What does the term "should" indicate in fire alarm guidelines?

In fire alarm guidelines, the term "should" indicates a recommendation. This implies that while following the guidance is strongly advised for best practices and safety, it is not legally binding or obligatory. The use of "should" suggests that there are sound reasons for following the recommendation, typically based on safety standards, industry best practices, or expert opinion.

This term allows for some discretion in application, as there may be situations where following the recommendation may not be feasible or applicable. In these cases, professionals are encouraged to use their judgment while considering alternative solutions that still aim to uphold safety and compliance. This contrasts with terms that indicate a mandatory requirement, which must be followed without exception, as well as terms that suggest flexibility or optional practices. Recommendations facilitate a balance between adhering to guidelines and accommodating specific circumstances that professionals might encounter in real-world applications.