What is a 5 Year Fire Sprinkler Internal Obstruction Inspection?
The 5 Year Fire Sprinkler Inspection is required by NFPA, your fire insurance company, and NYC. It consists of sprinkler's piping every 5 years
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NFPA-25 Sec. 14.2.1
Requires a 5 years an internal inspection “visual inspection” of the fire sprinkler piping to look for potential blockage
Its Purpose is to ensure there are no blockages in the piping that would hinder the adequate and free flow of water through the piping when needed in the event of a fire.
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What it entails?
The obstruction investigation will take place at a minimum of four points in the fire sprinkler system:
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Sytem Valve
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Riser
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Cross main
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Branch line
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Why is it Important?
Sludge and buildup can occur surprisingly quickly when the obstructions develop. They diminish or even prevent the flow of water through your fire sprinklers.
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How the Inspection is performed
The obstruction/internal pipe inspection is conducted by checking the following four points for corrosion and residue: System valve, Riser, Cross main, and Branch line. To perform a visual inspection, we open a flushing connection of one main and one branch line. Based on the visual inspection, we will flush your system and clear out the residue; if we discover any faults, you will be notified and advised on further obstructive preventive measures.
As per code, main must-have flushing connection is necessary to perform the test. If the main has no flushing connection, one needs to be installed.
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A system is considered acceptable if less of ½ cup of scale is flushed out.
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Scale pieces are not big enough to clog the sprinkler heads.
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A full flow is obtained from each branch line checked