Three Ways to Keep Your Fire Sprinkler Systems in Good Working Order
One of the most astute fire safety decisions that you can make is to install fire sprinkler systems. The devastation caused by fire is something not to be underestimated. A fire sprinkler system is your first line of defence against the ravages of fire. With that being said it’s imperative that you keep all fire sprinkler systems in good working order.
There are several precautionary measures that anyone with fire sprinkler systems must take in order to ensure they continue to function to optimal levels. These measures are as follows:
Protect your Fire Sprinkler Systems
One of the most important ways to keep your fire sprinkler systems in good working order is to ensure that there is nothing blocking the water disposal system. Don’t place large pieces of furniture immediately below their spout. This will hinder the water dispersal, resulting in areas of the room falling victim to the ravages of fire.
One of the more obvious hindrances of fire sprinkler systems, but surprisingly something that occurs more often than you’d believe is when the sprinkler heads are used as hooks to hang objects on. Lightweight items can damage the spray heads and result in a water flow reduction, posing a danger to the building and the inhabitants should a fire break out.
Make sure that when moving furniture or large heavy objects you don’t damage the spray heads, and that children don’t see them as play things. Any damage may result in malfunctioning which, again, jeopardises the functionality of the sprinklers.
Keep the Value Open and On
Another obvious factor is that those responsible must make sure that all values are on and open. To check that the sprinkler systems are in the on the position you need only check that the control is in line with the pipe. A closed value will be set at a right angle. Many professionals recommend using a padlock to secure the value in the on position. In the event that the sprinkler system is turned on you must turn the system on as soon as possible.
Testing the Water Flow
Good practice dictates that the water flow must be tested at least once a year. This may save lives in the event of a fire. Have a read below for the six necessary steps to ensure that your system is in good working order:
Step # 1 Should your sprinklers be connected to a central alarm then the water flow testing should only be conducted by a fire department.
Step # 2 You will need to identify the flow test value. The value is usually labelled ‘main drain’ ‘inspector test’ or ‘drain.’
Step # 3 Turn the control value to the position in line with the pipe.
Step # 4 As the water flow increases, let it run for a minute. Should your system have an alarm then let it sound.
Step # 5 Slowly turn the control value off.
Step # 6 Record the date of the test.
Having sprinkler systems that are in good working order is essential for safety. If you have any suspicions that your sprinkler system is malfunctioning, or has shut off altogether, it’s essential that you resolve the issue as quickly as possible.
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