5.1 General.

5.1.1 Minimum Requirements.

5.1.1.1

This chapter shall provide the minimum requirements for the routine inspection, testing, and maintenance of sprinkler systems installed in accordance with NFPA 13 and NFPA 13R or other approved installation standard.

5.1.1.2

Table 5.1.1.2 shall be used to determine the minimum required frequencies for inspection, testing, and maintenance.

5.1.2 Common Components and Valves.

Common components and valves shall be inspected, tested, and maintained in accordance with Chapter 13.

5.1.3 Internal Piping Condition and Obstruction Investigations.

The procedures outlined in Chapter 14 shall be followed where there is a need to conduct an assessment of the internal piping condition or an obstruction investigation.

5.1.4 Impairments.

The procedures outlined in Chapter 15 shall be followed where an impairment to protection occurs.

5.1.5 Hose Connections.

Hose connections shall be inspected, tested, and maintained in accordance with Chapters 6 and 13.

5.2 Inspection.

5.2.1 Sprinklers.

5.2.1.1

Sprinklers shall be inspected from the floor level annually.

5.2.1.1.1

Any sprinkler that shows signs of any of the following shall be replaced:

1.      Leakage

2.      Corrosion detrimental to sprinkler performance

3.      Physical damage

4.      Loss of fluid in the glass bulb heat-responsive element

5.      Loading detrimental to sprinkler performance

6.      Paint, other than that applied by the sprinkler manufacturer, detrimental to sprinkler performance

5.2.1.1.2

Any sprinkler that has been installed in the incorrect orientation shall be corrected by repositioning the branch line, drop, or sprig, or shall be replaced.

5.2.1.1.3

Sprinklers installed in concealed spaces such as above suspended ceilings shall not require inspection.

5.2.1.1.4

Sprinklers installed in areas that are inaccessible for safety considerations due to process operations shall be inspected during each scheduled shutdown.

5.2.1.1.5

Escutcheons and coverplates for recessed, flush, and concealed sprinklers shall be replaced with their listed escutcheon or coverplate if found missing during the inspection.

5.2.1.1.5.1

Where the listed escutcheon or coverplate from a listed assembly is missing and is no longer commercially available, the sprinkler shall be replaced.

5.2.1.1.6

Escutcheons for pendent sprinklers that are not recessed, flush, or concealed shall not be required to be replaced if found missing during the inspection.

5.2.1.1.7 Sprinkler Guards.

5.2.1.1.7.1

Where installed, a sprinkler guard shall be inspected from the floor level annually.

5.2.1.1.7.2

A damaged sprinkler guard shall be replaced with a guard listed for the sprinkler.

5.2.1.2

The minimum clearance to storage as described in 5.2.1.2.1 through 5.2.1.2.6 shall be maintained below all sprinkler deflectors.

5.2.1.2.1

Unless greater distances are required by 5.2.1.2.3, 5.2.1.2.2, or 5.2.1.2.4, or lesser distances are permitted by 5.2.1.2.6, clearance between the deflector and the top of storage shall be 18 in. (457 mm) or greater.

5.2.1.2.2

Clearance between the deflector and the top of storage shall be 36 in. (914 mm) or greater for ESFR and CMSA sprinklers.

5.2.1.2.3

Where standards other than NFPA 13 specify greater clearance to storage minimums, they shall be followed.

5.2.1.2.4

Clearance from the top of storage to sprinkler deflectors shall be 36 in. (914 mm) or greater where rubber tires are stored.

5.2.1.2.5

In-rack sprinklers shall not be required to meet the obstruction criteria and clearance from storage requirements.

5.2.1.2.6

Clearance between the deflector and the top of storage shall be permitted to be less than 18 in. (457 mm) where shown to be permitted by the installation standard.

5.2.1.3

Storage closer to the sprinkler deflector than permitted by the clearance rules of the installation standard described in 5.2.1.2.1 through 5.2.1.2.4 shall be corrected.

