Sprinkler Line Flushing

Photos from left to right, taken by Bartec Fire Safety technicians: A clogged main feed line sitting next to a clear line; a partially plugged branch line; and a seriously obstructed sprinkler head feed

Q: Why do sprinkler standpipes and branch lines need to be flushed?
A: The BC Fire Code and NFPA Standards require it.

National Fire Protection Standards-25 states in section 14.2, 14.2.1: Obstruction Investigation & Prevention

“An inspection of the piping and branch line conditions shall be conducted every five years by opening a flushing connection at the end of one main and by removing a sprinkler toward the end of one branch line for inspecting for the presence of foreign organic and inorganic material.”

These pictures help show why the code is what it is, and make it clear why we always recommend that our clients have this done. When this kind of restriction builds up in the pipe, the ability for water to flow is greatly reduced, negatively impacting the ability of the sprinkler system to suppress a fire.