Inspection - Fire Sprinklers

Sprinkler System Inspections are performed by inspectors from the Fire Marshal's office to verify that the installation of the system is in compliance with all applicable codes and is done in accordance with the approved plans. The State of Georgia requires that installations and modifications of sprinkler systems be performed or supervised by the Certificate of Competency Holder. Please ensure that a Sprinkler Supervision Certificate Form is filled out and is available on site.

The following is a list of items that are checked during sprinkler system inspections:

Site Plans for Reference

• Copy of a Water Flow Test scanned and on plans. Water Flow Test must be completed within 6 months of submittal.

• Indication of flow hydrants and test hydrants, pipe length, pipe type, pipe size, fittings, backflow devices, PIV, FDC, and corresponding hydraulic nodes on underground piping and devices. Note: It is understood the sprinkler contractor is typically not the underground contractor. However, the information above is required for review of the sprinkler system.

• Indicate Elevation of Base of Riser pad and test hydrant (residual hydrant). Note: please contact FMO if evaluation information is not available from the water authority.

• Underground pipe installation must comply with the manufacturer's specification for installing and burying pipe.

General Requirements

• Building construction type

• Obstructed ceiling type construction

• Unobstructed ceiling type construction

• Indicate the number of sprinklers per riser, type of sprinkler head, and spacing on plans (see NFPA 13 spacing requirements)

• Temperature rating of sprinkler heads

• Half spacing to walls or obstructions

• Indicate room use

• Riser details and/or standpipe details

• Hanger and trapeze details

• Minimum and maximum spacing requirements

• Locate any potential sprinkler discharge obstructions

• High-pressure rod required for 100 psi static or greater pressures (Hangers to be 12" from the end)

Riser

• Proper underground installations

• Provide clearance around all sides of the riser

• Indicate all gauges are mounted no higher than 6ft

• Main drain

• Required signage indicated

• Indication of tampers and flows on all valves

Piping

• Clearly indicate sizing of pipes on plans

• Indicate pipe type

• Hydrostatic test performed and completion of both Aboveground Test Certificate and Underground Test Certificate

Hangers/Supports/Bracing

• Hangers 3 inches from the centerline of upright heads

• EOL supported 1 inch = 36 inch, 1 1/4 inch = 48 inch, 1 1/2 inch and larger = 60 inch

• Armovers = 24 inches or 12 inches for 100 psi with rod down

• Support top of the riser

Sprinklers

• Provide a reflected ceiling plan for head placement

• Indicate the distance from the ceiling to the sprinkler head

• Indicate on plans when using the small room rule on plans

Dry Pipe

• Indicate the pitch of pipe per code

• Indicate if refrigerated areas need dry pendants with plug and drain

• Provide detail on dry pendant heads with the sealing of roof details

• Indicate dry pipe air setting pressure for both high and low air

Wet Pipe

• Indicate ball drip at the low point of FDC

Signage

• FDC and other fire protection equipment signed and/or labeled

• Label all riser rooms or fire equipment rooms