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Blog Posts: NFPA 25

Welcome to Allstate Sprinkler Corp. You can check out our blog here, where you can find recent posts, news articles, and helpful guides and tips on fire safety systems. These posts mention the NFPA 25.
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What is Involved in NY NFPA 25 Inspection

What is Totally Involved in NY NFPA 25 Inspection

The National Fire Protection Association Standard # 25, otherwise known as NFPA 25, is the nationwide standard that governs the inspection, testing, and maintenance of water-based fire protection systems. Created in 1992, NFPA 25 has continued to evolve, with ever-improving criteria and guidelines regarding evaluation techniques pertaining to fire sprinkler inspections, fire pump flow tests, and all items applicable toward water-based fire protection systems.   This standard was created in order to help all building owners comply with laws, codes, and regulations in an effort to keep the public safe in the event of a fire.  The NFPA 25 testing and inspection regimen performed in accordance with New York City requirements ensures maximum system integrity to avoid failure, provide specific methods to ensure code enforcement, and ensures a fast, effective response in a fire emergency.

The NFPA 25 regimen mandated by New York City includes a specific annual, monthly, quarterly, weekly, and (in some cases) daily schedule of items to be performed. These items include information relative to the conditions of the system’s water supply, gravity and pressure tanks, valves, risers, piping, sprinkler heads, fire department connections, alarms, fire/booster/special service pumps, internal obstructions, and conditions of all other system equipment and accessories.

Weekly: Gauges, Heating system tanks with supervised low-temperature alarms connected to constantly attended location, Temperature alarms (not connected to constantly attended location), Water temperature (low-temperature alarms not connected to constantly attended location), Enclosure (during cold weather), Control valves (sealed), Heat (deluge valve house)

Monthly: Gauges (dry and preaction systems), Air pressure – tanks without their air pressure source supervised, Temperature alarms – connected to constantly attended location, the Water level –  tanks without supervised water level alarms connected to constantly attended location, Water temperature – low-temperature alarms connected to constantly attended location, High-temperature limit switches, Control valves (locked, supervised), Discharge device location/position (spray nozzle), Proportioning system(s) – all, Foam concentrate pump operation

Quarterly: Gauges (wet and deluge systems), Supervisory signal devices (except valve supervisory switches), System valves, Valve supervisory signal devices, Waterflow alarm devices, Waterflow alarm devices (Mechanical), Air pressure tanks that have their air pressure source supervised, Catwalks and ladders, Support structure. The surrounding area, Tank (exterior), Water level tanks equipped with supervised water level alarms connected to constantly attended location, Drainage, Waterflow alarm, Foam concentration strainer(s), Sprinkler systems, Supervisory signal devices, Hose valves, Low-pressure alarm, Quick-opening devices, Waterflow alarms

Annually: Hydraulic design information sign, Information signs,Internal piping condition, Pipe and fittings, Sprinklers, Sprinklers (spare), Antifreeze solution, Sprinklers and automatic spray nozzles protecting commercial cooking equipment and ventilation systems, Cabinet, Hose,  Hose connection, Hose nozzle (and after each use), Hose storage device, Hydraulic design information sign, Hose valves, Hose connection, Piping (constantly attended location), Expansion joints, Hoops and grillage, Painted/coated surfaces, Automatic tank fill valve, Fittings*, Hangers*, braces*, and supports*, Nozzles*, Pipes*, Control valves, Main drain test, Manual release, Strainers, Water spray system test, Water supply flow test, Fittings corrosion, Fittings damage, Pipe corrosion, Pipe damage, Backflow preventer(s), Complete foam-water sprinkler system(s) (operational test), Discharge device location/position/obstruction, Manual actuation device(s), Proportioning system(s), Water supply piping, Water supply

*and after each system activation

Other systems require attention at the 3rd, 5th, and 10th-year intervals as well.

