T-1 telephone services

[nogasectech]

I keep finding more and more clients (res & com) with data-based phone service. I have some AHJ's that see and others that will not recognize the potential hazzards.

In these type service providers the phone service is easily interrupted due to power outages or "hik-ups" in the data stream.

I try to get the client to install one CO line just for the Fire/Security systems. They are usually resistant due to the excess cost coupled with the SP insisting they have a UPS on the modem.


Has anyone experienced a "failure to dispatch" event due to SP failures due to power outages or equipment issues?

Last year I was named in a lawsuit because of a building fire that I only had a security system installed. When I contracted with the owner he was no intrested in the Fire system. The AHJ wasn't requiring it, his insurance carrier didn't require it, therefore he didn't purchase it. While meeting with adjusters, the client, the Fire Marshall all said they didn't understand why I was in the meeting much less named in the suit. It cost approximately $10,000.00 to beat the claim or to proove my "innocense". So much for torte reform.

Here in lies the reason I'm concerned about the use of IP type phone service.

Anybody???

[Rooney]

I have had a few customers with digital phone service. Most central stations now have ip based communications set up. If the client will not upgrade to an IP based system I ussualy ask them to get a CO line. They should have a UPS system anyway tied into thier communications. At least here in Arizona when we have monsoons and power outages/surges are common place.

[CameraMan]

When I was doing fire systems in New Jersey, I once had an AHJ shut down an entire building site over the fact that there was only one (analog) telco line to the panel.

The fact that it was an elementary school with classes going on during construction probably had something to do with it, of course...

[integrator97]

Are you talking about commercial systems? Commercial fire alarms are REQUIRED by code to have 2 means of communication. This is typically 2 different telephone lines, but may also be a cellular backup, radio, internet, etc. (all listed for commercial fire alarm, of course). They also must be approved for use with the fire alarm panel, which voip (voice over ip) is not. Commercial fire alarms must also be connected before the telephone system, if there is one.

The simple solution: Politely ask them to sign a waiver stating that they understand it does not meet code, and that these types of lines are not recommended or approved for alarm systems.

This will probably get them to fix it, since it could leave the hanging both with liability, and with their insurance company. By the way, that will probably help with residential also, since they are usually getting the discount on insurance.