ROOM ROOM
ISO ISO CTL MON MON ISO

E E
O FS SV O
PRIMARY WIRING RACEWAY L L
OR CABLE ASSEMBLY
CONTROL UNIT DCLC
OR TRANSPONDER
E
CTL ISO ISOLATOR

MON

FS
CIRCUIT LINE
ULWALL
COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL –
132 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure A18-4
Example of Fault Isolator Serving a Single Field Device in an Exit Stair
Stairwell
Zone 2
No Isolators required in
stairwell to support
single device
A To Next
S ISO Zone
From
Control ISO
Panel
A
S = ADDRESSABLE SMOKE DETECTOR
su3555
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 133
Figure 18-5
Example of Fault Isolator Serving Multiple Field Devices in an Exit Stair
Stairwell
MON SV
MON FS
ISO ISO
A
ISO
ISO
FAULT ISOLATION
MON MONITOR DEVICE SV SUPERVISED VALVE ISO MODULE
A DATA COMMUNICATION
ADDRESSABLE SMOKE WATER-FLOW SWITCH LINK
S DETECTOR
FS
su3556
134 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure A18-6
(DCLA) Installed in Fire-Rated Stacked Electrical Rooms
ROOM ROOM
ISO
J CTL MON MON

E E
ISO O FS SV O
L L
DCLB

ROOM
ISO
J CTL MON MON

E E
ISO O FS SV O
L L
DCLA DCLB
OR CABLE ASSEMBLY
DCLA
OR CABLE ASSEMBLY
CONTROL UNIT
OR TRANSPONDER
E
CTL ISO ISOLATOR

MON

FS
CIRCUIT LINE
ULWALL
COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL –
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 135
Figure A18-7
(DCLA) Installed in a Single Fire-Rated Electrical Room
ROOM
DCLB
CTL MON MON
E E
O FS SV O
L L

ROOM
DCLB
CTL MON MON
E E
O FS SV O
L L

ROOM
DCLB
CTL MON MON
E E
O FS SV O
L L

ROOM ROOM
DCLB
ISO ISO ISO ISO CTL MON MON
E E
CONTROL UNIT OR O FS SV O
DCLA L L
TRANSPONDER
DCL CONVENTIONAL CIRCUIT WALL ZONE DELINEATION
ADDRESSABLE BIDIRECTIONAL ADDRESSABLE E END OF LINE

CTL ISO O
CONTROL DEVICE ISOLATION MODULE SMOKE DETECTOR L DEVICE
ADDRESSABLE SUPERVISED ADDRESSABLE JUNCTION
MON SV JB
MONITOR DEVICE VALVE HEAT DETECTOR BOX
EXHAUST WATER FLOW ADDRESSABLE BREAK LINE
FS
DAMPER SWITCH MANUAL STATION (CONTINUATION)
su3557
136 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure A18-8
Network Data Communication Link Interconnecting Control Units and Transponders

ROOM
ISO
CONVENTIONAL INPUT
OR TRANSPONDER CONVENTIONAL OUTPUT
ISO
DCLC
ELECTRICAL
TYPICAL FLOOR
ROOM
ISO
CONVENTIONAL INPUT
OR TRANSPONDER
CONVENTIONAL OUTPUT
ISO
DCLC
ELECTRICAL DCLC TYPICAL FLOOR

ROOM
ISO
DISPLAY COMMAND ANNUNCIATOR
CENTER
ISO
DCLA OR DCLB
su3520
NOTE 1: For primary and alternate wiring distances refer to Figure 6.1.
NOTE 2: Isolators shown integral to the control unit or transponder may be external to the control unit or transponder

JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 137
Figure A18-9
Example of Fault Isolator Locations between Fire Alarm Zones
ELECTRICAL ELECTRICAL
ROOM ROOM
ZONE 4
ZONE 3
ZONE 2
CONTROL UNIT ZONE 1

OR
TRANSPONDER
LEGEND
ADDRESSABLE SMOKE DETECTOR MONITOR DEVICE
ADDRESSABLE HEAT DETECTOR SUPERVISED VALVE
FAULT ISOLATION MODULE WATER-FLOW SWITCH
su3558
138 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure A18-10
Example of Field Devices with Internal Fault Isolation Devices between Fire Alarm Zones
ZONE 4
ZONE 3
ZONE 2
CONTROL UNIT ZONE 1

OR
TRANSPONDER
ADDRESSABLE SMOKE DETECTOR MONITOR DEVICE

WITH ISOLATOR
SUPERVISED VALVE
ADDRESSABLE HEAT DETECTOR WATER-FLOW SWITCH
su3559
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 139
Figure A18-11
Example of Fault Isolator Locations for a Large Open Area
ZONE 4 ZONE 3
ZONE 1 ZONE 2
CONTROL UNIT
OR
TRANSPONDER
LEGEND
ADDRESSABLE SMOKE DETECTOR
ADDRESSABLE HEAT DETECTOR
FAULT ISOLATION MODULE

su3560
140 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure A18-12
Example of Fault Isolators for Sprinkler Risers and Duct-Type Smoke Detectors
ZONE 5
ZONE 9 ZONE 10
(AIR HANDLING UNIT) (AIR HANDLING UNIT)
ZONE 4
ZONE 3
ZONE 2
SPRINKLER SPRINKLER SPRINKLER
ROOM ROOM ROOM
CONTROL UNIT ZONES 6-8

OR
ZONE 1 (SPRINKLERS)
ZONE 1
TRANSPONDER
LEGEND
ADDRESSABLE SMOKE DETECTOR CONTROL RELAY
ADDRESSABLE HEAT DETECTOR MONITOR DEVICE
DUCT-TYPE SMOKE DETECTOR SUPERVISED VALVE
FAULT ISOLATION MODULE WATER-FLOW SWITCH

