NFPA 72 2016 Chapter 21 Changes

NFPA 72 2016 Chapter 21 - Emergency Control Function Interfaces

The following information contains the changes, updates and additions to Emergency Control Function Interfaces found in Chapter 21 of the NFPA 72 2016 edition.  Remember if you see a * make sure to consult the Annex A for additional information.

All information highlighted in this light blue color is NEW to the 2016 edition of NFPA 72.

• 21.1.1 The Requirements of Chapters 7, 10, 17, 18, 23, 24, and 26 shall apply, unless otherwise noted in this chapter.
• 21.1.3 The requirements of this chapter shall not apply to Chapter 29 unless otherwise stated.
• 21.2.6 The installation wiring between the fire alarm control unit and the emergency control function interface device shall be Class A, Class B, Class D, Class N, or Class X in accordance with NFPA 72 Chapter 12 Circuit Pathways.  

The following pertains to Elevator Phase 1 Recall

• 21.3* Elevator Phase 1 Emergency Recall Operation
• 21.3.1 All fire alarms initiating devices used to initiate elevator phase 1 emergency recall operation shall be connected to the required building fire alarm system.
• 21.3.2* In facilities without a required building fire alarm system, fire alarm initiating devices used to initiate elevator phase 1 emergency recall operation shall be connected to either a non-required building fire alarm system or a dedicated function fire alarm control unit that shall be designated as "elevator recall control and supervisory control unit," permanently identified on the dedicated function fire alarm control unit and on the record drawings. 
•  

The following is a California State Amendment.

• 21.3.6 Smoke detectors shall not be installed in un-sprinklered elevator hoistways unless they are installed to activate the elevator hoistway smoke relief equipment or where required by Chapter 30 by the California Building Code (CBC).

CBC: 3005.4.1 Automatic sprinkler system.  Automatic sprinklers shall not be required to be installed in the elevator hoistway, elevator machine room, elevator machinery space, elevator control space, or elevator control room where the following are met.  NOTE:  All 6 of the following conditions must be met.

1. Approved smoke detectors shall be installed in the elevator hoistway, elevator machine room, elevator machinery spaces, elevator control spaces, or elevator control rooms and connected to the building fire alarm system in accordance with Section 907.
2. Activation of any smoke detector located in the elevator hoistway, elevator machine room, elevator machinery spaces, elevator control spaces, or elevator control room shall cause the actuation of the building fire alarm notification appliances in accordance with section 907.
3. Activation of any smoke detector located in the elevator hoistway, elevator machine room, elevator machinery spaces, elevator control spaces, or elevator control room shall cause all elevators having equipment located in that elevator hoistway, elevator machine room, elevator machinery spaces, elevator control spaces, or elevator control room to recall nonstop to the appropriate floor in accordance with CCR Titile 8, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Order.
4. The elevator machine room, elevator machinery spaces, elevator control spaces, or elevator control room shall be enclosed with fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed with Section 712, or both.  The fire-resistance rating shall not be less than the required rating of the hoistway enclosure served by the machinery.  Openings in the fire barriers shall be protected with assemblies having a fire protection rating not less than that required for the hoistway enclosure doors.  The exception to Section 3005.4 shall not apply.
5. The building fire alarm system shall be monitored by an approved supervising station in accordance with Section 907.
6. An approved sign shall be permanently displayed in the elevator machine room, elevator machinery space, elevator control space, or elevator control room in a conspicuous location with a minimum of 1 1/2" letters on a contrasting background stating, NO COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE PERMITTED IN THIS ROOM By Order of the Fire Marshal (or name of fire authority).

• 21.3.11 Actuation from the elevator hoistway, elevator machine room, elevator machinery space, elevator control space or elevator control room smoke detectors or other automatic fire detection as permitted by 21.3.9 shall cause separate and distinct visible annunciation at the building fire alarm control unit or at the fire alarm control unit described in 21.3.2.  Removed the following portion: and at required annunciators to alert firefighters and other emergency personnel that the elevators are no longer safe to use. 
• 21.3.13 Separate outputs from the building fire alarm control unit or the fire alarm control unit or the fire alarm control unit described in 21.3.2 to the elevator controller(s) shall be provided to implement elevator Phase 1 Emergency Recall Operation in accordance with Section 2.27 of ANSI/ASME A17.1/CSA B44, Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators, as required in 21.3.13 through 21.3.13.3.

