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Austin |
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Fire Protection Criteria Manual |
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Section 3. INSPECTION PROCESS |
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Appendix 3.2.0. INSPECTION PROCEDURES |
§ 3.2.11. Criteria For System Tests
The procedures listed here and on the Certification Testing Report forms are not necessarily all-inclusive and may vary with the particular system. (See Appendix B)
A.
Fire Alarm and Detection Systems. Fire alarm systems shall be tested and certified annually. All certifications shall be conducted by a fire alarm company licensed by the State of Texas. Quarterly function tests may be performed by the building engineering staff for high-rise buildings. The following system components and operations shall be tested as outlined:
1.
Verify fire control alarm panel is operational.
2.
Verify visual indicators in alarm panel are operational.
3.
Verify proper zoning of system and zones are properly identified on control panel.
4.
Verify all smoke detectors are operational.
5.
Verify all heat detectors are operational.
6.
Verify flame detectors are operational.
7.
Verify every manual pull station is operational.
8.
Verify water flow tamper switches are operational.
9.
Verify all audio and/or visual devices are operational.
10.
Verify voice/alarm speakers are operational.
11.
Verify fire department communication system is operational.
12.
Verify sprinkler system supervisory devices are operational.
13.
Verify supervisory system circuits are operational and remove random devices to test trouble systems.
14.
Verify primary power supply is operational.
15.
Verify secondary power supply is operational.
16.
Verify amplifier is operational.
17.
Verify voice warning tape is operational.
18.
Verify all radio fire alarm transmitting equipment and devices are operational.
19.
Verify radio fire alarm receiving equipment is operational.
20.
Verify battery water level is correct, if applicable.
21.
Verify fuse ratings are correct.
22.
Verify rechargeable battery cell voltages are correct.
23.
Verify remote annunciators are operational.
24.
Verify operation of signal monitoring supervisory service.
25.
Verify alarm audibility has not been impaired.
26.
Verify all interconnected equipment functions as required.
27.
Verify approved plans are available on site (for certificate of occupancy).
28.
Verify installation of system procedure in accordance with approved plans (for certificate of occupancy).
B.
Stairway Door Locks. Stairway door lock systems shall be tested and certified annually. All certifications shall be conducted by the building engineering staff. The following system components and operations shall be tested as outlined:
1.
Verify/ensure all locks release upon fire alarm, if applicable.
2.
Verify all locks release upon power failure.
3.
Verify required door keys are available at a central location (control room).
4.
Verify roof door(s) unlock on fire alarm, if applicable.
C.
Fire Pumps. Fire pump systems shall be function tested quarterly, and tested and certified annually using the appropriate AFD certification testing report form or an approved alternate. All certifications shall be conducted by an automatic sprinkler company licensed by the State of Texas. Quarterly function testing for high-rise buildings may be conducted by the building engineering staff. The following system components and operations shall be tested as outlined:
1.
Verify and record the starting and running amperage on all circuit branches by the controller and to verify the controller meets the manufacturer's specifications and code requirements.
2.
Verify the proper operation of pump and controller running on/off sequence testing under normal and secondary power.
3.
Conduct a flow test in accordance with the pump manufacturer's recommendations to verify that the pump meets characteristic curve and the proper system operational demand. Record flows and pressures.
4.
Verify the operation fire pump on back-up power (if applicable).
5.
Verify the pressure maintenance pump operates properly upon pressure drop. Record starting pressure reading.
6.
Verify the automatic fire pump(s) operate properly upon water flow and/or pressure drop. Record starting pressure, if applicable.
7.
Verify the manual fire pump(s) operate properly.
8.
Verify the back-up pump operates as designed if lead pump fails (if applicable).
9.
Verify the operation of control timers.
10.
Verify the operation of controller transfer switch.
11.
Verify the operation of all visual and audible indicators.
12.
Verify that a maintenance log is kept indicating testing and service. The log shall be available for Fire Department inspection.
13.
Verify plans are available on site (for certificate of occupancy and construction inspections).
D.
For Diesel Driven Fire Pumps (In addition to 1-13).
1.
Verify that adequate engine cooling is provided. If a radiator is used, verify that sufficient airflow is provided. If a heat exchanger is used, verify that a reliable and adequate water flow is provided to the shell side. For either case, verify a proper engine coolant to the required level is present in the tube side.
2.
