Who is primarily responsible for performing acceptance tests of fire protection systems?

The primary responsibility for performing acceptance tests of fire protection systems falls to the fire marshal. This role is crucial in ensuring that newly installed or modified fire protection systems meet the necessary codes and standards prior to being put into operation. The fire marshal has the expertise and authority to evaluate whether a system is functioning correctly and to verify that it complies with regulatory requirements, ensuring safety for occupants and property.

Fire service employees, while knowledgeable about fire systems and their operations, typically focus on responding to incidents, not on testing or certifying systems. Building inspectors might assess the structural aspects of a building but do not specifically handle the testing of fire protection systems. Emergency managers concentrate on planning and coordinating responses to emergencies rather than directly overseeing the installation or acceptance of fire safety measures. Therefore, the fire marshal’s specialized training and regulatory responsibilities make this individual the most appropriate choice for conducting acceptance tests of fire protection systems.