Chapter 4: Fire Protection Systems

Chapter 4: Fire Protection Systems Automatic Extinguishing Systems (Fire Sprinklers) One of the most important aspects of a storage warehouse inspection is ensuring that the automatic extinguishing system is operating properly and continues to provide protection based on the current needs of the processes involved. As an inspector, you will follow the system from the pipes leaving the ground to the last sprinkler head. Along the way, you will visualize all of the components. Are they present and operating properly? Nothing is obstructing the delivery of water in the event of fire and that all required, periodic maintenance and testing has been performed. Spare sprinkler head box Fire alarm flow switch AES (Automatic Extinguishing System) service label Sprinkler calculation plate Riser control valve Tamper switch wiring tied to alarm system 2008 LACFC 903.2.8 Group S-1: An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group S-1 occupancy where one of the following conditions exists: 1. A Group S-1 fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet; 2. A Group S-1 fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane; or 3. The combined area of all Group S-1 fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet. 4-1

2008 LACFC 903.4 Sprinkler system monitoring and alarms: All valves controlling the water supply for automatic sprinkler systems, pumps, tanks, water levels and temperatures, critical air pressures, and water-flow switches on all sprinkler systems shall be electrically supervised. (EXCEPTIONS) Control valve supervisory signal device In this image the valves are monitored by a fire alarm. These tamper switches are an indicating type. When the yellow dial/ paddle is positioned inline, the valve is open. Vol 7-C1-S7 All control valves shall be locked in the open position, with a non-case-hardened lock Control valve Control Valve Supervisory Signal-Initiating Device. Each sprinkler riser shall have a readily visible, accessible above grade exterior indicating control valve 2002 NFPA 72 5.13.1.1 Two separate and distinct signals shall be initiated: one indicating movement of the valve from its normal position (off-normal) and the other indicating restoration of the valve to its normal position If the indicator was positioned horizontal in this situation the valve would be shut. The valves are installed to allow servicing to portions of the sprinkler system without shutting down the entire system. When the valve is shut the fire alarm signals a supervisory alarm. 4-2 Indicator in the open position at this time. 2002 NFPA 72 5.13.1.2 The off-normal signal shall be initiated during the first two revolutions of the hand wheel or during one-fifth of the travel distance of the valve control apparatus from its normal position.

Riser water flow alarm switch A water flow switch is installed in the fire sprinkler riser, when the sprinkler system activates, the water movement in the riser pushes the paddle upwards and activates the alarm. Water flow pushes the paddle upwards, activating the water flow alarm. 2002 NFPA 25 5.3.3.3* Testing the water-flow alarms on wet pipe systems shall be accomplished by opening the inspector s test connection. (Not the main drain valve.) 2008 LACFC 903.4.2 Alarms: Approved audible devices shall be connected to every automatic sprinkler system. Such sprinkler water-flow alarm devices shall be activated by water flow equivalent to the flow of a single sprinkler of the smallest orifice size installed in the system. Alarm devices shall be provided on the exterior of the building in an approved location. A single approved audible/visual sprinkler flow alarm shall be provided in the interior of the building in a normally occupied location. Where a fire alarm system is installed, actuation of the automatic sprinkler system shall actuate the building fire alarm system. This cut out of pipe (cookie/coupon) is left there to show the inspectors a hole was cut out to fit the flow switch paddle in the riser. 4-3 The water flow switch sends a signal to the FACP. The fire alarm will sound and the outside water gong shall ring within 90 secs per NFPA 72, 5.10.2. NFPA 13, 6.9.1 states an audible alarm shall sound on premises within 5 minutes of water flow.