Chapter 21 Changes - Specific to Fire Service Access Elevators

• 21.5 Fire Service Access Elevators.  Where one or more elevators are specifically designated and marked as fire service access elevators, 21.5.1 and 21.5.2 shall apply.
• 21.5.1* Status of elevator(s), including location within the hoistway, direction of travel, and whether the elevator(s) are occupied, shall be permitted to be displayed on a building fire alarm system annunciator located at the fire command center.
• 21.5.2 Temperature and presence of smoke in associated lobbies, machine rooms, control rooms, machinery spaces, or control spaces shall be continuously monitored and displayed on a building fire alarm system annunciator located in the fire command center.  

• The conditions in 21.5.1 and 21.5.2 shall be permitted to be displayed on a standard emergency services interface complying with Section 18.11.

Chapter 21 Changes - Specific to Door and Shutter Release

• 21.8.3 All door and shutter hold-open release and integral door and shutter release and closure devices used for release service shall be monitored for integrity in accordance with section 12.6.  Exception: Pathways installed as Class D circuits in accordance with 12.3.4.

NFPA 72 2016 Chapter 23 - Protected Premise Fire Alarm Systems

NFPA 72 2016 Chapter 18 - Notification Appliances

Fire Service Access Elevators Explained

What are Fire Service Access Elevators (FSAE)

Fire Service Access Elevators or F.S.A.E. for short, are designed with strict and rigorous standards to allow firemen and first responders to utilize the elevator for the purpose of quickly accessing floors as well as evacuating occupants in the event of an emergency.  This is a huge step for first responders as time is extremely crucial when addressing buildings of this size.

Another special condition for elevators is known as Occupant Evacuation Elevators.  These are self-evacuation elevators with special requirements much like FSAEs.

Fire Service Access Elevators

What Code Requires the Use of Fire Service Access Elevators?

Did you know the 2021 International Fire Code now requires 120 VAC single and multiple station smoke alarms to produce a 520 Hz low frequency audible tone? 

The requirement to provide fire service access elevators can be found in the IBC or International Building Code 2021 section 403.6.1

"In buildings with an occupied floor more than 120 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, no fewer than two fire service access elevators, or all elevators, whichever is less, shall be provided in accordance with section 3007.  Each fire service access elevator shall have a capacity not less than 3500 pounds."

The requirements on how a fire service access elevator is to be installed can be found in the IBC or International Building Code 2021 section 3007.

Other references include:

• ASME A17.1
• CSA B44
• NFPA 72 2022 section 21.5

Requirements of Fire Service Access Elevators

When a fire service access elevator is required by the IBC section 403.6.1, every floor within the building shall be served and comply with sections 3007.1 through 3007.9

Automatic Sprinkler Requirements:

The building with FSAE shall be protected throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with section 903.3.1.1.  The automatic sprinkler system shall be provided with a supervised tamper switch and alarm initiating water flow switch on every floor of the building.  Note, the following areas are prohibited from having automatic fire sprinkler protection:

• Elevator Machine Rooms  
• Elevator Machinery Spaces
• Elevator Control Rooms
• Elevator Control Spaces
• Elevator Hoistways of the Fire Service Access Elevator

The lobby on each floor served by the fire service access elevator shall have an approved method of preventing water from the operation of the automatic sprinkler system from infiltrating the FSAE hoistway.

Lastly, a means for elevator shutdown or Shunt Trip in accordance with IBC section 3005.5 shall NOT be installed on elevator controllers used for fire service access elevators.

Fire Service Access Elevator Hoistway Enclosure

The shaft or hoistway enclosure shall comply with IBC section 713 "Shaft Enclosures" as well as section 403.2.3.1 "Wall Assembly" and sections 403.2.3.4 "Other Wall Assemblies".

Another important aspect to keep in mind is the hoistway lighting for the FSAE shaft.  When the Fire Service Access operation is active, the entire height of the hoistway shall be illuminated at NOT less than 1 footcandle (11 lux).  This measurement is to be taken from the top of each fire service access elevator cab.  

**The fire service access elevator status panel (located in the FCC room) shall have a switch to manually operate this lighting feature.    