su3561
NOTE: This diagram shows the sprinkler room (Zone 2) as a separate National Building Code of Canada fire alarm required zone.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 141
Figure A18-13
Installation of Fault Isolators Providing Power to Field Devices
A. POWER BUSS FAULT ISOLATOR ON POWER CIRCUIT
B. ALTERNATIVE: POWER CIRCUIT ISOLATION
NOTE: This is an example of achieving power circuit isolation using separate power circuits per zone.
142 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
NOTE: Refer to the manufacturer's published installation instruction in regard to separation of riser wiring.
It is the responsibility of the system designer to identify the means of achieving circuit fault tolerance within the system plans.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 143
A.18.2 During a fire condition wiring may be damaged and result is a short circuit on fire alarm wiring in
that area. The system will adjust to the short circuit fault but during the adjustment time alarm signals in
other areas may be temporarily interrupted.
An example of an equivalent method includes the use of Fire-Resistive Cable in accordance with CAN/
ULC-S139, Standard Method of Fire Test for Evaluation of Integrity of Electrical Cables.
A.19.2.1 Campus Style Network
There are instances where multiple buildings or structures, which are protected by individual fire alarm
control units and transponders, are served by a common fire alarm network. In these applications, only
control units and transponders connected with DCLC are permitted to provide control functions. Where
control units and transponders are connected by DCLB or DCLA, they are permitted to provide monitoring
function only. Refer to Figure 19.10 and Figure 19.11.
In the determination for the application of Large Scale Network requirements, all active field devices,
supporting field devices, and fire detectors connected to a fire alarm system are required to be counted.
This includes where a fire alarm system covers multiple buildings and / or facilities. For example, a fire
alarm system serving a main building and ancillary buildings on the same property would require all
devices in all buildings to be counted.
For specific consideration are campus style fire alarm systems, such as those common in post-secondary
institutions or large business facilities. These systems commonly cover multiple buildings with a common
communication network which interconnect the building fire alarm systems. When considering if these
campus fire alarm systems are to meet the large scale network requirements, the type of common
communication network needs to be reviewed.
Where the network is provided only for supervision (i.e., to a campus security office), this network does not
create a common fire alarm system between the various campus buildings. Rather, the network is for
monitoring only and allows each building fire alarm system to function independently. In this case, the
active field devices, supporting field devices, and fire detectors for each individual fire alarm system are to
be considered independently. Where this common supervision also provides the connection to a fire signal
receiving centre for the purposes of sending a signal to the local fire department, and directly, or indirectly
to a fire signal receiving centre, the requirements of CAN/ULC-S561 are also applicable.
Where the network is provided with command and control functions, this type of network creates a
common fire alarm system throughout the campus. As such, all active field devices, supporting field
devices, and fire detectors on the network are required to be counted. With these types of systems, the
design professionals should consider, in conjunction with the authorities having jurisdiction, the
appropriateness of this type of system for the campus.
NOTE: For additional information on controls, refer to 13.9 through 13.11.
In applying the requirements for Large Scale Networks to campus style fire alarm systems, the
requirements of 20, Large Scale Network Systems, are to be assessed to determine applicability and
appropriateness for the system. For example, the requirement to locate network conductors in fire rated
enclosures or to provide fire rated conductors may not be appropriate. In many campus style systems,
network conductors are installed in below-grade raceways. In these situations, an equivalent fire
protection may be achieved by the installation methodology.
A.20.8 In order to ensure continuous operation of the fire alarm and voice communication systems in a
“High Building” for a sufficient duration of time to control and direct the evacuation of building occupants, a
level of protection is required by the National Building Code of Canada, for those electrical conductors
interconnecting the major elements of the fire alarm system.
UL COPYRIGHTED These requirements
MATERIAL – are in addition to the
requirements of 20, Large Scale Network Systems.
DISTRIBUTION
NOTE: Requirements WITHOUT
for “High Buildings” are described PERMISSION
in the National FROM UL
Building Code of Canada.
144 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
A.21.5 Automated Voice Message Example (Typical)
The following list details examples of typical voice communication messages to be made in the event of
alert signal and alarm signal activation:
Alert Announcement (to be made to zones to sound alert signal):
ATTENTION, ATTENTION, ATTENTION. THE FIRE ALARM SYSTEM HAS BEEN ACTIVATED. THE
CAUSE OF THE ALARM WILL BE INVESTIGATED. STAND BY FOR FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS.
OR
ATTENTION, ATTENTION, ATTENTION. L'ALARME D'INCENDIE A ÉTÉ DÉCLENCHÉE. LA CAUSE DE

CETTE ALARME FERA L'OBJET D'UNE ENQUÊTE.DES INSTRUCTIONS SUPPLÉMENTAIRES
SERONT DONNÉES SOUS PEU
Repeat at least two times.
***
Alarm (Evacuation) Announcement (to be made to zones to sound alarm signal):
ATTENTION, ATTENTION, ATTENTION. THE FIRE ALARM SYSTEM HAS BEEN ACTIVATED.
EVACUATE THE BUILDING USING THE NEAREST EXIT. ELEVATORS ARE OUT OF SERVICE.
OR
ATTENTION, ATTENTION, ATTENTION. L'ALARME D'INCENDIE A ÉTÉ DÉCLENCHÉE. QUITTEZ LE

BÂTIMENT PAR LA SORTIE LA PLUS PRÈS. LES ASCENSEURS SONT HORS SERVICE.
***
ALL CLEAR Announcement (to be made to all zones when alarm situation resolved):
ATTENTION, ATTENTION, ATTENTION. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT HAS INVESTIGATED THE FIRE
ALARM AND HAS DETERMINED THAT THE BUILDING IS SAFE. ELEVATORS ARE NOW IN SERVICE.
OR
ATTENTION, ATTENTION, ATTENTION. LE SERVICE D'INCENDIE A ÉTUDIÉ LA CAUSE DE

L'ALARME D'INCENDIE ET A DÉTERMINÉ QUE LE BÂTIMENT EST SÉCURITAIRE. LES
ASCENSEURS SONT MAINTENANT EN SERVICE.
A.22.1 Use of Automated Voice in a Fire Alarm System
Some large, complex facilities consolidate paging functions into one centralized delivery system, often
controlled remotely. For example a healthcare network with a centralized dispatch system serving multiple
hospital campuses. These systems are used to deliver messages such as:
NOT
• Public AUTHORIZED
Address Paging FOR FURTHER REPRODUCTION OR
DISTRIBUTION
• Code Calls WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM UL
in healthcare environments
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 145
• Other non-fire alarm related communications
The above non-fire alarm messages are not subject to the building codes or fire codes in Canada and
thus, are often delivered by VOIP systems, Public Address paging systems, etc, which fall outside the
purview of any consistent standards or requirements for periodic testing.
Unfortunately, these centralized delivery systems are sometimes used to perform a portion of the process
of broadcasting fire alarm voice messaging. This approach is prohibited by the codes and standards
governing fire alarm systems in Canada.
As stated in 6.2.2 (C) Where automated voice messages are provided, they shall:
6.2.2 C Be Integral to the control unit or transponder.
For example, utilizing equipment, such as text-to-voice translation systems, VOIP message storage,
transmittal and conversion of fire alarm information via 3rd party non-fire alarm equipment which does not
comply with the requirements of CAN/ULC S527 is prohibited from providing any of the fire alarm system
functionality. Additionally using equipment which does comply with the requirements of CAN/ULC S527
outside of its approved use is prohibited.
Furthermore, as Fire Alarm Voice Systems are often used to provide non-fire alarm related paging
announcements, one must be cognisant of other FACP requirements:
For example 6.1.1 (C)
“Fault detection and indication shall be maintained during the time a buss is used for purposes not related
to fire safety (i.e. general paging):”
Indicates that – while fault detection is not required for speaker circuits while the fire alarm voice
system is being used for fire safety purposes – the fire alarm system must continue to provide
electrical supervision and fault indication for speaker circuits while it is being used for non-fire
safety related messages (such as general paging, code call announcements, etc).
This is not a common feature of many fire alarm systems, and thus, caution is advised to the
designer to confirm the FACP capabilities prior to suggesting the fire alarm audio system be used
for non-fire safety purposes.
A.24.8 Areas where field devices may be subject to obvious mechanical damage or vandalism may
include but are not limited to gymnasiums, warehouses, change rooms, loading docks and areas of
detention.
A.24.9 Some components or modules are designed to be installed without mechanical fasteners or
brackets, e.g. modules within an electrical enclosure. These devices should be installed in a manner that
does not put stress on circuit conductors and in accordance with the manufacturer's published installation
instructions per 24.9.
A.26.1 The limit of the manual station mounting height takes into consideration the barrier-free mounting
height requirements in the National Building Code of Canada and the need to maintain manual stations at
a height to be accessible to occupants and sufficiently high to avoid damage. The maximum height of 1150
mm, measured to the centreline of a standard 1-gang electrical device box, will position the operating
action of a manual station at not more than 1200 mm above finished floor, which is the upper limit of
controls in a barrier free path of travel. Manual stations may be required to be operable with a closed fist.
A.27.1 Fire Detector Applications

