Who is responsible for conducting periodic testing and maintenance of the fire alarm system in a Texas facility?

• A. A contractor registered with the Texas State Fire Marshal
• B. The Facility Administrator
• C. The Local Fire Department
• D. The City Council

Answer: (A)

In Texas, periodic testing and maintenance of fire alarm systems must be performed by a contractor who is registered with the Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office. This requirement ensures the work is done by qualified, state-sanctioned professionals who stay current with codes and safety standards (including NFPA 72) and who can provide proper certifications and documentation. The facility administrator is responsible for organizing and ensuring the work gets done and for keeping records, but the actual testing must be carried out by a registered contractor. The local fire department may inspect or respond to incidents, but they do not handle routine testing and maintenance. The City Council has no role in this daily maintenance, and the testing cannot be performed by someone who isn’t a registered contractor.