Fire Alarm System Design
A fire alarm system is only as good as its design. DGA Consulting designs code-compliant fire alarm systems per NFPA 72 for commercial, institutional, and multi-family buildings across New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
What’s included
What fire alarm system design includes
DGA Consulting provides fire alarm system design for commercial, institutional, and multi-family buildings across New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. The firm’s licensed engineers produce clear, coordinated designs that pass plan review and install cleanly in the field.
System layout and device placement
Detection, notification, and initiating devices located per NFPA 72 spacing and coverage rules.
Notification appliance design
Audible and visible notification laid out for required intelligibility and coverage, including sleeping areas.
Sequence of operations
A written matrix defining exactly how the system responds to every initiating event.
Battery and voltage drop calculations
Supporting calculations for the permit package.
Shop drawing review
Review of contractor submittals against the design intent and code requirements.
When it applies
When fire alarm system design applies
When you need it
- New construction or renovation requiring a new or expanded fire alarm system.
- Change of occupancy triggering updated detection and notification requirements.
- System replacement where the existing design no longer meets current code.
- Performance issues with an existing system that point back to design gaps.
Process
The design process
01
Review the building
The firm studies the architectural and MEP drawings, occupancy types, and the applicable code edition for the jurisdiction.
02
Design
Device layout, notification design, riser diagrams, and the sequence of operations matrix.
03
Document
Permit-ready drawings, specifications, and calculations.
04
Support
Plan review responses and construction-phase questions, including shop drawing review.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Which code governs fire alarm design?
NFPA 72, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, is the primary standard. Local amendments and the IBC also set requirements for when systems are required and how they perform.
Does the firm design both addressable and conventional systems?
Yes. Most new commercial work uses addressable systems, and the firm’s designs specify the architecture that fits the building’s size and complexity.
Can the firm review a contractor’s shop drawings?
Yes. Third-party shop drawing review is a common engagement. The firm checks device layout, calculations, and code compliance before the client approves the submittal.
Which states are you licensed in?
The firm’s engineers are licensed fire protection engineers in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
Related services
Related services
Commissioning & Integrated System Testing
Third-party commissioning and integrated testing of fire protection systems.
Fire Protection Engineering Design
Integrated sprinkler, alarm, and hydraulic design for new and existing buildings.
Smoke Control System Design & Testing
Smoke control design, analysis, and acceptance testing.
For fire alarm system design services, contact DGA Consulting. The firm responds within one business day.