Codes and standards around the world require functional tests of fire detectors.

For smoke detectors, for instance under NFPA 72 calls for the introduction of simulated smoke through the detector vents and into the sensing chamber. Magnetic testing is not acceptable.

The use of a smoke dispenser for the release of smoke test aerosol for efficient activation of detectors is recommended.

Heat detectors must be tested. For the fire engineer, the new
NFPA 72 means a change in the way that detectors must be tested.

'Heat test shall be performed with a heat source per the manufacturer's recommendations for response within 1 minute. A test method shall be used that is recommended by the manufacturer or other method shall be used that will not damage the nonrestoreable fixed-temperature element of a combination rate-of-rise/fixed temperature element.'