Integrated System Testing (CAN/ULC-S1001)
S1001- Integrated Testing of Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems
The CSA is responsible for developing and maintaining standards in Canada, including those related to electrical and fire safety. The ULC is a certification organization that tests and certifies products, systems, and services related to fire safety. The CAN/ULC S1001 is a Canadian standard developed by the Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC) and the Canadian Standards Association (CSA). As of January, 2020 the CAN/ULC S1001-11 standard and testing requirement became law and is now being enforced
This standard provides guidelines for verifying and documenting interconnections between fire protection and life safety systems, ensuring they operate as intended. The testing process is specifically tailored to assist engineers, architects, building owners, contractors, and the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Enofire has provided Integrated Testing services as the Integrated Testing Coordinator for Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems
Our team has extensive experience conducting Integrated Systems Testing according to the CAN/ULC S1001-11 Standard. As part of the final documentation, a certificate is provided that complies with the requirements of the National Building and Fire Codes.
Our Inspectors are available to assist with every stage of the CAN/ULC-S1001 Integrated Systems Testing process. From planning, implementation, testing, and documentation.
Kindly take note that it is not permissible for a company to carry out both the verification of fire alarm systems as per CAN/ULC-S537 and the integrated systems testing on the same building or premises in accordance with CAN/ULC-S1001.
For any recently issued building permits involving the replacement or upgrade of fire alarm integrated systems that are older than six months, it is now mandatory to conduct Integrated Systems Testing before the project can be officially closed out. The purpose of CAN/ULC S1001 is to address and rectify any non-compliance issues related to integrated systems during this testing process. The following items may be included in the system:
- Sprinkler systems
- Standpipe systems
- Smoke Control Systems
- Smoke-Fire Dampers
- Fire Alarm
- Fire Pumps
- Elevators
- Emergency Generators
- Audio/visual and Lighting control
- Water supplies, Water supply control valves and Freeze protection
- Fixed fire suppression systems
- Cooking equipment fire suppression
- Door Hold-Open and Latch Release Devices
- Electro-Magnetic Locks/Access Control
- Air Handling Units (AHU) Shutdowns (BAS)
- Hazardous Protection Monitoring (gas detection)
- Mass Notification, etc.
Video Series CAN/ULC- S1001
Video #1: Welcome to our video series CAN/ULC- S1001.
Many engineers, contractors, and property owners often find themselves with various inquiries concerning CAN/ULC- S1001, the standard for Integrated Systems Testing of fire protection and life safety systems. Given that integrated system testing is a focal point of our company’s expertise, we’ve opted to produce a series of informative videos on this subject. If you require further clarification or have additional questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to provide you with the information and assistance you may need. Our company name is Enofire Inc. You can contact us at 647 476 4778 and email us info@Enofire.com or visit our website at www.Enofire.com.
Video #2: What is CAN/ULC-S1001?
CAN/ULC-S1001 is the standard for integrated systems testing of fire protection and life safety systems, developed by the Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC). It outlines the methodology for verifying and documenting all interconnections between systems to ensure they operate in accordance with their design criteria. When fire protection and life safety systems are integrated, they must be tested collectively as per this standard. The primary goal is to confirm that all systems communicate effectively as intended, ensuring optimal safety and functionality.
Video #3: Which system type is included in the CAN/ULC-S1001 test?
Interconnections provided for fire protection and life safety functions may interconnect various system types, such as:
Fire Alarm Systems
Remote Signal Receiving
Fire Sprinkler systems
Fire Standpipe systems
Fire Pumps
Elevators
Smoke Control Systems
Smoke Alarms
Carbon Monoxide Sensors
Smoke-Fire Dampers
Emergency Generators
Audio/visual and Lighting control
Water supplies, Water supply control valves
Freeze protection Systems
Fixed fire suppression systems
Cooking equipment fire suppression
Door Hold-Open and Latch Release Devices
Electro-Magnetic Locks/Access Control
Air Handling Units (AHU) Shutdowns (BAS)
Hazardous Protection Monitoring (gas detection)
Mass Notification Systems
Jockey Pump
Air compressor
Air Sampling Detection
Emergency Power Supplies
Smoke Control Exhaust Systems
Smoke Venting Fans
Gas Valves
Egress Snow Melting
Fire Shutter/Curtain
Building Automation System (BAS)
Central Vacuum Cleaning System
Dust Collection Systems
Spark Arrest Systems
Emergency Lighting
Power Operator Door
The interconnection links between fire protection and life safety systems may consist of electrical, optical, or wireless transmission, or data transfer protocols, such as BACnet and LonWorks.