2002 NFPA 72 10.1.1 The inspection, testing, and maintenance of fire alarm systems, their initiating devices, and notification appliances shall comply with the requirements of this chapter. Missing sign indicating call 911 if bell is ringing. 2002 NFPA 72 5.10.2* Initiation of the alarm signal shall occur within 90 seconds of waterflow at the alarm-initiating device when flow occurs that is equal to or greater than that from a single sprinkler of the smallest orifice size installed in the system. Water flow alarm (outside ringer, water motor-gong) indicates water is flowing from this riser. This alarm is not intended to be an evacuation alarm. The primary purpose is the notification of people outside the building that water is flowing. It also serves as an alerting device for the incoming firefighters as to which system is activated. 2008 LACFC 901.6 Inspection, testing and maintenance: Fire detection, alarm and extinguishing systems shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times, and shall be replaced or repaired where defective. Non-required fire protection systems and equipment shall be inspected, tested and maintained or removed. Both images below show problems with the water flow switch the image on the left is having electrical wiring issues and the flow switch on the right has been removed. Damaged/inoperable flow switch wiring Missing flow switch. 4-4

2002 NFPA 25 5.3.2* Gauges. Gauges shall be replaced every 5 years or tested every 5 years by comparison with a calibrated gauge. Gauges not accurate to within 3 percent of the full scale shall be recalibrated or replaced. 2002 NFPA 13 7.1.1.2 Pressure gauges shall be installed above and below each alarm check valve or system riser check valve where such devices are present. 2002 NFPA 13 8.16.3.3 The required pressure gauges shall be listed and shall have a maximum limit not less than twice the normal system working pressure at the point where installed. 2002 NFPA 13 6.2.9.1* A supply of at least six spare sprinklers (never fewer than six) shall be maintained on the premises so that any sprinklers that have operated or been damaged in any way can be promptly replaced. 2002 NFPA 13 6.2.9.2 The sprinklers shall correspond to the types and temperature ratings of the sprinklers in the property. 2002 NFPA 13 6.2.9.6 A special sprinkler wrench shall be provided and kept in the cabinet to be used in the removal and installation of sprinklers. One sprinkler wrench shall be provided for each type of sprinkler installed. 4-5

2008 LACFC 901.6.2 Records: Records of all system inspections, tests and maintenance required by the referenced standards shall be maintained on the premises for a minimum of three years and shall be copied to the fire code official upon request. Example of currently accepted label AES service tag. Sprinkler calculation plate Accurate, up-to-date records are required to document the history of the system inspection, testing and maintenance. Record keeping is not intended simply to prove to the fire inspector that the required inspections, testing and maintenance are being performed, but also to assist the owner or his agent in performing these functions. A well -kept log helps an owner or technician determine how the system is performing over time. California CCR, Title 19 Article 6 When service or testing and maintenance is performed, the initial date of service or testing and maintenance, the printed name and signature of the person performing or supervising the servicing shall be placed on the tag or label. A hole shall be clearly punched in the appropriate boxes. No person shall remove a tag or label from or place a tag or label on an automatic fire extinguishing system except when service or testing and maintenance is performed. No person shall deface, modify, or alter any tag or label attached to or required to be attached to any automatic fire extinguishing system. The label or tag conforming to this section shall be securely attached to each automatic fire extinguishing system at the time of service or testing and maintenance. The label or tag approved by the Office of the State Fire Marshal shall be affixed to a system only after all deficiencies have been corrected. 4-6

2002 NFPA 25 5.2.1.1.1 : Sprinklers shall not show signs of leakage; shall be free of corrosion, foreign materials, paint, and physical damage; and shall be installed in the proper orientation (e.g., upright, pendent, or sidewall). In this image the sprinkler head has been painted. This sprinkler head shall be replaced. 2002 NFPA 25 5.2.1.1.2: Any sprinkler shall be replaced that has signs of leakage; is painted, corroded, damaged, or loaded; or in the improper orientation. 2002 NFPA 25 5.3.1.1.1: Where sprinklers have been in service for 50 years, they shall be replaced or representative samples from one or more sample areas shall be tested. Test procedures shall be repeated at 10-year intervals. This image the drywall has been installed over the sprinkler head. Repair or replace sprinkler head. 4-7

2008 LACFC 903.3.1.1 NFPA 13 sprinkler systems: Where the provisions of this code require that a building or portion thereof be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with this section, sprinklers shall be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13 except as provided in Section 903.3.1.1.1. If you notice an interior structure with a ceiling, note if there is any piping leading to the room. In this case, there is none. This image is an example of unpermitted construction the occupants built a showroom in the warehouse and did not submit plans or obtain approval for the construction. 2008 LACFC 901.4 Installation: Fire protection systems shall be maintained in accordance with the original installation standards for that system. Required systems shall be extended, altered, or augmented as necessary to maintain and continue protection whenever the building is altered, remodeled or added to. Alterations to fire protection systems shall be done in accordance with applicable standards. This image shows the inside of the showroom. Notice the lack of sprinkler protection in the ceiling. 4-8

