Johnson Controls - Experts & Thought Leaders

Johnson Controls, the pioneer for smart, healthy, and sustainable buildings, launches the new Simplex 4017ES Fire Alarm Control Unit to help customers meet evolving life safety voice regulations.  Available in addressable and conventional versions, the 4017ES is a compact, cost-effective control unit that offers three communication options – fire, alarm, and non-alarm – for added clarity during emergency situations and public addresses in small to mid-size buildings. NFPA and IBC fire alarm codes “We developed the 4017ES system for customers who require an affordable, compact, all-in-one voice fire alarm option for schools, offices, hotels, restaurants, and retail,” said Martin Schulte-Frankenfeld, senior director of product management, Fire Detection at Johnson Controls. “As NFPA and IBC fire alarm codes evolve to require smaller buildings like schools to use non-alarm spoken messages along with traditional audio and visual fire alarms, facility teams are in need of a right-sized solution that meets these codes as well as their budgets.” Fire and alarm notification systems Non-alarm audio communication technology, like PA systems, is installed Historically, non-alarm audio communication technology like public address (PA) systems are installed separate from fire and alarm notification systems in smaller buildings. This requires time, labor and materials to connect two separate systems. With alarm and non-alarm communication in one integrated solution, landlords, business owners and property managers can now easily and more efficiently send targeted messaging to individual zones or specific devices within a building, maximizing clarity and improving response times. Simplex 4017ES Fire Alarm Control Unit features Additionally, the system supports specific addressable speakers and speaker-strobes as well as multi-tone appliances to deliver low-frequency 520 Hz alarms. The Simplex 4017ES Fire Alarm Control Unit features a breadth of audio options that cover the diverse needs of buildings with 50 or more occupants. These audio options include: Emergency and security alerts Operational notification and testing Non-emergency announcements Public service announcements Background music Simplex addressable control units Control unit comes preassembled and leverages the high-quality design that clients expect from Simplex The compact package of the 4017ES blends in well with physical environments, allows for flexible installation options, and saves valuable wall space.  The control unit comes preassembled and leverages the high-quality design that customers expect from the Simplex brand. Like all Simplex addressable control units, the 4017ES includes the revolutionary self-testing feature that automatically verifies the operation of every appliance and speaker in seconds, reducing system disruption. Building and life safety codes The 4017ES Fire Alarm Control Unit supports up to 250 points to meet the needs of current and evolving infrastructure.  The system is UL Listed and compliant with various building and life safety codes, including NFPA 72, Group E Occupancy, and IBC Sections 402, 403, and 907.

Johnson Controls, the global pioneer for smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, launches the new Autocall 4017ES Fire Alarm Control Unit in the U.S. to help customers meet evolving life safety voice regulations. Available in addressable and conventional versions, the 4017ES is a compact, cost-effective control unit that offers three communication options – fire, alarm, and non-alarm – for added clarity during emergency situations and public addresses in small to mid-size buildings. NFPA and IBC fire alarm codes “As NFPA and IBC fire alarm codes evolve to require smaller buildings like schools to use non-alarm spoken messages along with traditional audio and visual fire alarms, facility teams are in need of a right-sized solution that meets these codes as well as their budgets,” said Martin Schulte-Frankenfeld, Senior Director of Product Management, Fire Detection at Johnson Controls. He adds, “We developed the 4017ES system for customers who require an affordable, compact, all-in-one voice fire alarm option for schools, offices, hotels, restaurants, and retail.” Fire and alarm notification systems The system supports specific addressable speakers and speaker-strobes as well as multi-tone appliances Historically, non-alarm audio communication technology like public address (PA) systems are installed separate from fire and alarm notification systems in smaller buildings. This requires time, labor, and materials to connect two separate systems.  With alarm and non-alarm communication in one integrated solution, landlords, business owners, and property managers can now easily and more efficiently send targeted messaging to individual zones or specific devices within a building, maximizing clarity and improving response times. Additionally, the system supports specific addressable speakers and speaker-strobes as well as multi-tone appliances to deliver low-frequency 520 Hz alarms. Autocall 4017ES Fire Alarm Control Unit features The Autocall 4017ES Fire Alarm Control Unit features a breadth of audio options that cover the diverse needs of buildings with 50 or more occupants. These audio options include: Emergency and security alerts Operational notification and testing Non-emergency announcements Public service announcements Background music Autocall addressable control units 4017ES includes the extreme self-testing feature that automatically verifies the function of every device The compact package of the 4017ES blends in well with physical environments, allows for flexible installation options, and saves valuable wall space.  The control unit comes preassembled and leverages the high-quality design that customers expect from the Autocall brand. Like all Autocall addressable control units, the 4017ES includes the revolutionary self-testing feature that automatically verifies the operation of every appliance and speaker in seconds, reducing system disruption. Building and life safety codes The 4017ES Fire Alarm Control Unit supports up to 250 points to meet the needs of current and evolving infrastructure.  The system is UL Listed and compliant with various building and life safety codes, including NFPA 72, Group E Occupancy, and IBC Sections 402, 403, and 907.

