Backflow occurs when water moves the wrong direction and into your water supply instead of out of it. A backflow preventer is a device that keeps the water inside the sprinkler system, making sure that it travels only in one direction: from the water main into the sprinkler system. However; if a prevention device is not installed or used incorrectly, backflow can occur, reversing the flow of water and contaminating public water supply.
In short, backflow inspections are critical, and some fire protection companies offer synchronized inspections of both your fire sprinkler system and backflow prevention devices.
Bundling your fire safety services is a great option for business owners looking to save time and money. Trusting a fire protection company to assess fire safety issues while being your one stop shop can leave you feeling confident you have provided the utmost safety for yourself and your employees, without draining your valuable time and financial resources.
Backflow inspections
According to NFPA 25, section 13.2 states a main drain test should be annually conducted for each water supply lead-in to a building water-based fire protection system. This will determine whether there has been a change in the condition of the water supply.
Per NFPA 25, in a system where the sole water supply is through a backflow preventer, the main drain test of at least one system downstream of the device shall be conducted quarterly.
A trained fire protection company will be able to handle these inspections and also meet the standards of how often they need to be administered.
Backflow prevention devices
In the NFPA’s Journal’s recent article “Heads Up Sprinkler and Suppression Systems,” author Russell P. Fleming explains that backflow prevention devices are most commonly used when sprinkler systems are connected to non potable public water supplies. This is most especially done when the systems are interconnected with alternative sources of water, when antifreeze or other chemicals are used as additives.
Since these devices prevent the reverse flow, they are critical for keeping sprinkler systems up to code. When considering a backflow inspection, the concerns for the type of testing necessary has changed.
Backflow remains a legitimate health concern, and therefore “the standard presumes that local or state requirements will continue to ensure that the devices are properly tested by qualified personnel.”
In order to fully assess what needs to be tested, it’s best to turn to a trusted expert on the subject of your fire sprinkler system and backflow issues.
Fire Systems, Inc.
Fire Systems, Inc. offers a range of comprehensive services that can be bundled, saving time and money. Customers can rest assured that the safety of their employees are fully considered with our inspections as well as our respect for our customer’s time and wallets. We can work with you to bundle backflow inspections and fire sprinkler systems, among other fire safety systems. We are truly an all-services fire protection company.
Fire safety protocol is essential when maintaining a safe workplace. Take any guesswork out of when and how often your fire systems need to be serviced and inspected and call us at 770-333-7979 or visit Fire Systems website today
