TRAINING: PREPARING FOR COLD WEATHER
Preventing frozen sprinkler pipes is necessary to avoid costly repairs to the fire sprinkler system, and to prevent vulnerability during a fire-related emergency. Even in a climate that is not prone to freezing temperatures, fire sprinkler systems are still at risk. Some of the most common service calls related to freeze-ups result from very minor issues that could have been prevented by something as small as draining drum drips (low points). Frozen drum drips can lead to pipes cracking, which can cause the system to trip. This could potentially lead to even more serious issues throughout the system. The following checklist will help reduce the risk of frozen fire sprinkler pipes. It is recommended to designate an employee to be in charge of the items listed below, as these items are the responsibility of the facility personnel. BEFORE FREEZING WEATHER (September through October in most states): Identify spaces that may contain piping that are susceptible to freezing, such as the attic, above the ceiling, below the floor, exterior rooms, stairwells, etc. Install thermometers in areas that are not temperature regulated, and are near fire sprinkler equipment. Gather emergency heating and/or insulation equipment and ensure they are working properly for use in areas prone to freezing in order to maintain a minimum 40°F (4°C). Identify location of fire sprinkler system shut off equipment (in the sprinkler riser room). It is important to ensure you are aware of the difference between the main water shutoff and the fire sprinkler shutoff. They operate independently of one another. Identify the location of your drum drips (low points). Contact APi National Service Group or your contracted fire sprinkler service provider if you would like assistance locating these. DURING FREEZING WEATHER (October through March in most states): DAILY: All exterior doors are completely closed. All fire protection equipment is free of snow and ice. If your backflow is located in the yard and enclosed in a hot box, ensure adequate heat and that they are free of snow and ice. Check for any cracks, leaks or damage on your exterior backflows and fire hydrants. Contact APi National Service Group or your contracted fire sprinkler service provider as soon as possible if you notice any of these things. Monitor temperatures in any hard-to-heat areas that contain fire suppression equipment. Maintain a minimum 40°F (4°C). If your facility completely looses heat, call APi National Service Group or your contracted fire sprinkler service provider immediately. For dry pipe sprinkler systems: Check to ensure low-point drains are free of condensate from pipe drainage. For wet pipe sprinkler systems: Check thermometer to ensure the room is maintaining a minimum 40°F (4°C).
WEEKLY:
Drain drum drips (low points) weekly or as needed. o Video on How to Drain Drum Drips: http://bit.ly/XQdbXM (website is case sensitive). If equipment cannot be drained, contact APi National Service Group or your contracted fire sprinkler service provider for assistance.
The listed actions above fall under the ‘indemnity terms and conditions’ within the consummated contract between APi National Service Group and the customer. The referenced actions are suggestive mitigation techniques and do not insure the customer from property loss or damages. APi National Service Group | 1 2 00 Old Highway 8 NW | New Brighton, MN 55112 | 888.274.8595 | www.api-nsg.com
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