Requirements of fire detectors can cover general application rules only, and special circumstances not
covered byNOT AUTHORIZED
this Standard FORcircumstances
may arise. Such FURTHERrequire REPRODUCTION
careful study of theORmanufacturer's
146 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
design guidelines, in accordance with good engineering practices and shall meet the requirement of
operating the device as intended.
In areas subject to thermal stratification, fire detectors may be installed as follows:
a) Uninsulated Roof – Install detectors based on the rated (flat-ceiling) detector spacing in
accordance with the type of ceiling construction and with a second, identical, layer projecting 10%
below the ceiling height;
b) Skylights – When constituting more than 10% of the assigned detector spacing, and when a
depth exceeds 300 mm install additional detectors in the skylight to a distance of 50% of depth of
the skylight; and
c) Large Exposed Glass Areas – Where the ceiling height exceeds 6000 mm, and the area of the
exposed glass is greater than 50% of the exposed exterior wall, mount detectors based on the
rated (flat-ceiling) detector spacing in accordance with the type of ceiling construction, with a
second identical layer projecting 10% below the ceiling height.
In rooms utilizing a means of induced air movement, such as ceiling mounted air circulating fans or unit
heaters, fire detectors should be mounted at a location that intersects the path of air movement towards
the fan blades.
A.28 Spot Type Smoke Detectors
The following application requirements are the minimum requirements, and additional smoke detectors
may be required if additional protection is being provided for improved life safety and property protection.
To obtain maximum advantage from normal air movement, a smoke detector layout need not be
symmetrical, but the maximum detector spacing between smoke detectors should not exceed 12 800 mm
and the maximum distance from any side wall should not exceed 6400 mm. Refer to Figure 28.1 and
Figure 28.2.
The application of smoke detectors cannot be regulated by an installation standard for the various types,
environmental influences, such as thermal barriers, air movements and velocity variations, temperature,
atmospheric pressure, relative humidity, etc.
Manufacturer's published installation instructions should be carefully reviewed and used in conjunction
with these requirements. In order for a smoke detector to respond, the smoke must travel from the point of
origin to the smoke detector. In evaluating any particular building or location, potential fire origin locations
should first be determined. From each of these points of origin, path of smoke travel should be
determined. Wherever practical, actual field evaluations should be conducted. The most desired location
for smoke detectors should be the common points of intersection of smoke travel from fire locations.
A.39.8 This requirement is to ensure that an occupant does not hear unsynchronized tones from multiple
sources that could lead to confusion.
A.40.1 Voice Intelligibility Guide
A Intelligibility
The concept of intelligibility expressed in this Standard is intended to mean that a person with average
hearing and cognitive abilities is able to understand the messages that are transmitted into the space
occupied by the person.
There is no absolute measureUL COPYRIGHTED

to predetermine MATERIAL
the effect of – it may be necessary, once
loudspeakers and
the building has been furnished and occupied, to increase the number of loudspeakers to improve the
NOT
quality of the AUTHORIZED FOR FURTHER REPRODUCTION OR
messages.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 147
The intelligibility of the message depends on the speech level, the background level, and the reverberation
time of the space.
B Factors to consider for improving intelligibility
The following are suggestions to assist in achieving optimal intelligibility for voice communication systems
in buildings. Some manufacturers may have requirements specified in their installation instructions which
may differ from those suggestions stated below and, where they differ, the manufacturer's published
installation instructions should be followed:
a) Reduced spacing of speakers, at lower wattages (typically many more than would be needed to
achieve the audibility alone). It is recommended that the ideal “point-to-source” (i. e. speaker to
listener) distance is 10 m or less and that speaker spacing be no more than twice the ceiling height.
b) Speakers mounted near the centre of the rooms, away from walls and other hard surfaces (to
avoid reverberation). A softer room finish, such as carpet (rather than ceramic tile) will typically
make the intelligibility better, although it tends to make audibility worse.
c) Speakers should be aimed at the listeners. On high ceilings, directional speakers are typically
best.
d) The design should consider the interior finishes, and the fixtures and furnishings in the occupied
space.
e) Computer designs (using commercially available computer modeling software) and/or sound
modeling training are recommended, or alternatively the services of a professional in the field of
sound modeling (e.g. an engineering firm, etc.) should be obtained.
f) In areas where it is not practical to implement the acoustic quality that would support intelligibility,
a suggested approach is to provide “rally points” where intelligibility can be obtained (i. e. upon
hearing the audible signal, the occupants would go to the rally points to receive the intelligible
messages).
A.42.2 About 3% of the population is susceptible to experiencing an epileptic seizure when exposed to
flashing lights at certain intensities. This condition is known as photosensitive epilepsy.
Seizures in photosensitive people may be triggered by exposure to television screens due to the flicker or
rolling images, to computer monitors, to certain video games or TV broadcasts containing rapid flashes or
alternating patterns of different colors, and to intense strobe lights like visual fire alarms.
The frequency or speed of flashing light that is most likely to cause seizures varies from person to person.
Generally, flashing lights most likely to trigger seizures are between the frequency of 5 to 30 flashes per
second (Hertz).
Most strobe lights on sale to the public are factory-limited to about 10 – 12 Hz (Or 10 – 12 flashes per
second) in their internal oscillators, although externally triggered strobe lights will often flash more
frequently. Most fire alarm strobes flash at a 2 Hz rate, which is obviously completely safe, however, if
multiple fire alarm strobes were situated in the same field of view, the viewable flash rate would be
multiplied if they were not synchronized. For this reason, the Code states that if 2 or more fire alarm
strobes are installed in the same viewable area, they must be synchronized.
This ensures that the cumulative flash rate of multiple strobes never increases beyond the 2 Hz flash rate
and thus, never provides an environment which could promote a seizure due to photosensitive epilepsy.
148 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
A.49.1 Examples of Wiring Configurations for Residential Notification Devices
a) Addressable Signal Devices
FACU
ASD ASD ASD ASD
SUITE H SUITE G SUITE F SUITE E
ASD ASD
JB JB JB JB JB JB JB JB
SUITE A SUITE B SUITE C SUITE D

ASD ASD ASD ASD
su3562
NOTE: This example represents one way of meeting the requirement but there may be other methods that are also acceptable.
b) Separate Signal Device Circuits

E E E E
FACU SD SD O SD SD O SD SD O SD SD O
L L L L
E
SD SD O
L

E E E E
SD SD O SD SD O SD SD O SD SD O
L L L L
su3563
NOTE 1: Circuits wired back to control unit or transponder.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 149
c) Class B Signal Device Circuit with Suite Fault Isolators
FACU SD SD SD SD SD SD SD SD
ISO ISO
E
SD SD O
L
ISO ISO

SD SD SD SD SD SD SD SD
su3564
d) Class A Signal Device Circuit for In-Suite Signals
FACU SD SD SD SD SD SD SD SD
E
SD SD O
L

SD SD SD SD SD SD SD SD
su3565
150 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
A.50 Smoke Detectors for Door Release Service
Where the depth of wall section above the door is 600 mm or less on one or both sides, one ceiling
mounted detector is required on one side of the doorway only, preferably on the swing side into the
direction of exit travel. (Refer to Figure A10.4, Parts b and d.)
Where the depth of wall section above the door is greater than 600 mm on both sides, two ceiling mounted
detectors are required, one on each side of the doorway. (Refer to Figure A10.4, Part F.)
Where a detector for door frame mounting or where a combination or integral detector/door closer
assembly is used, only one detector should be required (Refer to Figures A10.4, Parts A, C and E.) The
smoke detector, being part of the combination or integral detector/door closer assembly, should be in
conformance with CAN/ULC-S529, Standard for Smoke Detectors for Fire Alarm Systems. Detectors
should be installed on the centre line of the doorway not more than 1500 mm from the doorway, measured
along the ceiling, perpendicular to the doorway. The minimum distance is based on the configuration
shown in Figure A10.4-1 through Figure A10.4-6.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 151
Figure A10.4-1
Smoke Detector Location Requirements for Wall Sections
Detector Mounted on Bulkhead

of Door (either side)
600 mm
600 mm
= Smoke Detector
su3566
152 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure A10.4-2
Smoke Detector Location Requirements for Wall Sections One Detector Ceiling-Mounted on Either
Side
1500 mm MAXIMUM 1500 mm MAXIMUM
Not < 300 mm MINIMUM or “D” Not < 300 mm MINIMUM or “D”
D = 600 mm
S S
D = 600 mm
S
= Smoke Detector
CEILING MOUNTED
EXAMPLE B:
Depth of Wall Section Above
Door (D) is 0-600 mm on Both
Sides of Doorway
su3567
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 153
Figure A10.4-3
Smoke Detector Location Requirements for Wall Sections Door Frame Mounted
Detector Mounted on Bulkhead

of Door (either side)
D2 > 600 mm
D1 =<= 600 mm
= Smoke Detector
DOOR FRAME MOUNTED

