Avoiding FDNY Violations and Fines in NYC Hospitals

It’s essential that fire sprinkler systems in your buildings are fully functional in the event of a fire. However, you may not be aware of any deficiencies before it’s too  late. The FDNY routinely performs tests, and will issue notices of violation if any concerns are found. These violations must be addressed, they are not merely a recommendation. The safety of your building staff, customers, and other patrons who visit your business is important. In the case of a fire, your fire sprinkler system will help buy time to suppress the fire until the fire department arrives.

If you’re looking for ways to keep your building’s fire sprinklers working, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we are going over the importance of fire sprinkler inspections and how to avoid FDNY violations.

Common Fire Sprinkler Issues

Fire sprinklers are the first line of defense when it comes to a building fire. Fire sprinklers aren’t fail-proof. They’ll need fire sprinkler inspections annually to make sure they are in good working order. Here are common sprinkler failures.

Overheating and Freezing

Be sure to recognize the optimal placement of your sprinkler heads. If they are placed near an area where overheating may occur, there’s a chance they can malfunction.

As we know as New Yorker’s, our area experiences extreme freezing conditions. Water in the pipes of a fire sprinkler system has been known to freeze. It is detrimental to treat your system with antifreeze or insulation, so this does not occur.

Human Error

Human error is the most common issue with fire sprinkler systems. Most people think the pipes are indestructible and need little to no maintenance. Often, people use the lines to hang heavy objects, which damage the pipes and compromise the sprinkler system.

Poor Installation

One of the most common fire sprinkler problems is due to poor installation. The lack of a structured review process can make for a poorly performing fire sprinkler system. Be sure to consult with a professional when considering your system.

Relying on a trusted business to do the installation process is necessary to ensure the safety of your business and guests.

Mechanical Damage

Often, when not checked, specific mechanisms can fail. This could be from loose springs or other faulty parts. This damage could cause valves to close, which can leave you needing fire sprinkler repair.

Corrosion

Water is the main component in a fire sprinkler system. Corrosion to the pipe’s mechanical parts can cause leaks, breaks in the pipe which can cause damage to your property. This makes corrosion a common problem you might have to deal with.

It is essential to make sure a professional comes out to inspect your pipes to prevent disaster.

Sprinkler System Inspection

After reading these common points of failure, it’s crucial to have professional fire sprinkler inspections done annually. Whether residential or commercial, all sprinkler facilities in NYC are required by FDNY regulations to be inspected.

Here at Allstate Sprinkler, we can provide you with all the necessary information regarding sprinkler inspection, installation regulations questions you may have. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.