Facility managers don’t usually have an in-house team to perform fire protection system services since NFPA code requires qualified professionals to complete many services. Although, there are a few fire protection inspections and tests that a facility manager or owner are responsible for completing either by their staff or a trained professional. Facility managers somehow overlook these services even though they occur more frequently than the majority of fire protection inspections or tests.

1. Fire Extinguisher Monthly Inspections

Most facilities self-perform their fire extinguisher monthly inspections. In-house may perform these inspections once they receive training. Since a fire extinguisher inspection takes less than two minutes, there’s no excuse to have them outdated.

2. Fire Pump Inspection and No-Flow Test

A fire pump’s purpose is to provide adequate water pressure to the fire sprinkler system in order to extinguish a fire. Various fire pump components may stop working or the outside water pressure can change between annual services. You don’t want to wait until an emergency to find out these components aren’t working properly. This is why these fire pumps require monthly and in some cases weekly inspection and testing. Your maintenance team can receive training on how to perform these regular services. Additionally, you can hire a fire protection company to perform these services. The cost of regular fire pump maintenance is very reasonable compared to repairs or an entire fire pump replacement.

3. Wet and Dry Chemical Extinguishing Systems Owner’s Inspections

These inspections verify everything is in place, the system appears to be in working condition, and that the hazard hasn’t changed. The owner’s inspection is required monthly. If there are any deficiencies a certified professional must perform the repairs.

4. Fire Sprinkler Operational Condition Inspection

Facility managers must inspect various fire sprinkler components on a weekly to monthly basis. Similar to the owner’s inspection, this fire sprinkler inspection determines whether the system appears to be in proper working condition.

Now that you’re aware of these frequent fire protection inspection and testing requirements schedule them on your calendar to make sure they’re completed regularly. You don’t want to find out after there’s a major problem that a simple inspection you’re responsible for performing would have uncovered the deficiency. For the exact fire protection inspections and testing requirements reference NFPA 10, 17, 17A, and 25.

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