FAQs
What is a fire sprinkle riser?
A fire sprinkler riser is a vertical pipe or assembly that connects a building’s water supply to its fire sprinkler system. It’s a key component in the sprinkler system, acting as a bridge between the water supply and the sprinkler pipes.
How often should fire protection systems be inspected and tested?
Fire protection systems should be inspected and tested once a year.
What kind of fire extinguisher is needed for a commercial kitchen?
Class K fire extinguishers are needed to put out grease fires in commercial kitchens.
Should I keep spare sprinkler heads on site?
Yes, you should keep spare sprinklers on site.
Could I paint over my sprinkler heads?
No, you should not paint over your sprinkler heads because it can cause the system to malfunction, your system will fail inspection.
What are clean agents?
Clean agents are gas-based fire suppression agents that don’t release physical matter when they suppress a fire.
How many fire extinguishers are needed?
The number of fire extinguishers needed depends on the layout and size of the space, the presence of flammable liquids, and the stairwells. In general, there should be no more than 75 feet between Class A extinguishers and 50 feet between Class B extinguishers.
How often should fire extinguishers be inspected and maintained?
Fire extinguishers should be inspected monthly by employees or the owner, and maintained annually by a professional. Internal maintenance should be done every six years, and hydro tests every 12 years.
When should a fire extinguisher be replaced?
Disposable fire extinguishers should be replaced every 10 years. Rechargeable fire extinguishers should be replaced if they have a missing inspection tag, a broken or missing pin, a broken or loose handle, a clogged nozzle, damage to the exterior shell, or fail hydrostatic testing.
What types of fire suppression systems are there?
There are many types of fire suppression systems, including clean agent, foam, dry chemical, carbon dioxide, and water mist systems.
Do I need a fire suppression system?
Yes, fire suppression systems are required by NFPA and local fire codes for all grease cooking applications.
Do I need to connect my kitchen suppression system to a building alarm system?
Yes, if your municipality requires a monitored building alarm system, your kitchen suppression system must be connected to it.
How often should I inspect and test my fire protection system?
You should schedule inspection and testing services once a year. Semiannual inspections are required for commercial kitchen (hood) fire suppression.
Where should fire extinguishers be installed?
Fire extinguishers should be installed in plain sight, near an exit, and out of reach of children. They should also be kept away from heating appliances and stoves.
How should fire extinguishers be used and maintained?
The operator’s manual should be read for proper use, maintenance, and inspection. Fire extinguishers should be recharged after each use, unless they are disposable.
When is a fire extinguisher considered expired?
A disposable fire extinguisher is considered expired if it is more than 12 years old from the date of manufacture. The bottle will usually state “This product must be removed from service within 12 years after date of manufacturing”
How often should the hood system be professionally cleaned?
The frequency of cleaning depends on the amount of cooking that takes place, typically quarterly or semiannually.
