Interpretation #7783
Published June 03, 2016
Original Request
- Code Version
- 2014
- Code
- MECHANIC
- Code Description
- Chapter
- Section
- 404.1
- Topic
- Testing CO sensors
Question
Is it the intent of this Code section to require Mechanical Inspectors to test the CO sensors, to determine if the CO sensors, activates the garage exhaust fans?
Answer Published 06/03/2016 at 2:37 PM
No. It is not the intent of the Code to override licensing
or local governance. The determination of specific task
assignment is based at the local level based on licensing,
qualifications, competence and decisions of the governing
officials. Please see the attached commentary for additional
information
or local governance. The determination of specific task
assignment is based at the local level based on licensing,
qualifications, competence and decisions of the governing
officials. Please see the attached commentary for additional
information
Commentary
As a couple examples, some of the jurisdiction in Florida
perform the testing as follows:
One jurisdiction - The code does address the testing of the
CO sensors. Since it activates a mechanical system in this
jurisdiction, the mechanical inspectors witness the test,
just like for a duct smoke detector.
Another - Mechanical inspectors check co sensors in the
City. They check the location and test with gas marked
25ppm, provided by the contractor.
Yet another method - This municipality depends on the Fire
Department to test the functionality of all commercial fire
systems. An electrical inspection is done to verify the
integrity of the installation, but performance testing is up
to the Fire Department.
As can be seen, a variety of methods are used. It is best to
check with the AHJ to ensure the method which method is used
and the correct inspectors are present, as required by them.