Consolidated Study Material F 98 Csm

User Manual: F-98

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STUDY MATERIAL FOR THE
CERTIFICATE OF FITNESS FOR
CONSOLIDATED EXAM FOR:

F-98
STANDPIPE SYSTEMS WITH GRAVITY TANKS
SPRINKLER SYSTEMS WITH GRAVITY TANKS
SPRINKLER SYSTEMS WITH GRAVITY TANKS
COMPLEXWIDE

ALSO INCLUDED IN THIS BOOKLET YOU WILL
FIND THE FOLLOWING:
1. NOTICE OF EXAMINATION (NOE)

NOTICE OF EXAMINATION FOR
Title: Consolidated Examination for Certificate of Fitness F-98 for: Standpipe
Systems with Gravity Tank (F-10), Sprinkler Systems with Gravity Tank
(F-18), and Sprinkler Systems with Gravity Tank Complex-wide (F-47)
Date of Test: Written tests are conducted Monday to Friday (except legal holidays)
9:00 AM to 2:30 PM.
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
1. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
2. Applicants must have a reasonable understanding of the English language.
3. Applicants must present a letter of recommendation from his/her employer.
The letter must be on official letterhead and must state the applicant’s full
name, character, physical condition, experience, and address of premises where
applicant will be employed.
4. Applicants must present two (2) forms of satisfactory identification i.e.,
driver’s license and passport picture ID.
5. Applicants must present a sketch or plan of the system they are applying for.
APPLICATION INFORMATION
Application Fees: $25.00 for originals and $5.00 for renewals. The fee may be paid in
cash, money order, or personal check payable to New York City Fire Department. The
$25.00 fee must be payable by all applicants prior to taking the Certificate of Fitness test.
Application forms are available at the Public Certification Unit, 1st floor, 9 MetroTech
Center, Brooklyn, NY 11201.
TEST INFORMATION
Test: The test will be of the written, multiple choice type. A passing score of at least 70% is
required in order to secure a Certificate of Fitness. Individuals with a license as a Master Fire
Suppression Pipe Contractor (Dept. of Buildings) Class A or B; or as a Master Plumber
(Dept. of Buildings); or a certification as a Fire Protection Engineering TechnicianAutomatic Sprinkler System Layout Levels II or III (NICET) or Fire Protection Engineering
Technician-Special Hazards Systems Layout III or IV (NICET); or a license as a
Professional Engineer (PE) or Registered Architect (RA) issued by the NYS Dept. of
Education plus one year of fire protection or fire safety experience may have the written test
waived. This procedure is the Alternative Issuance Policy. Call (718) 999-1993 for
additional information and forms.

This study material, in addition to any formal courses you have taken, will help you prepare for the
examination for the Certificate of Fitness for the consolidated examination for Standpipe and Sprinkler
systems (F-98). The study material includes information taken from the Fire Prevention Code and the Fire
Prevention Directives of the Bureau of Fire Prevention, NYFD. The study material does not contain all of
the information you need to know in order to perform the job as a certificate of fitness holder under this
consolidated series. In addition to other requirements of the Certificates of Fitness covered under this
consolidated series it is your responsibility to become familiar with all applicable rules and regulations of the
City of New York, even if they are not covered in this document.
All questions on the Certificate of Fitness examination are multiple choice, with four alternative answers to
each question. Only one answer is correct for each question. If you do not answer a question or mark more
than one alternative your answer will be scored as incorrect. A score of 70% correct is required on the
examination in order to qualify for the Certificate of Fitness. Read each question carefully before marking
your answer. There is no penalty for guessing.
Sample Questions
1. The minimum water pressure at the level of the highest sprinkler head should be:
(A) 15 psi.
(B) 25 psi.
(C) 50 psi.
(D) 100 psi.
The correct answer is "A". You would press "A" on your touch screen monitor.
2. When a gravity tank is required in a yard system the tank should be:
(A) underground.
(B) on the ground level.
(C) elevated above ground level.
(D) filled with compressed foam.
The correct answer is "C". You would press "C" on your touch screen monitor.

PROVISIONS OF THE FIRE PREVENTION CODE OF NEW YORK
All multiple dwellings, factories, office buildings, warehouses, stores and offices, theaters and music halls,
and all hospitals and asylums, and all public schools and other public buildings, churches and other places
where large numbers of persons are congregated for purposes of worship, instruction or amusement, and all
piers, bulkheads, wharves, pier sheds, bulkhead sheds or other waterfront structures shall provide such fire
hose, fire extinguishers, buckets, axes, fire hooks, firedoors and other means of preventing and extinguishing
fires as the commissioner may direct.
Sprinkler systems in garment factories and factories using flammable oil for processing.
A one source automatic wet pipe sprinkler system shall be provided in every non-fireproof building in which
there is a garment factory or a factory engaged in the processing of combustible fabrics with a flammable oil,
and which exceeds three stories in height, and in which more than fifty persons are employed above the street
floor. A flammable oil is defined as an oil that emits a flammable vapor below one hundred twenty-five
degrees Fahrenheit. An automatic dry pipe sprinkler system is acceptable in place of an automatic wet pipe
sprinkler system where low temperatures or other conditions would prevent the installation of a wet pipe
system. The sprinkler systems shall be provided in all parts of such buildings.
Sprinkler and/or standpipe system maintenance and inspections.
1. Automatic and non-automatic sprinkler systems shall be inspected at least once a month by a competent
person holding a certificate of fitness, employed by the owner, to see that all parts of the system are in
perfect working order, and that the Fire Department connection or connections, if any, are ready for
immediate use by the Fire Department. A detailed record of each inspection shall be kept by the Certificate
of fitness holder for examination by a representative of the Fire Department.
2. A supply of at least six extra sprinkler heads with the appropriate wrench shall be kept available on the
premises, to replace promptly any fused or damaged sprinklers. Any head which has opened or has been
damaged shall be replaced immediately with an appropriate sprinkler head. One or more employees shall be
instructed in the maintenance of sprinkler systems.
3. At least once in five years, the Fire Department connection or connections, if any, for a sprinkler and/or
standpipe system shall be subjected to a hydrostatic pressure test and the standpipe system shall also be
subjected to a flow and pressure test to demonstrate its suitability for Fire Department use. The test shall be
conducted by the owner's representative before a representative of the Fire Department.
Maintenance and inspections of standpipe and sprinkler pumps and accessories.
Valves, hose, tools and other accessory fire fighting appliances shall be kept readily available and in good
working order. Fire pumps shall be operated at least once in thirty days in a manner which will subject the
standpipe system to a hydrostatic pressure of at least fifty pounds per square inch at the top story hose outlet.
The qualified operator shall maintain a suitable record of his or her compliance with this requirement for
inspection by the Fire Department. The installation of fire and booster pumps shall be subject to inspection
and/or test in the presence of an inspector from the Bureau of Fire Prevention.