EXAMPLE D:
Door (D) is over 600 mm on
ONE SIDE ONLY
su3568
154 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure A10.4-4
Smoke Detector Location Requirements for Wall Sections Ceiling Mounted
1500 mm MAXIMUM, 1500 mm MAXIMUM,
300 mm MINIMUM or “D” MINIMUM = D2
Higher Ceiling
D2 > 600 mm S
S
Lower Ceiling
D1 =< 600 mm
S = Smoke Detector
CEILING MOUNTED
EXAMPLE D:
Door (D) is over 600 mm on
ONE SIDE ONLY
su3569
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 155
Figure A10.4-5
Detector Mounted on Either
> 600 mm
Side of Door
> 600 mm
= Smoke Detector
DOOR FRAME MOUNTED

EXAMPLE E:
Door is OVER 600 mm on
Both Sides of Doorway
su3570
156 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure A10.4-6
1500 mm MAXIMUM, 1500 mm MAXIMUM,
MINIMUM = “D” MINIMUM = “D”
D > 600 mm
S S
D > 600 mm
S
= Smoke Detector
CEILING MOUNTED
EXAMPLE E:
Door is OVER 600 mm on
Both Sides of Doorway
su3571
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 157
A.52.2.1 It is common practice to use the cross-zone, counting zone or priority matrix features of the
control unit or transponder for releasing fire suppression systems.
A.52.2.2 Air sampling-type detectors can provide multiple thresholds of smoke detection. Some levels
may be used for pre-alarm notification, while higher smoke obscuration levels may be used for alarm
activation. While suppression system release may be activated by a lower or higher smoke obscuration
level, the fire detection threshold for the activation of the building fire alarm system must be in accordance
with CAN/ ULC-S529, Standard for Smoke Detectors for Fire Alarm Systems.
A.52.3 Building Annunciation for High Value Asset Fire Protection Systems
Annunciation at DCC/Annunciator
DCC/Annunciator DCC visual indicator NBCC
Scenario type Note/Condition
indication text colour code requirement
A Supervisory Indication: Yellow with unique NO High value asset location fire
identifier control unit – off normal or trouble
“Location ____ fire condition
control unit trouble”
B Alarm Indication Red with unique identifier YES1 High value asset location
“Location____ Detection” automatic detection activation
C Alarm Indication Red with unique identifier YES1 High value asset location manual
“Location____ Manual” activation
D Alarm Indication Red with unique identifier YES High value asset location pre-
“Location____ Pre-Action action system's alarm pressure
Sprinkler” switch active and/or solenoid
activated
E Supervisory Indication: Yellow with unique YES High value asset location pre-
identifier action system's supervisory valve
“Location____ Pre-action operated within two turns of the
system's supervisory valve handle or when the stem of
valve” the valve has moved 20% of the
distance from its normal open
position
F Supervisory Indication: Yellow with unique YES High value asset location pre-
identifier action system's low pressure
“Location____ pre-action switch operated
system's low pressure”
G Alarm Indication Red with unique identifier YES2 High value asset location agent
Alarm Indication Red with discharge
unique identifier
“Location____ Agent
Discharge”
NOTE: High value asset fire protection solutions include but are not limited to, Information Technology rooms, server farms,
telecommunication rooms, kitchen suppression systems, libraries and archives.
1
Recommended practice to provide separate zone indications for manual and automatic initiation.
2
Alarm indication required as applied to NFPA 96 installations.
A.52.3.3 The 90 s duration is from the start of the water flow to the activation of the water flow device.
The response time of the fire alarm system after activation of the water flow device shall be in accordance
with Table 4.3, Response Times for Control Units and Transponders.
A.52.4.4 Where notification devices to warn occupants to evacuate a protected space and not to enter a
protected space are provided, each type of notification device shall provide unique notification. For
example, in a building where the building fire alarm system utilizes horns for occupant notification, the
notification devices installed to warn persons within the protected space of the activation of the
suppression system could beUL COPYRIGHTED
bells MATERIAL
and the notification devices installed to–warn persons not to enter the
NOTcould
protected space AUTHORIZED FOR FURTHER REPRODUCTION OR
be visible signal devices.
158 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
A.-TABLE 4.1 Examples of Typical Conditions Resulting in Status Changes
The following list, provided for guidance, identifies typical events that could be considered for each priority
level and is not limited to those items identified.
a) Fire alarms signals: Fire alarm including water flow;
b) Signals related to life safety emergency conditions: Gas detection, medical emergency,
explosive risks- gas leaks, smoke control, life threatening situations, panic-underground alert
systems, security, burglary, bomb threats, terrorist threats, non-required fire detection system
(computer extinguishing), Fume hood system discharge, specialty industrial fire applications not
tied into fire system (paint booths), hazardous material spills, natural and weather related
emergencies, flame detection, aspiration systems;
c) Fire supervisory signals: Elements required to be supervised by the fire alarm system including
sprinkler and standpipe shutoff valves and pressure, fire pump trouble, generator trouble;
d) Signals associated with property and building safety: Fan status, dampers, motors, elevators,
telephones, flood, hurricane, tornado, extinguishing system flow in non occupied buildings, building
damage (non fire), electrical supply outage, glass breakage, heating system failure/extreme
temperatures; and
e) Trouble signals associated with fire alarm, life and/or property safety: Fire troubles.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 159
ANNEX B (INFORMATIVE) – FIRE DETECTION ZONES AND ANNUNCIATION OF FIRE ALARMS,

