According to NFPA guidelines, how often should fire alarms be tested?

Fire alarms play a critical role in ensuring the safety of occupants in a building, and the guidelines established by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provide a framework for their maintenance and testing. According to NFPA standards, fire alarms should be tested monthly to verify their functionality, which includes checking that detectors, alarms, and control panels are operational and responsive.

In addition to these monthly tests, a comprehensive annual test is required to assess the overall performance of the fire alarm system. This annual evaluation often involves a more thorough inspection and testing of all components, ensuring that they comply with applicable codes and function as intended in the event of a fire. This practice ensures that any potential issues can be identified and resolved proactively, thereby safeguarding lives and property.

The other choices do not align with the NFPA recommendations. Testing daily or weekly may seem beneficial but is generally not required or practical for most systems. Biannual testing does not provide sufficient assurance of functionality, especially when considering the importance of regular monitoring and assessment to maintain fire safety standards.