Who can install access control in Arkansas

In Arkansas, the State Police regulatory office issues licenses for alarm companies, security agencies and private investigators. The same staff also proctor the state managers' exam.

Under state law, an alarm systems company has a broad definition. It covers firms that install or service devices sending electronic signals, or cameras, to detect a break-in, unlawful entry or other unauthorized acts. You won't find access control spelled out in the law. The clearest match is a card reader setup that connects to intrusion alarms or cameras.

Several classes exist for the alarm license; A.C.A. 17-40-309 lists them. What decides the class is the building, not the device you're putting in.

For a building that the state fire code says must have a fire alarm, you need an Unrestricted firm to do that job. Because powered locks often release when the fire alarm goes off, many access control jobs affect it. Before signing, confirm the company's license class.

• Class E Restricted: only for buildings where the fire code does not demand a fire alarm.
• Class E Unrestricted: permits installing fire alarm systems required by code.
• Class E-S: covers single-station systems, and only in 1- and 2-family homes.
• Class E-M: covers monitoring work alone. Class G pulls together investigations, security services and both of the main alarm license classes.

The company's manager has to complete a specific set of courses, as required by Part 350 of the state rules. An Unrestricted company needs a manager with NICET Level III or IV, or a set of industry courses that match. A manager at a Restricted company can qualify with NICET Level II or an equivalent.

Technicians and agents must also take a course that appears on the approved list; NICET Level II and ESA Level I are two examples. Apprentices can do installation work only while a technician, supervisor or manager oversees them. Each credential for a technician, apprentice or agent is $40, and every license ends after 2 years.

Telecom and information systems firms that take on low voltage signaling, such as security systems, aren't covered by the electrical licensing law. When a door power supply needs a new circuit at 120 volts, that wiring is not signaling; ask who will do it. Electricians get their licenses through the Board of Electrical Examiners.

Rules for exit doors are found in the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code, 2021 edition. The code rests on the International Fire, Building and Residential Codes. Since the State Police page has no public lookup, email or call the regulatory office to verify a license.