Video #4: Who is the Integrated Testing Coordinator?
Based on CAN/ULC-S1001, the integrated testing coordinator shall be knowledgeable and experienced in the design, installation, and operation of fire protection and life safety system(s), and the fire protection and life safety functions of building systems.
Also the integrated testing coordinator shall have knowledge and understanding of:
– The Codes and Standards that regulate the design and installation of fire protection and life
safety system(s);
– How individual and integrated fire protection and life safety system(s) are designed to operate
during normal operating conditions and emergency conditions; and
– Methods for validating the intended functionality of integrated fire protection and life safety
system(s).
Additionally, the integrated testing coordinator shall have all licenses and certifications if required by:
– Federal, provincial, territorial or other applicable regulations; and/or
– Contractual obligations.
Video #5: Does the Integrated testing coordinator need to validate the design of fire protection and safety systems within the test process?
It is not intended by this Standard that the integrated testing coordinator validate the design of individual fire protection and life safety systems within the integrated testing process. However, where concerns are noted by the integrated testing coordinator in the execution of the integrated testing process, the integrated testing coordinator has an obligation to notify the building owner and the design professionals.
Video #6: What is the process for Integrated Systems Testing?
The CAN/ULC-S1001 standard outlines two phases to process for the Integrated Systems Testing:
– Integrated Systems Testing Planning Phase
– Integrated Systems Testing Implementation Phase
During the phase of planning, the design professional(s) shall provide documentation detailing each
interconnection between fire protection and life safety systems to the integrated testing coordinator. This documentation shall be sufficient for the integrated testing coordinator to prepare the integrated testing plan. Each plan has test protocols and procedures and a checklist. In the implementation phase, the test is conducted based on the test protocol, and the result is mentioned on the Testing checklist.
Based on item 5.2.7 from CAN/ULC-S1001:
Prior to the implementation of the integrated testing plan, the integrated testing coordinator shall provide the integrated testing plan to the design professional (s) for review and acceptance.
Additionally:
Based on 5.2.9 from CAN/ULC-S1001, where the design professionals make changes to integrated fire protection and life safety systems that impact the integration system testing plan, revisions to the integrated testing plan shall be submitted to the design professionals and, where required, the authority having jurisdiction for review.
It is important to note that the same company is not allowed to perform verification of the fire alarm systems in accordance with CAN/ULC-S537 and conduct integrated systems testing on the same building/premises in accordance with CAN/ULC-S1001. These must be two separate companies.
Video #7: Is providing the integrated testing plan to the authority having jurisdiction for review mandatory?
Based on Item 5.2.8 from CAN/ULC-S1001:
Following acceptance of the integrated testing plan by the design professionals and prior to implementation of the integrated testing plan, where required, the integrated testing coordinator shall provide the integrated testing plan to the authority having jurisdiction for review.
Additionally:
Based on 5.2.9 from CAN/ULC-S1001, where the design professionals make changes to integrated fire protection and life safety systems that impact the integration system testing plan, revisions to the integrated testing plan shall be submitted to the design professionals and, where required, the authority having jurisdiction for review.
So, as a result, it is not mandatory, and just where required, the authority has jurisdiction for review.
Video #8: What is the Integrated Systems Testing Planning Phase?
