Which of the following is NOT a recommended feature for smoke detectors in a medical office building?

• A. Visual modes
• B. Batteries replaced regularly
• C. Contain sound
• D. Interconnected with internet network

Answer: (D)

In a medical office, smoke detectors should be reliable, accessible to all occupants, and operate independently of external systems. Visual modes are important because they provide a clear cue for people who may not hear a siren, such as patients with hearing impairment. Regularly replacing batteries ensures the device works when power is out and during routine maintenance. Keeping a detector capable of producing sound is essential so occupants hear the warning and can evacuate promptly.

Interconnecting detectors via an internet network is not a recommended feature. Relying on internet connectivity can create points of failure—if the network goes down or is disrupted, alarms may not signal properly. It also introduces cybersecurity concerns in a life-safety system. Fire alarm systems are typically designed to operate as dedicated, hardwired or independently monitored devices with proven reliability, rather than depending on consumer internet connectivity.