Fire Alarm System Design

At Bold Engineering, we provide professional fire alarm engineering services that protect people, property, and peace of mind across the Greater Toronto Area. We design, review, and commission systems that align with the Ontario Building Code, Ontario Fire Code, and NFPA standards. Our team works closely with architects, builders, and facility owners to deliver reliable, code-compliant fire alarm systems, whether you’re building new or upgrading existing infrastructure.

We work with you to define performance goals, like early detection, sound coverage, visual alerts, and interface with building systems. With those parameters, we design a system layout including detectors, notification devices, control panels, and communication links. We conduct hazard analyses, define design fire scenarios, and specify equipment suited to your occupancy type, whether residential, commercial, institutional, or industrial. Our design documents include riser diagrams, power calculations, battery-backup specifics, and integration with sprinklers or elevator recall systems.

Our team takes on code review tasks so you don’t have to chase references in multiple sections of the code. We verify that device spacing, heat and smoke detection coverage, and notification zones match prescriptive paths. We address coverage deficiencies, audible and visual requirements, strobe placement, fire safety plan references, and false alarm prevention strategies. We also confirm proper monitoring and programming of alarm annunciators.

Once installed, we perform witness testing, device sensitivity checks, smoke tests, and notification performance. We use calibrated tools to measure decibel levels and verify temporal patterns and strobes meet CAN/ULC-S524 and ANSI/UL 1971. We document test results and issue a commissioning report that supports permit sign-off and system acceptance.

For existing systems, we offer evaluation and upgrade design. Whether components are obsolete or coverage is insufficient under new occupancy conditions, we’ll assess the site, model system performance, and specify replacement or supplementary devices. Our goal is to minimize downtime and downtime costs while maintaining protection. We also coordinate with facility staff, so the upgrade proceeds smoothly.

Fire alarm systems work best when they communicate with other building safety systems to create a unified response during emergencies. We design and review integration with sprinkler systems, smoke control, elevator recall, emergency lighting, and building automation to support seamless operation. This allows for clear direction to occupants, faster first responder actions, and effective fire event management.

We will confirm wiring pathways, control logic, and testing protocols to validate that each system functions correctly during an alarm condition. By integrating your fire alarm with other life safety systems, you reduce the chance of system conflicts while enhancing overall protection for your building.

Fire alarm systems need consistent inspections and functional checks to remain effective and compliant with Ontario Fire Code and NFPA 72. We provide system assessments, device testing schedules, and maintenance planning that help building owners and facility managers manage their systems proactively. Our team will review system logs, verify detector sensitivity, test notification devices, and document all findings for your records.

We also help identify aging or underperforming devices before they fail, reducing false alarms and unexpected system issues. By planning maintenance with engineering insight, you maintain the reliability of your fire alarm system and keep your facility inspection-ready at all times.

We go beyond issuing drawings or reports. Our team brings code expertise, practical insight, and ongoing support through construction and testing. You get a system that works today and adapts to future changes in your building.

• Licensed engineers with deep knowledge of NFPA, Ontario Building and Fire Codes
• Coordination with fire departments, building officials, and facility operators
• Clear permit-ready documentation and device schedules
• Responsive support during installation and final acceptance

With a professionally engineered fire alarm system, you gain confidence that detection is fast, alerts are clear, and systems will activate correctly in an emergency. This reduces risk, limits liability, and helps maintain business continuity. Your building can stay safe, compliant, and ready for occupancy.

• Early life safety, smoke and heat detection where it counts
• Reliable alerting with sounders, strobes, and voice notifications
• Clear event logs and control panel interfaces for operators
• Code compliance that meets insurer and authority requirements

When you need quality fire alarm engineering services in the GTA, our team at Bold Engineering has got you covered. We’ll review your project, discuss system needs, and provide design, commissioning, and compliance solutions that protect your building and occupants. Reach out to us today for more information.