Fire Service Access Elevator Cab Dimensions

Although this is not a direct requirement for FSAE rather buildings that are four stories or more, it still applies and is worth mentioning.  IBC section 3002.4 "Elevator Car to Accommodate Ambulance Stretcher" gives us the dimensions required for the cab.  "The elevator car shall be of such a size and arrangement to accommodate an ambulance stretcher 24 inches by 84 inches with not less than 5 inch radius corners, in the horizontal, open position.  ADA Table 407.4.1 breaks this down a little further and gives us the following:  The cab shall be provided with a minimum clear distance between walls and door excluding return panels not less than 80 inches by 54 inches and a minimum distance from wall to return panel not less than 51 inches with a 42 inch side slide door.

Fire Service Access Elevator Car Dimensions

FSAE Lobby Requirements

Egress through the fire service access elevator lobby is permitted in accordance with IBC section 1016.2 "Egress Through Intervening Spaces" item #1.  The exception to this rule is if the FSAE lobby has two entrances onto the floor, the second entrance shall be permitted to open into an elevator lobby in accordance with IBC section 3006.3 "Hoistway Opening Protection".

The fire service access elevator lobby shall have direct access to to an enclosed interior exit stairway or ramp.  The interior exit stairway or ramp can be in a protected pathway that has a level of protection not less than the FSAE lobby.  The path of travel and FSAE lobby shall be separated via an opening protected by a smoke and draft control assembly in accordance with IBC section 716.5.3 "Door Assemblies in Corridors and Smoke Barriers".  

The FSAE lobby enclosure shall have smoke barrier having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour.  The FSAE lobby doors shall be 3/4 hour fire door assemblies in accordance with IBC section 716.5 "Fire Door and Shutter Assemblies".  This rule does NOT apply to the hoistway doors, elevator control room doors or elevator control space doors.  Fire Service Access Elevators (FSAE) lobbies are not required to be enclosed at the levels of exit discharge.

Keep in mind the elevator lobbies for fire service access elevators shall be no smaller than 150 square feet in area with a dimension not less than 8 feet.  This rule applies no matter how many FSAE cabs are served by the same lobby.  Example 8 feet x 19 feet would give you 152 square feet of lobby area.  

Fire Service Access Elevator Stretcher

How are Fire Service Access Elevators Designated or Noticed?

IBC section 3007.6.5 gives us the following information.  A pictorial symbol of a STANDARDIZED design shall be placed on each side of the hoistway door frame on the portion of the frame at right angles to the fire service access elevator lobby.  To clear that up, the symbol shall be installed on the frame where it is noticeable immediately upon entry to the FSAE lobby.

Here is a picture of the symbol depicted in the IBC figure 3007.6.5

Fire Service Access Elevator Symbol

The following are guidelines for the design of the symbol:

• The FSAE symbol shall not be less than 3 inches in height
• The helmet shall contrast the background.  It states you can use a dark helmet on light background or light helmet on dark background.
• The symbol shall be located on center line of the symbol and FSAE door frame at a height of not less 78 inches or more than 84 inches.  

FSAE Monitoring

The fire service access elevators shall be continuously monitored at the FCC by a standard emergency service interface system meeting requirements found in NFPA 72 the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code.

FSAE Electrical Power

The following that serve each fire service access elevator shall be provided with both normal power as well as Type 60/Class 2/Level 1 standby power:

1. Elevator equipment
2. Elevator hoistway lighting
3. Ventilation for elevator machine rooms, elevator control rooms, machine and control spaces.
4. Elevator cab lighting

He is the big one to watch out for.

Protection of Wiring and Cables for Fire Service Access Elevators

Wires and cables located OUTSIDE of the fire service access elevator lobby and machine room that are provided for the fire-detection system shall be protected by construction having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours, shall be circuit integrity (CI) cable with a rating of not less than 2 hours or shall be protected by a listed electrical protective system having a rating of not less than 2 hours.

Phase 1 Recall for Fire Service Access Elevators

This is currently taken from our home state of California out of the California Building Code 2013 of CBC section 3007.2.  Activation of ANY initiating device within the building shall active the phase 1 recall of all fire service access elevators.  All standard elevators shall remain in the normal operation unless they are manually taken over via key or the activation of their associated fire alarm initiating devices.  