Allstate Sprinkler’s inspection and service personnel have all been certified by the FDNY. We are uniquely qualified to help you meet the rigorous criteria for the necessary S-12 Certificate of Fitness.  We have customized computer software to verify and ensure that your facility is in compliance with all required codes and make certain that any potential liability and/or fines for non-compliance to NFPA 25 are mitigated.

Contact us immediately to complete the appropriate paperwork and contracts in order to satisfy the FDNY’s requirements and to ensure compliance with all local ordinances. We are fully knowledgeable of the NFPA 25 Fire Sprinkler Inspection regimen now mandated by the New York City Fire Department and we are fully prepared to assist you.

About Allstate Sprinkler

Our family business has developed from a “mom and pop” company into a highly regarded fire protection contractor servicing the New York City Metropolitan area. Our commitment is to assist you with all of your commercial and residential fire protection needs. We have built a reputation on the sound principle of providing professional service and high-quality products to all our customers. Our services include but are not limited to the following: complete installations and alterations of fire sprinkler and standpipe systems, prompt correction of all fire department violations, five-year hydrostatic pressure tests, emergency service, and repairs, fire pump testing and installations, fire extinguisher sales, and service, and all fire safety products and equipment.

Allstate Sprinkler Corp. is a licensed Master Fire sprinkler contractor with the New York City building department. Providing our customers with cost-effective, professional, and reliable service is our priority. We hope that you will enjoy our website and become a part of our family customer base.

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The Importance of Internal Obstruction Testing and Regular Flow Tests

Importance of Internal Obstruction Testing

As per NFPA 25, an internal inspection of fire sprinkler system piping is required every five years. The purpose of this inspection is to confirm the “presence of foreign organic and inorganic material.” Any and all foreign materials or years of sediment build-up can cause major obstructions to water flow and ultimate sprinkler head operation or failure

Testing and maintaining a commercial fire sprinkler system is not only a mandatory function but also an essential one for life safety.  Being that the internal diameter of the sprinkler pipe from the water supply source to a sprinkler head is not less than 3/4 of an inch (20 mm) and the adapter fittings from where sprinklers are attached to the piping is not less than 1/2 inch (15 mm) in diameter readily enables any debris to become trapped within the pipe and may cause a serious problem during a real fire situation.  The most common substance that causes obstructions is calcium carbonate or corrosion that comes from the public water supply.

As per NFPA 25 (Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems) Section 14.2.1.1 mandates an assessment of the internal condition of the piping every 5 years in order to detect the presence of any corrosive or foreign materials to prevent optimal function.

An in-depth look at piping will determine if a deeper investigation is required. Some areas will necessitate a more frequent inspection such as pipes in dry or preaction systems. The tests look for pooling water, (where trace water is left after an activation) that would make the piping system more susceptible to corrosion.

Non-metallic pipes are an alternative because they are corrosion resistant, however, these pipes can also have clogs and debris running through them that can cause obstructions and blockages.

Many obstructions can be prevented outside routine testing by looking for the following signs:

  • Any foreign material discharged during a test
  • Foreign matter in any check valves, pipe valves, or fire pumps
  • Unknown material detected in the system pipes
  • Plugged sprinklers
  • A failure to flush following repairs or a new installation
  • A record of any broken mains in the area
  • Frequent false tripping of dry pipe valves
  • Raw water sources from the fire department connection
  • The detection of any visual leaks
  • Reduced time water travels to the inspectors’ test connection from a dry pipe valve during a full-flow trip test.

Other indicators to look for would be the presence of rust, any black or off-colored water, or the smell of sulfur should prompt a deeper investigation.

The presence of bio-film also should raise a red flag as microorganisms within the pipes can cause obstructions and blockages as well.

Multiple factors can be attributed to failure and fire loss from improperly maintained fire sprinkler and water systems. Taking into consideration inefficient installation; previous repairs; pipe scale; raw water sources; ice plugs; and calcium carbonate deposits  – various factors contribute to the need for thorough and frequent inspections to mitigate fire loss.

