What type of fire alarm system must be installed in Group I occupancies in accordance with Section 907.5?

In Group I occupancies, which typically include facilities such as hospitals, nursing homes, and correctional facilities, the fire alarm system must be capable of ensuring rapid notification and response to potential fire hazards due to the vulnerability of the occupants. Manual fire alarm systems are a regulatory requirement in these settings as they allow for immediate activation by staff or nearby individuals in case of smoke or fire detection.

The focus on a manual system underscores the need for human intervention and control in situations where occupants may not be able to respond effectively. In such facilities, the nuances of managing diverse occupants—including those with mobility issues, cognitive impairments, or capabilities to evacuate on their own—dictate that a manual system is sufficient to ensure safety and prompt action.

In contrast, automatic and semi-automatic systems, while beneficial in many scenarios, do not provide the same level of direct and immediate human oversight required in Group I occupancies. Therefore, the correct classification of the fire alarm system aligns with the specific needs of these vulnerable populations, making a manual system the essential choice in such environments.