Euralarm has started a new project that aims to establish a comprehensive European database focused on the registration of Li-ion batteries, solar panels, EVs, and energy storage in buildings. Stakeholders wanting to contribute to the new initiative are invited to contact Euralarm.  This database will serve as a central resource for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating fire critical data, aiding the development of best practices, and regulatory developments, and being a source of early information for alarm responders in case of a fire.  Background  The rapid adoption of renewable energy technologies, such as solar panels, electric vehicles (EVs), and energy storage systems has introduced new fire safety challenges, particularly in residential and commercial buildings. Li-ion batteries, a key component in these systems, pose significant risks when not properly managed, potentially leading to fire incidents with severe consequences.  Comprehensive European database Euralarm has started a new project that aims to establish a comprehensive European database focused on fire safety For a safer and more secure Europe In response to these emerging risks, Euralarm has started a new project that aims to establish a comprehensive European database focused on fire safety for Li-ion batteries, solar panels, EVs, and energy storage in buildings. Euralarm’s Chris Downing, of Johnson Controls, who spearheaded this initiative, said, "This database will serve as a central resource for collecting and disseminating critical information to local Fire & Rescue Services." Reduced fire loss Chris Downing adds, "The relevant data shall be made available for alarm responders so they have crucial information, before arriving at an incident, to adapt their strategy, aiding firefighter safety, leading to reduced fire losses and ultimately better outcomes." He continues, "By aggregating information from multiple sources, we aim to improve the understanding of fire risks, enhance safety standards, and support the development of robust European regulations."  Focus on collaboration  The initiative will also facilitate collaboration between industry stakeholders, fire brigades, researchers, regulators, and policymakers, helping to shape a safer and more resilient energy infrastructure for Europe and ensure that fire incidents can be managed proactively with reduced risks for firefighters. The database will assist in identifying trends, mitigating risks, and ensuring the safe integration of new technologies in the built environment. Stakeholders wanting to contribute to the new initiative are invited to reach out to Euralarm.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has developed over 300 codes and standards to support the rapidly changing needs of the fire and life safety industry. NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code®, is perhaps one of the most wide-ranging, designed to “meet society's changing fire detection, signaling, and emergency communications demands.” Development of building solutions Updated every three years, the 2025 edition of NFPA 72 took effect on September 18, 2024 Updated every three years, the 2025 edition of NFPA 72 took effect on September 18, 2024, and contains several key updates around technology, cybersecurity, and integration to support the continued development of connected building solutions. Staying ahead of these updates will ensure your building not only meets current needs but is able to adapt for future challenges.  Cybersecurity and Remote Access While the 2022 edition of NFPA 72 introduced a variety of cybersecurity updates, it did not specify how they should be achieved. In the 2025 edition, Chapter 11 addresses this and outlines requirements to protect fire alarm and signaling systems from cyber-attacks across configuration, implementation, security, and access. This is particularly of interest when it comes to continued use of remote access processes across building systems, which allow a variety of maintenance to be done partially offsite, such as programming and resetting support. This includes the installation of patch updates, for example, much like those we have on our phones and laptops. Cybersecurity guidelines Reliability is of the utmost importance, meaning a technician needs to be on-site With life safety systems, however, you can’t simply push a button to start an update and move on. Reliability is of the utmost importance, meaning a technician needs to be on-site, while another installs patch updates remotely to ensure continuity of service and troubleshoot if needed. In an increasingly hybrid world, clear cybersecurity guidelines for remote access allow service providers to take advantage of such capabilities without fear of infiltration by threat actors. Advanced Technology Enhancements The incorporation of acoustic leak detection, thermal imaging, and a new notification mode in the 2025 edition of NFPA 72 offer both new applications for existing life safety technologies and advantages for increased accessibility. While acoustic leak detection is not a new technology, its use in the fire industry is a relatively recent application. These detectors identify the sound produced by a pressurized gas release or water leak in a pipe or its threads. In some cases, they can pinpoint the exact location of the leak. Integration with fire alarm systems Introduction of acoustic leak detection in NFPA 72 provides fire professionals with an understanding The introduction of acoustic leak detection in NFPA 72 provides fire professionals with an understanding of how to install, maintain, and test detectors, supporting integration with fire alarm systems for a more integrated life safety system across facilities.  