Fire Sprinkler Riser & FDC

PHOTO SHOWS → Complete sprinkler riser + FDC setup: caps installed, signage clear, valves accessible → Firefighter-ready condition.

What You Are Looking At

• Sprinkler riser piping with OS&Y or butterfly control valves, pressure gauges, alarm devices, and test/drain points
• Fire Department Connection (FDC) — typically two 2½" swiveling inlets with protective caps and required signage
• Backflow preventer (RPZ or DCVA), usually located on the same wall or adjacent to the riser assembly

Why This Is a Serious Concern

• Missing caps, stuck swivels, or painted-over threads can prevent firefighters from pumping water into the system
• Locked/blocked riser rooms or missing inspection tags create delays in emergency response
• Expired NFPA 25 testing = unknown sprinkler reliability, increasing the likelihood of catastrophic fire loss

Good Condition (Acceptable)

• FDC caps present (brass, aluminum, or approved breakaway caps), swivels spin freely
• Clear, reflective signage reading: “FDC – FIRE DEPARTMENT CONNECTION” per NFPA 14
• Riser room unlocked, unobstructed, and free of storage
• Current annual sprinkler inspection tag and current backflow certification tag attached
• Gauges show normal static pressure for the system (commonly 80–150 psi, depending on design and elevation)

Fix Needed – HIGH PRIORITY (Immediate Life-Safety Hazard)

• Missing, damaged, painted, or seized FDC caps or swivels
• FDC signage missing, faded, obstructed, or incorrect
• Riser room door locked, blocked, or used as storage
• Expired or missing NFPA 25 and backflow testing tags
• Visible leaks, corrosion, or damaged components on riser, valves, or backflow

Corrective Actions & Proper Recommendation

1. Immediate:
   • Remove all storage from riser room and keep door unlocked unless local code requires keyed firefighter access
   • Replace missing/damaged FDC caps and ensure swivels rotate freely
   • Install correct reflective FDC signage if missing or unreadable
2. Within 30 days:
   • Schedule a licensed fire sprinkler contractor for NFPA 25 annual inspection, flow test, and tagging
   • Obtain backflow certification by a licensed tester and attach updated tag
3. Ongoing:
   • Add door signage: “SPRINKLER RISER ROOM – KEEP CLEAR & UNLOCKED” (or per AHJ wording)
   • Keep area free of storage and ensure monthly visual checks per NFPA 25 §4.1.5

Report Wording Suggestions

Good:
“Sprinkler riser and FDC in proper condition: caps installed, swivels free, signage visible, current sprinkler/backflow tags, and riser room clear and unlocked.”

Fix Needed – HIGH RISK:
“FDC caps missing/painted, riser room obstructed or locked, and/or inspection tags expired. Immediate life-safety exposure. Recommend clearing riser room today, restoring caps/signage, and scheduling licensed NFPA 25 sprinkler and backflow testing within 30 days.”

LCA Certified Inspector Motto

"See it. Clear it. Tag it. Rec it"

Disclosure

This card summarizes common field requirements for sprinkler risers and Fire Department Connections. Specific needs vary based on system type, building code, and local fire marshal rules. Always verify the current editions of NFPA 13, NFPA 25, NFPA 14, and applicable local fire code. When uncertain, recommend immediate evaluation by a licensed fire protection contractor or the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).

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