5.2.1.4

The supply of spare sprinklers shall be inspected annually for the following:

1.      The correct number and type of sprinklers as required by 5.4.1.6

2.      A sprinkler wrench for each type of sprinkler as required by 5.4.1.6.5

3.      The list of spare sprinklers as required by 5.4.1.6.6

5.2.1.5

Electrically operated sprinklers shall be inspected from the floor level annually in accordance with 5.2.1.1 and the manufacturer’s requirements.

5.2.2 Pipe and Fittings.

Sprinkler pipe and fittings shall be inspected annually from the floor level.

5.2.2.1

Pipe and fittings shall be free of mechanical damage, leakage, and corrosion.

5.2.2.2

Sprinkler piping shall not be used to support non-system components.

5.2.2.3

Pipe and fittings installed in concealed spaces such as above suspended ceilings shall not require inspection.

5.2.2.4

Pipe and fittings installed in areas that are inaccessible for safety considerations due to process operations shall be inspected during each scheduled shutdown.

5.2.3 Hangers, Braces, and Supports.

Sprinkler pipe hangers, braces, and supports shall be inspected annually from the floor level.

5.2.3.1

Hangers, braces, and supports shall not be damaged, loose, or unattached.

5.2.3.2

Hangers, braces, and supports that are damaged, loose, or unattached shall be replaced or refastened.

5.2.3.3

Hangers, braces, and supports installed in concealed spaces such as above suspended ceilings shall not require inspection.

5.2.3.4

Hangers, braces, and supports installed in areas that are inaccessible for safety considerations due to process operations shall be inspected during each scheduled shutdown.

5.2.4 Waterflow Alarm and Supervisory Signal Initiating Device.

Waterflow alarm and supervisory signal initiating devices shall be inspected in accordance with Chapter 13.

5.2.5 Hydraulic Design Information Sign.

The hydraulic design information sign shall be inspected annually to verify that it is provided, attached securely to the sprinkler riser, and is legible.

5.2.5.1

A hydraulic design information sign that is missing or illegible shall be replaced.

5.2.5.2

A pipe schedule system shall have a hydraulic design information sign that reads “Pipe Schedule System.”

5.2.6 Heat Tracing.

Heat tracing shall be inspected and maintained in accordance with manufacturer's requirements.

5.2.7 Information Sign.

The information sign required by 4.1.9 shall be inspected annually to verify that it is provided, securely attached, and legible.

5.2.8 General Information Sign.

The general information sign required by NFPA 13 shall be inspected annually to verify that it is provided, securely attached, and legible.

5.2.9 Antifreeze Information Sign.

The antifreeze information sign required by 4.1.10 shall be inspected annually to verify that it is provided, securely attached, and legible.

5.3 Testing.

5.3.1 Sprinklers.

5.3.1.1

Where required by Section 5.3, sample sprinklers shall be submitted to an approved testing laboratory for field service testing.

5.3.1.1.1

Where sprinklers have been installed for 50 years, one of the following shall occur:

1.      The sprinklers shall be replaced.

2.      Representative samples of the sprinklers shall be tested and then retested every 10 years.

5.3.1.1.1.1

Where sprinklers manufactured using fast-response elements, except for ESFR and CMSA, have been installed for 25 years, one of the following shall occur:

1.      The sprinklers shall be replaced.

2.      Representative samples of the sprinklers shall be tested and then retested every 10 years.

5.3.1.1.1.2

Where ESFR and CMSA sprinklers using fast-response elements have been installed for 20 years, one of the following shall occur:

1.      The sprinklers shall be replaced.

2.      Representative samples of the sprinklers shall be tested and then retested every 10 years.

5.3.1.1.1.3

Where solder-type sprinklers with a temperature classification of extra high [325°F (163°C) or greater] are installed and exposed to semi-continuous to continuous maximum allowable ambient temperature conditions for 5 years, one of the following shall occur:

