Fire sprinklers and fire suppression systems can be instrumental for preventing disasters, but sometimes we forget that they must be tended to in order to avoid potential risks they can present in certain scenarios. Below freezing weather can freeze fire suppression pipes, flood property, and potentially disrupt your business and livelihood while creating health and safety concerns. Fire suppression system flood disasters are as predictable as the weather, but there are a few simple considerations that can help prevent them if taken into account before disaster strikes.
To ensure the proper function of dry fire suppression systems, regular maintenance is crucial. These systems are often used in areas where temperatures fall below freezing and water-filled pipes could freeze.
Key Considerations:
1. Drain Drips: Increase the frequency of draining to manage condensation and keep notes (some sections build up quicker than others). This prevents puddling and reduces the risk of ice forming then breaking the line. Lack of draining is one of the leading issues of freezing pipes in dry systems.
2. Temperature Monitoring: Monitor temperature levels throughout the property, especially in storage and other unused areas. Maintain an ambient temperature above freezing to minimize the risk of system failure.
3. Pipe Inspections: Regularly inspect all pipes for signs of damage or signs of condensation or actual ice build-up. Checking connections and joints can prevent leaks and ensure the system's integrity.
4. Vulnerability Assessment: Consider sprinkler system equipment in areas prone to freeze first such as foyers, near outside doorways and ensure staff understand the special attention needed to keep these areas monitored and heated (no propping open doors for the outside smoking area or leaving the delivery bay open longer than necessary).
5. Professional Service: Annual certification by a fire suppression system engineer is not only required code, but also another option to find a weak point and prevent a disaster. Be sure you are current with your inspections.
6. Emergency Planning: Ensure staff on all shifts understand how to turn off the water supply to the system if there is a break and flooding. Most damage to operations is the result of the system operating until a trained person is available to respond. Time is critical so staff training is essential.
At Farm Bureau Insurance of Michigan, we strive to help residents in our home state avoid preventable disasters of any kind. While a well-maintained fire suppression system can be a key reactive solution in the event of smoke or flames, we also are also working to make preventative fire safety solutions accessible those we protect with programs like the Ting Fire Prevention Program. Learn more about how we can help you prevent costly and avoidable catastrophes to your home or business.