Firemen Inside Elevator Cab FSAE

NFPA 72 Requires Elevator Lobby and Equipment Rooms to Monitor the Presence of Heat 

NFPA 72 2019 section 21.5 requires an approved means for firefighters to monitor smoke and heat conditions in the FSAE lobbies and associated machine/control rooms.  This is intended to provide firefighters with more information to determine whether the FSAE lobby protection has been compromised. This means shall include a dedicated FSAE Status Panel located at the FCC. (Reference NFPA 72-2019 Section 21.5 indicated in item 4.g below).  For Notifier we use the addressable FMM-4-20 module along with a Veris Industries TW or TE wall mounted temperature sensor.  We then provide a custom LED status panel from the H.R. Kirkland Company Inc. with each elevator lobby broken down into 3 temperature levels.  See image below of a Fire Service Access Elevator Status Panel for San Francisco, CA.

Read this article to see how Notifier is accomplishing the monitoring of individual temperature ranges within each fire service access elevator lobby.  "Temperature Sensors for Fire Service Access Elevators"

Fire Service Access Elevator Status Panel

In closing fire service access elevators are a fairly new setup allowing fire fighters and first responders to access the elevators in the event of a fire.  Since these lifts are established as Fire Service Access Elevators, they must meet some very strict rules to ensure they are safe and will function in the extreme conditions of a structure fire.

All code references for this article are found in the 2021 Edition of the International Building Code.

Elevator Recall and Shunt Trip Basics

Here are the BASIC Fundamentals of Elevator Recall and Elevator Shunt Trip for Fire Alarm Systems.

With elevator technology changing every year, it is affecting the requirements of the fire alarm system.  Even with the addition of elevator control rooms and elevator closets, most of the fire alarm elevator recall service remains the same. Below are some key points as well as code/standard references to assist you in understanding the basics of elevator recall and elevator shunt trip with fire alarm systems.

• 1st Floor Elevator Lobby Smoke Detector (activates alternate level recall sending the elevator to the second floor)  NFPA 72 2016 21.3.13.2
• 2nd Floor Elevator Lobby Smoke Detector (activates designated level recall sending the elevator to the first floor)  NFPA 72 2016 21.3.13.1
• Elevator equipment room Smoke (if its on the designated recall level, it should send the elevator to the alternate recall level, if the room is on the alternate recall level, the smoke should send the elevator to the designated recall level)
• Elevator equipment room Heat (Only required if the room is covered by automatic sprinklers) If this is the case, a heat detector shall be mounted within 2 feet of all sprinkler heads (NFPA 72 2016 Edition 21.4.2).  This heat detector will activate the elevator shunt trip function causing the elevator power to shut down.  Per NFPA 72 2016 the heat detector shall be set at both a higher sensitivity and lower temperature setting than the sprinkler heads.  This is so that the elevator power can be shut down before water is released on live (hot) equipment.  Note that a time delay must be in place to allow the elevator to travel from the top of the elevator hoistway to the lowest level of recall prior to shutting down the power (see NFPA 72 2016 Edition A.21.4.2)
• Elevator shaft or hoistway.  If the top of the elevator hoistway or shaft is equipped with an automatic sprinkler head, you are required to install a smoke detector and a heat detector within 2 feet.  The smoke detector will recall the elevator to the first floor and the heat detector will activate the shunt trip as stated above.  Note that a time delay must be in place to allow the elevator to travel from the top of the elevator hoistway to the lowest level of recall prior to shutting down the power (see NFPA 72 2016 Edition A.21.4.2).  Also note that other methods can be used to achieve shunt trip function with elevators and fire alarm systems.  One way is to use a heat as specified above, two is to use a pre-action systems, and three is to use a waterflow/pressure switch.  If a waterflow or pressure switch is used for the shunt trip function of an elevator, there shall NOT be a delay (see NFPA 72 2016 Edition 21.4.3).  On top of that, the automatic sprinkler pipe branch has to be dedicated with its own ITV (inspectors test valve).  More information found here.
• Elevator shaft or hoistway pit.  If there is an automatic sprinkler head located in the elevator pit remember this.  The head must be located higher than 2 feet off the bottom of the shaft in order to require any special requirements from the fire alarm system.  If the sprinkler head is located at 2 feet or lower, nothing is required on the fire alarm side.  Here is an article titled "Is a Heat Detector Required in the Elevator Pit".
• Fireman's hat light.  You have probably seen it, it is a red light located at the elevator controls depicting the side profile of a fireman's hat.  This light needs to be programmed to activate (illuminate) if there is an activation of any fire alarm device in the elevator equipment room and or elevator shaft or hoistway.  This is in place to warn first responders that there is a fire in the elevator equipment room and or shaft so DO NOT OPEN!  See NFPA 72 2016 edition 21.3.13.3*

Now in today's world we have three different rooms we want to research before we layout the fire alarm devices required for a particular elevator recall system.  Below is a breakdown of these three rooms.

