Fire Sprinkler Sysems Testing, Maintenance, & Inspection - New Jersey
Fire Sprinklers Testing Fires sprinklers have proven to be extremely reliable devices over the years. None the less, testing is a critical function in keeping these systems operational. Since sprinklers are primarily idle problems can go undetected without the proper testing. There are many components that require testing for a sprinkler system. They include waterflow alarm devices, supervisory alarm devices, valves, and drains. Standpipes, hoses, and fire pumps are also integrated with other system components and require testing. Sprinkler system testing includes functional tests, such as opening an inspector’s test on a wet pipe system. Valves must be exercised and readings must be documented. Hydrostatic tests may need to be completed at intervals specified by the Codes such as National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 25 or the local authorities. Also, depending on the age of the sprinklers, they may need to be replaced or tested by an approved testing lab. The fire sprinkler experts at Pecora Mechanical are educated and trained in these requirements and always keep up to date with the latest changes.
NFPA 25, the Standard for the
Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based
Fire Protection Systems contains the minimum
requirements for maintaining fire sprinkler systems.
Like many mechanical systems, fire sprinkler systems
are susceptible to various conditions that can
damage them and hamper their functions in the case
of an emergency. Proactive maintenance and repairs
of these systems including valves and components are
essential to its proper operation.
Inspections
are mostly visual checks that require an intimate
knowledge of NFPA 25, the Standard for the
Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based
Fire Protection Systems and NFPA 13, the Standard
for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems.
In many
buildings sprinkler inspections are either not
conducted regularly or performed by qualified
personnel. Incorrect spacing, corrosion, and
other signs of damage can impair the sprinkler
systems ability to operate as designed. In
some cases, the sprinkler heads may have been
painted, recalled, or are out of inspection and need
to be examined and tested for ensured reliability.
It is
important that pipes and fittings are inspected.
They must be checked for visible corrosion, be free
of mechanical damage, and leaks. Hangers and
seismic braces are required to be inspected as well.
While most of these inspections are conducted from
floor level, it may be necessary for a closer
examination when problems are suspected. Other important sprinkler system items such as gauges, signage, waterflow alarms, and tamper switches must be inspected quarterly and in some cases monthly.
|
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
|