Which code specifically governs fire alarm systems?

The code that specifically governs fire alarm systems is NFPA 72. This code, established by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), provides comprehensive requirements for the installation, performance, testing, and maintenance of fire alarm systems. It covers various aspects, including the design of the system, the types of alarms and detectors to be used, and the communication methods between alarms and monitoring systems.

In contrast, NFPA 70 pertains to the National Electrical Code (NEC), which focuses on electrical installations in general, rather than specifically on fire alarm systems. NFPA 80 deals primarily with fire doors and windows, providing guidelines for their installation and maintenance to ensure they function correctly during a fire. NFPA 75 covers the protection of data centers from fire risks, including fire detection and alarm requirements, but it is not as comprehensive as NFPA 72 in terms of fire alarm systems themselves. Therefore, NFPA 72 is the correct reference for standards related specifically to fire alarm systems.