SchoolHouse Plant Operation & Maintenance Resource Center

Yearly School Fire Sprinkler System Testing

Once each year the City of Chicago Fire Department requires that each fire sprinkler system be tested for proper operation. Engineers should review the posted test procedures at the school and the test data sheet and be familiar with the purpose and sequence of the test and be aware of the engineer’s responsibilities for properly conducting the test and collecting the test data. You are encouraged to recruit other engineers to assist you.

PRIOR TO THE TEST DAY

• Notify the Principal of the date and time of the test.

• Review all posted instructions in fire pump sprinkler room.

• Locate the inspector test valve for each riser in your attic. Make sure that the proper tools needed are available at the site of the test valve. Train one of your staff on the procedures for opening the test valve at the proper time.

• Have all tools ready in the sprinkler pump room, including a wrench to fit dry pipe valve, accelerator, exhauster and packing glands.

• Check oil in compressor.

• Locate the fuse box to disconnect the alarm system while resetting dry pipe.

• Locate all low point drains for each riser and have floor plans marked and ready.

THE DAY OF THE TEST

• Notify the Principal and all occupants of the building that test is to be given. Specify a time period. The fire alarm will sound when the system is tripped.

• Check and record air and water pressure

• Check positioning of all valves for automatic operation.

• Check city-tie to insure the switch is in the "on" position. The signal must ring through to the city.

• Isolate the riser you wish to test.

• The Chicago Fire Department representative will designate when the test will begin.

• When ready, open the riser inspection test valve in the attic to the full open position as rapidly as possible.

• Check operation of Riser Dry Pipe valve, sounding of the Complete Alarm System, and the Outside Bells, and the Sprinkler Pump.

• Allow the sprinkler pump to run until the water runs clear from the inspector test valve. Stop pump.

• Record all information required on test data sheet.

• Turn off compressor.

• Remove fuses from fire alarm system while resetting dry pipe valve.

• Drain all low points.

• Reset dry pipe valve following posted instructions.

• Restore fire alarm system to fully automatic condition.

Engineers should note any irregularities and immediately initiate a work order to facilitate repairs to the system.

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