The installation of fire sprinkler systems is a standard requirement in many, if not all buildings these days. However, once sprinklers are installed, they also need to be checked on a routine basis to ensure they are in proper working order. If not, the consequences could be disastrous, involving the loss of human life and property. In order to ensure that sprinkler systems continue to function properly, you will need to have a fire sprinkler inspection. Illinois business and institutions should have these inspections done in order to help safeguard human life and property as well as to remain compliant with the law and avoid fines or citations, etc.
Standards
The NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) distributes its standards that cover the use of automatic fire sprinkler systems. Local authorities utilize the NFPA 13 which a Standard for the Installation of Automatic Sprinkler Systems, which addresses fire sprinkler system installation requirements.
Accurate Function
The amount of available water supply is an important consideration when it comes to the design and installation of sprinkler systems for fire emergencies. Fire sprinkler inspection, testing and maintenance of systems that are of the water-based wet pipe variety may depend on the following criteria.
Performance
The performance of a sprinkler’s system fire control performance is dependent in large part on the amount of water supply available at a given time. For a hydraulically designed water-based fire sprinkler system you don’t want the demand in terms of peak flow and pressure to exceed the available water supply. With a less than adequate pressure or flow, a sprinkler system may fail to do the necessary job to cover and extinguish a fire.
Routine Testing
A main drain test may be done annually, however, it may be better done quarterly depending on the nature of the water supply setup. If pressure-reducing valves or backflow preventer constitute the source through which the water supply comes, then quarterly tests should be conducted. These tests should be done per NFPA 25 or other required standards or codes.
Prior to having a fire sprinkler inspection performed, be sure to contact a reliable and experienced provider of this service to ensure the inspection is done right.
