January 15, 2019
Digital inspection, testing, and maintenance reporting is increasing, with implications for fire system safety and fire code. A recent summit held by the NFSA and AFAA examined the issue with the aim of “Getting to 100% Compliance.” QRFS explains the promise and challenges of digital ITM reporting.
September 11, 2018
Dry, preaction, and deluge sprinkler systems have unique equipment that needs to be checked so the system functions properly. QRFS’ continuing series on commercial fire sprinkler inspections looks at the NFPA inspection requirements for automatic detection systems and air compressors.
August 28, 2018
Tanks are often required as the sole water source for fire sprinkler systems in rural areas, and can serve as a secondary source for structures that have a high water demand. QRFS’ continuing series on commercial fire sprinkler inspections looks at the NFPA requirements for inspecting tanks.
August 15, 2018
Valves are an essential component on any fire protection system, and automatic sprinkler systems are no exception. QRFS reviews the inspection requirements for fire sprinkler valves outlined in NFPA 25, along with explanations of what these parts do.
August 1, 2018
In QRFS’ continuing series on NFPA’s commercial fire sprinkler inspection requirements, we look at what you need to check out — and when — it comes to fire sprinkler gauges, signs, water flow alarms and supervisory signaling devices.
July 17, 2018
Fire pumps add a great deal of complexity to the maintenance of a commercial fire sprinkler system. In Part 3 of QRFS’ continuing series, we explain the inspection requirements for systems with fire pumps — whether they use electric, diesel, or steam-turbine engines.
June 19, 2018
Regular inspections are required to keep commercial fire sprinkler systems working and up to code. In the second installment of a series, QRFS explains the steps involved in the annual visual inspection of fire sprinkler pipe and fittings, plus how to classify any issues that are found.
June 5, 2018
Regular inspections are required to keep commercial fire sprinkler systems working and up to code. In the first part of this series, QRFS explains the steps involved in the annual visual inspection of fire sprinkler heads.
February 8, 2018
QRFS’s crash course for building owners and fire protection contractors covers NFPA 25’s maintenance testing requirements for automatic and semiautomatic dry standpipe systems.
January 18, 2018
A look at the additional, vital portions of a standpipe: the hoses, hose connections and stations, and various system valves. This article explains the purpose of these items and serves as a quick reference for the maintenance and inspections expected of life safety contractors and building owners.
January 11, 2018
This article examines the major individual components of standpipe systems, along with their installation, inspection, and maintenance requirements. Our aim is to simplify this guidance for both contractors and building owners.
November 23, 2017
Learn how and when hydrostatic testing is conducted on standpipes and fire sprinkler systems, as well as special considerations and the equipment used.
August 24, 2017
The best way to identify issues with and replace fire sprinkler heads is through regular inspections, testing, and maintenance. But when should you perform any of these procedures? How do you know when to test or replace them? In this article, we’ll help you answer all of your most burning questions!
June 24, 2016
Hydrant pressure tests ensure that a city’s water supply and fire hydrants are in working condition and up to code. They determine the pressure and rate of flow at any point in a city’s water distribution system. Learn about the test and how it is conducted.
May 27, 2016
Blockages in a fire department connection can prove catastrophic for buildings and the people in them. QRFS explains how to install FDC caps used to protect the waterways serving a building’s fire protection system.
May 20, 2016
Need to test a fire hydrant’s rate of discharge? Read this blog to find out how this is accomplished, and what steps should be taken to ensure accurate results. A popular way to perform hydrant flow testing is by using a Pitot gauge, which consists of three components: a blade, handle, and gauge. It remains one of the fastest, most efficient methods for measuring both straight tip and hydrant flow GPM to uncover reduced flow rates.