As a property owner, taking a proactive approach is best to keep your fire sprinkler systems in top working order. Here are the dates to remember: 5-3-1 and Extra

  • 5 = NFPA 25’s 5-year internal inspections of pipe (Section 14.2.1.1)
  • 3 = The three-year checks on dry and preaction systems (Section 13.4.5.2.2.2)
  • 1= Annually assessing a sample of sprinklers where hard water is an issue ( Section D.4.5)
  • Extra = Any additional investigations for when certain conditions are observed (Section 14.3.1)

About Allstate Sprinkler

Our family business has developed from a “mom and pop” company into a highly regarded fire protection contractor servicing the New York City Metropolitan area. Our commitment is to assist you with all of your commercial and residential fire protection needs. We have built a reputation on the sound principle of providing professional service and high-quality products to all our customers. Our services include but are not limited to the following: complete installations and alterations of fire sprinkler and standpipe systems, prompt correction of all fire department violations, five-year hydrostatic pressure tests, emergency service, and repairs, fire pump testing and installations, fire extinguisher sales, and service, and all fire safety products and equipment.

Allstate Sprinkler Corp. is a licensed Master Fire sprinkler contractor with the New York City building department. Providing our customers with cost-effective, professional, and reliable service is our priority. We hope that you will enjoy our website and become a part of our family customer base.

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Inspect Test & Repair Fire Sprinklers by NFPA 25 Standards

Inspect, Test, and Repair Fire Sprinklers According to NFPA 25 Standards

From commercial buildings to apartment complexes, many buildings have a fire sprinkler system. The purpose of these systems is to prevent fires from spreading throughout the complex.

Most fire sprinkler systems operate automatically, however, they do require experts to conduct an NFPA 25 inspection to ensure the systems are in working order and will function as designed.

The NFPA 25 inspection requires building owners to monitor several things. These requirements include:

  • inspecting the pipe system gauges
  • ensuring water pressure maintenance
  • inspecting the alarm valves

However, inspecting all of these on your own can be a challenge. Therefore, building owners and managers need companies who can conduct these inspections for them.

So, how can you identify the best company? If you’re not sure, keep reading! We’ll give you tips for this selection in the guide below.

NFPA 25 Fire Code Compliance

The first thing to look for in an NFPA 25 inspection company is specialized training. Theoretically, a building super or firefighter could perform this inspection.

However, a fire sprinkler repair company has the specialized training to meet fire code compliance rules. So, they can ensure your system meets the most updated NFPA guidelines.

Likewise, they can also perform all the complex tests and procedures your building needs to remain compliant. When you look for companies, look for their certifications in this training.

Choose an NFPA 25 Company That Manages Projects Well

A quality inspection company manages its projects well and provides outstanding service to its clients.

When searching for a company, find one that keeps its appointments. Ideally, this company will utilize point software with interactive schedules. This way, both technicians and their headquarters can view the schedule.

Excellent Customer Service

When dealing with your fire sprinklers, you need a company with excellent customer service. This customer service starts with your first contact with this company.

So, pay close attention. Does the company pick up your call and promptly schedule an appointment? Do they quickly respond to your email?

Or, does the company place you on hold interminably? That moment of first contact often tells you everything you need to know about this company’s interactions with its customers.

The thoroughness of NFPA 25 Inspections

As we mentioned above, your NFPA 25 inspection involves more than your sprinkler systems. They also include alarm valves and pipe system gauges, among other things.

When searching for your company, make sure they tackle these other issues. The last thing you want is to discover your system still has deficiencies – even after an inspection is performed.

What’s Their Reputation Like?

Finally, investigate a company’s reputation. What do other building managers and owners say about their services?

There are several ways to find this out. You can ask around to see which company other buildings use for their inspections. You can also explore online reviews to see how people regard their experiences with this inspection team.

Consider Working With Allstate Fire Sprinklers

Following these tips can help you find the best NFPA 25 inspection team. So, use those tips to critique our performance!

