If an energy storage system (ESS) will be used as a secondary power supply for a fire alarm system, the ESS must be configured in accordance with which standard?

• A. NFPA 70
• B. NFPA 72
• C. NFPA 111
• D. NFPA 13

Answer: (C)

When a stored energy system is used to back up a fire alarm, the focus is on how the energy storage equipment is designed, installed, and maintained for safe, reliable operation with life-safety systems. NFPA 111 provides the requirements for energy storage systems, including how they are configured, controlled, tested, and integrated with standby power for critical systems like fire alarms. That makes NFPA 111 the appropriate standard to follow for this scenario. NFPA 72 governs the fire alarm system’s functions and signaling, NFPA 70 covers general electrical installations, and NFPA 13 deals with sprinkler systems; none of these specifically prescribe the configuration of energy storage back-up power for fire alarms.