Sprinkler systems are a ubiquitous requirement in construction codes. On the other hand, Sprinklers are not a “set it and forget it” construction technique. A contaminated water supply or a malfunctioning sprinkler system might have disastrous repercussions. Sprinkler system inspection, testing, and maintenance are required regularly to ensure effective sprinkler operation. Failure to check, test, and maintain sprinkler systems correctly can result in tickets, fines, and even jail time.
It’s critical to get your sprinkler system evaluated to ensure that it will work properly in the case of a fire, limiting the spread of fire throughout your building. The Fire Brigade inspects service records on a regular basis, and if maintenance documents are not present or available for examination, penalties may be given. AS1851:2012 mandates sprinkler system testing monthly, and your insurance provider will expect you to comply.
The primary premise of a hydraulically engineered water-based sprinkler system is that flow rate and pressure demand do not exceed available supply. The available water supply dictates much of a sprinkler system’s fire-control efficacy. The sprinkler system is likely to perform poorly if there is insufficient flow or system pressure, which might allow the fire to spread.
The flow and pressure of the available water supply must be accurately characterized during the original design and installation of a sprinkler system and for the building’s ongoing protection. Water-based wet pipe fire sprinkler systems should be inspected, tested, and maintained regularly; find more information.
The NFPA standard for the inspection testing and maintaining is the most resourced reference for water supply. NFPA 25 Section 13.2.5 mandates an annual main drain test at each sprinkler system riser to check if the water supply supplies pipework and control valves have changed. Even though the primary drain test is commonly considered an “annual” event, more regular checks are necessary based on water supply design. If the only water source is from a backflow preventer or pressure-reducing valves, the primary drain test should be performed every three months. Facility executives should double-check that these tests are being performed on schedule and according to NFPA 25 or other applicable regulations. For future reference and troubleshooting, written records should be retained.
Here are some benefits of routine fire sprinkler inspections and testing
- It ensures that all systems are functioning properly
Because you don’t use your fire safety equipment every day, it’s necessary to get them inspected regularly to ensure that they’re ready to respond in an emergency. Having your fire sprinkler or fire alarm system inspected and tested is the best approach to ensure that your building and its people are safe in the event of an emergency.
- It’s a law
Frequent fire alarm system inspections ensure that property owners adhere to NFPA 72’s rules and criteria. Other federal, state, and local municipal rules can all be followed if this criterion is adhered Other federal, state, and local municipal rules can all be followed if this criterion adheres
- Insurance policies
Insurance companies frequently demand confirmation that a facility’s fire alarm system meets current inspection standards. But there’s an even better incentive to have a regular inspection schedule: if a claim is ever filed on a property that doesn’t match defined parameters, it might be rejected. In summary, routine inspections will help you avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.
- Minimize liability claims
The proof of inspection shows that the fire alarm system is up to code and working correctly. If documentation of inspection can be presented, the culpability for harm or death caused by residents in the case of a fire will be restricted. On the other hand, building owners may be held liable for injuries or deaths caused by the occurrence if documentation of inspection cannot be shown.
In conclusion, regular fire sprinkler inspections must ensure that all systems function correctly.