Based on CAN/ULC-S1001, clause 5.2.1, During the planning phase of a project, the design professional(s) shall provide documentation detailing each interconnection between fire protection and life safety systems to the integrated testing coordinator. This documentation shall be sufficient for the integrated testing coordinator to prepare the integrated testing plan. Such documentation shall include, but not be limited to the following, as applicable:
– Building floor plan(s);
– Fire protection and life safety system design documentation (drawings and specifications),
including:
Sequencing descriptions (showing coordination between mechanical and electrical systems);
and
Mechanical and electrical riser diagrams.
– Manufacturer’s operating and testing instructions, as requested by the integrated testing coordinator; and
– Documentation of any alternative solutions and/or deviations from the requirements of Codes and Standards.
Based on the documentation identified in above mentioned clause, the integrated testing coordinator shall prepare an integrated testing plan for the testing of integrated fire protection and life safety systems.
Video #9: What is the content of the Integrated Systems Testing Plan?
Based on CAN/ULC-S1001, clause 5.2.3, the plan shall consist of a report outlining the following
– The functional objectives of system integrations;
– The sequence of operations of integrated fire protection and life safety systems which;
Describe operation under normal operating conditions and Describe operation under fire conditions.
– Test protocol and procedures for integrated fire protection and life safety systems;
– A procedure for notifying building occupants of integrated systems testing; and
– Alternate measures, such as notifications and safety protocols, for ensuring occupant safety during
integrated systems testing.
Additionally based on this standard, clause 5.2.7, prior to implementation of the integrated testing plan, the integrated testing coordinator shall provide the integrated testing plan to the design professional(s) for review and acceptance.
And based on cluse 5.2.8 Following acceptance of the integrated testing plan by the design professional(s) and prior to implementation of the integrated testing plan, where required, the integrated testing coordinator shall provide the integrated testing plan to the authority having jurisdiction for review.
Have attention, based on clause 5.2.9 of CAN/ULC-S1001, where the design professional(s) make changes to integrated fire protection and life safety systems that impact the integrated testing plan, revisions to the integrated testing plan shall be submitted to the design professional(s) and, where required, the authority having jurisdiction for review.
The intent of this Standard is that the authority having jurisdiction be provided with a copy of the integrated testing plan for review and comment, but not approval. In some jurisdictions, the authority having jurisdiction may not want to review integrated testing plan for certain buildings. It is recommended that the integrated testing coordinator confirm if review is required on a project by project basis.
Video #10: Can we consider the phase occupancy on the integration system testing plan?
The test procedures outlined in the integrated testing plan must prioritize the safety of personnel and ensure the secure operation of fire protection and life safety systems.
If a building is designed for phased occupancy, the integrated testing plan shall:
-Be created for the entire building, taking into account the integrated tests necessary for each identified occupancy phase within the comprehensive integrated testing plan; and
-Ensure that the integrated fire protection and life safety systems in each occupied area are tested for proper integrated operation.
Based on CAN/ULC-S1001, clause 5.2.6: Where a building is occupied in phases, and an integrated fire protection and life safety system is complete and undergoes integrated systems testing, the system integrations are not required to be retested for subsequent integrated systems tests provided ongoing construction does not impact previously tested system integrations.
As you know, the systems integrations can be impacted by ongoing construction due to changes to both the physical installation of the system or integration, and by changes to control software.
Video #11: What documentation shall be provided to the integrated testing coordinator prior to the implementation of the integrated testing plan?
Based on standard CAN/ULC S1001, clause 5.3.1, prior to implementing the integrated testing plan, the following documentation shall be provided to the integrated testing coordinator, as required.
- A Written confirmation from design professional(s) that they have conducted acceptance testing and that the fire protection and life safety systems, or parts thereof, have been installed in accordance with the design and are ready for integrated fire protection and life safety systems testing;
- Written confirmation from the installing contractor(s) that the fire protection and life safety systems, or parts thereof, have been installed in accordance with the design and are ready for integrated fire protection and life safety systems testing;
- Documentation from the verifying party(s) confirming that the fire protection and life safety systems have been installed in accordance with the design.
- Confirmation of inspection by the local authority responsible for enforcing CSA C22.1, Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, Safety Standard for Electrical Installations;
- Confirmation of inspection by the local authority responsible for enforcing ASME A17.1/CSA B44, Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators;
- Confirmation of implementation of occupant notification procedures; and
- Confirmation of implementation of alternate measures for ensuring occupant safety.
