5 Year Fire Sprinkler Inspection Template

Guidelines on Filling in 5 Year Fire Sprinkler Inspection

Filling out the 5 Year Fire Sprinkler Inspection form is an essential process that ensures your fire sprinkler system meets the California Code of Regulations - Title 19 standards. This form thoroughly documents the state of your fire sprinkler system, including inspection, testing, and maintenance details over five years. Its completion is crucial for both safety and compliance purposes. Here’s how you can fill out the form step by step:

1. Start with the Property Information section by entering the Building Name and its address, including City, State, and Zip code.
2. In the Contractor or Licensed Owner Information section, provide the Name and Address of the contractor or the licensed owner. Also, include the License #, Phone number, City, SFM Job #, the Contact Person, and any miscellaneous (Misc.) information required.
3. Fill out the Riser Information section, which includes the location, number, and diameter of the riser. Also, include the Main Drain Test details such as Initial Static, Residual, and Final Static Pressure. Mark the results as Passed (P), Failed (F), or Not Applicable (N/A).
4. Indicate if the building has more than 5 risers and attach additional AES 2.9 forms if necessary. Specify the Number of AES 2.9 forms attached.
5. Proceed with the 5-Year INSPECTION, TESTING, AND MAINTENANCE section. For each item listed, mark I for Inspection, T for Test, M for Maintenance accordingly. Also, indicate whether each item Passes (P), Fails (F), or is Not Applicable (N/A). Insert the date of inspection/testing/maintenance, and provide comments when necessary.
6. Continue to the second and third pages, and fill them out following the instructions provided above, ensuring every required field for the ANNUAL INSPECTION, TESTING, AND MAINTENANCE section is completed appropriately.
7. Under Deficiencies and Comments, list any deficiencies identified during the inspection, testing, and maintenance of the system. Check if additional information is listed on Form AES 9 and attach the Number attached.
8. For corrected deficiencies, refer to Correction Form AES 10 and indicate the Number attached.
9. Finally, certify the accuracy and completion of the inspection by printing the name of the individual who performed the inspection, signing, and dating the form.

Once filled out, ensure that the form is reviewed for accuracy and completeness. This document needs to be kept on file as proof of compliance and for reference during future inspections or in case of emergencies. It's not only an essential practice for upholding safety regulations but also for safeguarding the occupants and the property itself.

What is the purpose of the 5 Year Fire Sprinkler Inspection form?

The 5 Year Fire Sprinkler Inspection form is a comprehensive document designed to ensure that all components of a wet pipe fire sprinkler system within a building are regularly inspected, tested, and maintained in accordance with California Code of Regulations - Title 19. This form is utilized to document the condition of various parts of the sprinkler system, including control valves, water flow alarms, supervisory devices, and many others over a five-year period, ensuring they meet safety standards and work correctly in the event of a fire.

Who is required to complete the 5 Year Fire Sprinkler Inspection form?

This form must be completed by a contractor or licensed owner who is qualified and has the necessary expertise in the inspection, testing, and maintenance of fire sprinkler systems. The individual or entity performing the inspection must possess a valid license and should follow all guidelines specified in the California Code of Regulations, Title 19, to conduct the inspections accurately and responsibly.

What are the key components that are inspected, tested, and maintained as per this form?

• Inspection Items: These include control valves, waterflow alarm devices, supervisory devices, gauges for wet pipe systems, hydraulic design information signs, and more.

• Testing Items: These cover the main drain test, field service test for backflow preventer assemblies, operational tests for control valves, water flow alarm devices, and several others.

• Maintenance Items: These focus on check valves, control valves, backflush of Fire Department Connections (FDC), internal pipe inspections, and obstruction investigations.

What does "P", "F", "N/A" stand for in the report?

Within the 5 Year Fire Sprinkler Inspection form, "P" stands for Pass, indicating that the inspected component meets the necessary regulatory and safety standards. "F" denotes Fail, showing that the component does not comply with the required standards and may need repair or replacement. "N/A" stands for Not Applicable, which is used for sections of the inspection that do not apply to the specific fire sprinkler system being inspected.

How often should the 5 Year Fire Sprinkler Inspection be conducted?

