The fire department connection is an essential assistant to many water-based fire protection systems. It may serve as a secondary water source for automatic sprinklers, and may be the sole connection point of a fire standpipe system.
The Risk Engineer should closely check the fire department connection when conducting regular protective inspections. Here are just a few things to examine:
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Protective caps or plugs should be in place to prevent obstructions being placed inside the fire department connection.
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The female swivel connections should be free to spin. They should be lubricated with powdered graphite or some other lubricant that will not leave a gummy residue.
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The threads should be smooth and undamaged. The female swivel should be round. Consider using a male adapter to check all the fittings for correct thread cuts.
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Visually inspect the interior for obstructions.
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Inspect the swing check devices or clappers. Use a spanner wrench or other tool to operate them.
