UL 1638

Visual Signaling Appliances - Private Mode Emergency and General Utility Signaling

UL 1638

1 Scope

1.1 These requirements cover electrically-operated visual signaling appliances, rated 300 volts or less, and intended for indoor locations, outdoor locations, or both, in accordance with the following Standards of the National Fire Protection Association:

a) NFPA 70, National Electrical Code, and

b) NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm Code.

1.2 These requirements cover visual signaling appliances intended for:

a) Private mode fire or other emergency signaling where the appliance signals only those persons directly concerned with the implementation of emergency action. Refer to the National Fire Alarm Code, NFPA 72.

b) Informative type visual signaling appliances connected to or controlled by fire alarm or other emergency signaling system equipment, or both.

c) General non-emergency use. Requirements for light output, flash rate, and duration characteristics of such visual signaling appliances are not applicable.

1.2 revised November 7, 2003

1.3 When the appliance produces both a visual signal and an audible signal, the product shall also comply with the Standard for Audible Signal Appliances, UL 464; or the Standard for Speakers for Fire Protective Signaling Systems, UL 1480, as appropriate.

1.4 These requirements cover visual signaling appliances for use in ordinary locations. Visual signaling appliances for use in hazardous locations, as defined in the National Electrical Code, NFPA 70, are evaluated on the basis of their compliance with these requirements and further appropriate examination and tests to determine their acceptability for such use.

1.5 These requirements do not cover visual signaling appliances intended for the public operating mode as defined in the National Fire Alarm Code, NFPA 72. Public operating mode visual signaling appliances are covered under the Standard for Signaling Devices for the Hearing Impaired, UL 1971.

1.6 These requirements do not cover lamp or strobe-light assemblies intended for entertainment or room lighting.

1.7 These requirements do not cover annunciators that identify functions of a fire or emergency signaling system or relate information concerning portions thereof. Annunciators are covered under the Standard for Control Units for Fire-Protective Signaling Systems, UL 864.

1.8 Deleted May 7, 2003