INCLUDING ALARM RESOUND OPERATION
When designing, installing, and reviewing fire alarm systems, the required annunciation of fire alarm zones
and devices has sometimes been confusing. This is further complicated by the use of addressable fire
alarm systems which allow for the unique identification and annunciation of individual field devices.
The following provides an overview of the required fire alarm zones on fire alarm system annunciators,
and the best practices for achieving these requirements.
B1 NBC Fire Alarm Zoning Requirements
Article 3.2.4.8 of the National Building Code of Canada (NBCC) requires that, except for specific
situations, a fire alarm annunciator be provided in close proximity to a building entrance that faces a street
or a fire access route. An annunciator is required to have separate zone indication of the actuation of the
alarm initiating devices in each:
• floor area so that the area of coverage for each zone in a building that is not sprinklered is not
more than 2000 m2;
• floor area so that the area of coverage for each zone is neither:
o more than one storey, nor
o more than the system area limits as specified in NFPA 13, “Installation of Sprinkler
Systems”;
• shaft required to be equipped with smoke detectors;
• air handling system required to be equipped with smoke detectors;
• fire extinguishing system required by NFPA 96, “Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of
Commercial Cooking Operations”;
• fire extinguishing system required by NFPA 96, “Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of
Commercial Cooking Operations”;
• contained use area;
• impeded egress zone; and
• fire compartment required in Sentence 3.3.3.5.(2) of the NBCC.
The word “zone” is not a defined term within the NBC. However, ISO 7240-1, Fire Detection and Alarm
Systems, Part 1: General and Definitions provides information that is useful, reading:
FIRE DETECTION ZONE – geographic sub-division of the protected premises in which one or
more points are installed and for which a common zonal indication is provided.
The National Building Code of Canada requires indication of the physical areas, not specific fire alarm
initiating devices as firefighters should not be delayed in establishing how a fire may have spread within a
building. It is imperative that they are immediately aware of where and when new fire initiating device
activations have occurred in an area of the building outside the initial zone of alarm.
Therefore, according to the National Building Code, fire alarm zones and not the specific alarm initiating
devices are the mandatory units for the discrete indication of fire alarms. The aim is to provide unique
UL COPYRIGHTED
indications for the areas in which fire alarms originate, soMATERIAL
that a multiplicity–of alarm initiations originating
NOT AUTHORIZED
from fire detectors FOR
in one fire alarm zone do FURTHER REPRODUCTION
not clutter an annunciator OR the rapid
and risk preventing
recognition of DISTRIBUTION
new fire detection zones in alarm. Although
WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM UL accepted by some Authorities Having
160 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Jurisdiction, displaying individual alarm events (specific device alarms) does not meet the NBC
requirement for displaying the zones as currently written.
Conventional systems inherently display the required zone information. Where a sequential LCD display is
used with addressable fire alarm panel it should be specifically programmed to display the zones and not
just the devices.
With addressable systems there are a variety of ways to meet the NBCC requirement for displaying the
zones through the provision of:
• specific annunciation (LED) of each unique fire alarm zone in the building with or without a
supplemental alphanumeric (LCD) single or multi-event display of each device activation; or
• sequential alphanumeric (LCD) display listed to CAN/ULC-S527, Control Units for Fire Alarm
Systems and capable of simultaneously annunciating a minimum of eight fire alarm zones,
including system status line, could be used.
A fire alarm zone will contain one or more fire detectors and/or manual stations installed within a localized
area of the building. In general, a building is divided into fire alarm zones in order to assist in:
• the rapid location of the source of a fire alarm initiation;
• assessing the size of the fire and monitoring its rate of growth outside the original fire alarm zone;
and
• sub dividing the installed system for the purposes of alarm organization and fire protection
measures, including the deployment of DCL isolators.
Generally, more than one fire alarm zone is not expected for a single floor area, the fire detectors and/or
manual stations except in the case of very large floors as found in warehouses or shopping malls. Where a
floor area of a building is subdivided into multiple areas, separated by fire and/or smoke barriers and the
fire safety plan allows relocation of occupants from the area of origin to another area on the same floor,
each such area is to be considered a separate zone. When the building or floor is sprinklered, a second
fire alarm zone is required to identify sprinkler flow.
For example, the NBCC requires that floors containing patient sleeping rooms in care and treatment
occupancies contain at least two smoke separated compartments, each up to a maximum area of 1 000
m2, on each floor for horizontal evacuation. Each of these smoke separated compartments is required to
be a separate fire alarm zone.
The term “National Building Code of Canada required fire alarm zone,” is used in several Clauses of this
Standard. The National Building Code of Canada requires specific areas of buildings to be separately
identified on the fire alarm annunciators. Some are physical areas such as, but not limited to, floors areas,
contained use areas, impeded egress zones, fire compartments, stairs and shafts. Other types of zones
include but are not limited to, duct type smoke detectors and inputs from special fire suppression systems
In this standard the use of the term “National Building Code of Canada required fire alarm zone” refers to
the physical areas not the devices. The term “input zone” in this standard refers to an area or field device
that is displayed on the annunciator as required by the National Building Code of Canada.
In addition to floors areas, the National Building Code of Canada requires that certain specific areas of
buildings be separately identified on the fire alarm annunciator. These include physical areas, such as
contained use areas, impeded egress zones, exit stairs, and elevator shafts. Other types of zones include
duct-type smoke detectors and inputs from special fire suppression systems.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 161
B2 Alarm Resound Operation
Just as firefighters should not be unnecessarily delayed in establishing how a fire may have spread
beyond the initial fire zone within a building, neither should they be distracted by resounding of alarm
signals from the same zone. This is achieved by the reactivation of silenced fire alarm notification devices
when a subsequent alarm is received by the fire alarm system. A “subsequent alarm” is defined by CAN/
ULC-S527 as the activation of another input zone before the control unit is reset.
Similarly, for two-stage fire alarm systems, once the automatic evacuation timer is cancelled the timer
counter should not restart unless a “subsequent alarm” is received from another input zone. Again, it is
imperative that first responders are made aware of the spread of fire or smoke into another alarm zone of
the building.
B3 NBC Zone Supervisory Zoning Requirements
Article 3.2.4.9 of the 2015 National Building Code of Canada (NBCC) requires that, except for specific
situations, a supervisory signal on the building fire alarm system annunciator for each of the following:
• movement of a valve handle, except hose valves, that controls the supply of water to standpipe
systems;
• movement of a valve handle that controls the supply of water to sprinklers;
• loss of excess water pressure required to prevent false alarms in a wet pipe system;
• loss of air pressure in a dry pipe system;
• loss of air pressure in a pressure tank;
• a significant change in water level in any water storage container used for firefighting purposes;
• loss of power to any automatically starting fire pump; and
• a temperature approaching the freezing point in any dry pipe valve enclosure or water storage
container used for firefighting purposes.
In addition, Article 3.2.4.9 also requires that a fire pump shall be electrically supervised as stipulated in
NFPA 20, “Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection”. As a minimum this would include:
• Fire pump power status;
• Fire pump running status;
• Fire pump test running;
• Loss of power;
• Transfer of power;
• Fuel tank level;
• Loss of Phase; and
• Phase reversal
B4 Good Engineering Practice

Where an area
NOT is AUTHORIZED
very large and not subdivided, it is general practice
FOR FURTHER to limit the number OR
REPRODUCTION of fire detectors
and/or manual stations and consequently zones, to avoid an unacceptably large search area where the
DISTRIBUTION
space is contiguous WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM UL
and without barriers.
162 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
It is common practice in certain applications such as high rise buildings to separate fire detectors and
manual stations into separate zones. This is to allow detectors in an area to be turned off easily to allow for
activation of the manual stations during renovations.
Loss of power to heat tracing cable should be indicated on the fire alarm system annunciator as a
supervisory indication for the following:
• A standpipe riser;
• A sprinkler line, as part of a fire suppression system; or
• An exit or a means of egress to keep it free of ice and snow.
NOTE: These indications may be required by some Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Although not specifically required, conventional systems inherently display the separate general alarm
zone or zones (2nd stage) of a 2-stage fire system depending on the complexity of the application. An
addressable fire alarm panel should be programmed in a similar fashion.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 163
ANNEX C (INFORMATIVE) – SOUND LEVEL MEASUREMENTS
NOTE: Also refer to Table C.1 through Table C.15.
C.1 Sound Level Measuring Devices
C.1.1 A sound level meter is to have a measurement range that permits readings as low as 35 dBA and
is to be calibrated immediately before and after the audibility measurements are taken. The use of a
quality meter is important to minimize any measurement errors. ANSI S1.40, Specifications for Acoustical
Calibrators, is one standard that can provide guidance.
C.2 Measurement Method
C.2.1 The meter is to be held approximately 1.5 m above the floor and at least 0.5 m away from hard
reflecting surfaces. The meter should also be held as far away as practical from the body of the person
taking the measurement.
C.2.2 The meter is to be set to the "A" weighted measurement scale and to the fast response setting.
The measurement is to be made in the approximate centre of the most acoustically remote area of the
floor. The doors, any intervening doors and windows are to be closed. The measurements are to be made
within a 1 m radius of the centre of the room.
C.2.3 Sound meters must be used per the manufacturer's published installation instructions. The number
and type of measurements taken may vary. Two common methods are described as follows:
a) Integrating Type Meter: An integrating type sound level meter provides calculated Equivalent
Sound Level (Leq) readings. The meter takes sample measurements once per second and over a
20 s sample period. Intermittent noises should not occur during the sample period; or
b) Non-Integrating Type Meter: A non-integrating type sound level meter requires a series of
separate measurements to be taken. It is recommended that four measurements be obtained. The
average of the three closest readings should be recorded. Visual averaging of meter readings may
be performed in lieu of the above.
C.3 Selecting Test Area
C.3.1 The area selected for the sound measurements should be representative of the lowest fire alarm
system audibility. This will generally be the area with the greatest number of separate rooms, room located
at the far end of a corridor, or room located in the far corner of the building. Wall to wall carpeting may also
significantly reduce fire alarm audibility. It may be necessary to conduct exploratory measurements to
identify the area or areas that represent the lowest audibility levels in the building. Preferably, the selected
area or areas should be fully furnished at the time of the tests.
C.4 Ambient Noise Level Measurements
C.4.1 Precautions are necessary to achieve consistent ambient noise level measurements. Temporary
or intermittent sound sources such as a flushing toilet, running shower, stereo, television, traffic or exterior
construction noise may cause peaks and valleys in sound levels. Ambient noise level measurements
should be recorded when these sounds are absent or are at their lowest level. The building heating,
ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system should be running during the test with the fan speed set
High. Portable air conditioners installed within the area should be in the “off” position during the tests.
Occupants of the area being tested should refrain from talking or from other activities that may affect the
readings.
164 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Table C.1
Area Sound absorption Typical dBA Range