PROVISIONS OF BUREAU OF FIRE PREVENTION FIRE DIRECTIVE 4-82
Record keeping. The Certificate of fitness holder shall maintain a detailed record of all inspections. A
record card with the date of each inspection, the Certificate of Fitness number, and the signature of the
Certificate of fitness holder shall be posted near the main control valve.
The detailed inspection report shall include information relative to conditions of water supply, gravity and
pressure tanks and levels therein, valves, risers, piping, sprinkler heads, hose valves, hoses and nozzles,
siamese connections, alarms, fire pumps, obstructions, and conditions of all other system equipment and
appurtenances. All defects of violations shall be noted on the report. Records should be kept for one year
and be made available to any representative of the Fire Department.
Reporting of defects or violations. The Certificate of fitness holder must report all major defects
immediately to:
1. the local Fire house
2. the owner or manager of the building
3. the Bureau of Fire Prevention
Major defects or violations include: empty tank, break or major leak in system water piping, inoperative or
shut water supply valves; or complete or partial shut down of sprinkler and/or standpipe systems for repairs
or other reason, and defective siamese connections.
Other defects or violations which are minor should be reported to the owner or manager of the building.
If the defects are not corrected within 30 days, the defects should be reported in writing to the Bureau of Fire
Prevention.
Failure to make inspections, maintain records, and report defects or violations may be cause for revocation of
the Certificate of Fitness and court enforcement proceedings.
PROVISIONS OF THE NEW YORK BUILDING CODE
Sources of water supply for sprinkler systems.
Automatic sources of water supply for sprinkler systems include a gravity tank, pressure tank, automatic fire
pump, or direct connection to the public water system. Auxiliary sources of water supply for sprinkler
systems include manually activated fire pumps or siamese connections. Tanks used to provide the required
primary water supply to a standpipe system may also be used as a supply for an automatic sprinkler system.
Non-automatic sources of supply for sprinkler systems shall include siamese connections. Where siamese
connections are installed, metal signs shall be fastened to or above the siamese connection indicating the area
protected. Where the building has two or more frontages, additional metal signs shall be installed indicating
the location of the siamese connection. The installation and construction of siamese connections shall be the
same as required for fire standpipe systems, except that the caps of each automatic sprinkler siamese
connection shall be painted green. The entire siamese connection of a non-automatic sprinkler system shall
be painted aluminum. The caps of each siamese connection used for combination standpipe and sprinkler
systems shall be painted yellow and signs shall be provided.
At least one automatic source of water supply shall be provided for sprinklers installed in all occupancy
groups, except that:

(a) Two automatic sources of water supply shall be provided for sprinklers in:
(1) Buildings classified in occupancy group A.
(2) Buildings classified in occupancy group C when the area on
one floor exceeds twenty thousand square feet.
(3) Buildings classified in occupancy group F-1 when open heads are required for
stages of unlimited size.
(b) The domestic water supply may be used to supply a sprinkler system when installed
in buildings classified in occupancy groups E, G, H and J. The domestic water supply
may be used to supply sprinklers if all of the following conditions are met:
(1) The domestic water supply line from the tank or street has the required
pressure (as described below).
(2) An O.S. & Y. valve or an approved valve having visual indication, sealed
open, is installed in the sprinkler supply branch.
(3) The number of heads in each fire section does not exceed twenty, and no
more than ten heads are supplied from any one domestic water riser.
(4) The connection is made at the supply or riser side of any domestic branch
control valves.
Direct connection of sprinklers to the public water system.
Direct connection of sprinklers to a city water main is acceptable as an automatic water supply provided the
main is capable of maintaining a pressure of at least fifteen psig at the top of the highest sprinkler riser, with
five hundred gpm of water flowing from a two and one-half inch hydrant outlet located at the street level
within 250 feet of the building. The size of each connection shall be as large as that of the main riser and,
except in sprinkler systems in multiple dwellings, shall be at least three inches and shall be controlled by an
accessible shutoff valve.
Each service shall be equipped, under the sidewalk, with a control valve in a flush sidewalk box located
within two feet of the front wall of the building or street line as required by the department of environmental
protection. The location of the control valve shall be indicated by a sign placed on the structure directly
opposite the sidewalk flush box, and shall have a white background with one inch red letters reading:
"Automatic Sprinkler Shutoff Valve ... Feet Opposite This Sign”. Brass, bronze, or other metal signs with
one-inch letters, raised or counter-sunk one-eighth of an inch may also be used.
Sprinkler booster pumps.
Where the pressure from the city water main is less than 15 psig as described above but is sufficient to give
at least five psig at the highest line of sprinklers as determined by test, an automatic, electrically driven pump
installed for the purpose of boosting or increasing the city water pressure in the sprinkler system may be
accepted subject to the following requirements:
(a) Pumps shall be of approved centrifugal type, capable of delivering at least two hundred gpm, and
shall be capable of supplying twenty-five per cent of the heads, in the largest area supplied, at twenty
gpm, at a pressure of at least twenty-five psig at the top of the highest sprinkler riser.
(b) Pumps shall be maintained under approved automatic control with closed circuit supervisory
attachment. The supervisory attachments shall be directly connected to an office where maintenance
personnel are in attendance twenty-four hours a day; or, in lieu thereof, the supervisory attachment
may be directly connected to the central station of an approved operating fire alarm company. The
supervisory alarm services shall be arranged so as to provide positive indication at an approved