Thermal imaging, in a similar manner, can detect quickly developing fire threats by identifying changes in heat range. While traditional fire detection methods remain essential, thermal imaging enhances early threat detection and can identify risks, such as the self-combustion of lithium-ion batteries, which can occur in a matter of seconds, even before conventional sensors would trigger an alarm. New notification operation mode NFPA 72 also introduces a new notification operation mode, Restricted Audible Mode Operation (RAMO), which “recognizes the need for notification options in areas where loud sounds might be detrimental to typical occupants of the notification zones.” This can include spaces such as schools or healthcare facilities occupied by people with autism spectrum disorder, neurodiverse individuals, or others sensitive to stimuli like sound and light. With the approval of the authority having jurisdiction, facility managers can reduce the level of audio from fire alarm systems to better accommodate occupants, increase facility accessibility and experiences. Streamlined System Integration Architects and engineers can now plan for expansive areas without the constraints of challenges A significant update in the 2025 edition clarifies the allowance of smoke detectors on ceilings up to 40 feet high, impacting school design, hotel lobbies and other large spaces. While a seemingly minor change, this modification enhances design flexibility and fire alarm system effectiveness. Architects and engineers can now plan for expansive areas without the constraints of computer modeling or challenges posed by structural elements like beams or ventilation systems, ultimately improving safety and efficiency. Guidelines for auxiliary service providers The addition of guidelines for auxiliary service providers (ASPs) and communications technologies is another noteworthy integration update, ensuring that fire protection signals are processed effectively and aligning safety systems with evolving technology trends. Historically, fire alarm systems have not been able to directly contact fire departments to minimize the prevalence of false alarms; instead, supervising stations have served as the middle party to vet fire alarm activations from ASPs. In the last 10-15 years, this process has become largely electronic (via text or email) as opposed to picking up the phone, and continued technological advancements have created several new methods for service providers to send fire alarm system signals to supervising stations. Introduction of guidelines for ASPs Intro of policies for ASPs has given jurisdictions the flexibility to execute new technologies This shift is largely due to a trickle-down effect from the residential technology market, where smart technology and IoT devices have become the norm, influencing technological development in the commercial realm. While some municipalities may want to take advantage of new technologies to streamline the fire response process where possible, many fire departments are still relying on older technologies and may not have the resources available to implement major tech upgrades. The introduction of guidelines for ASPs has provided jurisdictions with the flexibility to implement new, progressive technologies where viable, while protecting the ability of others to maintain their current processes for fire alarm notifications and action by emergency response agencies. Looking Ahead As fire and life safety professionals navigate rapid technological developments, staying current with the latest NFPA codes and standards remains essential to ensuring safety and maintaining seamless service across the built environment. The 2025 edition of NFPA 72 introduces important updates that reflect the evolving capabilities of modern fire alarm and signaling systems. With these advancements, facility managers have a responsibility to familiarize themselves with the new requirements to ensure their systems are not only code-compliant, but also more secure, scalable and seamlessly connected to other building technologies. While the 2025 edition has only been in effect for a short time, the next revision cycle for 2028 is already on the horizon, making now the ideal moment for industry pioneers to evaluate the standard’s implementation and identify areas for continued improvement.

