If a relay is used to initiate control of fire safety functions and it is connected to a fire alarm system, it must be within what distance of the control circuit or appliance it is controlling?

If a relay is used to initiate control of fire safety functions and it is connected to a fire alarm system, it must be within what distance of the control circuit or appliance it is controlling?

• A. 3 feet
• B. 1 foot
• C. 6 feet
• D. 10 feet

Answer: (A)

Relays that start fire safety functions from a fire alarm system must be placed very close to the circuit or device they control. Being within three feet keeps the control path short and predictable, which helps ensure the signal causing the function happens quickly and reliably. Short distances reduce wiring impedance, potential interference, and the chance of delay or misoperation during an emergency. It also makes inspection and testing easier because the relay and the controlled device are essentially in the same vicinity. So the relay should be located within three feet of the control circuit or appliance it drives.

Relays that start fire safety functions from a fire alarm system must be placed very close to the circuit or device they control. Being within three feet keeps the control path short and predictable, which helps ensure the signal causing the function happens quickly and reliably. Short distances reduce wiring impedance, potential interference, and the chance of delay or misoperation during an emergency. It also makes inspection and testing easier because the relay and the controlled device are essentially in the same vicinity. So the relay should be located within three feet of the control circuit or appliance it drives.