In fire alarm systems, which is the priority signal when both carbon monoxide and supervisory signals are present?

In fire alarm systems, the carbon monoxide signal takes priority when both carbon monoxide and supervisory signals are present due to the immediate health risk posed by carbon monoxide (CO) exposure. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be lethal, and its detection requires urgent attention to ensure the safety of occupants.

Supervisory signals typically indicate issues with the alarm system itself, such as faults in equipment or a need for maintenance, but they do not directly indicate a life-threatening situation. Therefore, while supervisory signals are important for system management and reliability, they are secondary to the potential danger presented by carbon monoxide detection.

Thus, in the event that both types of signals are activated, the system prioritizes the carbon monoxide alert to prompt immediate action, such as evacuation or ventilation, ensuring that safety is upheld above all else.