One of the top ways you can protect your buildings is by having a fire sprinkler system installed by a professional.
Fires can cause extensive damage to a building, not to mention threaten the safety of employees and clients. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has gathered data that shows fire sprinklers reduce the death rate by 87%, as compared to properties without such systems.
Having a sprinkler system in place can help limit the damage and create a safer environment for your business, but they do need to be routinely inspected. Here are three signs that it’s time to inspect your business’s fire sprinklers.
1. Water Leaking
Any leaking water is a tell-tale sign that you need to check the sprinkler system. It’s crucial to check any leaks immediately, as waiting only increases the likelihood of damage to both property and the fire sprinkler equipment. Such damage could also prevent the sprinklers from triggering properly in the event of a fire.
2. Physical Damage and Corrosion
If you can visually see damage to any pipes or sprinkler heads, it’s time to check the whole sprinkler system. While these components may still function to a degree, they may not provide the right amount of coverage or water flow during a fire. Additionally, if you can see rust or corrosion, you’ll want to check for leaks or blockages in the pipes. Another signal that you may have a corrosion issue is a sulfurous, rotten egg smell. If that is the case, schedule an inspection of your building’s fire sprinkler system right away.
3. Aging Buildings
As buildings age, so do the pipes and components within them. Over the years, changes are often made to the building, as well, which can inadvertently cause damage to the sprinkler system, or simply affect the coverage fire sprinklers provide. If any such changes have been made, it’s a good idea to check that the sprinkler system is functioning properly, with adequate coverage. Additionally, the NFPA has provided a maintenance schedule to follow. Known as the NFPA 25, this standard helps maximize the effectiveness of the fire sprinklers, thus providing the greatest safety in the event of a fire. It gives detailed instructions for routinely checking various components of the sprinkler system. If you don’t know when the system was last checked, or which parts, you’ll want to follow these guidelines for regular maintenance and inspection. Keep records of these inspections for at least one year, per the NFPA requirements.
Call Professionals You Can Trust at Salisbury Plumbing
With your employees’ and clients’ safety on the line, you want to call in the experts to inspect your fire sprinkler system. At Salisbury Plumbing, one of our areas of expertise is fire sprinklers, and we provide the security of over 15 years of experience. Whether you need to address a leak, corroded pipes, or simply need to begin a regular maintenance program for your fire sprinklers, we are ready to help. Give us a call at 385-375-1207, or contact us online to schedule an appointment today. We serve various cities in Utah County, Utah, from Lehi down to Provo and everywhere in between!