Documentation to be requested by the integrated testing coordinator will be dependent on the Codes and Standards enforced within the jurisdiction of the project. For example, not all electrical installations may require inspection by the local electrical authority, or the authority having jurisdiction may designate non-governmental organizations for review of construction.
It is the responsibility of the integrated testing coordinator to ensure that the appropriate documentation is requested and received prior to the implementation of the integrated testing plan.
Video #12: What documentation needs to be provided to the integrated testing coordinator prior to the implementation of the integrated testing plan by verifying parties?
As mentioned in Video 11, one of the documents that must be provided to the integrated testing coordinator before implementing the integrated testing plan is:
- Documentation from the verifying party(s) confirming that the fire protection and life safety systems have been installed in accordance with the design.
The documentation that may be requested from the verifying parties can include, but is not limited to, the following items, as applicable:
– Fire alarm system verification report;
– Emergency generator initial installation performance test report;
– Contractor’s material and test certificate for fire pump systems;
– Fire pump system field acceptance test report;
– Standpipe system contractor’s material and test certificate for aboveground piping;
– Sprinkler system contractor’s material and test certificate for aboveground piping;
– Cooking equipment fire suppression system acceptance test report;
– Fixed fire suppression systems approval test report;
– Emergency pressurization system testing, adjusting, and balancing report;
– Smoke exhaust system testing, adjusting, and balancing report; and
– Contractor’s material and test certification for underground piping.
Video #13: What is the next stage when the integrated testing coordinator receives the documents in the implementation phase?
As mentioned in Video 11, Based on standard CAN/ULC S1001, Clause 5.3.1, prior to implementing the integrated testing plan, a few documentation need to be provided to the integrated testing coordinator.
Upon receiving the documentation, the integrated testing coordinator will execute the test protocols and procedures specified in the integrated testing plan.
The design professional(s), installing contractor(s), and verifying party(s) need to participate in the test protocol and procedures, as required by the integrated testing plan.
Based on standard CAN/ULC S1001, Clause 5.3.5 , “Failure of any integrated fire protection and life safety systems tests shall result in the correction and re-testing of the affected integrated fire protection and life safety systems.”
Upon completion of integrated systems testing, the fire protection and life safety systems shall be restored to their functional operational condition.
Video #14: What are the necessary steps to take when Integrated System Testing fails?
Based on standard CAN/ULC S1001, Clause 5.3.5 , “Failure of any integrated fire protection and life safety systems tests shall result in the correction and re-testing of the affected integrated fire protection and life safety systems.”
Please pay attention, the standard CAN/ULC S1001 defines a failure as an issue arising from the interconnection between two or more fire protection and life safety systems. For instance, the integrated test would fail if the signal between the fire alarm system and the generator system does not follow the specified design sequence of operation.
However, If a tested input device (e.g., heat detector) fails during integrated systems testing, the integrated testing coordinator may proceed with another input device and document the failure for follow-up by the relevant design professionals.
Video #15: Does the test or part of it need to be functional, or can we simulate the test?
Generally, tests must include a functional operation of the device or system to ensure it operates as intended.
In the context of CAN/ULC-S1001, which pertains to the testing of fire alarm systems, it’s important to adhere to the specific standards and guidelines provided for functional testing to ensure it operates as intended.
Based on Clause 6.1.4 of CAN/ULC-S1001, the tests required by this standard must include a functional operation of the device or system, except that testing by simulation shall be permitted where:
- Non-restorable Devices or Systems: If the system or device cannot be restored after activation (meaning it would be permanently damaged or unusable after testing), simulation testing is allowed to demonstrate functionality.
- Safety Concerns: If performing a functional test poses a risk of harm to people or could damage the device, system, or building, simulation testing may be used instead.
In essence, this clause allows for flexibility in testing methods for fire alarm systems. While functional testing is the standard approach, simulation can be used in specific scenarios where testing could cause damage or safety hazards. This ensures that systems are tested effectively while minimizing risks.