central office or sprinkler alarm panel board that the pump has operated or that the source of
electrical supply has failed.
When sprinklers are not directly connected to the public water system and a sprinkler booster pump is not
present a pressure or gravity tank shall be used.
Protection of sprinkler system.
All parts of an automatic system exposed to freezing temperatures shall be protected from freezing or in lieu
thereof, an automatic drypipe system or a system filled with a nonfreezing, noncombustible solution shall be
used. When a system filled with nonfreezing solution is used and the system is connected to a potable water
supply, it shall be subject to the requirements of the Health Department and the Bureau of Water Supply of
the Department of Environmental Protection. Sprinkler heads subject to damage shall be protected.
Inspection and tests.
(a) Automatic wet and dry systems. Automatic wet and dry sprinkler systems shall be subjected
to a hydrostatic pressure test for a period of one hour at a pressure of at least one hundred psig at the
topmost sprinkler head and at least two hundred psig at the lowest cross connection to the siamese
connections.
(b) Automatic dry pipe systems. In addition to the hydrostatic test the automatic dry pipe systems
shall also be tested to forty psig air pressure for a twenty-four hour period with the pressure loss not
to exceed one and one-half psig.
(c) Non-automatic sprinkler systems. Non-automatic sprinkler systems shall be subjected to a
hydrostatic pressure test of fifty psig at the topmost sprinkler head, with the test pressure maintained
for a period of at least one hour.
(d) Pressure tanks. Pressure tanks shall be hydrostatically tested to a pressure of at least one and
one-half times the working pressure for a period of one hour.
(e) Sprinkler branches and heads supplied from domestic water. Sprinkler branches and heads
shall be tested at the pressure required by this section or at the pressure of the domestic water supply,
whichever is greater.
PROVISIONS OF REFERENCE STANDARD RS 17-2
Chapter 2 - Water Supplies
Pumps. In light hazard occupancies with only limited ordinary hazard areas, an automatic fire pump serving
the lower 300 feet of the standpipe system may be used as the primary supply to the sprinkler system, if a
secondary automatic switching power supply is available to drive the pump. In hydraulically designed
sprinkler systems supplied from a gravity tank, the pressure may be increased by means of an automatic,
special service fire pump. The pump shall be arranged in a bypass to permit the portion of the system so
supplied to be served by the system's siamese connections. If the pump is not supplied from the street side of
the building service switch, the electrical service and pump operation shall be fully supervised; provided that
a secondary automatic switching power supply is available to drive the pumps.
Pressure Tanks. A pressure tank in accordance with Fire Department’s requirements is an acceptable water
supply source. The total available quantity of water in pressure tanks need not exceed 15,000 gallons when

there is a secondary source of water supply available from a gravity tank or a street connection acceptable to
the Commissioner of Buildings. The maximum gross capacity of a single pressure tank shall be 9,000
gallons.
Each tank shall be kept at a maximum of 2/3 full of water and a minimum of 1/3 full of air maintained under
a minimum pressure of 75 psig. The water-to-air ratio shall be so proportioned and the tank so located that a
minimum pressure of 15 psig will be available on the highest line of sprinklers below the main roof when all
the water is being discharged from the tank. The tanks shall be supplied with water through a fixed pipe,
independent of the sprinkler piping, and at least 2 inches in size. The water supply and connection shall be
capable of supplying the tank at a rate of at least 65 gpm without reducing the pressure in the tank. The tank
shall have a fixed water level plate on the end of the tank opposite the gauge glass, or equivalent devices, to
indicate the level of the water in the tank.
The air compressor shall be provided with automatic controls for maintaining the air pressure. The capacity
of the compressor shall be sufficient to build up the tank pressure to 75 psig within 3 hours or less. Pressure
tanks shall be provided with approved closed circuit high and low water and high low air alarms. Pressure
tanks shall be located at or above the top level of sprinklers.
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
Automatic sprinkler systems are designed to automatically distribute water on a fire. The sprinkler system is
designed to extinguish the fire entirely, or to prevent the spread of the fire. An automatic sprinkler system
consists of a series of pipes at or near the ceiling in a building. The sprinkler system is fitted with automatic
devices designed to release water on a fire. These devices are called sprinkler heads. The sprinkler heads are
normally closed by a disk or cap. This cap is held in place by a heat sensitive releasing element. A rise in
temperature to a predetermined heat causes the sprinkler head to open. Water is then discharged in the form
of spray. When the sprinkler heads open they are said to have fused. The sprinkler heads are fitted at
standard intervals on the piping. If more than one head opens, the area sprayed by each overlaps that of the
sprinkler head next to it.
Sprinkler systems are required by law in various occupancies. They also may be installed voluntarily by the
owner of the building. The sprinklers are installed to protect the building and its residents. The installation
of sprinklers has a major effect in reducing fire losses. Statistical evidence shows that about 96% of the fires
are extinguished or controlled when sprinklers are installed. The 4% failure was due to a variety of causes
including burst piping, closed supply valves, frozen water lines, etc.
Automatic sprinklers are very effective for life safety. They signal the existence of a fire. At the same time
they discharge water to the burning area. When sprinklers are installed there are rarely problems getting to
the seat of the fire. They also reduce interference with visibility for fire fighting due to smoke. The
downward force of the water sprayed from sprinklers lowers the smoke level in the room. The sprinklers
also serve to cool the smoke. This makes it possible for persons to remain in the area much longer than they
could if the room were without sprinklers.
Most standard sprinkler systems have devices that automatically give an alarm when a sprinkler head
discharges water. This alarm is usually an audible signal in the building. In many cases they also give an
alarm at a remote location, such as the local fire house or a central station company. The central station
company monitors the entire fire protection system for water discharge and problems with the equipment.
When water discharge or equipment problems are identified the local fire house is immediately notified.
This allows the Fire Department to gain control of a fire as quickly as possible. Water is rarely discharged
accidentally from sprinkler heads.

