Description of Project
Elite Fire Protection was approached to provide a comparative quotation for fire sprinkler maintenance at a distribution centre in Johannesburg. The client had recently acquired the building and, in line with insurance requirements, needed the fire sprinkler system to be inspected, maintained, and a detailed condition report issued following a site visit.
The system had not been maintained for several years, and the scope of the initial request was limited to the inspection and maintenance of the installation control valves (ICVs) and the pump house. At the time of the site visit, the system was found to be completely dry, with no water supply, and the client was uncertain as to the cause.
Through a comprehensive inspection and the preparation of a full report, Elite Fire Protection identified several critical issues extending beyond irregular maintenance, many of which were inherited from the previous building owner.
In this month’s blog, we explore why routine maintenance supported only by a checklist is often insufficient to ensure compliance, and why it can place insurance cover at risk.
| Project | Fire Protection Systems |
| Size | 3800m2 |
| Scope | Maintenance |
| Discipline | Fire Protection |
Project Scope
Maintenance of:
- Fire Sprinkler System (Pump house and ICV)
Process Outline
Pump House
During the pump house inspection, it was identified that all pump batteries, including those within the control panel required replacement. The diesel fire pump’s fuel tank was also found to be empty and needed refilling.
Once the batteries were replaced, the tank refueled, and a standard service completed, the diesel fire pump was tested and confirmed to be fully operational.
Diesel fire pumps are a critical component of fire sprinkler systems. Powered by a combustion engine, they provide a dependable backup during power failures, ensuring continuity of fire protection where electric pumps are also installed.
Installation Control Valves (ICV’s)
- The ICVs had not been serviced at the prescribed intervals, necessitating the completion of the required three-year service and overhaul.
- All isolating valves were replaced, as the existing valves were bypassing and no longer functioning correctly.
- Pressure gauges were replaced due to glycerine leakage, which rendered the readings unreliable.
What our inspection identified that
others missed?
Prior to engaging Elite Fire Protection, the client had other fire protection companies inspect the facility to perform similar maintenance and provide quotations for system alterations to accommodate a new in-rack layout.
During our site walk-through with the client, our specialist identified several additional issues, including:
- Corroded pipework,
- Missing sprinkler guards,
- Misaligned (skew) piping and sprinkler heads.
Maintenance Challenges:
Since the system had been without water and pressure for an extended period, the reintroduction of water following servicing revealed multiple leaks within the pipework, which is a common risk when neglected systems are brought back into operation.
