Learn more about the academic programs we are delivering in Summer 2024. If you have any questions about part-time studies, please contact us.
The Canadian Fire Alarm Association established the Fire Alarm Technician Program, leading to personal registration as a fire alarm technician, during the early 1980's. It was created to provide training in the specialized area of fire alarm systems, thereby increasing the knowledge level of persons directly or indirectly involved in the fire alarm industry.
The Canadian Fire Alarm Association (CFAA) requires that fire alarm technicians complete a five-course, theory-based program of study plus one year's work with another experienced technician in order to become certified to work in this field (to ensure that fire alarm technicians are competent in their ability to test, inspect and maintain fire alarms). The first four courses are the prerequisite for the fifth. Students must achieve a minimum grade of 60% in each of the five courses to be credited by the CFAA toward certification.
This educational program has been approved by various authorities having jurisdiction nationwide and is now widely recognized within the industry.
Current employment in the fire safety industry and related fields is strongly recommended.
It is your responsibility to ensure that program requirements and course prerequisites as outlined are met. Prerequisites are included for your academic protection. Knowledge of the prerequisite material is assumed by your instructor and instruction will proceed accordingly. Students lacking prerequisites not only jeopardize their own ability to succeed but present unnecessary interruption. If you lack appropriate prerequisites (or Transfer Credit for the prerequisite course) you may be asked to withdraw or transfer to a more appropriate course with the risk of academic/financial penalty.
Part-time Studies courses are being offered in either of the following four formats: Online, Flexible, In-person, Hybrid. Click Availability below to see current offerings.
Current employment in the fire safety industry/ related field is strongly recommended.
This course provides a general understanding of fire alarm protection systems. It discusses the purpose and specific application of the different codes and standards that regulate the industry. It introduces the student to architectural considerations regarding fire containment. Information about testing laboratories, their procedures, testing methods and how listed/approved materials achieve greater degrees of life safety are covered. Other topics include: the nature of fire, extinguishing methods, fire alarm testing methods, interpretation of drawings, specifications and other contract documents.
Grade 12 mathematics or equivalent
This course addresses the fundamentals of electricity required in order to troubleshoot a particular system. Poor installation of electrical systems and the misuse of electrical devices and appliances continue to be leading causes of "accidental" fires. Knowledge of wiring, devices, etc., their use and limitations is part of effective loss prevention. Additionally, those involved in loss prevention inspection work are frequently required to make observations and recommendations concerning compliance with the Canadian Electrical Code. This course familiarizes the student with basic direct current and alternating current fundamentals and covers the concepts of resistance, conductors and power suppliers in various circuits and electrical construction.
ELF190 or equivalent.
An introduction to the fundamentals of electronics, electronic components, and how these components operate as a complete system. This course familiarizes the student with capacitors, inductors, transformers, semiconductor devices (diodes and transistors), power supplies, small and large signal amplifiers, and electrical construction.
ALS190, PRC625, ELF190, and ETR290 - if taking the Fire Alarm Technician Program (CFAA requirements)
This course addresses applications of fire alarm systems and the operation, testing and inspection requirements of fire alarm systems as outlined by the various Codes and Standards. The student will learn the basics of field wiring circuits, field devices, emergency voice communication systems and addressable fire alarm systems.
Also covered are principles and technology of fire detection devices, signal appliances, control equipment and ancillary devices
This course is taught by a CFAA certified instructor and together with the pre-requisite courses, leads to the student becoming a CFAA Fire Alarm Technician as required by the Fire Code.
For CFAA Certification, a Grade of C or better is required.
ESL934 (or equivalent) or permission of the coordinator
This course teaches important skills for effective written and oral communications of technical information. It distinguishes between academic and technical (job-related) writing and guides the students through proven steps to enhance the effectiveness of their various written technical communications. The course also provides a practical approach for planning and structuring technical oral presentations. Students get to use this approach and to practise these techniques.
Note: The Association recommends that the courses be completed in the order shown. The first four courses are prerequisite subjects to ALS390.
When a student has successfully completed all five courses (minimum grade of 60 percent required) plus the one year work experience, the individual should apply to the CFAA office for Registration as a Fire Alarm Technician. The individual will be required to submit the following, either personally or by mail:
In return, the applicant will receive:
If you require further clarification and to obtain up-to-date information, please contact the CFAA office in writing at:
85 Citizen Court, Unit 3 & 4
Markham, Ontario
L6G 1A8
Telephone: 1-800-529-0552
Email:
techadmin@cfaa.ca
For more information, please visit CFAA website.
Students must apply directly to the CFFA for exemption in the courses.
If you would like more information about the Canadian Fire Alarm Association (CFAA), please contact them directly at 1.800.529.0552, email admin@cfaa.ca or visit their website.
Maria Graziosi
Program Assistant
Maria.Graziosi@senecapolytechnic.ca
416-764-0964
Melanie Rubens
Program Coordinator
Melanie.Rubens@senecapolytechnic.ca
416-764-0973
For more information about this program, fill out the following form.