What does it take to get fire detection design approved? Are you over-designing unnecessarily “just to be sure” you meet local requirements? Are budget considerations leading to a bare-bones approach that may not pass muster – or more importantly, protect lives and property? This article provides practical guidance on how to avoid under-designs and over-designs – and in the process, save long-term costs and avoid costly delays. Warren Olsen of Fire Safety Consultants, Inc. shares the knowledge he’s gained from more than four decades in fire and building code review and consulting.