The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 25 Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems is a comprehensive guideline designed to ensure the operational integrity, efficiency, and safety of water-based fire protection systems. This document outlines the requirements for the proper inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) of these systems to ensure they function effectively in the event of a fire. Here's an overview of the ITM activities specified in NFPA 25 for wet and dry systems, pre-action systems, and fire pumps including the frequencies for weekly, monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, annual, 3-year, and 5-year services, as well as specifics on sprinkler head testing and replacement.
Wet Pipe Systems
Weekly/Monthly
- Gauges: Weekly for dry, preaction, and deluge systems; monthly for wet pipe systems. Check that all gauges are in good condition and show normal water pressure.
Quarterly
- Valves: Inspect valve components and supervisory alarm devices for proper operation.
- Hydraulic nameplate: Ensure it's securely attached and legible.
Semi-Annual
- Vane and pressure switch type devices: Test mechanical devices for proper operation.
Annual
- Sprinkler Heads: Inspect for physical damage, corrosion, leakage, and paint (other than factory applied) which could affect performance.
- Piping and Hangers: Inspect for signs of leaks, corrosion, and proper support.
- Fire Department Connections: Inspect for visibility, accessibility, caps, and damage.
- Valves: Full flow test of all alarm valves.
- Antifreeze Solution: For systems containing antifreeze, test the concentration.
- Water Flow Alarm Devices: Test mechanical water flow devices for proper operation and alarm signaling.
- Fire Pump Test: If applicable, perform full flow test.
3-Year
- Obstruction Investigation: Every 5 years for dry pipe systems and every 10 years for wet pipe systems unless conditions warrant a more frequent investigation.
5-Year
- Internal Pipe Inspection: Inspect for the presence of foreign organic and inorganic material.
- Standpipe Hose Connections: Inspect hose connections for damage or obstruction.
Dry Pipe Systems
Includes all the requirements for wet systems, with the following additions or modifications:
Quarterly
- Control Valves: Inspect all control valves for proper position.
Annual
- Dry Pipe Valve: Full flow trip test of dry pipe valves to ensure they operate as expected.
- Low-Pressure Alarm: Verify low-pressure alarms are functional.
- Quick-Opening Device: If present, test for proper operation.
Sprinkler Head Testing and Replacement
Testing
- Sprinkler heads must be tested or replaced per NFPA 25 requirements. The testing frequency varies based on the type of sprinkler:
- Standard response sprinklers: 50 years and every 10 years thereafter.
- Fast response sprinklers: 20 years and every 10 years thereafter.
- Dry sprinklers: 10 years and every 10 years thereafter.
Replacement
- Sprinklers should be replaced if they are found to be damaged, painted over, corroded, or if they have been loaded with dust or grease that cannot be removed by light brushing or vacuuming. Additionally, any sprinkler that has been exposed to a fire must be replaced.
Pre-Action Systems
Pre-action systems combine elements of both wet and dry systems, using a pre-action valve to control water flow into the piping, which is initiated by a separate fire detection system.
Weekly/Monthly
- Gauges: Weekly inspection is recommended to check that all gauges are in good condition and reflect normal pressures.
Quarterly
- Control Valves: Inspect all control valves for proper position and condition.
- Electric Supervisory Signals: Test supervisory signal devices to ensure they are operational.
Semi-Annual
- Vane and Pressure Switch Devices: Test for proper operation.
- Low-Point Drains (for Dry-Pipe Portions): Conduct a drain test to check for moisture accumulation.
Annual
- Pre-Action Valve: Conduct a full trip test to verify proper operation, including the opening of the pre-action valve and the flow of water to the system.
- Detector Sensitivity Test: Test the sensitivity of the fire detection system that activates the pre-action valve.
- Sprinkler Heads and Piping: Inspect for physical damage, corrosion, and proper alignment. Ensure that sprinklers are free from obstructions.
- Fire Department Connections: Check for visibility, accessibility, and proper caps.
Every 5 Years
- Internal Pipe Inspection: Inspect internal conditions for signs of obstruction or deterioration.
- Obstruction Investigation: Conduct a thorough investigation for signs of obstruction in pipes and sprinklers.
Fire Pumps
Fire pumps are critical components in many fire protection systems, providing the required water pressure and flow in situations where local municipal systems cannot meet the demands.
Weekly
- Fire Pump Running Test: Diesel-driven pumps should be run for 30 minutes, and electric-driven pumps for 10 minutes, checking for proper operation and any abnormal noises or vibrations.
Monthly
- Fire Pump Test: Conduct a no-flow (churn) test, checking pump pressure and operational status.
- Suction and Discharge Pressure Gauges: Inspect gauges for proper operation.
Annual
- Full Flow Test: Perform a full flow performance test to verify the pump’s pressure and flow rate against its rated capacity.
- Controller Test: Test the fire pump controller to ensure it starts the pump automatically.
- Pressure Relief Valves: Test pressure relief valves to ensure they function within their specified ranges.
Every 3 Years
- Diesel Fuel Testing: For diesel-driven pumps, test the fuel for degradation and contamination to ensure the reliability of the pump.
Every 5 Years
- Internal Inspection of Pump: Inspect the internal components of the pump for signs of wear or damage.
- Flow Test Backflow Preventers: Conduct a forward flow test for the main drain to verify the proper operation of backflow preventers.