Which document contains circuit and pathway performance requirements for fire alarm systems?

• A. NFPA 70
• B. NFPA 72
• C. NFPA 13
• D. NFPA 101

Answer: (B)

The key point is that a dedicated standard governs how fire alarm systems should perform, including their circuits and signaling pathways. NFPA 72, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, specifies the criteria for circuit operation, supervision, power supplies, and the signaling pathways that connect devices to the control system. This is what ensures reliable detection, communication, and notification across the system. In contrast, NFPA 70 is a general electrical code for broader installations, NFPA 13 covers sprinkler piping, and NFPA 101 focuses on life safety requirements without detailing fire alarm circuit performance. So, the document that contains circuit and pathway performance requirements for fire alarm systems is NFPA 72.