What to Expect from a Fire Sprinkler Inspection
Written by: IT Admin | On: June 16, 2020
Your business relies on a number of fire protection systems to ensure that if there is an instance of fire, you are prepared. Remember the old adage: Prepare for the worst, expect the best. Nothing is more true than when maintaining a fire protection system. In this blog post, we will discuss what to expect from a fire sprinkler inspection
Fire Sprinklers
A fire sprinkler system is a useful tool in fighting fires. Fire sprinkler systems not only can save lives but they’ve been shown to reduce the loss of property damage by upwards of 65 percent. You may not know this, but smoke is not what triggers a fire sprinkler system. Instead, it’s high temperatures.
Sprinkler heads usually have a glass bulb that is filled with a glycerin-like liquid. When temperatures around the sprinkler head exceed the rated temperature, the liquid expands and shatters the bulb. This process activates the sprinkler system. A sprinkler is connected to a pipe that connects to a pressurized water source. Once the sprinkler head is activated, a valve opens. This allows pressurized water from the pipe system to escape.
Fire Sprinkler System Inspection
In America, about every 15 seconds there’s a new fire that requires a fire department. That’s why it’s so important to have an effective fire protection system with a well-maintained fire sprinkler system. With such a system, you can greatly reduce the chance a fire has a huge negative effect on your property or life. For a fire protection system to work effectively, though, they need to work in adherence with state codes and standards.
Florida State Statutes, along with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standards, require that properties have licensed fire protection contractors to inspect all fire sprinkler systems at least 4 times annually. An experienced inspector will look at all parts to ensure that they are working accurately.
Here’s what to expect from a fire sprinkler inspection:
Quarterly Inspection
With a quarterly inspection, the inspector will check gauges and hydraulic nameplates. They will test supervisory switches, water flow alarm devices, water flow devices, supervisory signal devices, hydraulic nameplates, signage, and much more.
1-Year Inspection
With a 1-year inspection, an inspector will look at seismic bracing, pipe/fittings, sprinklers, hangers, and information signs. An inspector will test the antifreeze solution.
3-Year Inspection
With a 3-year inspection, an inspector will check the full flow system, all dry-type fire sprinkler systems, and the timing of water release.
5-Year Inspection
With a 5-year inspection, an inspector will do an internal inspection of all valves and piping.
20-Year Inspection
With a 20-year inspection, an inspector will replace or factory test a representative sample of quick response fire sprinkler heads. They will then retest every 10 years.
50-Year Inspection
With a 50-year inspection, an inspector will replace or factory test a sample of standard response fire sprinkler heads. They will then retest every 10 years. All fire sprinklers heads manufactured before 1920 will be replaced.
75-Year Inspection
Yes, the inspections go up this high) With a 75-year inspection, an inspector will replace or factory test a representational sample of standard response fire sprinkler heads. These will then be retested at 5-year intervals. All fire sprinklers heads manufactured before 1920 will be replaced.
About RANDALL Fire Protection
Now that you know what to expect from a fire sprinkler inspection, it’s time for you to reach out to a fire sprinkler inspection company. That’s us. As professionals, RANDALL Fire Protection can ensure that your fire sprinkler system is up-to-date.
As fire protection specialists, we offer complete fire suppression inspections and testing, as well as high-quality products and services. That’s why our alarm department is an authorized Honeywell Gamewell-FCI Distributor.
You can depend on us to consistently deliver quality service.
Contact our RANDALL Fire Protection team to learn more about our fire protection system at (407) 464-7776.