If the heat exchanger is not cooled by water from the pump discharge, verify the presence and proper operation of the discharge relief valve. A relief valve may or may not be present if pump discharge is used for engine cooling.
3.
Verify the type and setting of the engine overspeed device and test the trip and alarm functions in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations (i.e., electrically, mechanically or both).
NOTE: A manufacturer's representative may need to be present for testing engine overspeed devices.
4.
Verify that the engine operates within the manufacturer's guidelines for speed (rpm), water temperature and oil pressure.
5.
Verify the proper operation of engine trips and/or alarms (as appropriate) for oil pressure and water temperature in all engine controller modes (i.e., "Test," "Automatic," and "Manual").
6.
Verify the operability of each starting mechanism i.e., each electrical starting circuit, air starting motor(s)] in all applicable controller modes.
E.
Standpipes. Standpipe systems shall be tested and certified annually and every five (5) years as described below. All certifications shall be conducted by a licensed automatic sprinkler company. The following system components and operations shall be tested as outlined:
1.
Class 1 Standpipes.
a.
Verify fire department connection clappers move freely.
b.
Verify fire department connection inlets move freely.
c.
Verify fire department connection inlets have proper thread.
d.
Verify fire department connection inlets are provided with caps/plugs.
e.
Verify fire department connection is accessible and free of debris.
f.
Verify the outlet hose valves are the proper size and thread.
g.
Verify the hose and nozzles are in good condition including couplings, if provided.
h.
Verify the proper supervision is provided for isolation and riser valves.
i.
Verify the proper signage is provided for valves and equipment.
j.
Verify the proper operation of all special equipment (i.e., freeze protection, pressure reducing valves, etc.).
k.
Verify the piping and equipment is free of corrosive and mechanical damage.
l.
Verify the overall system is complete and fully operational.
m.
Verify approved plans are available on site (for certificate of occupancy).
n.
Verify instrumentation of system provided in accordance with approved plans (for Certificate of Occupancy).
o.
Hydrostatically test new or modified systems and/or if inspection indicates a need for such testing.
2.
The following items need only be completed every five (5) years and at the time of certificate of occupancy for a Class 1 standpipe system:
a.
For dry standpipes, hydrostatic test completed, 200 psig at the topmost portion of the system for two (2) hours.
b.
Water flow function test at system's designed flow and pressure.
c.
Verify proper settings or all PRV's under static and flow conditions.
3.
Class 2 Standpipes.
a.
Verify the fire department connection is operational, if provided.
b.
Verify the outlet hose valves are the proper size and thread.
c.
Verify the hose is in good condition including couplings.
d.
Verify the means of hose storage is in good condition and operational.
e.
Verify the hose nozzle is in good condition and operational.
f.
Verify the proper supervision is provided for isolation and riser valves.
g.
Verify the proper signage is provided for valves and equipment.
h.
Verify the piping and equipment is free of corrosive and mechanical damage.
i.
Verify the overall system is complete and fully operational.
j.
Hydrostatically test new, or modified systems and/or if inspection indicates a need for such testing.
4.
The following items need only be completed every five (5) years for a Class 2 standpipe system:
a.
Water flow function test at system's designed flow and pressure.
5.
Class 3 Standpipes. Class 3 standpipe systems shall be inspected utilizing the guidelines for Class 1 and Class 2 standpipe systems.
F.
Automatic Sprinkler Systems. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be tested and certified annually. All certifications shall be conducted by a state licensed automatic sprinkler company. The following system components and operations shall be tested as outlined:
1.
General Sprinkler Procedures.
a.
Verify the fire department connection clappers move freely.
b.
Verify the fire department connection inlets move freely.
c.
Verify the fire department connection inlets have proper thread.
d.
Verify the fire department connection inlets are provided with caps/plugs.
e.
Verify the fire department connection is accessible and free of debris.
f.
Verify the protected area containing wet pipe is properly protected against freezing.
g.
Verify the local alarm devices are operational.
h.
Verify remote alarm service is operational where required.
i.
Verify adequacy of water supply (main drain test).
j.
Verify all sprinkler heads are less than 50 years old.
k.
Verify all specialized equipment (i.e., freeze protection, etc.) operates properly.
l.
Verify all interconnected equipment for proper operation.
m.
Verify proper operation and zoning of all flow switches.
n.
Verify sprinkler spray pattern is unobstructed.
o.