The name itself indicates that the comprehensive inspection, testing, and maintenance documented by this form are to be carried out every five years. However, it is important to note that certain components of the fire sprinkler system also require quarterly and annual inspections. These more frequent inspections are also documented in the form to ensure the system remains in optimal working condition at all times.

What should be done if deficiencies are found during the inspection?

If the inspection reveals any deficiencies, it is imperative to address them promptly to ensure the fire sprinkler system functions correctly. The "Deficiencies and Comments" section of the form is specifically designed for noting any issues discovered during the inspection. It is required to use Form AES 10, referred to as the Correction Form, to document the corrective actions taken to fix any deficiencies identified. This ensures that all parts of the fire sprinkler system are fully operational and compliant with safety regulations.

Filling out a 5-Year Fire Sprinkler Inspection form is a crucial activity that ensures the safety and compliance of building systems. However, even with the best intentions, people often make mistakes during this process. Here we outline nine common errors that are encountered:

1. Overlooking the Property Information section. This is foundational, as it provides the context and identity of the property under inspection. Ignoring or inaccurately filling in this information can lead to confusion and non-compliance issues.

2. Entering incorrect or outdated Contractor or Licensed Owner Information. This is crucial for accountability and for any necessary follow-up actions or clarifications related to the inspection.

3. Not specifying the Riser Information clearly. Each riser's location, main drain, and diameter are essential for a thorough inspection. Mistakes in this area compromise the integrity of the inspection.

4. Misinterpreting the Main Drain Test results. This includes incorrectly noting the static and residual pressures, which can mislead maintenance decisions.

5. Failing to indicate the correct number of AES 2.9 forms attached if the building has more than five risers. This omission can lead to incomplete assessment records.

6. Omitting or erroneously marking items under the 5-Year INSPECTION, TESTING, AND MAINTENANCE checklist. Each item's status as pass, fail, or not applicable is vital for comprehensive documentation.

7. Skipping the Annual Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance section. This oversight disregards the necessity of integrating all quarterly and annual inspections, tests, and maintenance checks for a cohesive analysis.

8. Inaccurately recording details under the Item Description for both the 5-Year and Annual sections. Precision in these entries is key to determining the fire system's health.

9. Forgetting to complete the Deficiencies and Comments section or inaccurately indicating the type of deficiency or comment. This section is critical for outlining specific issues that need addressing and guiding the subsequent corrective actions.

Addressing these common errors requires meticulous attention to detail, a thorough understanding of the form’s requirements, and an acknowledgment of the importance of this process in maintaining a safe environment. Avoiding these mistakes not only ensures compliance with regulations but also significantly contributes to the safety and integrity of a building's fire sprinkler system.

When conducting a 5-Year Fire Sprinkler Inspection, complying with the California Code of Regulations - Title 19, several forms and documents may be required to ensure a comprehensive inspection and maintenance process. These additional documents enable proper documentation, compliance verification, and maintenance of the fire sprinkler system.

• Fire Sprinkler System Repair and Maintenance Log: This document records any repairs, maintenance, replacements, or adjustments made to the fire sprinkler system. It includes dates, a description of the work performed, and the name of the technician or contractor who completed the work.
• Annual Inspection Form: A detailed record of the annual inspection that precedes the comprehensive 5-Year inspection. It covers the assessment of components such as sprinkler heads, piping, and valves to ensure they are in working condition.
• Quarterly Inspection Form: Documents the routine quarterly inspections that focus on visual assessments, testing alarms, and checking control equipment to identify any issues that need immediate attention.
• Main Drain Test Report: Provides a record of the main drain test, which is performed to evaluate the water supply's condition through the fire sprinkler system, including flow rates and pressure.
• Obstruction Investigation Report: If there's a suspicion or indication of blockage within the fire sprinkler system, this report outlines the findings of the obstruction investigation, detailing the location, cause, and resolution of any obstruction found.
• Hydraulic Calculation Report: Shows the results of hydraulic calculations done to verify that the fire sprinkler system meets the necessary flow rates and pressures to effectively cover the protected area, essential for systems that have undergone changes or expansions.
• Fire Department Connection (FDC) Inspection Form: Used to record the inspection and maintenance of FDCs, ensuring that they are accessible, properly identified, and free of damage or obstruction.