Private Office Soft 40 to 50
Hospital Soft 45 to 55
Hotel Lobby Normal 50 to 60
Average Office Normal 50 to 65
Restaurant Normal 50 to 65
Bank Normal 40 to 55
Department Store Normal 55 to 65
Noisy Restaurant Hard 70 to 75
Busy Office Normal 70 to 75
Auditorium Normal 70 to 75
Supermarket Hard 70 to 75
Average Factory Hard 65 to 80
Average Assembly Line Hard 70 to 75
Printing Area Hard 80 to 90
Machine Shop Hard 80 to 95
Noisy Factory Hard 90 to 100
Table C.2
Sound absorption categories Construction Furnishings

Hard
Masonry, Concrete, Gypsum board No carpets or furnishings
Non-absorbing materials
Normal Gypsum board with paint/wallpaper Industrial type carpets and office type
Live room furnishings
Soft Gypsum board with sound absorbing Thick carpets, drapes, heavy upholstered
High absorption coefficient materials furnishings
Table C.3
Device dBA at 3 m
Horn – Mechanical 92
Horn – Mechanical 96
Bell – Solenoid 85
Bell – Motor 92
Chime – Electronic 83
Multiple tone – Electronic 100
Mini-Horn – Piezo 90
Table C.4
Device Watts dBA at 3 m

Speaker 0.125 78
Speaker 0.250 81
UL COPYRIGHTED
Speaker 0.500 MATERIAL – 84
DISTRIBUTION
TableWITHOUT
C.4 Continued PERMISSION
on Next Page FROM UL
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 165
Table C.4 Continued
Device Watts dBA at 3 m

Speaker 1.0 87
Speaker 2.0 90
Speaker 4.0 93
Speaker 8.0 96
Table C.5
Distance from device dBA Level

3m Rated Value
6m Rated Value – minus 6 dBA
12 m Rated Value – minus 12 dBA
24 m Rated Value – minus 18 dBA
Table C.6
Intervening item Average dBA Loss Typical range

Open Door 8 dBA 4 – 12 dBA
Closed Door, Hollow Core 17 dBA 10 – 24 dBA
Closed Door, Solid Core 28 dBA 22 – 34 dBA
Single stud wall with gypsum board on 39 dBA 32 – 46 dBA
both sides
2 rows of studs staggered complete with 40 dBA 36 – 47 dBA
gypsum board on both sides
200 mm concrete, gypsum board on one 45 dBA 43 – 51 dBA
side
200 mm hollow concrete block, gypsum 40 dBA 39 – 47 dBA
board on both sides
300 mm masonry wall with gypsum 50 dBA 46 – 56 dBA
board on both sides
166 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Table C.7
Typical DBA versus Distance
96
HIGHLY
REFLECTIVE
90
84
SOUND LEVEL
78
(dBA) NON REFLECTIVE
(ANECHOIC OR
FREE FIELD)
72
66
60
1.5 3 6 12 24 48
su3572 DISTANCE FROM APPLIANCE (m)
Table C.8
Dispersion Characteristics for Various Alarm Signal Devices (Horns)
ELECTRONIC DEVICE
96
94
92
ELECTROMECHANICAL DEVICE
Sound Level (dBA)

90 30 degrees 30 degrees
88
86
84 60 degrees 60 degrees
82
H
0
DEGREES
su3573
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 167
Table C.9
Dispersion Characteristics for Various Alarm Signal Devices
SPEAKER
1200 mm 3000 mm
100 mm SPEAKER 200 mm SPEAKER
87 88
91 90
94 91
85 85
60° 60°
87 88
89 88
30° 30°
su3574 0°
Note: Typical output for 100 mm speaker and a typical output for a 200 mm speaker
Table C.10
Spectrum Analysis of Various Alarm Signals
120
110
100
90
SOUND LEVEL
(dBA @ 1 m) 80
70
60
50
0 1 2 3 4 5
FREQUENCY (KILOHERTZ)
SMOKE ALARM
UL COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL
ELECTRONIC HORNS –
NOT AUTHORIZED FOR FURTHER
su3575
REPRODUCTION OR
MECHANICAL HORNS

168 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Table C.11
Loudness versus Frequency
90
80
SOUND LEVEL
(dBA @ 3 m)
70
400 800 1200 4000
FREQUENCY (HZ)
su3576
Voice paging systems, speaker type signal devices should produce clear intelligible voice messages and highly audible tones.
LOW RESPONSE: From 400 to 800 Hz, the speaker output should be reduced to de-emphasize vowels which can contain very high
speech energy and can easily overpower a voice message with low frequency boom.
PEAK RESPONSE: From 800 to 1200 Hz, the speaker output should be at its highest to maximize the audibility of alarm and alert
tones which typically fall into this space.
HIGH RESPONSE: From 1200 to 4000 Hz, the output should be relatively high to emphasize consonants that normally contribute the
most to voice clarity and intelligibility.
NOTE: Minimize sharp peaks and valleys to avoid distortion of voice quality.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 169
Table C.12
a) Single wall stud construction, gypsum board on both sides, covered with wallpaper panelling and hard sound absorption
category of corridor.
b) Doors are hollow core wood and are closed during test.
c) Room A is about 5 m from alarm signal, located on opposite wall to room, same construction as corridor but with normal
sound absorption category.
d) Room B is about 4 m from alarm signal, located on adjacent wall to room, same construction as corridor but with normal
Alarm signal dBA @ 3 m anechoic dBA in Room A dBA in Room B

Horn – Mechanical 92 77 77
Horn – Electronic 96 83 80
Bell – Solenoid 85 68 67
Bell – Motor 92 77 76
Table C.13
a) Single wall stud construction, gypsum board on both sides, covered with wallpaper panelling and hard sound absorption
category of corridor.
b) Doors are hollow core wood and are closed during test.
Alarm signal dBA @ 3 m anechoic dBA in Room A dBA in Room B

Horn – Mechanical 92 66 60
Horn – Electronic 96 65 60
Bell – Solenoid 85 50 47
Bell – Motor 92 61 55
Table C.14
a) Two signal devices are located in a 35 m long corridor, some 20 m apart.