Verify sprinklers are free of dust, paint, residual build up and debris.
p.
Verify spare sprinkler heads and wrench are provided.
q.
Verify proper signage is provided for valves and equipment.
r.
Verify piping and equipment is free of corrosive and mechanical damage.
s.
Verify overall system is complete and fully operational.
t.
Flushing will be conducted prior to the hydrostatic test prior to the certificate of occupancy.
u.
Hydrostatic tests will be conducted upon initial installation (prior to obstructing view of piping).
2.
The following tests for dry pipe sprinkler systems shall be conducted in addition to the tests specified in General Sprinkler Procedure above.
a.
Verify the dry valve operates properly including quick opening devices (full flow trip test every 3 years).
b.
Verify the dry valve priming water level is adequate.
c.
Verify the air pressure is adequate.
d.
Verify the proper operation of all compressors and timing of pumping system back in service.
e.
Verify the air maintenance system operates properly.
3.
In addition to the tests specified above, for all sprinkler systems the following shall be conducted on all preaction/deluge sprinkler systems:
a.
Verify the detection system is operational.
b.
Verify the supervisory air pressure, if provided, is adequate.
c.
Verify the activation valve operates properly.
d.
Verify the automatic trip test function properly (total system function/no flow).
G.
Stairwell/Vestibule Pressurization. Stairwell/Vestibule pressurization systems shall be tested and certified annually. All certifications shall be conducted by a licensed contractor that is listed with the Austin Fire Department, Fire Marshal's Office as a Special Inspector. The following system components and operations shall be tested as outlined:
1.
Verify the system operates automatically upon activation of the fire alarm system.
2.
Verify the system operates on emergency power.
3.
Verify and record the stairwell pressure differential readings across doors on top floor and ground floor, and every five (5) floors in between.
4.
Verify that stairwell door opening forces do note exceed 30 pounds with the stairwell pressurized and no stairwell doors open.
5.
Verify and record the vestibule pressure differential readings.
6.
Verify correct system operation using the firefighter's smoke control panel.
7.
Submit a copy of the annual certification test report to the Austin Fire Department, Fire Marshal's Office.
H.
Emergency Generator. Emergency generator system shall be function tested quarterly, and tested and certified annually. All certifications shall be conducted by a licensed master electrician or an authorized generator company service representative. Quarterly function testing for high-rise buildings may be performed by the building engineering staff. The following system components and operations shall be tested as outlined:
1.
Verify the generator starts upon power failure.
2.
Test the generator under available building loads and confirm no additional loads are placed on generator without prior approval. Load banks shall be added as necessary to test at a minimum of 30% of rating (preferably 50%), or as required/recommended by manufacturer. The generator system shall be exercised for a minimum of 2 hours for acceptance and annual tests.
3.
Verify all required systems are powered by the generator system.
4.
Verify and record volts - amps - Hertz (under load and no load). Record the hour meter reading at the start and end of the test.
5.
Verify the fuel supply is adequate for 2 hours at required building load.
6.
Verify the transfer switches operate correctly.
7.
Verify that the generator will shut off when normal power is restored.
8.
Verify the remote status and control panel functions properly.
9.
Verify the record of routine maintenance is being kept, indicating tests and service. The record shall be available for Fire Department inspection.
10.
Verify the operation of the generator set with manual start.
11.
Verify the approved plans are available on site (for certificate of occupancy and construction inspections).
12.
Verify installation of systems proceeded in accordance with approved plans (for certificate of occupancy).
I.
Elevators. Elevators shall be functionally tested quarterly, and tested and certified annually. All certifications shall be conducted by an elevator company service representative approved by the Building Official. Quarterly functional tests for high-rise buildings may be performed by the building engineering staff. The following system components and operations shall be tested as outlined:
1.
Verify that the fire fighter's control switch inside each elevator car operates in the fire mode and that the elevators operate properly under normal power and emergency power, if applicable.
2.
Verify all elevators return to the appropriate floor in fire mode under normal power.
3.
Verify all elevators return to the appropriate floor in fire mode under emergency power, if applicable.
4.
Verify the floor controls are inoperative in fire mode.
5.
Verify that elevator doors open and close manually with key operation.
6.
Verify the proper operation of main lobby call-down switch.
7.
Verify the proper operation of remote control/status panel, if applicable.
8.
Verify the operation of elevator phone or communication equipment.
