Purpose: To explain to maintenance managers and facility managers what to expect for an annual fire sprinkler inspection.

Highlights:

• What items are checked at an annual inspection?
• How do you prepare for a fire department sprinkler inspection?
• What paperwork do you need available for the fire department?

Fire sprinkler inspections are an essential part of the life of a sprinkler system. 

They happen weekly, monthly, quarterly, annually, 3-years, and 5-years.  Each inspection has its own purpose, but the same overall goals:  1) extend the life of a sprinkler system; and 2) ensure the system is going to work if a fire ignites.

In this post, we’re going to dive into what to expect at an annual inspection.

Inspection schedules are determined by NFPA 25.  For a full review of all inspection needs from weekly to 5-year inspections, you can find that information at the NFPA link.

What is inspected at the annual fire sprinkler inspection?

Seven items are inspected at both the quarterly and annual inspection.

• Valves.
• Wet and dry gauges.
• Water flow and supervisory alarm devices.
• Water flow alarm on both wet and dry systems.
• Hydraulic system nameplates.
• Fire department connections.
• Pressure-reducing and relief valves.

Four additional inspections are added annually.

• Sprinkler heads, pipes, and fittings.
• Check the supply of spare sprinkler heads and tools.
• Dry-pipe valves.
• Water flow test.

How to prepare for the annual inspection

Annually, the fire department will also inspect fire sprinkler systems. 

To prepare for this inspection you should

• Speak with the fire department ahead of time to provide inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) reports for the year and ask what the fire department is looking for.
• Review the reports with the fire department and explain any issues reported.
• Have someone responsible available to accompany the inspector.
• Take notes during the inspection. 

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Conclusion

The annual inspection is an essential part of your safety and building maintenance plan.  It is estimated that 80% of small businesses that experience a fire don’t re-open.  Keep your building, business, and people safe by closely following the fire protection inspection, testing, and maintenance schedule.