Sprinkler System
Inspection & Servicing

Scope of Sprinkler System Inspection & Servicing

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Sprinkler Systems in Your Facility – Operation and Maintenance

Sprinkler systems are fixed, fully automatic installations. They primarily utilize water as the extinguishing medium; however, in certain facilities, foam sprinkler systems are also employed, where water is mixed with a foam concentrate.

The primary objective of a sprinkler system is to extinguish fires and prevent their propagation. The system simultaneously cools fire gases by discharging water onto hot surfaces, thereby enhancing human safety and mitigating material losses.

The system activates only when the ambient temperature around the sprinkler head exceeds the rated bulb rupture temperature. At this point, water discharge commences. For additional sprinklers to activate, the temperature in the fire-affected zone must exceed their corresponding rated values.

The design, installation, and maintenance of sprinkler systems in Poland are primarily based on the PN-EN 12845 standard. Additionally, NFPA and VdS guidelines are applied, particularly in facilities with elevated insurance and technological requirements.

Quick Reference Guide for Identifying Rated Bulb Rupture Temperatures in Sprinkler Heads.

Color of the Glass Bulb Used in the Sprinkler Rated Bulb Rupture Temperature [°C]
Orange 57
Red 68
Yellow 79
Green 93–100
Blue 121–141
Violet-Pink 163–182
Black 204–343

On-site Inspections

We inspect the sprinkler system directly at your facility — in wet, dry, and (if present) foam zones. This allows us to assess the actual technical condition and operational readiness of the system.

Wet and Dry Section Inspection

We verify that the system is correctly configured for the facility's specific conditions. We check for leaks, the condition of piping and fittings, and the compliance of solutions with technical and insurance requirements.

Testing of Valves and Control Elements (ZKA)

We monitor the operation of control and alarm valves, associated equipment, and alarm signals. This ensures the system activates reliably and predictably in an emergency.

Comprehensive Documentation and Reports

Following the inspection, you receive a complete set of protocols and service recommendations — ready for insurer review and integration into the facility's documentation.

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Foam Systems

This is a water sprinkler system enhanced with a foam concentrate. During the transfer of water from the tank
via the pump, a proportioner installed between the pump and the system draws in the concentrate, which then mixes within the system.
At the nozzles and deflectors, the mixture is further aerated, creating extinguishing foam with an appropriate
expansion ratio.

Key System Components

In practice, the effectiveness of a foam system depends on correct concentrate proportioning, pipeline integrity, efficient pump operation, and the appropriate selection of nozzles and deflectors for the facility's conditions.

Concentrate Proportioner
between the pump and the system
Pump and Supply
stable discharge parameters
Nozzles and Deflectors
mixture aeration
Fittings and Sections
integrity and service accessibility

Types of Foam by Expansion Ratio (Ls)

Piana ciężka Ls < 20

Dense, with a low volume relative to the solution used. Employed for extinguishing flammable liquids and finely divided solids.

Piana średnia 20 < Ls < 200

Moderate volume. Utilized for extinguishing specific types of flammable liquids and selected groups of solids.

High-Expansion Foam Ls > 200

Highly voluminous. Most commonly used for extinguishing solids (e.g., tires, foamed plastics).

Where are Foam Systems Applied?
refineries and petrochemical facilities high-risk industrial facilities flammable material warehouses aircraft hangars waste sorting and storage facilities stadiums and large event venues

In such facilities, water-foam monitors or foam generators are often employed, tailored to specific hazard scenarios.

What does the water-foam monitor inspection entail?
  • Verification of vertical and horizontal movements (electrical control)
  • Verification of detection capabilities and thermal camera operation
  • Inspection of oscillating automation
  • Inspection and testing of hydraulic connections
  • Assessment of system readiness for emergency operation

What does a sprinkler system inspection involve?

We operate according to a transparent procedure that integrates regulatory and insurer requirements with practical site considerations. We inspect wet and dry sections, fittings, and control and alarm valves (CAVs), subsequently conducting essential operational tests. Each stage is documented in detailed reports, and clear service recommendations are provided.

Periodic Inspection

We assess the technical condition of the sprinkler system, the accessibility and labeling of components, the integrity of selected sections, and the overall system readiness. We verify that the implemented solutions comply with site-specific conditions and insurance inspection requirements.

Wet and Dry Section Testing

We verify system operation based on the section type. For wet systems, we check for proper pressure maintenance and correct fitting operation. For dry systems, we inspect components related to compressed air maintenance and the correct transition to water supply upon activation.

