GAPS Guidelines GAP.13.0.
A Publication of Global Asset Protection Services LLC
SPECIAL EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS
PERIODIC INSPECTION AND TEST
INTRODUCTION
Many special extinguishing systems are never called upon to extinguish a fire during their lifetimes.
However, when they are needed they must be ready to perform with utmost reliability. To ensure this
periodic inspection and tests not otherwise covered in the NFPA Standards dealing with the design
and acceptance testing of extinguishing systems.
POSITION
Inspect and test special extinguishing systems on weekly and semiannual schedules.
Weekly Tests
Check the following items weekly to ensure the system is in the normal operating mode:
• Control panel not in “alarm” or “trouble” status or in the “off" or "bypass" position.
• Cylinder gauges indicate proper pressure.
• Battery charging properly. (Check battery hydrometer readings monthly, if applicable)
• Pins on manual releases are in place and sealed.
• Electrical conduit and wiring, pneumatic tubing, if any, or other components not physically
damaged or obstructed.
• Changes in the size or severity of the hazard have not occurred.
• Ventilation system it is operational and has not been altered.
• Current system service tag is attached.
Semiannual Tests
Unless a purchaser of the special extinguishing system has personnel trained by the equipment
manufacturer to test, maintain and service the system, make arrangements with a competent
contractor (preferably the installer) for this work. This contract should provide for semiannual testing,
maintenance and emergency servicing of the equipment.
In addition to confirming the amount of agent, test all devices and interlocks. These include:
• Actuation devices.
• Local alarms (audible and visual).
• Alarms to fire department, central station, remote station, proprietary signaling service or local
annunciation.
• Damper closure.
• Air conditioning power shutdown.
• Computer shutdown (without adversely affecting operations).
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Global Asset Protection Services LLC and its affiliated organizations provide loss prevention surveys and other risk management, business continuity and facility asset
management services. Unless otherwise stated in writing, our personnel, publications, services, and surveys do not address life safety or third party liability issues. The
provision of any service is not meant to imply that every possible hazard has been identified at a facility or that no other hazards exist. Global Asset Protection Services LLC
and its affiliated organizations do not assume, and shall have no liability for the control, correction, continuation or modification of any existing conditions or operations. We
specifically disclaim any warranty or representation that compliance with any advice or recommendation in any document or other communication will make a facility or
operation safe or healthful, or put it in compliance with any law, rule or regulation. If there are any questions concerning any recommendations, or if you have alternative
solutions, please contact us.
GAP.13.0.4
• Agent-actuated pressure switches.
• Detectors sensitivity and operation, including cross-zoning, or similar “AND-gate” function.
• Electric manual releases.
• Mechanical emergency manual releases.
• Automatic door closure.
• Emergency smoke and heat removal system.
• Aborts (if provided).
• Time delays.
• Supervision of all circuits.
• Pneumatic tubing (by manometer if not supervised).
• Normal and emergency manual releases.
• High pressure carbon dioxide cylinders and clean agent cylinders should be weighed. If more than
a 5% loss of weight or pressure is noted, the cylinder should be refilled or replaced.
• The perimeter of the enclosure should be inspected for unsealed penetrations. If numerous
penetrations are discovered, consideration should be given to conducting a discharge test or an
enclosure integrity test following the sealing of the penetrations.
Confirm restoration of all equipment to normal at completion of testing. Maintain a complete written
record of all testing, maintenance and servicing.
GAPS Guidelines
2 A Publication of Global Asset Protection Services LLC