1.      The sprinklers shall be replaced.

2.      Representative samples of the sprinklers shall be tested and then retested every 5 years.

5.3.1.1.1.4

Where sprinklers have been manufactured in 1920 and later and have been installed for 75 years, one of the following shall occur:

1.      The sprinklers shall be replaced.

2.      Representative samples of the sprinklers shall be tested and then retested every 5 years.

5.3.1.1.1.5

Where dry sprinklers have been installed for 20 years, one of the following shall occur:

1.      The sprinklers shall be replaced.

2.      Representative samples of the sprinklers shall be tested and then retested every 10 years. (See 3.3.41.4, Dry Sprinkler.)

5.3.1.1.2

Where sprinklers exposed to harsh environments, including corrosive atmospheres, have been installed for 5 years, one of the following shall occur:

1.      The sprinklers shall be replaced.

2.      Representative samples of the sprinklers shall be tested and then retested every 5 years.

5.3.1.1.3

Listed corrosion-resistant sprinklers installed in harsh environments shall be permitted to be tested every 10 years and then retested every 5 years.

5.3.1.1.4

Where historical data indicate, longer intervals between testing shall be permitted.

5.3.1.2

A representative sample of sprinklers for testing in accordance with 5.3.1.1 shall consist of either a minimum of four sprinklers or 1 percent of the number of sprinklers per sample area, whichever is greater.

5.3.1.2.1

Each sprinkler type and manufacturer in the sample area shall be represented in the sample.

5.3.1.2.2

Sprinklers tested shall not include any sprinklers that were replaced at prior testing intervals.

5.3.1.3

Where one sprinkler within a representative sample fails to meet the test requirement, all sprinklers within the area represented by that sample shall be replaced.

5.3.2 Electrically Operated Sprinklers.

5.3.2.1

Electrically operated sprinklers shall be tested in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements.

5.3.2.2

The testing of the electronic actuation and supervision shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements and NFPA 72 or the local fire alarm code.

5.3.3 Waterflow Alarm and Supervisory Signal Initiating Devices.

Waterflow alarm and supervisory signal initiating devices shall be tested in accordance with Chapter 13.

5.3.4 Antifreeze Systems.

Annually, toward the beginning of the heating season prior to the onset of freezing conditions, the antifreeze solution shall be tested using the following procedure:

1.      The antifreeze information sign required by 4.1.10, installation records, maintenance records, information from the owner, chemical tests, or other reliable sources of information shall be used to determine the type of antifreeze in the system and whether implementing 5.3.4(1)(a) or 5.3.4(1)(b) is necessary:

a.      If the antifreeze is a type that is no longer permitted, the system shall be drained completely and refilled with a listed solution or an acceptable solution in accordance with 5.3.4.4.

b.     If the type of antifreeze cannot be reliably determined, the system shall be drained completely and refilled with a listed solution or an acceptable solution in accordance with 5.3.4.4.

2.      If the antifreeze is not replaced in accordance with 5.3.4(1)(a) or 5.3.4(1)(b), test samples shall be taken at the top and the bottom of each system as follows:

a.      If the most remote portion of the system is not near the top or the bottom of the system, an additional sample shall be taken at the most remote portion.

b.     If the connection to the water supply piping is not near the top or the bottom of the system, an additional sample shall be taken at the connection to the water supply.

3.      The specific gravity of each solution shall be checked using a hydrometer with a suitable scale or a refractometer having a scale calibrated for the antifreeze solution.

4.      If any of the samples exhibit values outside of the allowable range, the system shall be drained completely and refilled with a listed solution or an acceptable solution in accordance with 5.3.4.4.

5.      If a concentration greater than that permitted by 5.3.4.4 was necessary to keep the fluid from freezing, alternative methods for preventing the pipe from freezing shall be employed.

5.3.4.1

The antifreeze solution shall be tested at its most remote portion and where it interfaces with the wet pipe system.

