Fire Sprinkler Systems Require Maintenance Contracts
In accordance with South African regulations, including Pretoria and Johannesburg, it is essential to ensure the proper maintenance of sprinkler systems in warehouses. To facilitate ongoing upkeep, a maintenance contract should be established with a reputable fire sprinkler company. For the maintenance of fire clearance, an independent inspector must conduct inspections on the fire sprinkler system. The servicing and maintenance of the system should be entrusted to a trustworthy sprinkler company. Companies appointed by you are strictly prohibited from issuing fire clearance for your sprinkler system. Failure to provide fire clearance certificates as evidence of the system’s functionality, along with neglecting scheduled servicing of fire sprinkler systems, may result in insurance companies canceling coverage for fire damage.
The Impact of Fire Sprinkler System Failures on Warehouse Environments
Fire sprinkler systems can experience failure at any given moment. The primary reasons for these failures include the lack of proper maintenance, corrosion, incorrect installation, and the use of inadequate parts and materials. Such failures can result in extensive damage to commercial and industrial properties in the event of a fire, or substantial water damage if the sprinklers unexpectedly release water.
Another issue commonly experienced in warehouse sprinkler protection is the spares box being tampered with. According to an article published by Elite Fire Protection, it was an issue found on one of the projects they were requested to do maintenance of the system. One always needs to ensure that the fire sprinkler spares box contains all necessary equipment.
Common Sprinkler Leak Issues
Surprisingly, regular wear and tear can result in leaks in sprinkler systems if not consistently maintained. Another common issue leading to leaks in fire sprinkler systems, and found commonly within Pretoria and Johannesburg, involves the corrosion and leakage of o-ring seals due to contaminants in the water. Excessive tightness of sprinkler heads or fittings can also be a cause of leaks. Accidental damage can occur, leading to leaks caused by forklifts, scissor lifts, ladders, equipment, and intentional acts of vandalism. Employees should be educated not to tamper with sprinkler heads or fittings and instead report any suspected damage to the fire protection company for inspection.
Don’t Let Your Business Become a Statistic
According to Addsure, between 2011 and 2015, there were 436 warehouse fires registered with FPASA (Fire Protection Association of Southern Africa). Although the causes could not be established, this is a considerably high number of warehouses within South Africa that has become a statistic.
The journey does not start and end with the installation of fire protection. It is a journey that goes beyond installation and continues through regular scheduled maintenance.
All buildings in South Africa need to comply with the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act, 1977 (Act No. 103 of 1977), which includes the need of fire protection.
How Often Should Warehouse Fire Sprinkler Systems be Maintained in South Africa?
On top of inspections, there are important tasks that are required to be performed to ensure the maintenance of sprinkler systems.
Fire sprinklers systems
- Weekly testing of fire sprinkler system
- Weekly testing of installation control valve
- Weekly testing of fire pump
- Sprinkler control valve requires a valve overhaul/service every 3 years
- Deluge valve requires a valve overhaul/service annually
- Fire pumps require a service annually
- Any time alterations are conducted on the original installation
Water Storage Tank
- Mild steel tanks must be inspected every 3 years and if required, a tank refurbishment
- Galvanize tanks must be inspected every 15 years and if required, a tank refurbishment
Documentation Needed for Warehouse Fire Sprinkler Maintenance
A sprinkler company that is appointed to conduct your sprinkler system maintenance should be providing you with the documentation below:
- A maintenance and test schedule for the sprinkler system, and
- A comprehensive operation and maintenance manual or folder for the sprinkler system which shall contain at least the following at system commissioning:
- As built drawings and hydraulic data/calculations
- Proprietary equipment specifications, data sheets, and maintenance requirements, including pump
- data provided by the pump set supplier
- Maintenance, inspection, and test schedules
- Where appropriate, a weekly test card
- The installing sprinkler company records and reports
- Clearance Certificates
- Comprehensive sprinkler system maintenance test schedules for pumped water supplies.
Reputable Companies Doing Maintenance:
It is very important to contact a reliable and credible fire protection company to design, install and maintain your fire protection systems. Some research you can do before you select a company is to go to their website, request testimonials if you cannot find any on their website and request the size of jobs, they have been involved in to see if they have the experience to meet your needs.
You can also visit the ASIB website and perform a search to establish if they are certified:
https://www.asib.co.za/installers/map
In addition to the credibility, ensure that the fire equipment is of good quality as an additional measure to prevent equipment malfunction.
A Safe Working Environment is a Human Right
With Human’s Rights Day coming up this March, it is important to remember that health and safety in the workplace is a human right. Do the right thing. Arrange inspections with the right company, ensure the correct tests are performed, and follow-up on services. Identify employees at risk and ensure they are protected.
“Don’t let your dreams go up in smoke!”
Contact Elite Fire Protection:
E: info@elitefire.co.za / T: +27 87 741 3517