Which standard must smoke alarms comply with?

Smoke alarms are critical safety devices that are required to meet certain standards to ensure their reliability and effectiveness. The correct answer points to the fact that smoke alarms must comply with specific Underwriters Laboratories (UL) standards designed for their functionality.

UL 217 is the standard specifically addressing smoke alarms. It lays out the safety requirements and performance criteria for devices that detect smoke and sound an alarm to alert occupants in the event of a fire. This includes aspects such as sensitivity to smoke, reliability during different environmental conditions, and durability.

UL 268, on the other hand, is the standard for smoke detectors, which are commonly used in commercial settings or as part of integrated fire alarm systems. While UL 268 is not typically referenced for residential smoke alarms, it covers the performance of smoke detectors in various scenarios, providing essential information regarding their reliability.

The requirement for smoke alarms to comply with both UL 217 and UL 268 indicates that a comprehensive understanding of fire detection systems is necessary. For certain applications, particularly in complex fire alarm systems, it’s crucial to ensure that both types of equipment are in alignment with the necessary safety standards to provide thorough coverage and reliable operation.

Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the importance of compliance with key safety standards governing smoke detection technology,