What to do: Water Leaking From Fire Sprinkler Heads
Confusion is normally the first response if a drip lands on someone’s head suddenly. We’re glad you’ve taken the time to look into what to do next – as even the slowest fire sprinkler system leak can cause substantial damage if left alone.
Step one: System-Wide Visual Check
Whether it’s due to freezing temperatures or simply because of age or a lack of maintenance, leaking or damaged sprinkler heads tend to cause problems at the same time. Just because you’ve only noticed one fire sprinkler leak, it’s entirely possible that there are other issues in other parts of the fire suppression system.
It’s possible that relatively new systems can be affected by an issue known as ‘microbiologically influenced corrosion’. This is where system pressurisation (loading water into the system) has introduced new microbes which interact with oxygen and metal to cause rapid corrosion and potentially leaks. An accredited professional will be able to perform the correct tests if MIC is suspected’.
Pay special attention to any areas where there are stairs or expensive electronic devices. Take a notepad and mark down the location and nature of any leaks. Even a slow drip or pinhole leak in the fire sprinkler line can cause catastrophe.
Often, if you notice a leak in the sprinkler head, this could draw attention away from leaks in other parts of the sprinkler piping. It’s important to examine pressure gauges against manufacturer recommendations – even if you don’t spot an obvious leak in the piping circuit.
Step Two: Risk Assessment
Once you’ve taken a full view of the issue, it’s important to understand the current health and safety risk for you and any colleagues on site. This will determine next steps such as a need for an emergency call out, or evacuation of affected areas of the building. There can certainly be electronic equipment failures in the event of a wet system leak – but there is also risk of electrical fire if a heater or other high power system is affected.
Proper fire protection systems are a basic expectation of an employer – and if your system is compromised, this may present an unacceptable risk. Your insurance may be compromised if you fail to act in a timely manner.
Step Three: Professional Support
Once you have all the information, a call with a professional will help you to decide proper next steps. It’s likely not to be an urgent callout if you have been proactive – and your system has undergone regular inspections since installation.
If you have a combination of wet and dry systems in your premises, we’d recommend a full inspection of both systems. While dry pipe systems are not going to leak water, there can still be other defects over time that compromise functionality of the system.
Automatic fire sprinklers perform a vital life-saving function, and if they are simply affected by age, damage, or neglect, we’re here to help you move forward safely.