• Elevator Machine/Equipment Room:  This is the standard room that we see on most projects. This room will house all of the actual elevator equipment, machines, motors, controls  etc.  In this room, we need to install the necessary relays for recall (primary and alternate as well as a relay for the fireman's hat light, smoke detection to cover the room space and heat detection if the area is is covered/protected by an automatic fire sprinkler system.
• Elevator Control Room:  This is a smaller room that houses the controls for the elevators. This room will not contain the actual motors or machinery for the cars themselves.  The machinery and equipment will be located within the elevator shaft.  With that said, the
• Elevator Closet:  This is a panel within the elevator shaft that houses all of the controls for the car's machinery.  Like the elevator control room, the closet is a clear indication that the machinery is located in the shaft.

Here is a sample elevator shunt trip wiring diagram article

How to Wire Elevator Shunt Trip

Elevator Shunt Trip Wiring

We have created an easy to follow document for the proper wiring method with elevator shunt trip functions.  This document includes two methods both based on the supervision requirements of NFPA 72 2016 edition section A.21.4.4.

Below is a sample picture of the document that is available for download on our Facebook Group.

It is important to remember that the wiring between the FACP/FACU and the ECID (Emergency Control Interface Device) needs to be supervised.  In one method below, we are using an addressable relay module (FRM-1) to operate the shunt trip breaker directly.  With this wiring method, only the wire to the FRM-1 (SLC) needs to be supervised.  This is obviously achieved through the SLC and addressing of the device.


In the alternate method, we are showing you how to properly wire up the equipment when the load of the circuit exceeds the rating of the FRM-1.  In this case you would need to install a PR-1 interface relay (rated for 10 amps).  Now that you have a PR-1 switching the shunt trip circuit, this becomes your ECID (Emergency Control Interface Device) and the wiring up to this relay needs to be supervised.  To save the cost of an additional addressable monitor module (FMM-1) we can switch out the FRM-1 with a FCM-1 (addressable control module).  By doing this, we can achieve supervision as well as activation of the PR-1 interface relay through one device.

Make sure to download the document and let us know your thoughts.

Elevator Shunt Trip Requirements and Codes

Elevator Shunt Trip Explained

Elevator Shunt Trip Wiring Detail

Elevator controls play a huge role in fire alarm system emergency functions. Whereas Designated and Alternate Elevator Recall captures and sends the elevator cab to safe floors, elevator shunt trip works a little different.  Elevator Shunt Trip is a function that involves shunting the breaker that controls the elevator equipment prior to the release of the automatic sprinkler systems.  This procedure is completed via the activation of heat detectors (addressable or conventional) connected to the building fire alarm system or dedicated function elevator control panel.  It is important to understand that not any heat detector within the facility will be required to activate the elevator shunt trip procedure.  The only heat detectors that will activate the elevator shunt trip control relay are those located in the elevator shaft or hoistway and elevator equipment room.

Group II and older elevators DO NOT have shunt trip

Group III and IV DO have shunt trip

Shunt Trip NOT permitted in Fire Service Access Elevators or Occupant Evacuation Elevators. 

What Specific Codes or Standards Address Elevator Shunt Trip?

The Fire Alarm and Signaling Code or NFPA 72 2016 section 21.4.2* states the following "If heat detectors are used to shut down elevator power prior to sprinkler operation, they shall be placed within 24 inches of EACH sprinkler head and be installed in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 17.  Alternatively, engineering methods, such as those specified in Annex B, shall be permitted to be used to select and place heat detectors to ensure response prior to any sprinkler head operation under a variety of fire growth rate scenarios.".

In order to ensure the elevator shunt trip control relay is activated prior to sprinkler head operation is addressed in NFPA 72 2016 section 21.4.1.  "Where heat detectors are used to shut down elevator power prior to sprinkler operation, the heat detector shall have both a lower temperature rating and a higher sensitivity compared to the sprinkler."

ASME A17.1 2013 "In jurisdictions not enforcing the NBCC, where elevator equipment is located or its enclosure is configured such that application of water from sprinklers could cause unsafe elevator operation, means shall be provided to automatically disconnect the main power supply to the affected elevator and any other power supplies used to move the elevator upon or prior to the application of water.  This means shall be independent of the elevator control and shall NOT be self-resetting."

