There are many rules and regulations relating to fire protection systems, and fire sprinkler systems are no exception. But is it required that you monitor your fire sprinkler system? There are some exceptions, but in general the answer is yes.
International Building Code Section 901.6
IBC Section 901.6 states that, where required, fire protection systems shall be monitored by an approved supervising station in accordance with NFPA 72.
However, there are exceptions to this IBC code. One- and two-family dwellings and limited area systems serving fewer than 20 sprinklers do not need to be monitored.
International Building Code Section 903.4
IBC Section 903.4 states that all valves controlling the water supply for automatic sprinkler systems and water-flow switches on all sprinkler systems shall be electrically supervised.
However, there are exceptions to this IBC code as well.
- Automatic sprinkler systems protecting one- and two-family dwellings
- Limited area systems serving fewer than 20 sprinklers
- Automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with 13R where a common supply main is used to supply both domestic and automatic sprinkler systems and a separate shutoff valve for the automatic sprinkler system is not provided.
- Jockey pump control valves that are sealed or locked in the open position.
- Control valves to commercial kitchen hoods, paint spray booths, or dip tanks that are sealed or locked in the open position.
- Valves controlling the fuel supply to fire pump engines that are sealed or locked in the open position.
- Trim valves to pressure switches in dry, pre-action and deluge sprinkler systems that are sealed or locked in the open position.
The alarm sounds for each trouble signal must be distinctly different and be automatically transmitted to an approved central station, remote supervising station, or proprietary supervising station as defined in NFPA 72. Or, when approved by the code official, the alarm will sound an audible signal at a constantly attended location.
Conclusion
Unless your new fire sprinkler system falls under any of the exceptions stated above, it is required to be monitored to stay in compliance with the International Building Code.
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