Weekly routines

Testing and inspection at valvesets

  • Check and record pressures above and below alarm valves before testing alarms.
  • Test hydraulic alarm by opening 15mm test valve.
    • NOTE: on alternate systems when filled with water the 15mm test valve above the dry pipe valve must be used. Hydraulic alarms should sound continuously for a minimum of 30 seconds
  • Check and record pressures above and below alarm valves after testing alarms.
  • Ensure main stop valve is locked open and that all ancillary valves are in the correct orientation.
  • Carry out a visual inspection of system for leaks/defects etc.

Testing and inspection of fire pumps (where applicable)

  • Ensure water storage tank is full prior to testing the pumps.
  • Check oil levels.
  • Check coolant level where applicable.
  • Check fuel level before and after testing and top up where required.
  • Check all pumphouse valves are in the correct orientation.
  • Check battery electrolyte levels and specific gravity.
  • Test jockey pump cut in and cut out pressures via the test facility and record the pressures.
  • Test electric pump cut in pressure and record the pressure.
  • Run pump for a minimum of 10 minutes checking to ensure water is flowing freely from the minimum flow line.
  • Record delivery pressure and visually check pump for leaks, vibration and other defects.
  • Stop pump and restart with manual start if applicable.
  • Stop pump and ensure that supply healthy lamp is illuminated.
  • Test diesel pump cut in pressure and record the pressure.
  • Run pump for a minimum of 30 minutes checking to ensure water is flowing freely from the cooling line/minimum flow line.
  • Monitor engine temperature, oil pressure and cooling system whilst pump is running.
  • Record delivery pressure and visually check pump set for leaks, vibration and other defects.
  • Stop pump and restart with manual start and run for a further 2 minutes.
  • Stop pump and record hours run as detailed on the meter.
  • Ensure that panel and battery chargers are functioning correctly.
  • Check all pumphouse valves are in the correct orientation
    • Please note it is not recommended to leave pumps running whilst unattended.

Ancillary equipment checks

  • Check cut in and cut out pressures and oil levels of any air compressors.
  • Check any heating systems (including trace heating systems) are working. (Note if TFIS carry out weekly testing only a visual check of operational lamps is made).
  • Check any storage tanks, rivers, canals, lakes, reservoirs and priming tanks are full of water, any contents gauges are operational, any ball valves operational and infill valves are secured open.
  • Check air/water levels and pressures of any pressure tanks and any sight glasses are redrained and isolated.
  • Check any automatic monitoring signals received and reset.
  • Check there is the correct clear space below sprinklers.
  • Check the availability of spare sprinkler heads.
  • Inspect all pump pressure relief valves.
  • Check life safety monitoring panels are operating correctly.
  • Check monitored fire brigade connections for continuity.