5.3.4.2

Where antifreeze systems have a capacity larger than 150 gal (568 L), tests at one additional point for every 100 gal (379 L) shall be conducted.

5.3.4.2.1

If the results indicate an incorrect freeze point anywhere in the system, the system shall be drained completely and refilled with a listed solution or an acceptable solution in accordance with 5.3.4.4.

5.3.4.2.2

For listed solutions, the manufacturer’s instructions shall be used regarding the number of test points and the refill procedure.

5.3.4.3

The use of antifreeze solutions shall conform with state and local health regulations.

5.3.4.3.1

Listed CPVC sprinkler pipe and fittings shall be protected from freezing with a listed solution or a glycerine solution in accordance with 5.3.4.4.

5.3.4.3.1.1

The use of diethylene, ethylene, or propylene glycols shall be specifically prohibited.

5.3.4.4

Except as permitted by 5.3.4.4.2 and 5.3.4.4.3, all antifreeze systems shall utilize listed antifreeze solutions.

5.3.4.4.1

Where used to replace non-listed antifreeze solutions, listed antifreeze solutions shall be permitted to be used outside their listing limitations, provided the temperature range limitations are not exceeded.

5.3.4.4.2

An existing antifreeze solution shall be permitted to remain in a system, provided the concentration of the factory premixed antifreeze solution is limited to 30 percent propylene glycol by volume or 38 percent glycerine by volume.

5.3.4.4.3

Premixed antifreeze solutions of propylene glycol exceeding 30 percent concentration by volume shall be permitted for use with ESFR sprinklers, provided the ESFR sprinklers are listed for such use in a specific application.

5.4 Maintenance.

5.4.1 Sprinklers.

5.4.1.1 Replacement Sprinklers.

Sprinklers with any of the following qualifications shall be replaced:

1.      Sprinklers manufactured prior to 1920.

2.      Sprinklers showing signs described in 5.2.1.1.1.

3.      Sprinklers with unsatisfactory performance when tested in accordance with 5.3.1.

4.      Sprinklers affected by a fire as determined by the AHJ.

5.4.1.2

Where a threaded sprinkler has been removed from a fitting or welded outlet for any reason, the sprinkler shall not be reinstalled.

5.4.1.2.1

Dry sprinklers shall be permitted to be reinstalled when removed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation and maintenance instructions.

5.4.1.2.2

A sprinkler shall be permitted to be reinstalled where the sprinkler being removed remains attached to the original fitting or welded outlet or can be removed by a grooved connection, provided that care is taken to ensure the sprinkler is not damaged.

5.4.1.2.3

Sprinklers listed for use with a specifically listed fitting shall be permitted to be reinstalled in accordance with the manufacturer's installation and maintenance instructions.

5.4.1.3

Replacement sprinklers shall have the proper characteristics for the application intended, which include the following:

1.      Style

2.      Orifice size and K-factor

3.      Temperature rating

4.      Coating, if any

5.      Deflector type (e.g., upright, pendent, sidewall)

6.      Design requirements

5.4.1.3.1

Spray sprinklers shall be permitted to replace old-style sprinklers.

5.4.1.3.2

Where replacing residential sprinklers manufactured prior to 2003 that are no longer available from the manufacturer and are installed using a design density less than 0.05 gpm/ft2 (204 mm/min), a residential sprinkler with an equivalent K-factor (± 5 percent) shall be permitted to be used provided the currently listed coverage area for the replacement sprinkler is not exceeded.

5.4.1.3.3

Replacement sprinklers for piers and wharves shall comply with NFPA 307.

5.4.1.4

Only new, listed sprinklers shall be used to replace existing sprinklers.

5.4.1.5

Special and quick-response sprinklers as defined by NFPA 13 shall be replaced with sprinklers of the same orifice, size, temperature range and thermal response characteristics, and K-factor.

5.4.1.6

A supply of at least six spare sprinklers shall be maintained on the premises so that any sprinklers that have operated or been damaged in any way can be promptly replaced.

