According to Annex A in NFPA 731, the use of video motion sensing is for detection and is not intended for surveillance. In most cases, the video image will not display until after the system has already detected motion within the specified field of view.

Typical surveillance systems will display or capture the image within the field of view constantly. While there are many positive applications for video surveillance, and though it might be useful in select alarm system types, it has not currently been found to be effective enough in all scenarios to use as a global dispatch reduction tool. As well, it is not recommended as a requirement for dispatching the police.

Annex A Section A.5.3.3.1.10 states the following: “There are currently two prominent methods for detecting motion using video. One of them uses an extensive amount of software and algorithms to discern normal activity and objects within the field of view from abnormal. One application is for video analytics such as person or facial recognition. The other method uses a simpler approach by monitoring changes within individual pixels of the image. The amount of pixels, location of pixels within the field of view, and sensitivity to changes in the color spectrum and light can be programmed”.

Below is a sample of NFPA 731. For the complete section, see the actual NFPA 731 text at NFPA.ORG. Once there, click on the free access link to the latest edition of NFPA 731.

5.3.3.1.10 Video Motion Detection (VMD). When activated, video motion detectors shall annunciate at one or more of the following and display the captured image:

(1) The protected premises

(2) The monitoring station