Checklist for investigating fire protection incidents
By Lyth B. Clark, Jr., P.E., CFEI
When investigating a failed fire protection system, consider the following questions to ask:
What type of fire protection system was it? Wet/dry/antifreeze/ special system e.g. halon
Were there any impairments at the time: Emergency: examples such as ruptured pipe (can include the water utility), any sprinkler knocked off, or any other unplanned water supply interruption to the system. Preplanned: work planned for expansion or maintenance to the system
Can you obtain the inspection and maintenance records?
Can you obtain the plans for the sprinkler system as originally installed? The owner should retain the original records for the life of the system.
What is the current water supply condition for the municipal or private utility? Is the current data comparable to the design water flow data? Has the water supply deteriorated?
Have there been any modifications to the structure or its contents since the sprinkler system was installed?
Was there a backflow preventer on the system? Has it been checked annually?
Was a fire pump used in the sprinkler system?
Was the Fire Department able to use the fire department connection as an aid to the sprinkler system? Were the threads burred or cross-threaded? Was the fire department connection filled with trash or rags?
Did an alarm company supervise the sprinkler system? Were the supply valves monitored in the proper position or were they locked with chains?