Basically if there is potential for automatic fire sprinkler water to make its way onto the elevator controls or other power supplies for the elevator, there needs to be a way to shut down prior to this event.

Here are some "UNSAFE" conditions that can be caused by the automatic sprinkler system operation:

• Elevator may react erratically due to water shorting out controls
• Water on the elevator braking system
• Risk of Shock or Electrocution

Also note that NFPA 13 and the International Building Code address when and where sprinklers will be used for elevator spaces.  In basic terms, sprinklers are not permitted in elevator spaces if the materials in these spaces are not combustible.  However, if there are combustible hydraulic fluid, coated belts, controls, etc. then sprinklers will be provided.  Just remember, No Sprinklers, No Shunt Trip.

We constantly get asked if you are required to install a heat detector in the bottom of the elevator shaft or elevator pit.  For more information on this topic, review our article titled "Is a Heat Detector Required in the Elevator Pit?"  

Can the Elevator Shunt Trip Activation be Delayed?

The answer is YES.  The activation of heat detectors can delay the elevator shunt trip via programming for a delay time not to exceed the time it takes the elevator cab starting at the top level to reach the lowest level of exit discharge.  The purpose behind this allowance is to increase the potential for elevators to complete their travel to the recall level.  Make note that the requirements of A17.1/B44 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators would still apply.

If your fire alarm system utilizes waterflow or pressure switches to activate the elevator shunt trip, any time delay switches or capability will NOT be permitted per NFPA 72 2016 section 21.4.3.

Shunt Trip Control Circuits to be Monitored for Operating Voltage 

This is a step that seems to be missed a lot.  NFPA 72 2016 section 21.4.4 mentions that the control circuits used to shut down power to the elevator shall be monitored for the presence of operating voltage.  If the voltage is not present than a supervisory signal shall be indicated at the fire alarm control unit.

This activation can easily be accomplished with a PR-1 relay and addressable monitor module.  Power the PR-1 with the shunt trip control circuit and connect your addressable monitor module to the Common and Normally Open leads.  If the Control circuit loses power, the PR-1 will change state and short your IDC on the monitor module.  Program the module for tracking supervisory and label it "Shunt Trip Power".

What is the Requirement for Shunt Trip Breaker Location?

As of now, National Codes/Standard and Elevator Codes DO NOT indicate specific locations for the elevator shunt trip breaker.  However, in California the elevator shunt trip breaker must be installed OUTSIDE the elevator machine room (EMR).  The thought behind this is once the circuit is shunted, sprinkler activation can drip water over the breaker and return power to the elevator.

Resetting a Shunt Trip Breaker

When the shunt trip breaker is activated, the breaker switch itself will be between on and off.  To reset the breaker, make sure the controlling fire alarm system is reset and back to normal.  Once the FACU is reset, flip the shunt trip breaker all the way towards the off position (should be some tension) and then flick it all the way back to on.  

Is a Heat Detector Required for the Elevator Pit

Designers are always asking, "Do I need to put a heat detector in the elevator pit?"

"Are you required to install a heat detector in the bottom of the elevator shaft otherwise known as the elevator pit?".  This is a question that comes up a lot in the fire alarm industry and often has system designers and AHJs (Authority Having Jurisdiction) scratching their heads.  Another related questions is, "Why is there a sprinkler head located at the bottom of the elevator shaft?".  A sprinkler head located in the bottom of the elevator pit is in place to control the spread of fire caused by the ignition of trash and debris that has fallen through the door opening and collected over time.

There are two items that need to be present before the requirement of a fire alarm system heat detector is required.  One is the presence of an automatic sprinkler head.  NFPA 13 2010 ed. 8.15.5 states that sprinklers heads are to be installed in the top and bottom of the elevator shaft.  There are exceptions to this rule so keep in mind that not all elevator shafts will incorporate a sprinkler head.  Two is the height in which the sprinkler head is installed off the floor of the elevator pit.  ASME A17.1 states that if a sprinkler head is installed within 24" (2 feet) of the elevator pit floor, it shall be exempt from the special arrangements of inhibiting water flow until the elevator recall function has occurred.

