521 CMR 40.00:		ALARMS

40.1	GENERAL
If emergency warning systems are provided, then they shall include both audible alarms and visual alarms. 

40.1.1	Sleeping accommodations for persons with hearing impairments (See 521 CMR 8.4.5) shall have an alarm system that complies with 521 CMR 40.4.

40.1.2	Emergency warning systems in medical care facilities may be modified to suit standard health care alarm design practice.  

40.2	AUDIBLE ALARMS
If provided, audible emergency alarms shall produce a sound that exceeds the prevailing equivalent sound level in the room or space by at least 15 dbA or exceeds any maximum sound level with a duration of 60 seconds by 5 dbA, whichever is louder.  If an audible alarm in an adjacent space provides the proper decibel level within a room, then only the visual alarm is needed.  Sound levels for alarm signals shall not exceed 120 dbA.

40.3	VISUAL ALARMS
At a minimum, visual signal appliances, if provided, shall be provided in buildings and facilities in each of the following areas: restrooms, meeting rooms, hallways, lobbies, classrooms, and any general usage areas open to the public.

40.3.1	Visual alarm signal appliances shall be integrated into the building or facility alarm system.  If single station audible alarms are provided, then single station visual alarm signals shall be provided. 

40.3.2	Visual alarm signals shall have photometric features in accordance with NFPA 72, Section 7.5, 2002.

40.3.3	Visual alarm signals shall be located in accordance with NFPA 72, Section 7.5, 2002. 

40.4	AUXILIARY ALARMS
Units and sleeping accommodations shall have a visual alarm connected to the building emergency alarm system or shall have a standard 110volt electrical receptacle into which such an alarm can be connected and a means by which a signal from the building emergency alarm system can trigger such an auxiliary alarm.

40.4.1	When visual alarms are in place the signal shall be visible in all areas of the unit or room. 

40.4.2	Instructions for use of the auxiliary alarm or receptacle shall be provided.


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	521 CMR:   ARCHITECTURAL ACCESS BOARD




1/27/06	521 CMR - 174