SPRINKLER HEADS
Sprinkler heads are made of metal. They are screwed into the piping at standard intervals. The water is
prevented from leaving the sprinkler head by an arrangement of levers and links. The levers and links are
soldered together on the sprinkler head. The solder is a metal alloy with a fixed melting point. Other types
of sprinkler heads use a quartz bulb which expands and breaks under heat. Still another type uses a solid
chemical held in a cylinder which is broken by heat action. The sprinkler head is designed to withstand at
least 500 psi without injury or leakage. If properly installed, there is little danger of the sprinkler breaking
apart unless it is damaged.
The latest type of sprinkler head is called the "cycling sprinkler". This sprinkler head cycles water on and off
depending on the temperature. When the disk reaches a temperature of 165°F, the valve opens, permitting
water to flow. When the disk temperature cools the valve closes to shut off the water.
Some sprinkler heads are designed to be used in special situations. Sprinkler heads exposed to corrosive
conditions are often covered with a protective coat of wax, or lead. Corrosive vapors are likely to make
automatic sprinklers inoperative or slow down the speed of operation. They can also seriously block the
spray nozzles in the sprinkler heads. They can damage, weaken or destroy the delicate parts of the sprinkler
heads. In most cases such corrosive action takes place over a long time. For this reason the sprinkler heads
must be carefully watched for signs of corrosion. Care must be taken to make sure that the protective coating
is not damaged when handling or replacing the heads.
A typical fusible link type sprinkler head is shown in the picture below.

A typical sprinkler head
Spray Pattern of Sprinklers: The best way to put out a fire is to spray the water from the sprinkler head
downward and horizontally. The spray pattern will also prevent the spread of the fire. The force of the water
against the deflector creates a heavy spray which is directed outward and downward. The shape of the

deflector determines the spray pattern of the water discharged from the sprinkler head. Usually, this is an
umbrella shaped spray pattern. At a distance of 4 feet below the deflector, the spray covers a circular area
having a diameter of approximately 16 feet when the sprinkler is discharging 15 gpm. The newest kinds of
sprinkler heads allow the sprinklers to be placed farther apart need lower flow rates to give coverage to an
area. These new heads offer more effective fire protection and are less likely to cause water damage than the
old sprinkler heads.
Systems Using Large Drop Sprinklers Heads: Large drop sprinkler heads are special sprinklers designed
to discharge large drops of water from the head. These sprinkler heads are used to break through the strong
updrafts of high challenge fires.
Temperature Ratings of Sprinkler Heads: Automatic sprinkler heads have various temperature ratings
which state the temperatures at which they will fuse. The temperature rating of all solder type automatic
sprinklers is stamped on the soldered link. For other heat sensitive units, the temperature rating is stamped
on one of the releasing parts. The temperature ratings of sprinkler are also indicated by a color coding
system. See color codes below.
Color Code
Uncolored
White
Blue

Temperature Ratings
135° to 170°
175° to 225°
230° to 300°

In places where the temperature is normally high (e.g. boilers, ovens and drying rooms) a sprinkler head with
a higher temperature rating must be used. This is to make sure that the sprinkler head does not discharge
water at the wrong time. If heads with a high temperature rating are used in ordinary room (e.g., an office,
an apartment, or a store) the value of the sprinkler protection is greatly reduced. This is because the
temperature will have to increase much higher for the sprinkler head to open.
Sprinkler systems are excellent for controlling fires. However, they can cause water damage if they are not
shut down soon after the fire has been extinguished. No control valve on the system should be closed except
on the order of the fire officer in charge. Sometimes the Fire Department has a difficult time finding the
control valve to shut down the system. This problem can be prevented by keeping a small sketch of the
sprinkler system and the position of the control valves. This sketch should always be readily available. This
sketch is very helpful to the fire fighters when they have to work with the sprinkler system.
Build up of Foreign Material on Sprinklers. Sometimes conditions exist which cause a build up of foreign
material on sprinkler heads. This may prevent the sprinkler head from working properly. This build up is
commonly called loading. The build of foreign material insulates the sprinkler head. This insulation
prevents the sprinkler from opening at the temperature it is designed to.
If the build up is hard, it may prevent the sprinkler head from opening. The best practice is to replace loaded
sprinkler heads with new sprinkler heads rather than to attempt to clean them. If the deposits are hard,
attempts to clean the heads are likely to damage them. This damage may prevent the sprinkler from working
properly. The damage may also cause the sprinkler head to leak.
Deposits of light dust are less serious than hard deposits. Dust build up may delay the operation of sprinkler
heads. However, it will not prevent the eventual discharge of water. Dust deposits can be blown or brushed
off. If a brush is used, it should be soft to avoid possible injury to sprinkler parts. Scouring or acidic liquids
are likely to damage the sprinklers heads and should not be used for cleaning. Hot solutions of any kind
should never be used to clean the sprinkler heads.

Sometimes sprinklers need to be protected when ceilings or piping are being painted. Usually a small
lightweight paper bag or a sheet of lightweight paper is placed over the heads until the painting is completed.
The bag or the sheet of paper should be secured with a rubber band. The bags are likely to delay the
operation of the sprinklers and should be removed immediately after the painting is completed. There is no
known method to safely remove paint from under the water cap or on the fusible link. Sprinklers that have
been painted other than by the manufacturer must be replaced with new units.
A supply of at least six extra sprinkler heads with the appropriate wrench should always be kept in a
sprinkler cabinet. This extra supply should be used to promptly replace any sprinkler heads that have opened
or have been damaged. The extra supply of sprinkler heads should be exactly the same as the sprinkler heads
already installed in the system. It is very important that the replacement sprinkler heads have the same
temperature rating as those installed in the system.
WET PIPE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
Wet pipe systems have water in the piping at all times. This type of system is used where there is no danger
of the water supply freezing. A typical wet pipe system in the picture below. A typical wet pipe sprinkler
valve is shown on the following page.