A heat detector is required to be installed within 2' of any sprinkler head associated with shutting down the power to an elevator (NFPA 72 2016 ed. 21.4.2*). It is important to shut down the elevator power prior to the release of water from a sprinkler head since water and electronics do not mix.  This is the reason the heat detector is required to be set to a lower temperature setting and higher sensitivity setting than the sprinkler head (NFPA 72 2016 ed 21.4.1*). With that said, a heat detector is not required if the sprinkler head is located within 24" of the elevator pit floor since there is typically not any electrical components located in this area.

There are three common methods to shutting down the main elevator power prior to water flowing from a sprinkler head in the shaft or elevator machine room.

#1) The most economical method is to use a waterflow switch.  Upon activation, the waterflow switch would cause an alarm at the FACU (Fire Alarm Control Unit) as well as activate the shunt trip breaker causing the power to be interrupted.  Make sure you follow NFPA 72 2010 ed 21.4.3*.  This code section states that if using waterflow or pressure switches to shut down elevator power, the use of a time delay shall not be permitted.

#2) This is the most common method.  By use of a fixed temperature rate of rise heat detector located within 2' of each sprinkler head in the shaft, hoistway or elevator machine room.  The heat detector shall be set to a lower temperature than the sprinkler head and when activated, will cause an alarm at the FACU and shunt the breaker associated with powering the elevator.

#3) Use of a pre-action system.  These systems would have supplemental fire detection devices installed in the same areas as the sprinkler heads.  Make note that the detection devices should be heat detectors.  Once on of the heat detectors have been activated, it would tell the pre-action control panel through program mapping to open a valve control by a solenoid.  Once the valve is open, water would then fill the sprinkler system piping in the elevator hoistway and elevator equipment room.  At the same time, the heat detector would also trip the shunt breaker thus shutting down the elevator power.  If a fire really is present in these areas, it would eventually fuse the sprinkler head and release water to the affected area.

Keep in  mind that heat detectors are to be used for shutting down power to the elevator and not smoke detectors.  Smoke detectors associated with elevators are to be solely used for designated elevator recall, alternate elevator recall and to activate the elevator hoistway smoke relief equipment.

Elevator Recall Explanation and Programming

Elevator Recall Programming for Fire Alarm

Programming and designing elevator recall for fire alarm systems is a fairly simple process if you are familiar with the codes and standards in place.  Most fire alarm programmers and contractors understand the principle behind capturing passenger elevators but for those of you that don't, check this out!

Per NFPA 72 2016 section 21.3.1, elevators are required by code to be connected and controlled by a Building Fire Alarm System (NFPA 72 2016 3.3.103.4.1) or an Elevator Recall System which falls under the NFPA 72 classification of Dedicated Function Fire Alarm System (NFPA 72 2016 3.3.103.4.2).

As required by NFPA 72 2016 21.3.5*, the spot type smoke detectors for the use of capturing the passenger elevator shall be mounted within 21' center line of the elevator door.  In addition to these detectors, you will have smoke detector(s) in the elevator machine (EMR) room and at the top of the elevator hoistway.   Keep in mind that smoke detection in the elevator shaft is only required if the elevator hoistway has automatic sprinklers.  Automatic sprinklers are only found in the elevator hoistway if the elevator is constructed of combustible material.  Consult NFPA 13 and the International Building Code for more details.  All of these spot type smoke detectors will be associated with your building fire alarm or dedicated function elevator system's elevator recall functions.

Regarding the elevator and the building fire alarm system relationship, we have additional functions that require the installation of thermal spot type heat detectors.  You will need these thermal spot type heat detectors in the elevator machine room (EMR) and elevator shaft (only if automatic sprinklers are present).  Note these heat detectors do not recall or capture the elevators.  These thermal heat detectors shunt the power to the elevator controller in the event of a fire.  Remember the thermal spot type detectors used for shunt trip are required to be set or programmed to a lower temperature point then the surrounding automatic sprinkler heads.  The intent is for the fire alarm system to sense the fire before the automatic sprinkler heads.  This way the fire alarm control unit (FACU) can disconnect the power to the elevator controls prior to the sprinkler head applying water to its electronics.  You can read more about fire alarm system elevator shunt trip in the following article: elevator shunt trip.

Designated Level Recall and Alternate Level Recall

NFPA 72 2016 21.3.13.1.  Designated Level Recall.  All smoke detectors associated with elevator recall that are not installed on the primary floor of egress including the top of the elevator shaft will activate the designated level elevator recall relay.  This function will send the elevator car to the main level of exit discharge.  (typically lobby floor or level #1 depending on the building layout).