9.
Verify the proper signals are transmitted.
10.
Verify the proper operation and location of elevator smoke detectors.
11.
Verify the proper operation of emergency stop.
12.
Verify the proper operation of emergency alarm.
J.
Smoke Management Equipment. Smoke management equipment shall be tested and certified annually. Testing of openable/removable windows may be conducted by knowledgeable building engineering staff with. Testing of mechanical smoke management equipment shall be conducted by a licensed contractor that is listed as a Special Inspector with the Austin Fire Department, Fire Marshal's Office. The following equipment components and operations shall be tested as outlined:
1.
Openable (Removable) or Tempered Glass Windows.
a.
Verify that the equipment needed for opening removable/ openable windows is readily available and operational.
b.
Verify that tempered windows are marked with a "T" decal located in the lower right or left hand corner.
c.
Verify that tempered and removable/openable windows are accessible and not blocked with walls, partitions, cabinets, etc.
2.
Mechanical Smoke Management Equipment.
a.
Verify that smoke management fans, and all associated hardware operate correctly on primary and emergency power when activated by the zoned fire alarm system or zoned sprinkler system.
b.
Verify that the firefighter's smoke control panel operates correctly on emergency and primary power.
c.
For high-rise buildings provided with smoke exhaust, verify and record the number of air changes per hour provided on the fire floor(s).
d.
For high-rise buildings provided with floor pressurization, verify and record the pressure differential provided relative to the fire floor.
e.
Submit a copy of the annual certification test report to the Austin Fire Department, Fire Marshal's Office.
K.
Sequence Tests. The following instructions pertain to performing a sequence test of fire protection and life safety equipment. Sequence tests shall be conducted annually by representatives of the building management/ engineering staff, the Austin Fire Department, and such qualified personnel as needed. The Fire Department may decline to observe the test, and instead accept documentation of the test provided by qualified personnel.
1.
Determine what equipment in the building will be affected in this test.
2.
Determine how many people or companies are needed to participate in the test. The building owner should develop a testing plan prior to the test.
3.
Arrange a time to test and call all parties concerned (including the Austin Fire Department).
4.
On the day of the test, position people at all test locations.
5.
Test on normal power.
a.
Activate the fire alarm system from a randomly selected alarm device.
b.
Verify that the alarm sounds on all designated floors.
c.
Verify that all elevators return to the lobby and remain with their doors open (unless an alternative is approved by the Fire Chief).
d.
Ensure that the fire dampers in the building operate (if applicable).
e.
Ensure that the building HVAC (air conditioning) shuts down (if applicable).
f.
Ensure that stair and elevator shafts pressurize (if applicable).
g.
Ensure that the stairway doors unlock (but do not unlatch), including door to control center and entrance door(s) to the building.
h.
Start fire pump (if applicable) automatically.
i.
Verify smoke removal system functions.
j.
Verify communication system functions.
6.
Test on Emergency Power.
a.
Shut off building power (main circuit breakers).
b.
Ensure that the emergency generator operates (if applicable).
c.
Verify fire alarm system continues to operate. "All call" full load test on voice alarm systems.
d.
Verify designated elevators operate.
e.
Verify the status of fire dampers (open or closed).
f.
Verify that pressurization of shafts and HVAC shutdown is the same as test on normal power.
g.
Verify that the stairway door locks operate.
h.
Verify fire pump operation (if applicable).
i.
Verify all auxiliary equipment operates.
j.
Verify transfer switches work on generator.
k.
Verify that the generator shuts down automatically after normal power is restored.
l.
Verify emergency lighting operates (if applicable).
m.
Verify other systems operate (smoke removal, etc.).
L.
Foam Systems.
1.
Foam systems shall be tested and certified annually and at five (5) years. All certifications shall be conducted by a fire protection systems company licensed by the State of Texas. The following equipment components and operations shall be tested as outlined:
a.
Inspect all proportioning devices, their accessory equipment, foam chambers and foam makers to assure they are not blocked and are in operating condition.
b.
Inspect all aboveground piping to determine that it is in sound condition and that proper drainage pitch is maintained.
c.
Inspect all strainers to assure they are in sound condition and clear.
d.
Test control valves for proper operation and position.
e.
Inspect the foam concentrate and their tanks or storage containers for evidence of excessive sludge or deterioration.
f.
Verify that the actuation system, if provided, is operational.
2.