b) Single wall stud construction, gypsum board on both sides, covered with wall paper panelling and medium sound absorption
category of corridor. All hotel rooms are soft sound absorption category.
e) Room B is about 2 m from alarm signal, located on adjacent wall to room.
f) Room C is around the corner, some 12 m from one signal.
Location dBA @ 3 m In corridor outside In side room door At pillow

Room A 96 86 61 51
Room B 96 92 65 55
Room C 96 85 62 50
170 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Table C.15
Test of Bell Type Signal Devices in Residential Occupancy
a) In first test signal device is located in the corridor, some 6 m from the suite entrance door.
b) In second test, signal device is located within the suite. Bell has a rated dBA of 92.
c) Single wall stud construction, gypsum board on both sides, covered with wallpaper panelling and hard sound absorption
category of corridor. The suite is mostly medium and soft sound absorption category.
d) Suite entrance door is solid core wood and is closed during test.
Doors inside Signal located in corridor Signal located in suite

suite Doors closed Doors open Doors closed Doors open
KItchen 47 68 65 78
Bedroom #1 39 55 75 86
Bedroom #2 33 53 76 88
Living/Dining 44 70 75 86
Room
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 171
ANNEX D (INFORMATIVE) – STROBE LIGHTS
NOTE: Not all units that comply with CAN/ULC S526, Standard for Visible Signal Devices for Fire Alarm Systems, Including
Accessories, will have sufficient power or polar dispersion to adequately cover large areas. Due consideration will have to be taken in
selecting units to install with the power and dispersion when large spaces are being designed and installed.
Figure D.1
Spacing of Wall-Mounted Visible Signaling Devices in Rooms
12.2 m
60 Candela
BROKEN LINES
SIGNIFY IMAGINARY
WALLS
15 Candela
12.2 m
60 Candela
6.10 m
12.2 m 6.10 m
22.6 m
24.4 m
su3577
172 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure D.2
Room Spacing Allocation – Incorrect
30 Candela
9.14 m 9.14 m
15.2 m 15.2 m
30 Candela
30 Candela
9.14 m
30 Candela
15.2 m
su3578
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 173
Figure D.3
Room Spacing Allocation – Correct
30 Candela
30 Candela
9.14 m 9.14 m
15.2 m 15.2 m
30 Candela
9.14 m
30 Candela
15.2 m
su3579
174 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
Figure D.4
Spacing of Visible Signal Devices in Corridors
30,000 mm
m
m
00
60
15 Candela
15 Candela
6000 mm 6000 mm
6000 mm
15 Candela
15 Candela
15 Candela
30,000 mm
m
m
00
15 Candela
46
ALCOVE OFF
15 Candela
15 Candela CORRIDOR
15 Candela
6000 mm
30,000 mm
su3580
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 175
ANNEX E (INFORMATIVE) – RESPONSIBILITY DEMARCATIONS FOR INTERCONNECTION OF FIRE

SIGNAL RECEIVING CENTRE
E.1 Responsibility Demarcations – Supervised Communication Facility Installations
CLASS “A” OR CLASS “B”
ALARM
FIRE CLASS “A”, “B”, OR NC
TROUBLE SIGNAL FIRE SIGNAL
ALARM
CLASS “A”, “B”, OR NC TRANSMITTING RECEIVING
CONTROL SUPERVISORY
UNIT CENTRE (SRC)
OPTIONAL
UNIT POWER FAILURE OPTION
FIRE ALARM CONTROL UNIT SEE FIGURE 28.17 SIGNAL RECEIVING COMMON FIRE SRC
INSTALLATION COMPANY RESPONSIBILITY CARRIER RESPONSIBILITY
AND/OR SERVICE COMPANY RESPONSIBILITY
RESPONSIBILITY
(CAN/ULC-S524, INSTALLATION OF FIRE ALARM

SYSTEMS; AND CAN/ULC-S536, INSPECTION
AND TESTING OF FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS)
su3581
176 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
E.2 Responsibility Demarcations – Dual Communications Signal Transmitter Installations
CLASS “A” OR CLASS “B”

ALARM
FIRE DUAL FIRE SIGNAL
CLASS “A”, “B”, OR NC COMMUNICATIONS
TROUBLE RECEIVING
ALARM SIGNAL CENTRE
CONTROL SUPERVISORY CLASS “A”, “B”, OR NC TRANSMITTING (SRC)
OPTIONAL UNIT
UNIT POWER FAILURE OPTION RECEIVER
FIRE ALARM CONTROL UNIT SEE FIGURE 28.17 SIGNAL RECEIVING COMMON FIRE SRC
INSTALLATION COMPANY RESPONSIBILITY CARRIER RESPONSIBILITY
AND/OR SERVICE COMPANY RESPONSIBILITY
RESPONSIBILITY

su3582
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 177
E.3 Responsibility Demarcations – Fire Alarm Control Units with Integral Communication Devices
INTEGRAL ALARM COMMUNICATION DEVICE IN

COMPATIBLE RECEIVING EQUIPMENT
FIRE ALARM CONTROL UNIT
FIRE SIGNAL RECEIVING CENTRE

FIRE ALARM CONTROL UNIT (SRC)
INSTALLATION
AND/OR SERVICE COMPANY
RESPONSIBILITY

su3583
178 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
E.4 Responsibility Demarcations – Fire Alarm Control Units with Integral Communication Devices
INTEGRAL ALARM COMMUNICATION DEVICE IN

COMPATIBLE RECEIVING EQUIPMENT
FIRE SIGNAL RECEIVING CENTRE

FIRE ALARM CONTROL UNIT (SRC)
INSTALLATION
AND/OR SERVICE COMPANY
RESPONSIBILITY

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JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 179
E.5 Non-Removable Terminal Blocks
FIRE ALARM FIRE ALARM SIGNAL

CONTROL UNIT DEMARCATION TRANSMITTING UNIT
BOX
SUPERVISED
ALARM,
TROUBLE OR
C O
SUPERVISORY OO O
CONTACTS OO ALARM,
NC O EOL1
(FORM “C” TROUBLE, OR
METHOD) SUPERVISORY
NO O OO
*PREFERRED INPUT
WIRING OO O
METHOD
su3585
180 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
E.6 Removable Terminal Blocks
FIRE ALARM FIRE ALARM SIGNAL

CONTROL UNIT DEMARCATION TRANSMITTING UNIT
BOX
SUPERVISED
ALARM,
TROUBLE OR Black
C O
SUPERVISORY OO O
CONTACTS OO ALARM,
NC O EOL
(FORM “C” TROUBLE, OR
METHOD) SUPERVISORY
NO O OO
*PREFERRED INPUT
WIRING OO O
Red
METHOD
su3586
NOTE 1: Provide a suitable terminal box as the point of demarcation between the fire alarm control unit and the signal transmitting
unit. Alarm, trouble and supervisory contacts are extended from the fire alarm control unit to the demarcation. The fire alarm control
unit technician connects in the fire alarm control unit and the junction box and tags the conductors in the terminal box.
NOTE 2: Unsupervised connections to the fire alarm transmitting unit are intended for the monitoring of non-critical building functions
that are unrelated to the operation of the fire alarm system.
JUNE 27, 2019 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 181
ANNEX F (INFORMATIVE) – PRIORITY LEVELS FOR COMBINED MASS NOTIFICATION AND FIRE
ALARM SYSTEMS
Where the Mass Notification System (MNS) includes the control and operation of building fire alarm
systems, the alarm signaling operation of the fire alarm system shall have priority over all other emergency
operation unless supported by a Risk Analysis approved by the local AHJ. When control/operation of the
MNS can result from multiple “Priority A” events a table of the events identifying which have the highest
priority and whether a subsequent event input after the first will be allowed to automatically override
previous operations.
Priority 1 Events which can be considered as Priority A operation include but are not limited to the
following:
• Any condition where a danger exists which could reasonably be expected to cause death or
serious physical harm immediately or before the imminence of such danger can be eliminated;
• Operation of the fire alarm system from detection devices including manual and automatic
detection and sprinkler water flow (in the absence of an approved Risk Analysis fire alarm shall
automatically have the highest priority).
Signals related to life safety hazard emergency conditions such as:
• Medical emergency,
• Gas detection, explosive risks- gas leaks,
• Panic-underground alert systems,
• Fume hood system discharge,
• Non-required fire detection system (computer extinguishing), flame detection, aspiration systems,
• Specialty industrial fire applications not tied into fire system (paint booths).
Signals related to emergency hazard conditions that affect life safety such as:
• Smoke control,
• Air quality emergencies,
• Hazardous material emergencies including chemical, biological, radiological and explosive

