Figure 4: Example of a
system for tracking
calibration of pressure
gauges
INTERNATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION 69
O
wners, property managers, insurance com-
panies, and maintenance contractors are
all stake holders in protecting life and
property. Each can be subjected to undue risk if
improper testing and/or maintenance are found to
contribute to fire damages caused by an under-
performing sprinkler system. Good engineering
practices are discussed for the management of
change of the water supply conditions and the
evaluation of water supplies for automatic,
wet-pipe, water-based fire sprinkler systems.
Background
Understanding the underlying principles of fire
protection system design reveals the importance of
conducting proper sprinkler system main drain
tests. The National Fire Protection Association
(NFPA), an international consensus code develop-
ment organization, publishes standards to address
the minimum requirements for the installation of
automatic fire sprinkler systems. NFPA 13, Stan-
dard for the Installation of Automatic Sprinkler
Systems, is an industry recognized reference
which is commonly adopted for enforcement
of fire sprinkler system installation by local
authorities.
The occupancy hazard fire control approach
contained within NFPA 13 assumes a fire involving
a particular fuel class and load will grow at a pre-
determined rate and intensity (e.g. light, ordinary,
By Neil P. Wu, P.E.
Managing Change
of Fire Sprinkler
System Water
Supplies
Building codes commonly require sprinkler systems for life safety and property
protection in new construction and existing structures. Degradation of the water
supply or impairment to a sprinkler system can have catastrophic consequences.
Periodic inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) of the sprinkler system is an
essential, often mandated, and expected preventive measure to promote proper
operation of a sprinkler system. Citations and fines may be issued for failing to
properly inspect and maintain critical fire protection systems. In extreme cases,
unexpected business interruption may result if unsafe conditions persist.
SPRINKLER TECHNOLOGY

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