Thousands of industry professionals gathered at the 2024 NFPA Conference and Expo in Orlando in June. The event brought together educational sessions, networking opportunities, and an exhibitor showcase. NFPA is the National Fire Protection Association. The NFPA annual meeting allowed members and the public to discuss and vote on proposed changes to fire codes and standards. “It’s a gathering place for people in the industry,” says Dr. Rodger Reiswig, Vice President of Industry Relations at Johnson Controls. “You can walk around the floor and observe the trends, see what people are talking about, and view industry trends through a clear set of eyes.” New Foundation Series  As vice president of industry relations, Reiswig acts as Johnson Controls’ liaison with the NFPA, works with NFPA technology committees, and serves on the Standards Council that oversees more than 300 NFPA codes and standards documents.  Foundation Series is a complete family of fire alarm control units and peripheral devices At the NFPA Conference and Expo in Orlando, Johnson Controls provided “spotlight” seminars at their exhibit booth and highlighted products and services including interactive tools, inspections, remote services, restaurant systems, and the new Foundation Series Fire Safety Solution for the protection of small to mid-size buildings. The Foundation Series is a complete family of fire alarm control units and peripheral devices. NFPA’s codes and standards In addition, Reiswig attended seminars and Standards Council sessions. Technical sessions covered codes and standards that are currently “in cycle” (i.e., in the process of being updated). In a technical session on the last day of NFPA, anyone could attend to suggest changes and garner support from others on various changes. Consensus is a core principle of NFPA’s codes and standards. “This is a chance for everyone to participate, whether your interest is in roofing materials, how buildings are built, or life safety systems,” Reiswig adds. “Codes tell us when to do something, but standards tell us how to do it. If the occupancy standard says put in a fire alarm, the NFPA standard tells you how to do that.” Anyone at any level in any role or discipline can participate. new NFPA 915 Standard  Fire alarm and life safety have yet lagged industry sectors when it comes to remote connectivity “Technology is changing rapidly, and the type of construction is different than 20 or 30 years ago. Use of new tools and materials in buildings is changing how much time I have to escape smoke or fire,” Reiswig says. “New construction materials allow fires to happen quickly, spread faster, and give off toxic chemicals. Tighter buildings ensure energy efficiency, but they allow less ventilation, so carbon monoxide can accumulate faster.” A common theme at the show was remote connectivity, highlighting the new NFPA 915 Standard for Remote Inspections, which guides new technologies to enable remote access and testing of life safety systems. Fire alarm and life safety have previously lagged other industry sectors when it comes to remote connectivity, but the new NFPA 915 standard opens new possibilities, and vendors at the show were promoting remote capabilities and inspections. develop safeguards and capabilities NFPA 915 Standard sets need for performing remote inspections safely and effectively The NFPA 915 Standard establishes requirements for performing remote inspections safely and effectively. It addresses various types of remote inspections. The standard also defines the responsibilities of various parties involved in a remote inspection, such as the inspector, property owner, and authority having jurisdiction (AHJ). The standard covers data collection procedures, data security, and data ownership. Overall, the standard helps to ensure that remote inspections can be conducted in a way that meets safety requirements.  In effect, NFPA 915 gives the green light to manufacturers and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) to develop safeguards and capabilities to log into life safety systems remotely. The approach can help to simplify inspections, which can be performed remotely or with only one technician required on-site rather than two. Requirements include how systems communicate, the cybersecurity and credentials required, and the prevention of outside connections. Beyond fire alarms, the standard also allows other remote inspections, such as using a drone in a large warehouse to inspect sprinkler heads.  Real-time information and instructions Inspectors are not allowed into buildings such as nursing homes and clinics to check their safety systems NFPA 915 was being considered before the COVID pandemic, but the business shutdowns and social distancing requirements during the worst of the pandemic increased awareness of the needs and benefits of remote inspections. During COVID, inspectors were not allowed into buildings such as nursing homes and hospitals to inspect their life safety systems. Remote access and inspections became critical, thus raising awareness of the feasibility of remote inspections that continue to drive their adoption. Another area of interest in NFPA was mass notification systems, which have matured a lot since they were introduced into the NFPA code in 2007. It’s easier than ever to provide real-time information and instructions to people in an area. Connectivity among fire alarm systems inside buildings, digital signage, and other life safety systems are promoting better notification. Area of refuge systems A new area of discussion and product development is “area of refuge” systems that complement Americans with Disabilities (ADA) requirements in buildings. In a high-rise building, for example, if the elevators are disabled, it may be impossible for a person using a wheelchair to evacuate. Instead, there are designated “areas of refuge,” which are rated to provide two hours of protection from fire. New notification systems can communicate with first responders about occupants in these areas.  The NFPA conference increasingly incorporates a global presence, encouraging more collaboration among entities, countries, and associations about needs around the world. Manufacturers can work together through various associations including the Automatic Fire Alarm Association, Euralarm in Europe, and others.  “Life safety is worldwide, and fires may be the same or different in various areas,” says Reiswig. “We need to remember that standards are not just for the United States because people are active from other countries.”