5.4.1.6.1

The sprinklers shall correspond to the types and temperature ratings of the sprinklers in the property.

5.4.1.6.2

The stock of spare sprinklers shall be kept in a cabinet located where the temperature to which they are subjected will at no time exceed the maximum ceiling temperatures specified in Table 5.4.1.6.2 for each of the sprinklers within the cabinet.

5.4.1.6.3

Where dry sprinklers of different lengths are installed, spare dry sprinklers shall not be required, provided that a means of returning the system to service is furnished.

5.4.1.6.4

The number of spare sprinklers in the cabinet shall be based on the number of sprinklers in the protected facility as follows:

1.      For protected facilities having under 300 sprinklers — no fewer than 6 sprinklers

2.      For protected facilities having 300 to 1000 sprinklers — no fewer than 12 sprinklers

3.      For protected facilities having over 1000 sprinklers — no fewer than 24 sprinklers

5.4.1.6.5

One sprinkler wrench as specified by the sprinkler manufacturer shall be provided in the cabinet for each type of sprinkler installed to be used for the removal and installation of sprinklers in the system.

5.4.1.6.6

A list of the sprinklers installed in the property shall be posted in the sprinkler cabinet.

5.4.1.6.6.1

The list shall include the following:

1.      Sprinkler identification number (SIN) if equipped; or the manufacturer, model, orifice, deflector type, thermal sensitivity, and pressure rating

2.      General description

3.      Quantity of each type to be contained in the cabinet

4.      Issue or revision date of the list

5.4.1.7

Sprinklers shall not be altered in any respect or have any type of ornamentation, paint, or coatings applied after shipment from the place of manufacture.

5.4.1.8

Sprinklers and automatic spray nozzles used for protecting commercial-type cooking equipment and ventilating systems shall be replaced annually.

5.4.1.8.1

Where automatic bulb-type sprinklers or spray nozzles are used and annual examination shows no buildup of grease or other material on the sprinklers or spray nozzles, such sprinklers and spray nozzles shall not be required to be replaced.

5.4.1.9

Electrically operated sprinklers shall be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements.

5.4.1.10 Protective Coverings.

5.4.1.10.1

Sprinklers protecting spray areas and mixing rooms in resin application areas installed with protective coverings shall continue to be protected against overspray residue so that they will operate in the event of fire.

5.4.1.10.2

Sprinklers installed as described in 5.4.1.10.1 shall be protected using cellophane bags having a thickness of 0.003 in. (0.076 mm) or less or thin paper bags.

5.4.1.10.3

Coverings shall be replaced periodically so that heavy deposits of residue do not accumulate.

5.4.2 Dry Pipe Systems.

Dry pipe systems shall be kept dry at all times.

5.4.2.1

During nonfreezing weather, a dry pipe system shall be permitted to be left wet if the only other option is to remove the system from service while waiting for parts or during repair activities.

5.4.2.2

Refrigerated spaces or other areas within the building interior where temperatures are maintained at or below 40°F (4°C) shall not be permitted to be left wet.

5.4.2.3

Air driers shall be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

5.4.2.4

Compressors used in conjunction with dry pipe sprinkler systems shall be inspected, tested, and maintained in accordance with Chapter 13 and the manufacturer’s instructions.

5.4.3 Wet Pipe Systems. (Reserved)

5.4.4 Marine Systems.

Sprinkler systems that are normally maintained using fresh water as a source shall be drained and refilled, then drained and refilled again with fresh water following the introduction of raw water into the system.

5.5 Component Action Requirements.

5.5.1

Whenever a component in a sprinkler system is adjusted, repaired, reconditioned, or replaced, the actions required in Table 5.5.1 shall be performed.

5.5.2

Where the original installation standard is different from the cited standard, the use of the appropriate installing standard shall be permitted.

5.5.3

These actions shall not require a design review, which is outside the scope of this standard.