The fire alarm cables should generally be installed in conduit or an approved raceway system, but it depends on local codes and specific installation requirements. Here’s why conduit is often recommended or required:

1. Fire Safety Regulations:

• National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 72, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, and other local building codes may require fire alarm cables to be installed in a conduit, especially if the cables run in areas where fire protection or fire resistance is critical.
• Conduits provide an extra layer of protection for fire alarm cables, ensuring that they are not easily damaged by fire, impact, or other hazards during an emergency.

2. Protection from Physical Damage:

• Conduit helps shield fire alarm wiring from physical damage, such as cuts, abrasions, or impact, which can compromise the integrity of the system. This is particularly important in high-traffic areas or locations with heavy equipment or machinery that could damage exposed wiring.

3. Circuit Integrity During Fire (FIRE-RESISTANT CABLE):

• For fire alarm systems, maintaining circuit integrity during a fire is crucial, as it ensures that the alarm can continue functioning even in hazardous conditions. Certain types of cables, known as fire-resistant cables or FPLP (Fire Protective Limited Power Circuit) rated cables, may still need to be run in conduit to ensure they meet these requirements.
• Conduit can help protect cables from heat and flame, which can degrade cables in an unprotected installation.

4. Code Compliance and Insurance:

• Local codes and insurance requirements often dictate the installation methods for fire alarm systems. These codes could vary by region, but many jurisdictions will require fire alarm cables to be in conduit or a raceway.
• Some codes might specify that the fire alarm cable be run in a protected environment (like a plenum or vertical shaft), which can involve using conduit or specific cable types like plenum-rated or armored cables.

5. Aesthetics and Organization:

• In addition to safety and protection, using conduit helps with the organization of wiring in commercial or industrial environments. It ensures that fire alarm cables are clearly separated from other wiring systems, and it can also make future maintenance or upgrades easier by providing clear access to the cables.

Exceptions or Alternatives:

• In some situations, open cable trays or other methods of cable management are allowed, especially in low-risk or controlled environments. Some newer installations may also allow the use of fire alarm cables that are rated for direct exposure (non-conduit installation) in specific types of buildings, but the requirements must always be checked with the local codes and standards.
• For emergency circuits or fire alarm signaling, the installation method might vary depending on the type of structure and its fire-resistance rating.