* EC: Clarifications and Expectations: Maintaining Automatic Sprinkler Systems – Progressing further into EC.02.03.05[®] [REF: EOC] EC News, June 2014, Vol 17, #6, Pg 5 JCe1406_B6

This installment of the C&E series explores EPs 7-10 under EC.02.03.05 that address testing and maintenance of water-related aspects of automatic sprinkler systems. For each EP an overview is provided along with insights about related survey activity.

• Re: EP 7 – Water storage tank levels: If external water tanks are used to supply the sprinkler system, water level alarms must be tested every six months and documented proof of this available during survey.
• Re: EP 8 – Water storage tank temperature – If an external tank is used and possibly exposed to freezing temperatures, its alarm should be tested monthly during cold weather to ensure triggering occurs at 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Verification of the testing should be available in writing during survey.
• Re: EP 9 – Automatic Sprinkler Main Drains – Page 6 Column C contains a description of the 10-step process for conducting the required annual testing of main drains.  Since annual comparison is key to test evaluation, documentation detail and accuracy is important.  The article provides a sample table for recording the needed detail.
• Re: EP 10 – Fire Department Connections (FDC) – Visual inspection at least quarterly of all FDCs is required and likely to be inspected during survey.  The article details 8 specific points to examine during the inspection process.

Tip: Document Main Drain Testing in a dedicated table/spreadsheet that includes the details suggested in this article.  Click here for our adapted version of a Main Drain Test Results Recording Table.

Tip: Document FDC inspections in a dedicated table/Spreadsheet. Click here for our adapted version of a FDC Inspection Checklist.