Chapter 8 is all about holdup, duress, and ambush systems. Holdup alarm and private duress initiating devices must comply with applicable standards, such as ANSI/ UL 636, Standard for Holdup Alarm Units and Systems.

UL 636 applies to holdup alarm systems of the remote-station type intended for installation in banks, stores, cashiers' cages, pay offices, and the like to provide a means of transmitting a silent call for help in the event of interior robbery.

UL 636 states the following in Section 92:

92.1.1 Interconnecting wiring shall be not smaller than 22 AWG (0.32 mm2) copper wire and shall comply with the applicable requirements for burglar alarm wire, see the Standard for Thermoset-Insulated Wires and Cables, UL 44, and the Standard for Thermoplastic-Insulated Wires, UL 83.

92.2 Running and fastening

92.2.1 Interconnecting wiring shall follow the contour of the building and shall be located where it will not be subject to a risk of damage. For joisted construction, wires running across the joists shall be enclosed in conduit, raceways, metal-clad cable, or shall have a solid backing strip approximately 2 inches (50.8 mm) wide. Wires running parallel to the joists do not require these enclosures or backing. Wires routed over sharp corners or projections shall be covered by two layers of electrical tape or the equivalent.

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.

8.1 General.

8.1.1 Construction.

8.1.1.1 The construction of holdup alarm initiating devices shall be in compliance with applicable standards, such as ANSI/UL 636, Standard for Holdup Alarm Units and Systems.

8.1.1.2 The construction of private duress alarm initiating devices shall be in compliance with applicable standards, such as ANSI/UL 636, Standard for Holdup Alarm Units and Systems.