Together, these documents form a comprehensive portfolio that supports the 5-Year Fire Sprinkler System Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance Report. Each plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity, compliance, and operational readiness of the fire sprinkler system, safeguarding property and lives against fire hazards.

• Annual Risk Assessment Form: Similar to the 5 Year Fire Sprinkler Inspection form, the Annual Risk Assessment Form is also regulatory-driven, requiring annual completion to assess and document potential risks within a facility. This is crucial for identifying areas needing attention to minimize risks, similar to how the inspection form identifies maintenance needs for fire sprinkler systems.

• Quarterly Fire Alarm System Inspection Form: This form, like the 5 Year Fire Sprinkler Inspection form, is part of routine safety checks required by law. It focuses on inspecting, testing, and documenting the operational status of fire alarm systems on a quarterly basis to ensure they function correctly during an emergency, reflecting the ongoing maintenance theme of the sprinkler inspection form.

• Building Safety Compliance Checklist: The Building Safety Compliance Checklist ensures that all parts of a building meet specific safety criteria set by local or federal regulations. It parallels the 5 Year Fire Sprinkler Inspection form by serving as a documented review of compliance with safety standards, although it covers a broader range of safety aspects beyond fire sprinkler systems.

• Emergency Lighting & Exit Sign Monthly Test Log: This log tracks the performance and functionality of emergency lighting and exit signs. Its regular, documented testing is akin to the inspection and testing protocols of the fire sprinkler inspection form, emphasizing the importance of readiness in emergency situations.

• Fire Extinguisher Inspection Record: Similar in purpose to ensure operational readiness in the event of a fire, this record documents the monthly inspection of fire extinguishers. It shares the systematic approach of the 5 Year Fire Sprinkler Inspection form, focusing on a specific fire safety component's condition and functionality.

• Fire Safety Plan: This plan details procedures for evacuating a building in case of fire, including maintenance records for fire safety equipment. It's akin to the 5 Year Fire Sprinkler Inspection form in that both documents are essential for fire safety and regulatory compliance, although the Fire Safety Plan is more comprehensive in scope, covering various facets of fire preparedness.

• Backflow Preventer Inspection Report: Required annually, this report documents the inspection and testing of backflow preventers to prevent contaminated water from flowing back into the clean water supply. It mirrors the 5 Year Fire Sprinkler Inspection form in its role of ensuring a critical component's functionality through regular inspections, contributing to the overall safety and compliance of the property's infrastructure.

When filling out the 5 Year Fire Sprinkler Inspection form, it's important to follow specific steps to ensure accuracy and compliance with regulations. Here are ten things you should and shouldn't do:

Do:
• Read through the entire form before beginning to understand all requirements.
• Use a black or blue pen for clarity and permanence.
• Ensure all information is accurate, including the property and contact information.
• Follow the specific instructions for each section, referring to the NFPA 25 and CA codes as needed.
• Conduct thorough inspections, tests, and maintenance as prescribed, documenting any deficiencies.
• Include comments for any item marked P, F, or N/A, providing context or details as necessary.
• Attach additional forms if more space is needed for reporting on risers or deficiencies.
• Review the completed form for completeness and accuracy.
• Print your name legibly and sign the form, certifying the inspection, testing, and maintenance conducted.
• Submit the form timely to the relevant fire code official or authority.

Don't:
• Leave any sections incomplete unless marked as N/A with a valid reason.
• Use pencil or any ink that can easily be erased or smudged, compromising the document's integrity.
• Guess or estimate readings and measurements; precise data is crucial.
• Overlook the need to attach the additional AES 2.9 forms if the building has more than 5 risers.
• Ignore comments and deficiency sections, leaving concerns or issues unaddressed.
• Rush through the inspection, test, and maintenance processes, as thoroughness is key to safety.
• Forget to check the expiration dates on alarms, extinguishers, or other components, which might require timely replacement or maintenance.
• Assume all past inspections or maintenance was performed correctly; reverify all items as necessary.
• Sign the form without ensuring all contents are correct and truthful.
• Delay in addressing any identified deficiencies, as this could compromise fire safety.

