What general requirements apply to the visibility and audibility of fire alarm notification devices?

• A. Only audible devices are required
• B. Notification devices must be clearly audible/visible to occupants, meet code-required sound pressure levels, and provide visual signaling for accessibility
• C. Visual signaling is optional
• D. Devices must be quiet to avoid disturbance

Answer: (B)

Notification devices have to reach people both by sound and by sight, and at levels that the codes require. This means alarms must be clearly audible so occupants can hear them over normal background noise, meeting the specified sound pressure levels in the building. At the same time, visual signaling is required to help those who are deaf or hard of hearing, or who may not be able to hear the alarm in certain spaces. Visual indicators like strobe lights or visible beacons, coordinated with the audible alert, ensure everyone gets the warning. So, focusing only on sound or only on visibility would leave gaps in safety, and alarms aren’t meant to be quiet—they’re meant to alert everyone quickly.