Vol. 7-C1-S-7 When sprinkler protection is required in a structure, sprinklers shall be provided throughout 100% of the structure. No piping indicates not sprinklered. The images on this page are common violations. This warehouse bathroom was constructed without permits and without sprinklers. Vol. 7-C1-S-7 Sprinkler protection shall be installed in any area where an obstruction from the overhead protection, exceeding four feet by four feet is created (length and width) for standard sprinklers. It is important to open every door while doing an inspection. in this image we see a storage closet under the stairs. This is a sprinklered building and this area should be sprinklered. 4-9

2008 LACFC 903.3.3 Obstructed locations: Automatic sprinklers shall be installed with due regard to obstructions that will delay activation or obstruct the water distribution pattern. Automatic sprinklers shall be installed in or under covered kiosks, displays, booths, concession stands, or equipment that exceeds 4 feet in width. Not less than a 3-foot clearance shall be maintained between automatic sprinklers and the top of piles of combustible fibers. Should the simulator be sprinklered? In the example shown here, the plane (simulator) is used for training. Many different types of training are conducted here. From emergency water landings to flight attendant food service, with a fully functioning galley. The simulator is wider than 4 feet and the building is sprinklered. In the images below, these trailers have been parked under a sprinklered area of the building. Because the trailers are permanently parked, used as storage rooms and being attached to the building, should they be sprinklered? If unable to answer yourself, further research or consultation with either building and safety or your chain of command is needed. Sealed to building and apparently permanent Note, no piping 4-10

2008 LACFC 901.7 Systems out of service: Where a required fire protection system is out of service, the fire department and the fire code official shall be notified immediately and, where required by the fire code official, the building shall either be evacuated or approved standby personnel shall be provided for all occupants left unprotected until the fire protection system has been returned to service. When utilized, standby personnel shall be provided with at least one approved means for notification of the fire department and their only duty shall be to perform constant patrols of the protected premises and keep watch for fires. Paddle on valve indicating closed In this example the fire sprinkler system was taken out of service for repair without informing the fire department. The inspector found the system out of service while on an annual inspection. 2008 LACFC 901.7.1 Impairment coordinator: The building owner shall assign an impairment coordinator to comply with the requirements of this section. In the absence of a specific designee, the owner shall be considered the impairment coordinator. 2008 LACFC 901.7.4 Preplanned impairment programs: Preplanned impairments shall be authorized by the impairment coordinator. Before authorization is given, a designated individual shall be responsible for verifying that all of the following procedures have been implemented: 1. The extent and expected duration of the impairment have been determined. 2. The areas or buildings involved have been inspected and the increased risks determined. 3. Recommendations have been submitted to management or building owner/manager. 4. The fire department has been notified. 5. The insurance carrier, the alarm company, building owner/manager, and other authorities having jurisdiction have been notified. 6. The supervisors in the areas to be affected have been notified. 7. A tag impairment system has been implemented. 8. Necessary tools and materials have been assembled on the impairment site. These procedures must be followed whenever systems are purposely impaired, such as for routine sprinkler system alarm testing. 4-11

FIRE WATCH This Department shall set forth the requirements of a fire watch when a building or premises presents a hazard to life or property as a result of a fire or emergency, or when it is determined that any fire protection equipment or system is inoperable, defective, or has been taken out of service, or when determined by the Chief. 2008 LACFC 901.7.2 Tag required: A tag shall be used to indicate that a system, or portion thereof, has been removed from service. Fire Watch: The assignment of a qualified person or persons having the sole responsibility for the continuous patrol of a building or premises for the purpose of detecting fires and transmitting an immediate alarm to the building occupants and Fire Department. When any fire protection system is taken out of service it must be clearly identified with a visible tag that indicates the conditions of the impairment. Proper notification of responsible parties eliminates the chance of false alarms, reduces disruption of normal business activities and encourages quick resumption of normal operations. 4-12