The following items need only be completed every five (5) years for a foam system:
a.
Complete hydrostatic test.
b.
Perform water and foam flow function test at system's designed flow.
c.
Spot check the underground piping for deterioration.
d.
Test for foam concentrate quality by approved laboratories.
M.
Fire Escapes.
1.
Fire escapes shall be functionally tested annually, and tested and certified every five (5) years. Fire escapes shall be accessible and structurally safe at all times. Owners of buildings containing fire escapes shall have load tests of fire escapes conducted at least once every five (5) years with a weight of not less than 100 pounds per square foot, the results of which shall be submitted in writing to the Fire Chief under the seal of a registered professional engineer. Annual functional testing may be performed by the building engineering staff.
2.
In lieu of such a test, the Fire Chief may accept documentation from a registered professional engineer that the fire escape is structurally safe and will support a live load of 100 pounds per square foot on all load-bearing surfaces
N.
Halon/FM 200/Inergen/Carbon Dioxide Systems. Halon and carbon dioxide systems shall be tested and certified annually. Acceptance Testing shall be shall be performed in accordance applicable NFPA Standards. All certifications shall be conducted by a fire protection systems company licensed by the State of Texas. The following equipment components and operations shall be tested as outlined:
1.
Verify the operation of fire alarm detection system including all detection devices and associated equipment.
2.
Verify that the quantity of agent and pressure are adequate to protect the hazard as designed.
3.
Verify that the weight and pressure of the container is recorded on a tag attached to the container.
4.
Verify the nozzle caps are in place, if applicable.
5.
Verify that the system is free of mechanical damage.
6.
Perform discharge test on required systems at time of installation to assure proper function.
O.
Rangehood Systems. Rangehood systems shall be tested and certified semi-annually. All certifications shall be conducted by a fire protection systems company licensed by the State of Texas. The following equipment components and operations shall be tested as outlined:
1.
Verify that the agent quantity and pressure is adequate to protect the hazard.
2.
Verify all lead and wire seals are intact on the manual activator.
3.
Verify that the system is free of mechanical damage.
4.
Verify that blow off caps are in place or self-closing caps function properly.
5.
Verify the correct positioning of all nozzles.
6.
Verify that the fusible links have been replaced annually.
7.
Verify the proper cable nut travel tolerances.
8.
Test the system operation at the terminal link to verify proper operation including an air discharge test for initial testing following installation, unless air tested by manual trip as described below (do not discharge test during periodic tests).
9.
Test the system operation at the remote manual trip to verify proper operation including an air discharge test for initial testing following installation, unless air tested by link operation as described above (do not discharge test during periodic tests).
10.
Test the system operation and proper operation of microswitch.
11.
Verify that the system is visible and free from obstructions.
12.
Verify the inspection and service tag is attached to the system cylinder and properly completed.
13.
Verify the proper hand portable extinguishers are available and properly serviced.
P.
Dry Chemical. Dry chemical systems shall be tested and certified semi-annually. All certifications shall be conducted by a fire protection systems company licensed by the State of Texas. The following equipment components and operations shall be tested as outlined:
1.
Verify that the agent quantity and pressure is adequate to protect the hazard.
2.
Verify all lead and wire seals are intact on the manual activator.
3.
Verify that the system is free of mechanical damage.
4.
Verify that the blow off caps are in place or self-closing caps function properly.
5.
Verify the proper positioning of all nozzles.
6.
Verify that the automatic actuator functions properly.
7.
Test the system operation at the remote manual trip to verify proper operation (actuation function test/not discharge test).
8.
Verify the shutdown of appropriate devices, if applicable.
9.
Verify no significant debris has accumulated in the nozzles.
10.
Verify that the discharge pattern is unobstructed.
11.
Verify the inspection and service tag on system cylinder and properly filled out.
12.
Verify that no coagulation or caking of dry chemical has taken place.
Q.
Controlled Access/Egress Systems.
1.
Verify the approved plans are available on site for construction inspections and certificate of occupancy.
2.
Verify the installation proceeds as per approved plans.
3.
Verify the normal operation of the system.
4.
Verify the operation of the system under simulated fire conditions.
5.
Verify the fail open operation of the system due to power loss.
6.
Verify the appropriate interconnected equipment for proper operation.
7.
For touch sensor bars, verify that the lock will release when touched by a hand wearing a firefighter's glove.