Where must smoke alarms be installed in commercial buildings?

Smoke alarms must be installed in areas where they can effectively detect smoke and provide early warning in the event of a fire. According to safety codes and regulations, it is crucial for smoke alarms to be located in hallways, sleeping areas, and near the entrances to sleeping rooms. These locations allow the alarms to be heard clearly in the space where people may be sleeping, significantly enhancing the chances of early detection and escape in an emergency.

The requirement for smoke alarms in hallways, sleeping rooms, and areas outside sleeping rooms is rooted in protecting occupants’ safety where they may be most at risk— while asleep or resting. Other specified locations for smoke alarm installation do not provide the same level of safety or early warning capabilities essential in commercial environments, as they either limit effective coverage or increase the risk of false alarms. Thus, placing smoke alarms strictly in kitchens, on rooftops, or in areas such as bathrooms and storage places does not adhere to recommended safety practices.