We at Allstate Sprinkler take pride in our NFPA 25 expertise. We feel confident that we can keep your system compliant with the best standards.

So, if you don’t have an inspection company, don’t hesitate! Contact us today to request a quote.

Inspect, Test, and Repair Fire Sprinklers According to NFPA 25 Standards

 

About Allstate Sprinkler

Allstate Sprinkler Corp. is a licensed Master Fire sprinkler contractor with the New York City building department. Providing our customers with cost-effective, professional, and reliable service is our priority. We hope that you will enjoy our website and become a part of our family customer base.

Allstate Sprinkler Corp. was founded in 1972 by William and Gladys Goodrich who emigrated from Russia and Poland in search of a better life in America. William, ‘Bill’, learned and mastered the fire protection trade over 5 decades of tremendous learning and effort. Our family business has developed from a “mom and pop” company into a highly regarded fire protection contractor servicing the New York City Metropolitan area. Our commitment is to assist you with all of your commercial and residential fire protection needs. We have built a reputation on the sound principle of providing professional service and high-quality products to all our customers. Allstate Sprinkler Corp. is recognized as one of the most responsive, thorough, and reliable fire sprinkler contractors in the New York City metropolitan area. We are currently licensed and conduct business throughout the -5- boroughs of New York City, Westchester County, Nassau County, Suffolk County, Lower Hudson Valley, and Northern New Jersey. We have also successfully completed large construction projects in Baltimore, Maryland; Albany, New York, and Syracuse, New York.

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FDNY NFPA 25 Adoption: Inspection & Testing Fire Sprinkler Systems

FDNY Adoption of NFPA 25: Inspection and Testing of Fire Sprinkler Systems

Effective January 1, 2012, The Fire Department of New York City adopted The National Fire Protection Association’s Standard #25.  This standard significantly impacts and changes the requirements for inspecting and testing all sprinkler systems in all facilities throughout the five boroughs of New York City. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is a highly trusted, not-for-profit organization that is recognized as a leading information and knowledge resource for fire, electrical, and life safety hazards. NFPA Standard # 25 identifies and governs the inspection, testing, and maintenance requirements of water-based fire sprinkler systems.  The inspection, testing, and maintenance regiment of NFPA 25 will inform property owners and/or their tenants about the readiness and integrity of the fire sprinkler systems throughout their facilities.

The importance of Timely/Regular NFPA 25 inspections:

To ensure that fire sprinkler systems are working and tested properly, NFPA 25 provides a suggested timeline and frequency to perform the specific requirements. It is essential to follow the requirements of monthly, quarterly, and annual inspections and testing. Although the monthly inspection is usually a visual inspection, quarterly and annual frequencies require more thorough and detailed testing requirements.    The inspection requirements vary according to the particular system(s) within a facility and the following paragraphs are summaries based upon the NFPA 25 standard recommendations.

Monthly Visual NFPA 25 Inspections:

Monthly visual inspections standardized by NFPA 25 provide immediate visible confirmation if the sprinkler system is in good, working condition.  The most important tasks to perform during a visual inspection are:  1. Inspection of all control valves only equipped with locks and/or supervised tamper switches. 2. Inspection of all gauges (wet, dry, pre-action, deluge systems) 3. Inspection of all alarm valves 4. Inspection of all dry pipe valves and their heated enclosures 5. Inspection of spare sprinkler heads and spare wrench 6. Inspection of fire department connections. 7. Inspection of the backflow device 8. Inspection of the booster pump and jockey pump The visual inspection acts as a baseline indicator for property owners or building engineers to estimate the functionality of their sprinkler system. NFPA 25 describes this inspection as a visual assessment to make sure that there are no visible problems with the system and it is reliable with no visible, physical damage.