• One common misconception is that the 5 Year Fire Sprinkler Inspection form is only relevant for buildings with wet pipe systems. In reality, this form encompasses a wide range of inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) activities, applicable to various types of fire sprinkler systems within the guidelines provided by the California Code of Regulations - Title 19. This includes, but is not limited to, wet pipe, dry pipe, deluge, and pre-action systems, signifying a broader applicability than often assumed.

• Another misconception is that this form is a simple checklist. While it does feature checkboxes and sections for pass/fail notation, the form is designed to provide a comprehensive account of the fire sprinkler system's status, necessitating a detailed inspection and understanding of the system. This includes qualitative assessments in the “Comments” section, which can be crucial for understanding the nuances of the system’s operational integrity.

• Many believe that the inspection form is only to be completed by external contractors. While contractors commonly perform these inspections, the form clearly allows for "Licensed Owner Information," indicating that owners who have the requisite knowledge and licensing can also legally carry out these inspections, tests, and maintenance operations.

• There's a misconception that all sections of the form must be filled out for every inspection. The form, however, contains fields marked "N/A" to account for components not present in all systems or situations where certain tests or inspections are not applicable, making the form adaptable to the specific configuration and conditions of a building’s fire sprinkler system.

• Some assume that the form covers only annual inspection requirements. While it does detail annual inspections, it also encompasses quarterly and 5-year ITM requirements, providing a consolidated document that tracks a fire sprinkler system's compliance over time and not just for annual checks.

• Another misconception is that the "Deficiencies and Comments" section is merely for brief notes. This part of the form is essential for documenting any issues in detail and for specifying corrective actions taken or recommended, thereby serving as a critical communication tool between inspectors, building owners, and authorities.

• A common misunderstanding is that passing the 5 Year Inspection means a system is compliant for the next five years without further action. The form includes quarterly and annual maintenance tasks, emphasizing the ongoing nature of fire sprinkler system upkeep beyond the 5-year comprehensive evaluation.

• Lastly, it's mistakenly thought that the inspection form is only regulatory with no practical benefit. Beyond compliance, the thorough examination and maintenance of fire sprinkler systems as directed by this form play a crucial role in ensuring these systems function as intended in an emergency, potentially saving lives and property.

Key Takeaways about Filling Out and Using the 5 Year Fire Sprinkler Inspection Form

The 5 Year Fire Sprinkler Inspection Form is an essential document designed to ensure that fire sprinkler systems are consistently maintained and inspected according to California Code of Regulations - Title 19. Below are nine key takeaways for effectively filling out and utilizing this form.

• All quarterly and annual inspections, tests, and maintenance items are included in the 5-Year Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance Report, covering everything from control valve identification signs to the inspection of alarm valves and pressure reducing valves.
• It is crucial to provide detailed property information alongside contractor or licensed owner information to ensure accountability and ease of contact.
• The form requires specific measurements and operational checks, such as main drain tests and water supply pressure checks, indicating both the initial and residual pressures.
• Several items on the form have a clear ‘Pass’, ‘Fail’, or ‘Not Applicable’ (P, F, N/A) marking to denote the status of each inspection or test item, making it straightforward to identify areas requiring attention.
• For systems with more than 5 risers, an additional AES 2.9 form is necessary, underlining the importance of thorough documentation for larger systems.
• Annual inspection, testing, and maintenance sections demand careful review of items, such as small hose connections and sprinklers, including those in accessible concealed spaces, highlighting the requirement for a comprehensive check of the system’s components.
• The document emphasizes the need for tests under specific conditions, like the field service test requiring submission to a Fire Code Official if necessary, illustrating the regulated nature of fire safety evaluations.
• For maintenance sections, checks ranging from valve inspections to obstruction investigations are listed, affirming the ongoing requirement for system integrity and functionality assurance.
• Last but not least, the form ends with a certification by the inspector, including any deficiencies and comments, ensuring that any issues are clearly documented and corrected as per the Correction Form AES 10.

Properly completing and understanding the 5 Year Fire Sprinkler Inspection Form is fundamental for the legal compliance and safety of fire sprinkler systems in any property within California, showcasing the critical nature of this regulatory procedure.