NFPA 72 2016 21.3.13.2.  Alternate Level Recall.  All smoke detectors associated with elevator recall that are installed on the main level of exit discharge will activate the alternate level elevator recall relay.  This function will send the passenger elevator to the alternate floor of egress. (typically the basement or 2nd floor depending on the building layout).

The floor or level where the elevator equipment room is located will determine the recall relay to be activated in the event of an activated smoke detector.  Example:  If the elevator machine room (EMR) is located on the first floor, its associated smoke will activate the alternate elevator recall relay.  If the elevator machine room is located on the roof, its associated smoke detector will activate the designated elevator recall relay.

The heat detectors in the elevator machine room and elevator hoistway will activate the shunt trip relay killing power to the controller.  On top of this the heat detectors shall shut off any back-up power to the elevator.  Per NFPA 72 2016 section 21.3.13.3* The elevator hoistway and equipment machine room smoke detectors and or heat detectors shall activate a visual warning commonly known as the flashing Fireman's Hat Light near the elevator call buttons.  This allows the fire department to become aware if there is a fire in the hoistway or elevator machine room.

Now programming all of this might seem difficult but it is actually really simple.  Get basic instructions on how the programming breaks down in this article:  fire alarm system with elevator recall.

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Elevator Recall Programming for Fire Alarm

Are you up to speed with fire alarm systems in relation to elevator recall and elevator shunt trip? If not, check out this article titled Elevator Recall and Shunt Trip Basics.

Easy Way to Breakdown Elevator Recall and Shunt Trip Programming

Now that we know what elevator recall is all about, lets move on to programming basics for fire alarm systems.  The best way to start this process is to write down all of your fire alarm devices associated with the elevator recall functions.  Make a list running vertical (top to bottom) of all the smoke detectors and heat detectors used for these functions.  Example below:

1 - 1st floor elevator lobby smoke detector
2 - 1st floor elevator machine room smoke detector
3 - 1st floor elevator machine room heat detector
4 - 2nd floor elevator lobby smoke detector
5 - 3rd floor elevator lobby smoke detector
6 - 4th floor elevator lobby smoke detector
7 - Elevator hoistway smoke detector
8 - Elevator hoistway heat detector
9 - Designated elevator recall relay
10 - Alternate elevator recall relay
11 - Shunt trip relay
12 - Elevator battery back-up relay
13 - Elevator fireman's hat light relay

Now that we have all of our fire alarm devices associated with the elevator recall functions written down, it's time to place them in groups or zones.  This is the process that tells the fire alarm control panel what to do in the event one of these devices is activated.

As stated in one of our previous articles,  we know that the smoke detectors on all floors other than the first floor will send the elevator the the 1st floor.  We also know that the smoke detectors on the first floor will send the elevator to the second floor.  And last the heat detectors will activate the shunt trip and battery back-up and the elevator hoistway and elevator machine room smoke detectors will activate the fireman's hat light or visual warning per NFPA 72 2016 21.3.13.3.  To make this simple we are going to use 5 different zones (1 = general alarm, 2 = primary elevator recall, 3 = secondary elevator recall, 4 = shunt trip/battery back-up, and 5 = fire fighters hat light).

With that said, take your list above and write down the zones or groups for each point next to the device description.  Also make note of which devices are inputs and outputs.

Elevator Recall and Shunt Trip Programming Zones

1 - 1st floor elevator lobby smoke detector (input) -------- 1,3
2 - 1st floor elevator equipment room smoke detector (input) -------- 1,3,5
3 - 1st floor elevator machine room heat detector (input) -------- 1,4,5
4 - 2nd floor elevator lobby smoke detector (input) -------- 1,2
5 - 3rd floor elevator lobby smoke detector (input) -------- 1,2
6 - 4th floor elevator lobby smoke detector (input) -------- 1,2
7 - Elevator hoistway smoke detector (input) -------- 1,2,5
8 - Elevator hoistway or pit heat detector (input) -------- 1,4,5
9 - Designated elevator recall relay (output) -------- 2
10 - Alternate elevator recall relay (output) -------- 3
11 - Shunt trip relay (output) -------- 4
12 - Elevator battery back-up relay (output) -------- 4
13 - Elevator fireman's hat light relay (output) -------- 5

Now that you have it all written out it makes it a lot easier to program.  Hope this helps.  If you have questions regarding elevator recall be sure to post a comment or email us.