Video #16: Can the integrated testing coordinator accept documents instead of conducting parts of the test?
We can find the answer to this question in Clause 6.1.5 of CAN/ULC-S1001.
This clause states: “Where the integrated testing coordinator has been provided with specific documented evidence that an integrated test required by Section 6, Integrated Systems Testing Requirements, was performed during acceptance testing, such documentation may be considered acceptable to comply with the intent of the CAN/ULC-S1001 Standard at the discretion of the integrated testing coordinator and, where required, in consultation with the authority having jurisdiction.”
The “Section 6” referenced in this paragraph pertains to CAN/ULC-S1001, Section 6.
As a result, based on this clause, the integrated testing coordinator is permitted to accept documented evidence of any tests performed on a system as part of its acceptance testing to demonstrate compliance with the integrated testing requirements of the standard, thereby avoiding duplication of work.
Video #17: What happens when test requirements for integrated fire protection and life safety systems are not detailed?
When the test requirements for integrated fire protection and life safety systems are not explicitly detailed in the standard Can/ULC-S1001, the integrated testing coordinator must work closely with the design professionals to establish suitable test procedures for the integrated testing plan.
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Video #18: Can the integrated testing coordinator prepare the sequence of operation and integrations for each system without the approval of the system design professional(s) of the project?
The integrated testing coordinator cannot prepare the sequence of operation and integrations for each system without the approval of the system design professional(s). Collaboration with design professionals is essential to ensure that all technical specifications and requirements are met, and that the systems function as intended. Their approval helps maintain alignment with the project’s design and safety standards.
And based on CAN/ULC-S1001, clauses 9.2.2 and 9.2.3, “As the system design professional(s) may not be involved in retro-integrated systems testing, the integrated testing coordinator shall investigate the existing fire protection and life safety systems to establish the appropriate sequence of operation and integrations for each system.
The retro-integrated testing plan shall be implemented to confirm correct integrations between fire protection and life safety systems.”
Video #19: What is one of the important matters that needs to be explained to all participants of the test before performing any integrated tests?
The Communication protocol is one of the important matters.
Communication protocols must be clearly outlined to all participants before any integrated tests are conducted. This includes the expected language and radio etiquette for reporting information to the integrated testing coordinator.
The communication protocol should also specify emergency communication methods for team members to reach the integrated testing coordinator. This covers both emergency situations within the building or facility and emergencies involving team members.
Typically, the Integrated Testing Coordinator communicates with participants via two-way radio. If an unexpected system operation occurs that could pose a risk to a testing participant, a building occupant, or the system itself, the testing participant must immediately suspend testing. This should be done by stopping the equipment, if possible and safe from their location, and then broadcasting “STAND DOWN, STAND DOWN, STAND DOWN” over the radio, followed by a description of the issue.
If an Integrated Testing participant identifies an actual emergency during testing, they must inform the Integrated Testing Team by broadcasting “STAND DOWN, STAND DOWN, STAND DOWN” over the radio, accompanied by details of the emergency.
Upon hearing “STAND DOWN, STAND DOWN, STAND DOWN,” all Integrated Testing participants are required to cease testing activities and equipment, as safely as possible.
In the event of an actual emergency, the General Contractor is responsible for implementing the site emergency procedures. For unexpected equipment operations, the Integrated Testing Coordinator will assess the situation and decide on the appropriate next steps for testing.
Video #20: What is the next stage after the successful completion of the integrated fire protection and life safety systems tests?
According to CAN/ULC-S1000, the next step after successfully completing the integrated fire protection and life safety systems testing is to create the integrated testing report.
The integrated testing report serves to present the outcomes of the integrated testing plan’s implementation. It is possible to combine the integrated testing plan and the integrated testing report into a single document.
The integrated testing report should be formatted and presented in a way that facilitates easy usage, maintenance, and updates throughout the lifecycle of the installed fire protection and life safety systems in buildings or facilities.
