An Alarm Company Operator operates a business that sells (at the buyer’s home or business), installs, monitors, maintains, services, or responds to alarm systems or supervises such actions. (Retail stores do not have to be licensed if they sell alarm systems only at the store and do not perform any alarm company functions.)

In order for a company to seek licensure as an alarm company operator, the ACO must have passed the licensing examination. And the ACO must undergo a criminal history background check through the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). In addition, the ACO must have not committed any offense or violation of the Alarm Company Act.

“Protection of the public shall be the highest priority for the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services in exercising licensing, regulatory and disciplinary functions.”

Founded on the merit shop philosophy, Associated Builders and Contractors helps its members develop people, win work and deliver that work safely, ethically and profitably for the betterment of the communities in which ABC and its members work. From best-in-class safety programs to discounts with leading vendors, ABC has the solutions for merit-shop companies nationwide.

The California Alarm Association develops and manages programs to benefit members and to promote the growth of professionalism in the electronic security industry throughout the state of California. Membership dues provide the foundation for funding these programs, but we rely on the financial support of individuals and companies to expand existing programs and launch new initiatives.

California Code of Regulations Title 16, Division 8, Article 3, classifies a licensed C-10 Electrical Contractor as one who places, installs, erects or connects any electrical wires, fixtures, appliances, apparatus, raceways, conduits, solar photovoltaic cells or any part thereof, which generate, transmit, transform or utilize electrical energy in any form or for any purpose.

California Code of Regulations Title 16, Division 8, Article 3 classifies a C-7 Communication and Low Voltage Contractor as one who installs, services and maintains all types of communication and low voltage systems which are energy limited and do not exceed 91 volts. These systems include, but are not limited to telephone systems, sound systems, cable television systems, closed-circuit video systems, satellite dish antennas, instrumentation and temperature controls, and low voltage landscape lighting. Low voltage fire alarm systems are specifically not included in this section.

Installing a fire alarm system in your business is one of the best investments you can make to protect your business and employees from potential catastrophe. However a fire alarm system isn’t something you buy once and simply forget about; it needs to be frequently tested and inspected on a routine basis by licensed professionals. The Electronic Security Association helps with keeping these standards of safety at a high level.

NFPA is widely known as a codes and standards organization.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is a global nonprofit organization, established in 1896, devoted to eliminating death, injury, property and economic loss due to fire, electrical and related hazards.

A NICET certification is based on the candidate’s ability to prove a level of expertise in their field via an examination, work experience, and performance verification.

UL is a global independent safety science company with more than a century of expertise innovating safety solutions from the public adoption of electricity to new breakthroughs in sustainability, renewable energy and nanotechnology. Dedicated to promoting safe living and working environments, UL helps safeguard people, products and places in important ways, facilitating trade and providing peace of mind.