Manual Call Point Placement per RA 9514 and NFPA 72

Manual call points are the simplest FDAS device to lay out — a short list of rules covers almost every building.

Where they go

• At every exit from each floor, and at each exit stair door.
• Within 1.5 m of the exit doorway, on the exit-access side.
• Additional units so travel distance to reach any call point does not exceed 60 m (200 ft) on any floor.
• At least one per floor, even a small one.

Mounting

• Operable part 1.1–1.4 m (42–48 in) above the finished floor.
• Clear, unobstructed, and visible; contrasting colour (red) against the wall.
• Protective cover / stopper where malicious activation is a concern (with local alarm).

Extra locations

Near special hazards — kitchens, generator and fuel rooms, chemical stores, loading docks — and at fire command centres and constantly-attended locations. In assembly occupancies, at stage exits and near the platform.

Addressing and circuits

On an addressable system, each call point is a point on the loop — no separate zoning needed. On a conventional system, group call points into their own initiating zone (often combined with that area’s detectors) so the panel annunciates a manual activation clearly.

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