2008 LACFC 913.2 Protection against interruption of service: The fire pump, driver, and controller shall be protected in accordance with NFPA 20 against possible interruption of service through damage caused by explosion, fire, flood, earthquake, rodents, insects, windstorm, freezing, vandalism and other adverse conditions. Fire pump 2008 LACFC 913.5 Testing and maintenance: Fire pumps shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the requirements of this section and Title 19 California Code of Regulations, Chapter 5. 2008 LACFC 913.4 Valve supervision: Where provided, the fire pump suction, discharge and bypass valves, and the isolation valves on the backflow prevention device or assembly shall be supervised open by one of the following methods. 1. Central-station, proprietary or remote-station signaling service. 2. Local signaling service that will cause the sounding of an audible signal at a constantly attended location. 3. Locking valves open. 4. Sealing of valves and approved weekly recorded inspection where valves are located within fenced enclosures under the control of the owner. 2008 LACFC 913.5.4 Pump room environmental conditions: Tests of pump room environmental conditions, including heating, ventilation and illumination shall be made to ensure proper manual or automatic operation of the associated equipment. Fire pump room 2002 NFPA 25 4.3.1* Records of inspections, tests, and maintenance of the system and its components shall be made available to the authority having jurisdiction upon request. Remove flammable and combustible liquids. In this example the occupants were storing flammable and combustible liquids in the pump room. 4-13

Fire Alarm/Monitoring 2008 LACFC 907.1 General: This section covers the application, installation, performance and maintenance of fire alarm systems and their components in new and existing buildings and structures. The requirements of Section 907.2 are applicable to new buildings and structures. The requirements of Section 907.3 are applicable to existing buildings and structures. Alarm information needed during an emergency Alarm monitoring company name and number. Green light ONLY Electrical circuit number and location. Vol7-C1-S7 Reg#7 Automatic sprinkler systems shall be supervised by a listed/ approved central, proprietary, or remote station, or a local alarm when approved by the Chief, which will give an audible signal at a constantly attended location when the number of sprinklers is 100 or more. (New Fire Code changes this from 100 heads to 20 heads). 2008 LACFC 907.1.1 Construction documents: Construction documents for fire alarm systems shall be submitted for review and approval prior to system installation. Construction documents shall include, but not be limited to, all of the following: 1. A floor plan which indicates the use of all rooms. 2. Locations of alarm-initiating and notification appliances. 3. Alarm control and trouble signaling equipment. 4. Annunciation. 5. Power connection. 6. Battery calculations. 7. Conductor type and sizes. 8. Voltage drop calculations. 9. Manufacturers, model numbers and listing information for equipment, devices and materials. 10. Details of ceiling height and construction. 11. The interface of fire safety control functions. Construction documents should be found at the control panel. These documents will assist the engine company in locating the problem. Check the date on battery batteries. Batteries should be replaced per specifications found on the battery. The installation date should be written on the battery. 4-14

During the inspection the control panel annunciator should read system normal with green light(s) only. The purpose of fire alarm systems shall be primarily to provide notification of fire alarm, supervisory, and trouble conditions; to alert the occupants; to summon aid; and to control fire safety functions. You may find an annunciator panel at the main entrance and a Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP), usually in a utility room on the premises. 2002 NFPA 72 4.5.1.1* The authority having jurisdiction shall be notified prior to installation or alteration of equipment or wiring. At the authority having jurisdiction s request, complete information regarding the system or system alterations, including specifications, shop drawings, battery calculations, and notification appliance circuit voltage drop calculations shall be submitted for approval. 2002 NFPA 72 4.4.6.1.1* All required annunciation means shall be readily accessible to responding personnel and shall be located as required by the authority having jurisdiction to facilitate an efficient response to the fire situation. 2008 LACFC 907.1.2.1 Obstruction of fire alarm equipment: Fire alarm initiating devices, alarm notification appliances and annunciators shall not be concealed from view, obstructed or impaired in any manner. Doors leading to fire alarm control panels shall have signage 4-15