According to the IBC, activation of a duct smoke detector initiates what type of signal at a attended location?

In the context of the International Building Code (IBC), when a duct smoke detector is activated, it is intended to initiate a supervisory signal at an attended location. This supervisory signal is important as it alerts personnel to a potential issue without necessarily sounding a full fire alarm. The purpose of a duct smoke detector is to monitor air ducts for smoke, which indicates a potential fire condition in the system that needs to be addressed.

A supervisory signal helps in managing building systems effectively, enabling operators to take necessary actions to mitigate risks related to smoke in the HVAC system. It indicates that the detector has sensed smoke, thus alerting maintenance or operational personnel to investigate the situation further rather than automatically triggering a general alarm, which may lead to evacuations or other emergency procedures.

Activation signals from smoke detectors are categorized into different types, and understanding the specific function of a duct smoke detector helps in recognizing the role it plays in fire protection systems. For instance, while an alarm signal would indicate a clear and immediate fire emergency, a supervisory signal is more of a precautionary measure, allowing for a controlled response to the situation.

This nuanced difference clarifies the system’s operational protocols and ensures that responders can prioritize their actions based on the type of signal received.