It’s been three years since the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) published the most recent edition of the wide-ranging standard that spans “the application, installation, location, performance, inspection, testing and maintenance of fire alarm systems, fire warning equipment, and emergency warning equipment and their components.” 2022 update A 2022 edition was officially published in September 2021, after thousands of hours of collaboration, review, and debate among a technical committee. The 2022 update is a significant one; there are hundreds of changes in the document, ranging from minor edits of terminology to major items like Cybersecurity. Whether you’re an architect, engineer, contractor, or building owner/manager, NFPA 72 matters. It will have an impact on how you design, test, install and maintain life safety systems in the future. So even if your jurisdiction will not immediately adopt the 2022 edition of NFPA 72, it’s important to know what’s in the pipeline. Understanding the new edition will enable you to plan for the future and gain insight into how technologies like remote access are changing life safety and building systems. Here are five things you need to know about the 2022 edition of NFPA 72: 1) Secondary power supply requirements for batteries have changed Fire alarm control units typically rely on their local power grid as a primary power supply Batteries play a significant role in ensuring fire alarm system reliability but are one of the most overlooked items. Fire alarm control units typically rely on their local power grid as a primary power supply, and when that grid is operational, all is fine. However, should that power failure due to weather interference or technical failure and brownout conditions occur, the secondary power supply comes into play? Capacity  NFPA 72 states that the secondary power supply (typically batteries) for the protected premises system shall have sufficient capacity to operate the system under quiescent load (system operating in a nonalarm condition) for a minimum of 24 hours. At the end of the 24-hour, the secondary power supply must be capable of operating all alarm notification appliances used for evacuation or to direct aid to the location of an emergency for five minutes. If the system incorporates in-building fire emergency voice/alarm communications, then the system needs to operate for 15 minutes. Charging system Batteries need to be able to take a charge from the charging system within the fire alarm control unit. Batteries have a life expectancy and also need to be load tested at least annually. But not all batteries are created equal. So much so that NFPA 72 has decided to raise the bar and impose a new requirement for the batteries used in fire alarm control units. Listing standards Examples of listing standards are UL 1989, Standby Batteries, and UL 2054, Household and Commercial Batteries NFPA 72 states that effective January 1, 2024, rechargeable batteries for the secondary power supply used in control units, devices, and accessories shall be listed or component-recognized by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. The action was taken because of the acknowledged new dangers posed by today’s battery technologies, primarily due to increased energy densities. Examples of listing standards are UL 1989, Standby Batteries, and UL 2054, Household and Commercial Batteries. 2) Fire alarm control units powered by the Internet of Things require new cybersecurity measures Should you be concerned about cybersecurity in a fire alarm control unit? It depends on how it was installed and connected. Many fire alarm systems do not require cybersecurity as they typically use their wiring and infrastructure and do not connect to “outside” equipment. For example, smoke detectors connected to the fire alarm control unit with wires only used for the fire alarm system, meaning there are no attack vectors that could be exploited. However, this is rapidly changing. Cybersecurity standards With fire alarm systems able to connect to the internet, allowing a user to see the status of their system on an app and even perform remote service diagnostics, these cloud-based integrations require new cybersecurity measures. Underwaters Laboratories, UL, has created a suite of cybersecurity standards. For example, The UL 2900 series of documents covering cybersecurity encompass healthcare, industrial and life safety signaling systems. Now manufacturers can produce fire alarm control units listed to these standards and “build-in” cybersecurity measures. Patches Bad actors are constantly on the prowl for vulnerabilities and patches need to be sent periodically But cybersecurity protection doesn’t stop once a piece of equipment leaves the factory. Bad actors are constantly