Most commercial properties have sprinkler systems in place to protect your property against fire. Hopefully, you never needed it, but when you do, you expect them to work efficiently.
If your fire sprinkler system hasn’t had a proper maintenance inspection during the past 5 years, chances are that it may not function properly. Unseen rust, internal corrosion, slime build-up or other foreign objects may prevent your sprinkler system from performing optimally. If a 5-Year Inspection isn’t performed correctly, it can occur extensive property damage or loss of life.
That is why it’s critical to have a 5-Year Internal Piping Condition and Obstruction Inspection done, which is also required by the fire codes of SABS. All fire sprinkler systems have several similar components that require a 5-Year fire sprinkler system inspection, testing, and maintenance.
What is the aim of the 5-Year Inspection?
A 5-Year Inspection is crucial to ensure that there are no blockages in the piping that would prevent the free flow of water through the piping when needed in the event of a fire.
This inspection will identify possible internal obstructions or problems that exist or are developing in the sprinkler piping. Some examples include:
- Rust
- Slime
- Sludge
- Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion (MIC)
- Other foreign organic or inorganic materials
What does a 5-Year Internal Piping Condition and Obstruction Inspection entail?
The inspection will include an initial assessment, opening the flushing connection at one of the primary ends, and removing a sprinkler tower from one end of a branch line. If any foreign object or material is obstructing the piping or sprinklers, a comprehensive investigation will be necessary.
This investigation includes a minimum of four points in the fire sprinkler system that will be inspected:
- System valve
- Riser
- Cross main
- Branch line
If obstructions are found, a complete flushing program will be conducted to remove all foreign materials from the piping.
At Fest Fire Security, we understand the importance of the SABS standards. We provide comprehensive fire sprinkler system inspections, testing, maintenance, and repairs to help you avoid an impaired system at the most critical moments during a fire.
Make sure that you are #KickingAsh and contact us at fireafrica@fest.co.za for a maintenance inspection.