Technical Explanation

Glycol Section / Subsection

SPRINKLERS

This solution is employed in wet sprinkler systems within areas susceptible to low temperatures, where there is a risk of water freezing within the system.

  • Applications: Ramps, loading zones, unheated garages, cold storage facilities.
  • Rationale: A system filled with glycol enables a faster response compared to dry sections.
  • Cost Consideration: This solution is typically more expensive due to the specialized agent (glycol) utilized.
  • Alternative: For installations prone to freezing, TEMPER S is also employed, offering freeze resistance down to -55°C.

Our Process for Sprinkler System Inspections

We conduct inspections on a one-off basis or as part of a continuous service agreement. We examine wet and dry sections, system components, and control and alarm valves (CAVs), perform functional tests, and provide clear documentation ready for insurer audits.

System Inventory

We establish and update a comprehensive list of sprinkler sections (wet and dry), control and alarm valves (CAVs), pumps, gauges, and critical system components. We verify accessibility, proper labeling, and the system's compliance with facility documentation and insurer requirements.

01

Inspection and Functional Testing

We conduct an on-site technical inspection of the system, assessing the condition of pipelines, fittings, and control elements. We test the operation of both wet and dry sections, monitor pressure parameters, and verify alarm signaling. Should it be necessary, we identify required repairs or adjustments.

02

Documentation and Inspection Frequency

Upon completion of the work, we prepare a comprehensive set of inspection reports, detailing the system's condition and providing clear service recommendations. For ongoing service contracts, we meticulously track the schedule for subsequent inspections to ensure the sprinkler system remains fully operational and compliant for annual insurer audits.

03

Do you require sprinkler system inspections at your facility? Contact us.

Pre-Action and Deluge Sprinkler Systems

Electrically controlled sections (e.g., via a Fire Suppression Control Panel). Utilized where there is a risk of water freezing within the system or where continuous ventilation of the premises is required.

CONTROLLED
Applications: tanker unloading zones
rooms with continuous air exchange (e.g., compressor rooms)
zones / equipment exposed to frost (e.g., belt conveyors)

Fire Suppression Activation Condition

To initiate fire suppression in this section, one of the following conditions must be met.

1) MANUAL FIRE SUPPRESSION ACTIVATION

Fire detected by an employee → pressing the FIRE SUPPRESSION ACTIVATION button.

or

2) Detection Coincidence (Automatic)

Requires coincidence of at least two detection elements (e.g., flame detector + linear heat detector).

Fire Suppression Control Panel

Upon detection of a fire alarm, the control panel sends a signal to an electric coil to open the solenoid valve.

Opening of the Control and Alarm Valve

The solenoid valve opens the flap inside the Alarm Check Valve assembly, allowing water flow to the sprinkler deflectors and initiating the extinguishing process.

Tip: This type of section is designed to mitigate the risk of accidental discharge and enable controlled activation, particularly in environmentally challenging areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sprinkler system inspections are conducted periodically in accordance with standard requirements, manufacturer recommendations, and facility insurance conditions. In practice, most facilities implement cyclical inspections to ensure the system remains fully operational and compliant during annual insurer audits.

Yes. Periodic inspections of foam systems include controlled discharge of the extinguishing agent. During this test, parameters such as foam expansion ratio, foam generation rate, and the effectiveness of the proportioning system are verified. Additionally, foam concentrate samples are collected for periodic analysis to confirm their parameters and suitability for emergency use.

The system activates when the ambient temperature around the sprinkler head exceeds the rated activation temperature of its heat-sensitive element. Depending on the sprinkler type, this may involve the rupture of a glass bulb or the melting of a fusible link due to temperature. This action opens the sprinkler and discharges water. Subsequent sprinklers activate only in areas where the temperature reaches their respective rated values.

Wet-pipe systems are constantly filled with pressurized water, ensuring immediate extinguishing upon sprinkler activation.

Dry-pipe systems are filled with compressed air. Upon sprinkler activation, the system transitions to water supply. This solution is employed in environments where water could cause damage, such as cold storage facilities or outdoor multi-story car parks.

This is a sprinkler system activation test performed by measuring time. The time is measured from the opening of the test valve until the fire alarm is communicated to the fire alarm control panel. Such a test confirms the system's response efficiency, the correct operation of alarm check valves, and the effectiveness of alarm signal transmission.

Depending on the type of facility and insurance requirements, various standards for design, installation, and operation are applied. Most commonly, these include VdS-CEA 4001 guidelines and American standards NFPA 13 (for system design) and NFPA 25 (for inspection, testing, and maintenance). The selection of the appropriate standard depends on the facility's specifics, risk level, and the requirements of the investor and insurer.