Sprinkler system — dry-pipe valves, inspection and testing checklist
Regular inspection, testing and maintenance of dry-pipe sprinkler valves and associated quick-opening devices are critical to ensure effective performance of a sprinkler system. All inspections and tests should be performed in accordance with NFPA 25, Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems (2014 Edition), published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
Prior to performing any test, the facilities alarm system provider/monitoring station should be notified of the testing and following conclusion of the testing. When the results of any inspection or test are negative, a qualified sprinkler contractor should be contacted to investigate and correct the deficiencies.
The following checklist can be used to identify the required valve inspection and testing frequency for a dry-pipe valve sprinkler system:
Weekly inspections |
YES |
NO |
NA |
|---|---|---|---|
Is the temperature of the enclosure, room, or area for the valve at least 40°F (4°C)? If the enclosure, room, or area is not equipped with a low-temperature alarm, this inspection should be performed daily. |
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Does the supply-side pressure gauge indicate normal water supply pressure? |
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Are the dry-side pressure gauge readings within manufacturer's specifications? If the system is equipped with a low-pressure alarm, this inspection can be performed monthly, rather than weekly |
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Does the quick-opening device gauge, if so equipped, indicate the same pressure as the dry-side system pressure? |
Monthly inspections |
YES |
NO |
NA |
|---|---|---|---|
Does the valve assembly show any sign of leaking or physical damage? |
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Are all valves in the correct operating positions, as indicated by the system diagrams? |
Annual inspections |
YES |
NO |
NA |
|---|---|---|---|
Is the interior surface of valve body free from corrosion? |
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Are low temperature alarms, when present, inspected for damage? |
Quarterly testing |
YES |
NO |
NA |
|---|---|---|---|
Is the priming water filled to proper level, as per the manufacturer's specifications? |
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Does the quick-opening device activate properly? |
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Does the low air pressure alarm function properly? |
Annual testing |
YES |
NO |
NA |
|---|---|---|---|
Is a limited-flow, trip test of the dry-pipe system and quick-opening devices performed during warm weather? |
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Is a low temperature alarm function test performed at the beginning of the heating season? |
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Are air pressure maintenance devices tested? |
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Does the air supply refill the systems, following a trip test, in 30 minutes or less? This time can be extended to 60 minutes in refrigerated spaces having a temperature of less than 5°F (-15°C). |
Multi-year inspections and tests |
YES |
NO |
NA |
|---|---|---|---|
Are all system strainers, filters, and restricting devices tested every five years for corrosion and obstructions? |
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Is a full-flow, system trip test, including the quick opening, performed every three years? |
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Are system gauges tested or replaced every five years? Gauges should be accurate to within three percent of full scale. |
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Is the system tested every three years for air leaks? |
Copyright ©2016 ISO Services, Inc.
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LC DEC 2018 2015-349
171-1749 (12/18)