With the adoption of the 10th Edition of 780 CMR, which is based on the 2021 International Building Code, NFPA 4: Standard for Integrated Fire Protection and Life Safety System Testing became applicable in the State of Massachusetts.
Without revisiting the implications of NFPA 4 again (we did that here and here), the Boston Fire Department has released their requirements for these submittals. The requirements do not alter the language of the codes or standards but rather outlines timelines and plan requirements with more specificity. Hopefully, other jurisdictions follow a similar path to streamline acceptance of these plans.
We include a link to the document below but a few key bullet points on the requirements:
- Integrated testing must be performed for new construction projects as required by 780 CMR, 527 CMR, and NFPA 4. The preliminary NFPA 4 testing plan is required at the building permit stage, which may seem early but it ensures owners and contractors are aware of the requirement and should reduce project delays.
- If the project includes phased occupancy, the proposed strategy must be included within that plan.
- Individual system testing is still required.
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Integrated testing must be performed for existing buildings as required 527 CMR and NFPA 4. This requires:
- A plan to be in place within 5 years
- NFPA 4 testing to be complete within 10 years and,
- If any equipment repairs or replacements are required to a building that has previously undergone NFPA 4 testing, the fire protection and life safety functions initiated by that equipment must be retested to ensure the integration of the system has not been compromised.
Jigsaw’s smoke control testing group specializes in code-required third-party special inspection and semi-annual system testing. From office atriums to complicated high-rise buildings and stadiums, our engineers are ready to help you achieve and maintain a code-compliant system.
Andrew is a Principal at Jigsaw Life Safety with over two decades of experience in fire protection and life safety consulting. He leads the firm in providing comprehensive consulting and system design services, ensuring safety and compliance for a diverse clientele. Andrew’s broad expertise spans from higher education to healthcare and large public venues, equipping him to develop custom safety strategies for each environment.
If you need help developing an NFPA 4 integrated testing plan, preparing required documentation, or navigating Boston Fire Department submittal requirements, Jigsaw Life Safety can guide you through the process from start to finish. Call us at 617.351.9600 or reach us at support@jigsawlifesafety.com.
For the full guidance document, see the Boston Fire Department Integrated Systems Submittal Guidelines.