How far should manual fire alarm boxes be installed from each side of grouped openings over 40 feet in width?

Manual fire alarm boxes should be installed a minimum of 5 feet from each side of grouped openings that are over 40 feet in width. This distance is important to ensure that manual alarm devices are accessible for occupants when necessary, without being too far from the potential points of egress or activity within the area.

The 5-foot requirement from each side allows for clear visibility and easy access, ensuring that people can quickly reach the alarm box regardless of their location within the vicinity of the grouped openings. This distance also accounts for the potential displacement that may occur during an emergency situation when individuals may be moving quickly or may not have perfect knowledge of the layout, ensuring the fire alarm box remains within reasonable reach when it is needed the most.

Adhering to this guideline aligns with safety standards, which are critical in life-safety systems, and helps facilitate quicker emergency response times.