Audible alarms are a requirement of NFPA 72, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, which mandates alarms in sleeping areas such as dormitories, multi-family dwellings, hotels and other properties use a low-frequency (520 Hz) tone to alert occupants of a fire or carbon monoxide emergency. Edwards, a global leader in fire and life safety solutions, now has a full line of low-frequency notification appliances that comply with this code. The new line of horns, speakers and sounder bases are UL-listed to the revised 520 Hz signaling standards. Edwards is a part of UTC Climate, Controls & Security, a unit of United Technologies Corp.
Edwards' new product launch comprises more than 65 low frequency compliant models that provide a complete 520 Hz signaling solution.
- Genesis G4LF Series: Horns and Horn-Strobes: These high-performance appliances generate a crisp 520 Hz tone in the standard 3-3 temporal pattern. When connected to compatible Edwards control equipment, the series' audible output remains synchronized with all Genesis audible signals on the same notification appliance circuit, including standard 3.2 kHz Genesis audible signals. In addition, horn-only models may be ceiling- or wall-mounted, providing more positioning options for delivering the decibel output level required by code.
- Genesis G4HF and GCHF Series: Wall Speakers, Ceiling Speakers and Speaker Strobes: These speakers are part of an end-to-end audio system solution for low-frequency signaling. These versatile notification appliances combine high-performance output with a low-profile design to deliver a versatile life safety audio solution in large areas. Protruding about an inch from the mounting surface, the speakers blend with any decor.
- Sounder Bases for Intelligent Detectors: These bases can operate as independent local alarms, or as part of a zone or system alarm with synchronized audible output. These bases also support fire alarm and carbon monoxide detectors, and reduce installation cost by requiring one electrical box and one wiring run.
"Edwards is a leader in life safety solutions and with these new enhancements and capabilities to the 520 Hz product line, we are able to meet our customers' needs and remain aligned with changing code requirements," said Jon Hughes, director of product management, Edwards.
This line also complies with NFPA 720, a code that went into effect on Jan. 1, which in certain instances requires the installation of carbon monoxide (CO) detection and warning equipment. NFPA 72 and 720 codes are referenced by the International Fire Code and the International Building Code. These new codes apply to new construction; however, depending on local building standards an extensive building renovation could cause the facility to be considered new construction for life safety system purposes.
To learn more about Edwards 520 Hz low frequency signaling solutions please visit www.edwardsfiresafety.com.
About Edwards
Founded by the inventor of the first electric bell in 1872, Edwards provides fire-safety and security solutions to more than one million customers around the world. Edwards is a part of UTC Climate, Controls & Security, a unit of United Technologies Corp., a leading provider to the aerospace and building systems industries worldwide. For more information, visit www.edwardsfiresafety.com.