on the prowl for vulnerabilities and patches need to be sent periodically to fix any such avenues for attack. Just like our computers, mobile devices, etc. all routinely receive updates to help to prevent unwanted attacks, fire alarm systems are no different. How these patches will get delivered and tested is different. Fire alarms Fire alarms need to function all of the time, they cannot go down unless service personnel or Firewatch people are on site. When patches are implemented, we need to ensure the system still functions properly, has come back online properly, and has not been compromised. Fire alarms, unlike our computers, cannot be rebooted over and over trying to fix them when a patch does not function properly. Nor do we have the luxury to replace a fire alarm CPU as quickly as a laptop. Guidelines for cybersecurity To address all of this, NFPA 72 has created a new chapter for 2022, Chapter 11 entitled “Cybersecurity.” The chapter is a placeholder for the technical committees to work on for the 2025 edition. But it does offer a glimpse into things to come and provides some guidance for today. Along with the chapter addition, there is a new Annex J entitled “Guidelines for Cybersecurity.” There is a wealth of information on how cybersecurity measures can be improved for fire alarm and signaling solutions within the new annex. 3) Remote access for fire alarm control units requires new capabilities We do not want to allow bad actors to possibly use the fire alarm system to access larger digital infrastructure Now that systems are being connected for users to see the status of their systems and remote diagnostics have become the norm, NFPA and UL have had to make changes to the allowance and proper usage of these features. UL 864 the Standard for Control Units and Accessories for Fire Alarm Systems has recently added testing protocols for remote access for fire alarm systems. NFPA 72 has also added guidance for how to properly implement remote access. Like cybersecurity, we do not want to allow bad actors to possibly use the fire alarm system to access larger digital infrastructure and do harm. Benefits The benefit of having properly listed equipment and processes for remote access is the door is now open even wider for remote testing, programming, and other applications. Some of the additions to NFPA 72 are that remote access shall not affect the operation or response of the fire alarm or signaling systems. Remote access can now allow for the first time the ability to test and perform maintenance activities, including the resetting, silencing, or operation of emergency control functions. Remote access There are additional requirements such as the system needing a means to manually terminate the remote access connection at the remote device and the fire alarm or signaling system control unit at any time. Further, remote access needs to automatically terminate within a maximum of one hour of inactivity in the remote access mode. Also, the resetting, silencing, or operation of emergency control functions shall be limited to a portion(s) of the system taken out of service and must be enabled by a qualified person onsite by password or limited access. 4) Fire alarm systems must meet new MNS standards The 2007 edition of the NFPA 72 added annex materials to guide allowing a fire alarm system to be used The role of communication in fire systems has been evolving for years, and NFPA 72 has been evolving with it. The 2007 edition of the NFPA 72 added annex materials to guide allowing a fire alarm system to be used or connected to a Mass Notification System (MNS). In the 2010 edition, this was taken a step further with the creation of Chapter 24, Emergency Communications Systems (ECS). UL 2572 Standard At that time there were no listing standards for MNS or ECS, but that was about to change. UL created a new Standard in 2016, UL 2572 Standard for Mass Notification Systems. This new Standard allows for equipment to become certified to be used for MNS or ECS applications. Since the Standard has been released many manufacturers have been able to obtain this certification for their respective systems. Starting with the 2022 edition of NFPA 72, control units installed as part of an MNS must be listed by applicable standards such as UL 2572, and Mass Notification Systems. 5) You are key to the process The NFPA has made the process of updating NFPA 72 rigorous, open and inclusive, and the organization values your opinion. Don’t sit on the sidelines. Your knowledge, input, and feedback will help ensure that life safety standards continue to improve in a way that makes sense for everyone. If you believe there are key changes that should be addressed or new technologies that should be added, go to the NFPA website to make your voice heard.