emergencies,
• Nuclear events including release of contaminates into atmosphere.
Signals related to criminal activity that pose a risk to personal safety such as:
• Terrorist threats,
• Bomb threats,
• Life threatening situations,
• Security system/burglary.
Signals related to natural occurring events that pose a risk to personal safety such as:
• Storm emergencies UL COPYRIGHTED

including MATERIAL
tornados, hurricanes, –
NOT AUTHORIZED
• Geophysical FOR including
related emergencies FURTHER REPRODUCTION
earthquakes, ORash clouds,
volcanic eruptions,
DISTRIBUTION
tsunamis, WITHOUT
avalanches, mud slides, fires externalPERMISSION FROM
to the protected premise (e.g. UL
wildfire, forest fire)
182 CAN/ULC-S524:2019 JUNE 27, 2019
• Floods (including flash floods, overland flooding, and dam overflow).
Priority 2 Fire supervisory signals:
Elements required to be supervised by the fire alarm system including:
• Sprinkler and standpipe shutoff valves and pressure,
• Fire pump trouble, generator trouble,
• Supervision of access to MNS equipment or rooms.
Priority 3 Building supervisory signals:
Signals associated with property and building safety including:
• Elevator recall or operational status,
• Telephone Systems,
• Loss of building primary power feed,
• Failure of heating or cooling systems,
• Failure of refrigeration systems,
• Major glass breakage
• Fan and damper status.
Priority 4 Trouble signals associated with:
• Fire Alarm,
• MNS Equipment,
• Life and/or Property Safety Equipment
Table F.1
Combination Mass Notification and Fire Alarm Systems Priority Levels
Abbreviations Abbreviations
Input Priority level
(English) (French)
IMMINENT DANGER 1 IMM IMM
FIRE ALARM SIGNALS 1 ALM ALM
MNS/ECS SIGNALS 1 MNS MNS
SIGNALS RELATED TO LIFE SAFETY
EMERGENCY CONDITIONS
2 EMG URG
BROADCAST OFF CAMPUS AND/OR
OUT OF BUILDING
FIRE ALARM & MNS SUPERVISORY
2 SUP SUP
SIGNALS
SIGNALS ASSOCIATED WITH CAMPUS,
2 BLDG BAT
PROPERTY AND BUILDING SAFETY
TROUBLE SIGNALS ASSOCIATED WITH
FIRE ALARM, MNS AND/OR CAMPUS, 3 TBL DEF
PROPERTY AND BUILDING SAFETY
NOTSIGNALS
OTHER AUTHORIZED FOR 4FURTHER USER
REPRODUCTION
DEFINABLE OR
USER DEFINABLE


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CETTE NORME NATIONALE DU CANADA EST DISPONIBLE EN VERSIONS FRANÇAISE ET ANGLAISE

Standard for Installation of Fire Alarm Systems, CAN/ULC-S524

Seventh Edition, Dated June 27, 2019

• Updated and simplified drawings;

• Use of wireless (short-range radio frequency) devices;

• Circuit fault tolerance requirements and the installation of fault isolators;

• Circuit fault tolerance requirements and the installation of fault isolators;

• Data communication link style N (DCLN) circuits and ethernet wiring;

• Allowing a fire alarm system to also function as a mass notification system;

• Requirements on Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS);

• Use of carbon monoxide detectors in lieu of carbon monoxide alarms.

ICS 13.220.20; 13.320

First Edition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February 1982

REQUIREMENTS OF FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS .................................................................................26

INSTALLATION OF FIRE ALARM EQUIPMENT ...............................................................................44

12 Control Units and Transponders ..........................................................................................44

VOICE COMMUNICATION ..............................................................................................................64

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS OF FIRE ALARM SYSTEM DEVICES...................................................66

26 Manual Stations .................................................................................................................67

NOTIFICATION AND OUTPUT DEVICES........................................................................................ 107

39 General ........................................................................................................................... 107

OTHER FIRE ALARM SYSTEM DEVICES ...................................................................................... 113

47 End-of-Line Devices ......................................................................................................... 113

51 Interconnection to the Fire Signal Receiving Centre ............................................................ 117

ANNEX A (INFORMATIVE) EXPLANATORY MATERIALS ............................................................... 123

ANNEX B (INFORMATIVE) – FIRE DETECTION ZONES AND ANNUNCIATION OF FIRE ALARMS,

B1 NBC Fire Alarm Zoning Requirements............................................................................... 159

ANNEX C (INFORMATIVE) – SOUND LEVEL MEASUREMENTS .................................................... 163

ANNEX D (INFORMATIVE) – STROBE LIGHTS ............................................................................. 171

ANNEX E (INFORMATIVE) – RESPONSIBILITY DEMARCATIONS FOR INTERCONNECTION OF FIRE

E.1 Responsibility Demarcations – Supervised Communication Facility Installations.................. 175

ULC STANDARDS COMMITTEE ON FIRE ALARM AND LIFE SAFETY

Name Representing Region Interest category

ULC STANDARDS SUBCOMMITTEE ON CONTROL UNITS FOR FIRE

ULC STANDARDS WORKING GROUP ON INSTALLATION OF FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS

Associate Members / Alternates

• CAN/ULC-S527, Standard for Control Units for Fire Alarm Systems;

• CAN/ULC-S537, Standard for Verification of Fire Alarm Systems.

This Standard is intended to be used for conformity assessment.

a) The life safety of the occupants of the building; and/or

b) The protection of the building or property.

Refer to Annex A (Informative) Explanatory Materials, A.1.1.

a) CAN/ULC-S553, Installation of Smoke Alarms;

b) CAN/ULC-S561, Installation and Services of Fire Signal Receiving Centres;

c) CAN/ULC-S573, Installation of Ancillary Devices Connected to Fire Alarm Systems;

d) CAN/ULC-S576, Standard for Mass Notification System Equipment and Accessories;

Documents Published by the CSA Group

• CSA 6.19-17, Residential Carbon Monoxide Alarming Devices

Telephone: 1 (800) 344-3555

• NFPA 13-2019, Standard for Installation of Sprinkler Systems

• National Building Code (NBC) of Canada 2015

Document Published by the Office of the Ontario Fire Marshal (OFM)

• Technical Guideline TG-02-2016, Fire Alarm Audibility in Existing Residential Occupancies

Documents Published by ULC Standards

Document published by Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) /Electronic Industries Alliance

• TIA EIA-568-[C1.1-2017], Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard, Part 1: General

3.6 ALERT SIGNAL – A signal to advise designated persons of a fire emergency.

3.9 ANCILLARY DEVICE –UL A device which has a life-safety

3.21 CEILING – The upper surface of a space, regardless of height.

Abnormal Data communication link (DCL) styles