Lexmark, a printer system manufacturer, required an independent 3rd Party survey and audit of their fire sprinkler system for the Lexmark Electronics Facility – Philippines. The fire sprinkler system was surveyed, and results recorded. A comparison of compliance to NFPA Codes, specifically NFPA 13 and 20, was used as a basis for ascertaining the degree of expected standard of installation.
A survey and audit of the fire sprinkler system after the physical site survey and audit was carried out together with PowerQ. powerQ teamed up with a specialist fire protection consultant.
Flow tests for the sprinkler pumps were conducted using Panametric ultrasonic flowmeter owned by PowerQ. The tests were witnessed by the facility manager and representatives from Zurich Services. The flow tests were conducted at 100% and 150% of rated flow using the ultra-sonic flowmeter and the recorded gauge pressure was found to be within the limits as prescribed by the NFPA Codes.
It was found that generally the fire-protection system conformed to appropriate standards in type and design to meet NFPA code. However, the survey found some inadequacies in the condition and status of the system, which were detailed out in the survey report.
Control valves or individual isolation valves accidentally closed
One of the most common faults possible; the fire protection system is fully operational and in good condition, except that the water supply is accidentally turned off.
It is understood from Lexmark that the control valves are only turned on when an alarm signal is received. This is strongly not recommended since the sprinklers are highly effective during initial stages of a fire and the immediacy of sprinkler response must not be compromised.
In this survey, individual isolation valves are observed not strapped in the open position, which may invite tampering in the future. It is strongly recommended that all valves be to be strapped and padlocked in the open position.
Sprinkler pumps installation
Pressure Relief Valve not operating.
The pressure relief valve (PRV) at the Circuit Assembly Plant is not working. In an unlikely scenario, the pressure in the sprinkler system may build up beyond the range of the sprinkler pump recommended operating range, resulting in a drastic dip in pressure and little water at sprinkler heads.
Inspector Test Valve Assembly
The relief valve at the inspector test valve assembly is not opened. This may result in excessive pressure buildup within the sprinkler system.
Fire and Jockey pump pressure setting
The fire pump, when started by pressure drop should be arranged to ensure that the first fire pump to operate does not cause water hammer due to the system pressure being allowed to drop too low. When a fire pump starts the pressure will be equal to its churn pressure, this is typically between 101% and 140% of the rated pressure. Jockey pumps should be arranged to cut-in at the fire pump churn pressure and cut-out at the pump churn pressure plus 10 psi. The first fire pump should operate at 5 psi less than the pump churn pressure. Additional pumps should operate at 10 psi increments. It was also recommended that a confirmation shall be done prior to increasing the system pressure that the system is capable of maintaining that pressure.
Other faults recommended to be rectified in the next preventive maintenance period are as listed in detailed report.