Automatic Sprinkler Systems

An automatic sprinkler system is one example of fixed fire suppression equipment. According to OSHA, automatic sprinkler systems must meet requirements, as follows:

• Automatic sprinkler systems must provide necessary discharge patterns, densities, and water flow to completely cover a particular workplace or zoned area of the workplace.
• Employers must maintain automatic sprinkler systems and conduct a main drain flow test on each system annually. The inspector's test valve must be opened every two years to make sure the sprinkler system is working.
• Every automatic sprinkler system must have at least one automatic water supply that is able to provide water flow for at least 30 minutes.
• The employer can attach hose connections for firefighting use to wet pipe sprinkler systems as long as the water supply satisfies the combined design demand for both the sprinkler systems and the standpipe.
• The automatic sprinkler system piping must be protected against freezing and corrosion.
• All dry sprinkler pipes and fittings must be capable of being drained.
• Only approved sprinklers can be used.
• On systems with more than 20 sprinklers, a local water flow alarm must be provided.
• Sprinklers must be spaced to provide a maximum protection area per sprinkler with minimum interference to the discharge pattern from the building.
• Hydraulically designed systems must be identified in central records or by signs at the sprinkler valves.

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