A typical wet pipe system

A typical wet pipe sprinkler valve
Where temperatures drop below freezing the ordinary wet pipe system cannot be used. There are two
methods for using automatic sprinkler systems in places exposed to freezing temperatures. One method is to
design a system where water enters the sprinkler piping only after a control valve is opened. These are dry
pipe systems, deluge systems, or preaction systems. The other method adds an antifreeze solution to the
water in the wet pipe system. The antifreeze solution is a mixture of chemicals designed to prevent the water
from freezing.
Antifreeze Solutions. Antifreeze is added to the water in piping exposed to freezing temperatures. When the
sprinkler heads fuse the system works in the same way a wet pipe system. Antifreeze solutions are costly
and may be difficult to maintain. Antifreeze is usually used for small unheated areas. Antifreeze solutions
may be used only in accordance with applicable local health regulations.
Cold Weather Valves. An automatic sprinkler system should not be shut off and drained to avoid freezing
during cold weather. However, parts of the sprinkler system may be shut down. Permission must be
obtained from the local fire house. Permission may be given to shut off a maximum of 10 sprinklers on a
wet pipe system. These shutoff valves are commonly referred to as cold weather valves.
WATER SUPPLY SOURCES FOR SPRINKLER AND STANDPIPE SYSTEMS
The sources used to supply water to sprinkler systems are the same as those for standpipe systems. Sprinkler
and standpipe systems may be supplied from one or a combination of sources. For example, they may be
supplied by public mains, gravity tanks, pressure tanks, reservoirs, rivers, or lakes. A single water supply
would appear to be all that is needed to supply a sprinkler or a standpipe fire protection system. This
assumes that there is enough water at an acceptable pressure. However, there are a few reasons why it is
good to have a second water supply source. These reasons include: 1) a single supply source may be out of
service (for maintenance or repair) during a fire emergency; 2) a single supply source may be disabled during
a fire or before the fire is fully extinguished; 3) the water supply source may fall below normal pressure or
volume during an emergency.

In some cases it is required by law to have a second water supply source. Whether a second supply source is
needed depends on several factors. These factors include the strength and reliability of the primary supply,
the value of the property, the height, area and design of the building.
When a sprinkler or a standpipe system is supplied from a public water main, the entire system may be
closed down by closing a control valve. This valve is located between the building and the water main in a
box that is recessed into the sidewalk. The location of the box is found by reading a sign on a building or
post nearby. The sign should read "Shutoff for Sprinkler System Located 6 Feet from This Sign," or it
will have similar instructions. A special key may be required to operate this valve.
The control valve for the building may also be attached to an upright post, known as a post indicator valve
(PIV). The building or section of the building controlled by the valve is usually marked on the post. The
position of this valve (open or closed) is shown through a telltale opening in the post. On some posts, a
padlock must first be opened or forced to release the operating wrench. On others, an iron strap must first be
released by cutting a riveted leather section.
The main water supply for sprinkler and/or standpipe systems may also be controlled by an OS&Y valve
(Outside Screw and Yolk valve). The OS&Y valves are found just inside the building wall on the main riser,
or outside in protected pits. It is easy to tell at a glance if the valve is open or shut. When the stem is all the
way out the valve is open. When the stem is all the way in the valve is closed. Some OS&Y valves may be
used to control the water supply for individual floors in a building. The OS&Y valves are also installed to
shut off certain sections of an individual floor. Being able to shutoff parts of a building allows the Fire
Department to have greater control over the fire protection system. When a fire is under control in an area
the OS&Y valve can be closed to prevent any further water damage.
Sometimes repairs must be made to the sprinkler or standpipe system. When this happens the OS&Y valves
are used to close the water supply to only those sections being repaired. This is good because the rest of the
sprinkler or standpipe system does not have to be shut down.
A building may have both a standpipe and a sprinkler system installed. Each system may have its own water
supply source. For example, the standpipe system may be supplied by a gravity tank and the sprinkler
system supplied by a pressure tank.
It is quite common for the two systems to share the same water supply source. For example, both systems
may use the same gravity tank as a water supply source. The gravity tank is a limited water supply. The
amount of water that is allocated to each system is regulated by local building laws.
Acceptable water supplies for the sprinkler and standpipe systems include connection to public or private
water mains, connection to fire pumps, pressure tanks, and gravity tanks. These sources may be also used in
combination to supply a standpipe or a sprinkler system. At least one of the water sources should be able to
supply the standpipe or sprinkler system automatically. This supply must have the needed water volume and
water pressure for the entire system. The public water works system is the most commonly used water
supply source. In tall buildings the connection to the public water system may not have enough water
pressure to supply the upper floors. In this situation a second supply source is often required to increase the
water pressure. For example, a fire pump may be installed in a building that is more than ten stories high.
The higher the building the greater the water pressure needed to supply the standpipe and/or sprinkler
system.
Connections to Public Water Works System. While a connection to a reliable public water works system is
the preferred primary water supply for standpipe and automatic sprinkler systems, a check valve must be

installed next to the interior connection to the standpipe system. This valve makes sure that the standpipe
system does not backflow into the public water supply.
Fire Pumps. The fire pump is designed to draw water from a supply source. The water is then pumped into
the fire protection system under high pressure. A fire pump with both a reliable source of power and a
reliable suction water supply is a desirable piece of equipment. A suction water supply is simply a source of
water that the pump can draw water from. With a good water supply a fire pump can pump water into a
sprinkler or standpipe system for a long time. Sometimes more than one fire pump is installed in high rise
buildings. The extra fire pumps are needed to maintain the desired water pressure levels at the top floors of
the buildings.
Manually started pumps may be used as a secondary supply source if the primary water supply will last long
enough to allow the pump to be started. This kind of system must give an automatic waterflow signal to the
Certificate of fitness holder when the pump must be started.
Automatic fire pumps are usually installed where a high water demand may occur immediately. This
demand may occur in a deluge system. An automatic fire pump is also used when someone is not always
available to activate the manual pump. Automatic fire pumps must have their suction “under a positive
head” to avoid delays in drawing water from the supply source. Under positive head means that the water
supplying the pump must be fed into the fire pump under pressure. This can be achieved by connecting the
fire pump to a suction tank. Water is forced into the pump by gravity. Automatic fire pumps are activated as
soon as a drop of air or water pressure is noticed in the fire protection system. The drop in pressure occurs
when a hoseline is opened or a sprinkler head has fused.
Gravity Tanks. Gravity tanks of adequate capacity and elevation make a good primary supply and may be
acceptable as a single supply. A gravity tank may be located on the top of a building or on a tall tower. The
water in the tank is distributed throughout the sprinkler or standpipe system because of the pull of gravity.
Pressure Tanks: Pressure tanks have several possible uses in automatic sprinkler or standpipe protection.
Pressure tanks are often used where there is enough water from a supply source but the water pressure is too
low. Pressure tanks may also be used in tall buildings that need the extra water pressure to supply the highest
line of sprinklers or the highest line of hoses.
The tank is normally kept two-thirds full of water and one third full of air. The air pressure in the tank
should be maintained above 75 psi. The air for pressure tanks is supplied by air compressors. Because the
water is always under pressure it can be forcefully distributed throughout the sprinkler or standpipe system.
An important limitation is the small amount of water that can be stored in such tanks. Where a small pressure
tank is accepted as the water supply, the system is called a Limited Supply System.
The pressure tank gives a strong starting pressure for the first sprinklers that open. The flow from the tank
may be used while the automatic fire pumps begin to increase the water supply pressure. The pressure tank
supplies these sprinklers until the Fire Department begins pumping water into the system
Siamese Connections for Fire Department Use. Normally a sprinkler or standpipe system is connected to
an automatic water supply source. Other sources of water are supplied through Fire Department siamese
connections at the building. Siamese connections are a standard part of all sprinkler and standpipe systems.
At least one siamese connection must be installed in all standpipe systems. When responding to an alarm
most Fire Departments supply water to the standpipe system first. The standpipe system supplies water to
the fire hoses in the building. Water is then supplied to the sprinkler system through its own siamese
connection. Care should be taken that standpipe and the sprinkler connections are properly marked because
the connections look the same. The exact purpose of each siamese connection should be shown nearby or on

