FAID testing, or fire alarm initiating device testing, is required on Illinois elevators once every five years. Illinois amended its version of the A17.1 elevator safety code to require these devices to be tested. If your elevator has smoke detectors, flow switches or comparable devices that trigger Fireman’s Emergency Recall, the requirement applies to your building, unless you are inside Chicago city limits, which is excluded.
Does FAID Testing Apply To Your Building?
Both of these need to be true:
- Your elevator has smoke detectors, flow switches or comparable devices that activate Fireman’s Emergency Recall
- Your building sits outside Chicago city limits. If your building is inside the city, this requirement doesn’t apply, see our Chicago elevator services for what does.
If both apply, FAID testing is required.
What the Testing Involves
FAID testing is performed by the alarm company and witnessed by the elevator inspector. Each initiating device is checked individually to confirm it triggers recall correctly. Our mechanics are on site to reset the elevator equipment and troubleshoot any deficiency.
This is not the same as monthly fire recall testing. That test is performed by the elevator mechanic using only the installed key switches, and the results are logged, with the records kept in the machine room for the inspector to confirm.
FAID Testing Deadlines By Equipment Type
Hydraulic systems
Hydraulic systems with automatic firefighter recall were due to have the initial FAID testing completed, witnessed by an elevator inspector, by 31 December 2024. Testing is then required to be completed no later than five years from the previous test.
Traction systems
Traction systems required FAID testing at the first CAT 5 test after 1 January 2024, and then as part of every CAT 5 thereafter. Completing it ahead of that schedule is worthwhile where possible.
If You Missed the FAID Testing Deadline
The FAID testing deadline for hydraulic systems passed on 31 December 2024, and traction cars were due at their first CAT 5 after 1 January 2024. If your building has not completed FAID testing, or has had a CAT 5 test since January 2024 without FAID testing included, contact us. We can arrange testing and bring your equipment back onto the correct cycle.
The sooner this is addressed, the more straightforward it is to resolve.
Why Testing Early Matters
Many elevators turn out to have recall features that do not work correctly. In most cases the fault sits with the fire alarm system rather than the elevator equipment. Some issues are resolved the same day; others take weeks to put right.
Finding out early is the difference between a straightforward correction and a compliance problem.
What FAID Testing Costs
Costs are charged hourly by both the elevator inspector and the Life Safety provider, in addition to any charges under your existing service contract. After the initial test, expect a further hourly charge at each five-yearly appointment.
How Mid-American Handles It
Our team presents options given by the inspection company to coordinate an inspection date for our field personnel and alarm company representatives.
Call 773-486-6900 or contact us to schedule FAID testing.
When Testing Finds a Problem
Testing regularly uncovers recall features that aren’t working properly. Where the fault sits with the elevator equipment rather than the fire alarm system, our repair team can correct it and coordinate the retest. Where recall equipment is obsolete rather than simply faulty, modernization may be the more economical route than repeated repairs.
Recurring recall faults are also worth paying attention to in their own right. Devices that fail between five-year tests usually point to equipment that isn’t being checked often enough. A preventive maintenance contract catches these during routine service, rather than at an inspection with the alarm company and an inspector standing there.
Frequently Asked Questions