What is a supervisory signal on a fire alarm system?

• A. A signal that indicates a monitored condition affecting system readiness
• B. An audible alarm
• C. A test signal
• D. A general status update

Answer: (A)

Supervisory signals indicate a monitored condition that could affect the system’s ability to operate. They alert you to a status change in a component that must be kept in its normal position or state to ensure readiness, but they are not actual alarms sounding for occupants.

A common example is a sprinkler system control valve that is not in its normal (open) position. The panel will show a supervisory indication to alert maintenance to restore the valve so the system can operate when needed. This is different from an audible alarm, which is what occupants hear during a fire event; and it’s different from a test signal, which is used to verify that the system signaling works; and it’s not just a vague status update, which wouldn’t convey a condition affecting readiness.