the siamese connection itself. The New York Building Code requires siamese connections to be color coded.
The siamese connection to an automatic sprinkler system should be painted green. The siamese connection
to non-automatic sprinkler system should be painted aluminum. The siamese connection to a standpipe
should be painted red. Two examples of typical siamese connections are shown below.

Fire Department connections must always be accessible. Each connection should be fitted with a check
valve, but not with a gate valve. The check valve prevents the backflow of the private water supply into the
public water supply. The figure below shows the main features of a Fire Department siamese connection.

Fire Department connection
The automatic drip device between the check valve and the outside hose coupling prevents water from
building up in the piping. This drip device makes sure that the Fire Department connection is not blocked by
water that has frozen in the piping. If water freezes in the piping, the Fire Department will not be able to
pump water into the system. Under normal conditions the automatic drip should be dry. A wet drip device
indicates that the check valve may be defective. If the check valve is defective it should be replaced
immediately. Many standpipe systems use the Fire Department siamese connection as the secondary water
supply source.

WATERFLOW ALARMS IN SPRINKLER AND STANDPIPE SYSTEMS SUPERVISION
Sprinkler and standpipe systems should have devices and equipment for signaling when water flows through
risers or mains supplying the systems. The flow may be due to fire, leakage, or accidental rupture of the
piping. It is important that prompt action is taken when waterflow is noticed or signaled by these devices.
Functions of Alarms and Supervisory Signals. Sprinkler and standpipe systems with a waterflow alarm
serve two functions. (1) It is an effective fire extinguishing system. (2) It is an automatic fire alarm. An
alarm is signaled as soon as a sprinkler head has fused or a hose has been activated. Waterflow alarms and
fire alarms give warning of the actual occurrence of a fire. They also signal when water flows through the
system due to broken pipes. Alarms alert occupants and summon the Fire Department. Any signal, whether
waterflow or supervisory, may be used to give an audible alarm. It may also send a signal to the central
station company. The central station company will then contact the local fire house.
Supervisory devices are often connected to a central station company which monitors the sprinkler and/or
standpipe systems for problems with equipment and when sprinkler heads are opened or standpipe hoses
have been activated. The central station company should be notified when any control valves are closed for
maintenance or repair. This reduces the number of false alarms.
Automatic sprinkler systems are required to have an approved water motor gong or an electric bell, horn, or
siren on the outside of the building. An electric bell or other audible signal device may also be located inside
the building. Water operated devices must be located near the alarm valve, dry pipe valve, or other water
control valves in order to avoid long runs of connecting pipe.
Devices and Equipment Supervised. Sprinkler and/or standpipe system supervision is commonly provided
for several purposes. These purposes include the detection of: (1) low water level in water supply tanks, (2)
low temperature in water supply tanks or ground level reservoirs, (3) high or low water level in pressure
tanks, (4) high or low air pressure in pressure tanks, (5) high or low air pressure in dry pipe sprinkler
systems, (6) failure of electric power supply to fire pumps, and (8) automatic operation of electric fire
pumps.
Waterflow Alarm Valves. The basic design of most waterflow alarm valves is that of a check valve which
lifts from its seat when water flows into a sprinkler system. This alarm then starts an audible signal to alert
the people in the building that the sprinkler system has been activated.
Alarm Retarding Devices. An alarm check valve that is exposed to changing water supply pressure needs
an alarm retarding device. This is required to prevent false alarms when the check valve clapper is lifted
from its seat by a temporary pressure surge.
Gate Valves. Gate valves of the non-indicating type are provided in water distribution systems. Gate valves
allow parts of the sprinkler or standpipe system to be shut off for repairs or maintenance. This is done
without reducing protection over a wide area. Such valves are normally a non-rising stem type. They are
operated using a special key wrench. A valve box is located over the valve to keep dirt from the valve. The
valve box also provides a convenient access point for the valve wrench to the valve nut. A complete record
should be made for each valve in the system. This record should include the exact location, the date it was
installed, the make, the direction of opening, number of turns to open, and any maintenance that was
performed.

INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW OF STANDPIPE SYSTEMS
Standpipe systems are an important part of the fire protection system in a building. The standpipe system
provides water that fire fighters can manually discharge through hoses onto a fire. Water is fed into a piping
system. The piping runs vertically (up and down) and horizontally (side to side) throughout the building.
The piping running vertically are usually called risers. The risers are usually located in the staircase
enclosures or in the hallways in the building. This piping system supplies water to every floor in the
building. When a standpipe system is installed and properly maintained it is a very effective means for
extinguishing fires. A typical standpipe system is shown below in the illustration below.