Based on clause 7.3.2 of CAN/ULC-S1001, This report typically shall include, but not be limited to the following:
- The integrated testing plan;
- Initial integrated testing forms;
- Re-test integrated testing forms; and
- Documentation provided as required by CAN/ULC-S1001 for Integrated Systems Testing Implementation Phase ( for more information please see the video 11 from this video series)
The integrated testing forms are to be created by the integrated testing coordinator based on the test protocols and procedures for the integrated fire protection and life safety systems outlined in the integrated testing plan.
These forms should specify the test protocols and procedures, enabling the integrated testing coordinator to document the results observed during testing. Upon completing the testing protocols, participants must sign the forms to confirm that they agree the observed results are accurately represented in the integrated testing report.
Participants are required to sign only the forms relevant to the test protocols and procedures for their respective fire protection and life safety systems.
If the test protocols need to be repeated due to the initial integrated systems tests failing, the observed results must be recorded on an integrated testing form.
Forms for re-tests should clearly indicate that these tests serve as confirmation of integrations after an unsuccessful initial test. The above-mentioned documents shall be presented to:
- the building owner;
- the authority having jurisdiction, where required
and maintained on site as specified in the National Fire Code of Canada.
Video #21: Retro-Integrated Systems Testing
Retro-Integrated Systems Testing outlines the requirements for evaluating existing integrated fire protection and life safety systems that have not yet undergone an initial integrated test according to the Integrated Systems Testing Process.
Retro-Integrated Systems Testing shall only be applied where mandated by the local governing Building and Fire Codes, or other legislation or contract requirements.
For retro-integrated testing, an integrated test plan must be developed to assess the integrated fire protection and life safety systems, in accordance with the relevant requirements of the Integrated Systems Testing Process. For further information, please refer to video 11 in this series.
The retro-integrated testing plan must be implemented to verify the correct integration of fire protection and life safety systems.
Since system design professionals may not participate in retro-integrated systems testing, the integrated testing coordinator is responsible for assessing the existing fire protection and life safety systems. This includes determining the appropriate sequence of operations and integrations for each system.
After the initial retro-integrated test, subsequent tests should be conducted at intervals not exceeding five years.
Video #22: Integrated Systems Testing For Modifications
In this video, we want to speak about integrated systems testing for modifications.
Based on clause 10 of standard CAN/ULC-S1001:
“Integrated Systems Testing for Modifications, applies to the testing of:
– Integrated fire protection and life safety systems which have undergone a modification; or
– Integrated fire protection and life safety systems which are affected by a modification to the building
or facility in which they are located.”
Integrated Systems Testing for Modifications shall be conducted only when required by local building and fire codes, as well as other applicable legislation or contractual obligations.
When modified fire protection and life safety systems have already undergone an initial integrated test or a retro-integrated test, only the sections of the integrated testing plan impacted by the modifications need to be executed.
The modified fire protection and life safety systems have not undergone an initial integrated test or a retro-integrated test, an integrated testing plan must be developed to evaluate the affected systems, in accordance with the applicable requirements of the Integrated Systems Testing Process. Since system design professionals may not be involved in the modifications, the integrated testing coordinator will assess the impacted fire protection and life safety systems to determine the appropriate sequence of operations and integrations for each system.
Video # 23: Is periodic integrated systems testing necessary?
According to clause 8.1.2 of CAN/ULC-S1001, periodic Integrated Systems Testing is required only when mandated by local Building and Fire Codes, as well as other applicable legislation or contractual obligations.
An integrated test must be conducted one year after the completion of the initial integrated test, following the Integrated Systems Testing Process. The test shall be conducted in accordance with the integrated testing plan.
After the one-year integrated test, subsequent tests should be performed at intervals not exceeding five years.
For retro-integrated testing, subsequent integrated tests must be conducted at intervals of no more than five years following the initial retro-integrated test.
The one-year integrated test is scheduled to allow adequate time for building use and occupancy. It does not have to occur exactly on the one-year anniversary of the initial test but should take place around that time. In cases where a building is occupied in phases, the one-year integrated test will still be conducted one year after the initial test’s completion.