“Private mode” applications are those where a signal is known to be in place and where someone is trained to take additional action upon notification from the alarm signal. Examples include control rooms, nurses’ stations and guard desks. These emergency signaling applications may not have to meet ADA requirements and may be satisfied through installation of UL 1638 appliances.
“Public mode” operation includes audible or visible signaling to occupants or inhabitants of the area protected by the fire alarm system.
The Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 301-7, defines a public accommodation as any facility that is privately operated, affects commerce with its operation, and falls into one of the 12 categories shown in the accompanying illustration.
These categories are fairly general and will encompass a wide variety of facilities. Social service facilities, for example, include not only homeless shelters, adoption agencies, senior citizen centers, food banks and day care centers, but also halfway houses, substance abuse treatment facilities and other crisis centers.
