The NFPA 17 standard requires the maintenance of dry chemical fire suppression equipment in good working order along with inspection, testing and maintenance records. Inspections will be performed on a semi-annual basis.
Examples of work performed during an inspection include:
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- Complete visual inspection to determine the type of components used in the system and conduct verification of the same.
- Complete the system function test to confirm the system is functioning as designed and per the manufacturer’s recommendations, including manual and automatic activation.
- Check the tank pressure, the cylinder test dates and the overall condition of the system tank, control head, and components.
- Verify that all the appropriate shutdowns take place, the building’s fire alarm system is activated and that all nozzles are clean and unobstructed.
- Upon completion of the inspection and performing any necessary repairs, the applicable inspection documents and noted deficiencies shall be left at the location and made available electronically.
- Tag all devices as required and perform required record keeping.