Maintaining Fire Safety: A Guide to Inspecting Your Commercial Building's Fire Sprinklers

4/9/2023 (Permalink)

As a business owner or manager, the safety of your employees and property is of utmost importance. One crucial aspect of safety in a commercial building is the proper functioning of fire sprinklers. Fire sprinklers can prevent small fires from turning into large ones, potentially saving lives and property damage. However, fire sprinklers are not a "set and forget" system. Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Here's a guide on how to inspect the fire sprinklers in your commercial building:

Check the fire sprinkler system documentation

Before inspecting the fire sprinkler system, make sure you have access to the system documentation. This documentation should contain the installation drawings, hydraulic calculations, and specifications of the system. If you don't have this documentation, contact the company that installed the system or a licensed fire protection contractor to obtain it.

Look for visible signs of damage or obstruction

Inspect the fire sprinklers and look for any visible signs of damage, such as dents, cracks, or corrosion. Check for any obstructions that could prevent the sprinklers from discharging water in the event of a fire. Obstructions can include storage items or debris, such as dust or cobwebs, that may have accumulated over time.

Check the control valves and alarm devices

Make sure the control valves and alarm devices are in proper working condition. Test the alarm devices, such as the fire alarm and flow switches, to ensure they are working correctly. Check the control valves to ensure they are open, allowing water to flow through the system.

Inspect the pipes and fittings

Inspect the pipes and fittings that connect the fire sprinklers. Look for any signs of leaks, rust, or damage. Check the pipe hangers and supports to ensure they are secure and not damaged. Make sure the pipes are properly labeled and identified for ease of maintenance and inspection.

Test the water supply and pressure

The water supply and pressure are critical to the operation of the fire sprinkler system. Test the water supply and pressure to ensure they meet the specifications outlined in the system documentation. This testing should be performed by a licensed fire protection contractor, and the results should be recorded for future reference.

Schedule regular inspections and maintenance

Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to ensure the fire sprinkler system continues to operate correctly. Schedule annual inspections with a licensed fire protection contractor to check the system for any issues and perform any necessary maintenance. Additionally, perform visual inspections of the system regularly to identify any visible issues that require attention.

In conclusion, inspecting your fire sprinkler system is critical to maintaining the safety of your employees and property. Regular inspections and maintenance can help identify and prevent potential issues before they become significant problems. By following these steps and working with a licensed fire protection contractor, you can ensure your fire sprinkler system remains in proper working condition.