REAC Tip

There is an issue regarding REAC inspectors’ responsibilities concerning fire alarm systems and unit call-for-aid devices, especially if the system is monitored off-site by a third party.  The inspector is responsible for visually inspecting components in sample units, to ensure that the system functions as it’s intended to work, whether it’s monitored by a third party company or not.  The inspector must also verify whether the system is monitored off-site by a third party, or not.  Written documentation, such as a contract for services, needs to be provided. Documentation of system inspections, current within the last year, should also be provided, to ensure that the company has made every effort to maintain the system in good working order.

“If the inspector determines the call-for-aid system was inspected and certified by a local alarm company, but is not monitored off-site, then the inspector is responsible to test/operate and visually inspect the entire system.”

Many properties face problems such as residents who tie the card around a towel bar, or tape it to a wall.  When this happens, the inspector is required to report that the call-for-aid system cannot work in its present state – and that is a finding, because it cannot function as intended.  Please check all apartments before an inspection for any issues of this nature. It is also important that you note these types of things in the tenant file.

More information can be found in the Compilation Bulletin from REAC

Reference: Compilation Bulletin Rev 2.1, Page 7, P. General Information: Systems Designed for Off-site Notification/Monitoring: (1) If the property can provide current (within one year) documentation supporting the testing of a system designed for off-site notification/monitoring (call-for-aid, smoke detector, etc.) the inspector does not need to inspect the individual components and all should be marked “NOD”.  (2) If the property cannot provide the proper documentation and cannot put the equipment into a “test mode” for inspection purposes, all relevant items should be marked “OD”.

Reference: Compilation Bulletin Rev 2.1, Page 29, C. Unit: Call-For-Aidmust serve its intended function. (E.g. A bell sounds an alarm, a light is turned on or off-site personnel are notified when the system is activated.). (2) When recording an “Inoperable”, Level 3 deficiency and providing comments such as coiled-up, not fully extended, more than “x” distance from the floor, taped to the wall, etc., inspectors are also required to address the system functionality as supporting justification. Failure to provide the appropriate comments will result in the uploaded inspection being challenged by REAC. (3) If the property has replaced the old Call-for-Aid system with a new electronic neck or hand-held type of system, the presence of any part of an inoperable system that remains must be recorded as “Inoperable”.