Fire Sprinkler System Maintenance and Requirements

 

To ensure the proper functioning of the fire alarm systems in Glendora, you need to keep up with routine assessments, testing, and maintenance of sprinkler systems in buildings. It has a significance to ensure that it is operated properly. The International Building Code (IBC) and NFPA 101: Life Safety Code (LSC) are particular codes that determine the necessary active fire protection systems for buildings dependent on occupancy type and square footage. The building code provisions released by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and International Code Council (ICC) define the minimum construction and life safety parameters for structures dependent on size and use. 

 

Active fire protection systems comprise the following- fire alarm and detection systems, automatic fire sprinkler systems, smoke management systems, and others that can trace a fire, alert occupants, and assist in extinguishing or controlling a fire. As it is considered to be an active system, the automatic fire sprinkler system can be said to be an invisible form of protection, post its installation and acceptance testing, one where you install it and stay relaxed. 

 

The conventional sprinkler system common in a conditioned space, like an office building, is a wet-pipe sprinkler system. It comprises a piping system throughout the floor containing water. Both standard and quick response sprinkler heads activate after detecting heat and discharge water. Many feel that all sprinkler heads are open due to the activation of a fire sprinkler system. However, it is a myth. Sprinklers are confined and a sprinkler head will operate only after the thermal element is precipitated by heat from a fire. 

 

Another type of sprinkler system is a dry-pipe sprinkler system, utilized once the building or its adjoining areas are subject to freezing temperatures. A few structures may comprise both systems, like a wet-pipe sprinkler system may safeguard the main building, and a dry-pipe system could be installed in the loading dock or open parking garage. In the case of the dry-pipe system, it’ll fill with water only when the sprinkler head is stimulated. That’s why, there is a hindrance in water delivery, which is accounted for once the sprinkler system is conceptualized. 

NFPA 25, the Standard for Inspection, Testing and Maintenance (ITM) of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems, necessitates monthly, quarterly, semiannual, and annual inspections and testing for fire sprinkler systems. You have to ensure that you avail of the best fire sprinklers systems service in California. 

 

According to NFPA 25, the onus lies on the building owner or designated representative to confirm that necessary inspections and testing standards are met. Any contractor may be hired for the assessment or to conduct testing, the ultimate responsibility lies with the owner of the building. It’s mandatory to conduct visual inspections regularly, not just when there is an obvious deficiency. Things that must be checked are leaks, foreign objects tied on sprinklers, and sprinkler piping. A cloth or rag casually wrapped around a leaky fitting isn’t ever a comprehensive solution. Visual inspections may be done by facilities staff and don’t necessitate the hiring of a contractor. NFPA 25 mandates ITM to be conducted by qualified professionals, which doesn’t always mean licensed but does imply that staff has to be trained. 

 

To test a sprinkler system as per NFPA 25, it is suggested to get a professional involved. As sprinkler systems may remain inactive for years, testing is the principal method to verify performance. Test switches are particularly needed for testing the functionality of water-flow alarm switches and tamper switches without much disruption. These tests are required half-yearly.  

 

Inference 

 

It is suggested that facility management audit the service contract sometimes to ensure NFPA 25 requirements are met. Maintain a track of monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, and yearly inspections. Before an event, keep the documents handy to avoid legal hassles. 

Like your fire alarm in Glendora, sprinkler systems happen to be a life safety feature in nearly all commercial buildings. A system, not been maintained for long provides a false sense of security.