STANDPIPE DESIGN
Standpipe systems are used in buildings where it may be difficult for the Fire Department to pump water on
the fire. For example, standpipe systems are required in buildings that are over six stories 75 feet in height.
A standpipe system may be combined with an automatic fire protection system. For example, a standpipe
system and a sprinkler system may be installed in the same building. The standpipe and the sprinkler
systems may even share the same water supply and riser piping. The top of the standpipe riser extends up
onto the roof. Three hose connections are attached to the top of the standpipe riser. These three connections
make up the roof manifold. The roof manifold is used when extinguishing fires on the roof. It is also used
when testing the water flow in the standpipe. An example of a typical roof manifold is shown in the picture
on the following page.

A Typical Roof Manifold
At selected locations in the building the piping is connected to a hose. These connections are controlled by
gate valves. No water is allowed into the hose until the valve is opened. The gate valve must be manually
opened by the fire fighter. The hose is usually stored on a quick release rack. An example of a typical quick
release rack is shown below.

A Typical Fire Hose Outlet and Release Rack
A nozzle is attached at the end of the hose. The nozzle is used to direct the stream of water
From the hose. An example of a typical nozzle is shown in the picture below.

A Typical Nozzle

The hose and nozzle must be easy to reach at all times. The hose outlets are located so that every part of the
building may be reached with a hose stream. The maximum length of a single hoseline is 125 feet.
Sometimes the hoses are installed in cabinets. If the hoses are installed in cabinets each cabinet should be
labeled "FIRE HOSE". When the hose outlets are not easy to see, signs should be posted telling where the
hose outlets are located.
A pressure reducing device should be installed in the piping at each hose outlet. An occupant of the building
may be injured if a hose is used when the pressure reducing device is not installed. The pressure reducing
device may be adjusted or removed by Fire Department personnel during an emergency.
Another kind of connection to the standpipe is found in some systems. A short length of piping is welded to
the riser. At the end of this pipe is a control valve and a 2 1/2 inch hose connection. No hose is installed to
this connection. The Fire Department attaches its own hose to this connection when fighting a fire. An
example of this kind of connection is shown in the picture below.

Fire Department Connection to a Standpipe Riser
Each standpipe system is also fitted with a drain valve. The drain valve is located at the lowest point on the
standpipe system. The drain valve is used when the standpipe system is being tested or repaired. The drain
valve is usually sealed in the closed position.
OS&Y (Outside Screw and Yoke) gate valves are installed at several places in the system. The OS&Y
valves can be used to shut down just a part of the standpipe system. Sections may be shut down when
fighting a fire. Sections are also shut down for testing, repairs or maintenance. It is easy to tell if the OS&Y
valve is in the open or closed position. If the stem is raised above the control wheel the valve is open. If the
stem is flush with the control wheel the valve is closed. A typical OS&Y gate valve is shown on the
following page. The valve in the picture is open.

Typical OS&Y valve
TYPES OF STANDPIPE SYSTEMS
Wet Standpipe. This system always has water in the standpipe. The water in the system is always under
pressure. In some cases a fire pump may be used to increase the water pressure. The wetpipe system is the
most commonly used standpipe system. It is used in heated buildings where there is no danger of the water
in the piping freezing. Any part of the standpipe system that is exposed to freezing temperatures should be
insulated. It is very important that the water in the piping does not freeze. Frozen water may prevent the
standpipe system from working.
Dry Standpipe with an Automatic Dry Pipe Valve. This system is usually supplied by a public water
main. Under normal conditions there is no water in the standpipe. Instead, there is air under pressure in the
standpipe. A dry pipe valve is installed to prevent water from entering the standpipe. The dry pipe valve is
designed to open when there is drop of air pressure in the standpipe. When a hose is opened it causes a drop
in air pressure in the standpipe system. Then the dry pipe valve automatically lets water flow into the
standpipe. A control valve is installed at the automatic water supply connection. This valve should be kept
open at all times to supply the standpipe system. This system is usually installed in a building that is not
heated.
Dry Standpipe with a Manual Control Valve. This system is supplied by a public water main. Under
normal conditions this system has no water in the piping. The water is not allowed into the standpipe until a
control valve is manually operated. The control valve remains closed until a fire occurs. This system is
usually used in a building that is not heated.
Dry Standpipe with No Permanent Water Supply. Under normal conditions this system has no water in
the standpipe. Water is pumped into the standpipe system by the Fire Department. The water is pumped in
through the siamese connection. This system cannot be used unless water is supplied by the Fire
Department. A sign must be attached to each of the hose outlets. It should read "Dry Standpipe for Fire
Department Use Only". This system is usually used in a building that is not heated.

CLASSES OF STANDPIPES SYSTEMS
Standpipe systems are classified depending on who is expected to use the system. The three classes are
briefly described on the following page.

Class I: This system is designed to be used by professional fire fighters. For example, the system is used by
Fire Department and Fire Brigade personnel. The fire hoses in these systems are 2 1/2 inches in diameter.
The large hose diameter makes it difficult to control the stream of water from the hose.
Class II: This system is designed to be used by the occupants of a building. The hose and nozzle are
connected to the standpipe. They are ready to be used by occupants in case of a fire. The hose is 1 1/2
inches in diameter. The hose stream is easier to control than the Class I hose.
Class III: This system may be used by either professional fire fighters or by occupants of the building. The
hosing may be adjusted to either 1 1/2 or 2 1/2 inches in diameter. This is done by attaching special reducing
valves to the hose line.

INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
The standpipe system must be regularly inspected by the Certificate of fitness holder. This is to make sure
that the system is working properly at all times. All parts of the standpipe system should be visually checked
monthly. This visual inspection should make sure that the system is free from corrosion. The inspection
should also make sure that there is no physical damage to the system. Special attention should be paid to any
evidence of tampering with the standpipe system. Any part of the system that is damaged or missing should
be repaired or replaced immediately.
All valves and connections to the automatic water supply sources should be inspected weekly. The valves
should be checked to make sure that they are in the correct position. The valves should also be labeled to
show their correct position and purpose. The hose outlets should be checked to make sure that the pressure
reducing devices are present. The Fire Department should be notified when any part of the system is shut
down for maintenance or repairs. A sign should be posted indicating that the section is shut down. All Fire
Department connections must be tested at least once every 5 years.
All major defects in the system should be immediately reported to the local fire house. The owner of the
building and the Bureau of Fire Prevention should also be notified. Major defects include: an empty tank, a
break or a leak in the system water piping, an inoperative or shut water supply valve, and a defective siamese
connection. The defects should be corrected as soon as possible. A complete or partial shutdown of the
standpipe system for repairs or any other reason must also be reported.
Minor defects should be reported to the owner of the building. The defects should be repaired within 30
days. If the defects are not corrected within 30 days, they must be reported to the Bureau of Fire Prevention.
The date of all inspections, maintenance and repairs made on the system must be recorded on the inspection
record card. The record should also include the Certificate of Fitness number and the signature of the
Certificate of fitness holder. This record must be posted near the main control valve. All records must be
kept for a period of at least one year. They should be made available to any representative of the Fire
Department.

GRAVITY TANKS
Gravity tanks are used for water storage. They are made of wood, steel or concrete. Gravity tanks are used
as a primary or secondary water supply source for standpipe or sprinkler systems. A gravity tank system
delivers water from the tank through the standpipe system without the use of pumping equipment.
A gravity tank should be at least 25 feet above the highest standpipe hose outlet or sprinkler head that it
supplies. Tanks may be located on the tops of buildings or raised on tall supporting towers. An example of a
typical gravity tank is shown below.

A typical Gravity Tank
The water pressure in a gravity tank system depends on the elevation of the tank. This is the main advantage
over other kinds of systems. Every 1 foot the tank is above the discharge outlet generates 0.434 psi (pounds
per square inch) of water pressure. In other words, the higher the tank is elevated the greater the water
pressure. The gravity tank is extremely reliable. It does not depend on the operation of mechanical
equipment to supply the standpipe or sprinkler system.
Automatic fill pumps supply the water to most gravity tanks. The pumps fill the tank at a rate of 65 gpm
(gallons per minute) or more. Two floats control the amount of water in the tank. The floats turn on the fill
pump when the water in the tank is too low. The floats shut off the pump when the desired water level is
reached. The floats make sure the gravity tank always has the right amount of water to supply the standpipe
or sprinkler system. All gravity tanks have an overflow pipe that drains off excess water in the tank. This

happens if the floats do not turn off the fill pump. A fill pump is not necessary if the water pressure in the
city water main is able to keep the tank filled with the right amount of water.
Gravity tanks are exposed to very low temperatures. All parts of the gravity tank must be insulated or heated
to keep the water from freezing. Several methods are used to heat the tank and the pipe that supplies the
water. (1) Hot water is circulated by gravity. (2) Steam is discharged directly into tank. (3) Steam coils are
placed inside the tanks. (4) Heat from the sun is used. The certificate of fitness holder can find out the
temperature of the water by looking at a thermometer. The thermometer is located near the heating device.
Severe damage can happen to the piping and the tank if the water inside freezes. During freezing weather,
the temperature of the water inside the tank and the riser must be checked daily. The temperature of the
water should always be at least 40° Fahrenheit.
Ice should not be allowed to build up on the gravity tank. The extra weight of the ice might weaken the
supports of the tank and cause the tank to collapse. Falling icicles may also cause damage or injury. It is
essential to be sure that the tank is properly heated, insulated and carefully maintained.
The water level in the gravity tank should be inspected each month. The gravity tank should always have a
full supply of water. A full tank of water is needed to be sure the standpipe or sprinkler system works
properly during a fire. Keeping the tank full of water also prevents wooden tanks from shrinking. A full
tank of water helps keep steel tanks from rusting.

Gravity Tank Supervision
The gravity tank must be constantly monitored to be sure that the tank and its parts are working. Electrical
supervision devices monitor the water temperature and the water level in the gravity tank. These devices
send signals to a central station company about the water level and water temperature. The central station
company notifies the certificate of fitness holder when a problem with the gravity tank is detected. The
certificate of fitness holder should correct the problem as soon as possible. The supervisory devices are
sometimes called high and low alarms since they also send audible signals to alert the certificate of fitness
holder when there is a problem.
More often than not, failure of a standpipe or sprinkler system supplied by a gravity tank during a fire is
usually caused by not enough water in the tank. The standpipe or sprinkler system cannot be supplied if
there is not enough water in the tank. Too much water in the tank can also cause the system to fail. Too
much water in the tank may cause damage due to the weight of the extra water. This could cause the gravity
tank to collapse.

Inspection and Maintenance of the Gravity Tank
The gravity tank should be regularly inspected and maintained. Maintenance is needed to be sure that the
tank functions correctly. For example, the tank may need to be painted regularly to prevent rusting. Before
the inside of a gravity tank is repainted the surface should be thoroughly dried. All loose paint, rust, scale,
and other surface contamination should be removed. The outside of the gravity tank will require local
patching. A complete finish coat of paint is needed when the paint has weathered thin. A new coat of paint
also improves the appearance of the tank after it has been patched.
Painters must be careful that scrapings or other foreign materials do not fall down the outlet into the riser or
sprinkler system’s piping. The discharge outlet may be covered for protection during repairs. Only a few
sheets of paper or a paper bag tied over the end of the settling basin stub should be used. The paper should
be removed immediately after the job is finished.

It is best if gravity tanks are used only for fire protection and for no other purpose. Tanks used for other
purposes need to be refilled more often. The tanks become settling basins for sediment mixed in with the
water. This sediment is then drawn into the piping. This may cause the standpipe or sprinkler system to
become clogged and not work properly. The local fire house should always be notified when a tank cannot
be used for any reason.

Combination Gravity Tank and Pressure Tank Installation
Pressure tanks may be used in combination with gravity tanks to supply a sprinkler or standpipe system.
Both a gravity tank and a pressure tank may be used to make sure that an adequate water supply is available.
Pressure tanks also provide added water pressure to the standpipe or sprinkler system. An example of a
combined gravity tank/pressure tank installation for a standpipe system is shown in the picture below.

Combination Gravity Tank and Pressure Tank Installation

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