Quarterly Tests and Inspections of:

Quarterly tests and inspections standardized by NFPA 25 include the monthly visual inspection(s) identified above as well as the important tasks identified below:

  1. Examination of the control valves to confirm they meet the following requirements:
  2. The valves must be in their original position, open or closed.
  3. The valves should be correctly secured, protected and monitored
  4. The valves should be accessible and reachable with no external leakage
  5. Alarm valves including the retard chambers and drains should be leak-free.
  6. The valves should show no physical damages
  7. The valves are suitably tagged and identified
  8. Pressure reducing valves are maintaining the downstream pressure as per design criteria.
  9. All wheel handles are in good condition.
  • Examination of all the gauges of the sprinkler and confirm they meet the following requirements:
  • Wet sprinkler systems: Confirm that all gauges are in excellent condition and the pressure from the water supply is also sufficient.
  • Dry Sprinkler systems: Confirm that all gauges are in excellent condition and that there is accurate pressure on the supply side of the dry pipe valve as well as on the quick-opening device, where applicable.
  • Mechanical water-flow alarm devices must be free from any physical damage and tested through the appropriate test connection with alarms actuating and flow being observed.
  • Hydraulic nameplates for calculated systems are securely attached to the riser and legible.
  • Fire department connection(s) are visible, accessible, not damaged with plugs, gaskets in place and in good condition with identifying sign(s) in place and lower check valves are not leaking with automatic ball-drips in place.
  • Post indicating valves need to be opened/closed accordingly.
  • Priming levels and quick opening devices on dry pipe systems are tested accordingly.
  • Main drain tests for systems downstream of backflow devices are performed recording both static and residual pressures.

Annual Test and Inspections:

Annual tests and inspections standardized by NFPA 25 include the monthly and quarterly regiment identified above as well as the important tasks identified below:

  1. Inspection of the hangers, piping and fittings throughout the building where accessible
  2. Confirm that the visible sprinkler heads are free of corrosion, free of physical damage, free of obstruction to the spray pattern and free of foreign materials including paint.
  3. Confirm that there is adequate sprinkler protection throughout the facility where access is granted.
  4. Operate each sprinkler control valve by closing and then restoring it to the fire ready position.
  5. Perform annual dry-pipe trip test for dry systems.
  6. Drain and blow out all low-point drumdrips on dry systems.
  7. Perform full-flow fire pump test(s) (if pumps exist)
  8. Confirm adequate heat is provided, as necessary.
  9. Perform an internal obstruction assessment – every 5th year.
  10. Lastly, examine the water flow in the water supply pipes and check if there is any change in its condition.

Conclusion

Fire sprinkler systems save lives and property!   The regular, timely inspections and testing of such systems as per NFPA 25 will provide building owners, tenants and firefighting personnel the utmost confidence that the sprinkler systems installed throughout the City of New York will function as designed. NFPA 25 is regularly being enforced by the FDNY and in order to avoid any violations, please contact Allstate Sprinkler Corporation to perform these mandated inspections and ensure that you are compliant with the governing laws of New York City.

About Allstate Sprinkler

Allstate Sprinkler Corp. is a licensed Master Fire sprinkler contractor with the New York City building department. Providing our customers with cost-effective, professional, and reliable service is our priority. We hope that you will enjoy our website and become a part of our family customer base.

Allstate Sprinkler Corp. was founded in 1972 by William and Gladys Goodrich who emigrated from Russia and Poland in search of a better life in America. William, ‘Bill’, learned and mastered the fire protection trade over 5 decades of tremendous learning and effort. Our family business has developed from a “mom and pop” company into a highly regarded fire protection contractor servicing the New York City Metropolitan area. Our commitment is to assist you with all of your commercial and residential fire protection needs. We have built a reputation on the sound principle of providing professional service and high-quality products to all our customers. Allstate Sprinkler Corp. is recognized as one of the most responsive, thorough, and reliable fire sprinkler contractors in the New York City metropolitan area. We are currently licensed and conduct business throughout the -5- boroughs of New York City, Westchester County, Nassau County, Suffolk County, Lower Hudson Valley, and Northern New Jersey. We have also successfully completed large construction projects in Baltimore, Maryland; Albany, New York, and Syracuse, New York.