Ch. 6: Sprinkler And Standpipe Systems Part I

Question 1

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations

Operations in Sprinklered Buildings (NC #1) ___ have been called silent sentinels and for good reason.

Answer 1

Automatic sprinkler systems

Question 2

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations

Operations in Sprinklered Buildings (NC #2) Fire departments have good reason to stress that a working ___ should be installed in all premises since they almost totally eliminate the loss of life, both FF & civilians.

Answer 2

Sprinkler system

Question 3

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Operations in Sprinklered Buildings (NC #3) A properly designed ________ is a firefighter’s best ally, if it is properly used.

Answer 3

sprinkler system

Question 4

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Operations in Sprinklered Buildings (NC #4) NFPA has compiled stats on sprinkler operations – In hundreds of thousands of operations, sprinklers controlled or extinguished the fire __% of the time?

Answer 4

More than 96%

Question 5

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Operations in Sprinklered Buildings (NC #5) NFPA has compiled stats on sprinkler operations; In 100s of 1000s of operations - In 90% of the cases reported only __ heads went off:

Answer 5

1 or 2 heads went off.

Question 6

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Operations in Sprinklered Buildings (NC #6) NFPA has compiled stats on sprinkler operations; In 100s of 1000s of operations - there has never been a multiple death fire reported in a bldg having fully operational wet sprinkler system. Multiple death means more than _____ (#) killed: Records of operation in _______ (country) show an even higher success rate.

Answer 6

• More than 3 killed • (Records of operation in Australia show an even higher success rate)

Question 7

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Operations in Sprinklered Buildings (NC #7) When properly maintained, ___ has proven to be the most effective means of protecting life and property?

Answer 7

Automatic sprinklers

Question 8

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Operations in Sprinklered Buildings #8 Of reported causes of sprinklers failing to control a fire, ___ was largely to blame?

Answer 8

Human error (including FD error)

Question 9

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Operations in Sprinklered Buildings #9 More than half of the time that sprinklers have failed to control the fire, it was due to:

Answer 9

The valves being closed before the fire began.

Question 10

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Operations in Sprinklered Buildings #10 Fig. 6-1: Having a sprinkler system installed is a tremendous advantage in:

Answer 10

Life safety

Question 11

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Operations in Sprinklered Buildings #11 A common problem w/ partial systems that are connected only to domestic water & don’t have an FDC to augment or bypass domestic supply:

Answer 11

Sprinkler system sectional valve is never turned on (no water flows from system)

Question 12

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Sec: Fire Departments Vs. Sprinklers (NC #12) In certain, isolated cases, it may be necessary to close sprinkler valves to conserve water for manual firefighting – usually best to allow the sprinkler system to continue to operate until:

Answer 12

Fire has definitely been extinguished

Question 13

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Sec: Fire Department Vs. Sprinklers (NC #13) Fig. 6-2: Flowing pressure from the street mains may initially provide each sprinkler with more than ___ gpm apiece.

Answer 13

40

Question 14

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Sec: Fire Departments Vs. Sprinklers (NC #14) - Fig. 6-2 (cont): Two operating sprinklers at 50 psi deliver ___ gpm to control the fire: - Fig. 6-2 (cont): 60 psi residual pressure is at ___ gpm:

Answer 14

• 42 gpm apiece - 84 gpm

Question 15

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Sec: Fire Departments Vs. Sprinklers (NC #15) Only in extreme cases should the sprinkler system be shut down pending the completion of a careful examination – such as:

Answer 15

1. Explosion causes open pipes to let large quantities of water escape w/ no effect on fire. 2. Expanding fire overtaxes under-designed system. (such cases – fire may be so severe that manual FF’ing will also be unsuccessful – remaining water may be better for exposure protection)

Question 16

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Sec: Fire Department Operations (NC #16) Every sprinkler system should be required to have an FDC. In fact, in larger buildings, more than 1 Siamese connection should be provided to allow for (2):

Answer 16

1. Larger flows required & 2. To reduce chance of a single siamese being OOS.

Question 17

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Sec: Fire Department Operations (NC #17) Each normal sprinkler head flowing at 50 psi will deliver about ___ gpm:

Answer 17

40 gpm

Question 18

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Sec: Fire Department Operations (NC #18) Each normal sprinkler head flowing at 50 psi will deliver about 40 gpm. This is the equivalent of having a person with a booster line, stationed every ___ feet, ready for the fire to start:

Answer 18

Every 10 feet

Question 19

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Sec: Fire Department Operations (NC #19) If the 1st companies connect to the hydrant on the same main as the sprinkler system and start pumping, they will cause the pressure available to the sprinkler heads to:

Answer 19

Drop

Question 20

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Sec: Fire Department Operations (NC #20) If they drop the main pressure to a point where the sprinkler is operating at 5 psi, the heads will now be flowing only about ___ gpm each.

Answer 20

10 gpm

Question 21

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Sec: Fire Department Operations (NC #21) Fig. 6-3: FD Ops: Pumpers in street taking water from same main that supplies sprinklers lowers which pressures?

Answer 21

Residual pressures

Question 22

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Sec: Fire Department Operations (NC #22) Fig. 6-3 (cont): Handlines unable to reach seat of fire due to worsened ___ & ___ conditions, waste water:

Answer 22

Heat and smoke

Question 23

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Sec: Fire Department Operations (NC #23) - Fig. 6-3 (cont): Average flow 10 gpm per ea sprinkler head produces poor patterns, allows: - 5 psi flowing from end heads does not allow:

Answer 23

• More heads to open - Fire control

Question 24

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Sec: Fire Department Operations (NC #24) Fig 6-3 (cont): If FD operations reduce pressure in the street main, sprinkler flow will ___.

Answer 24

Drop

Question 25

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Sec: Fire Department Operations (NC #25) - A standard sprinkler operating at 100 psi flow is discharging ___ gpm: - Which is the same flow as a ___ nozzle:

Answer 25

• 55 – 60 gpm • 1½” Navy fog nozzle

Question 26

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Sec: Fire Department Operations (NC #26) When planning to supply FDCs, you should consider the 2 factors:

Answer 26

• Supply system early – before residual pressures in mains start to drop. • Supply system w/ mult. lines of the largest line poss – use 2 lines of 2½” as a min.

Question 27

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Sec: Fire Department Operations (NC #27) Each sprinkler head has to operate at low pressures because of:

Answer 27

Many heads being opened.

Question 28

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Sec: Fire Department Operations (NC #28) If plan for worst, consider ea. head has to op. at low pressures bc many heads being open, we can figure ea. head to cover an avg. of how many sq ft at flow of 20 gpm:

Answer 28

• 100 sq ft. • Ex: 2-2½” supply lines at any length – flow limited to 500 gpm, covering area of 2500 sq/ft (50x50) & feeding only 25 heads.

Question 29

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Sec: Fire Department Operations (NC #29) 500 gpm & 2500 sq ft of coverage is adequate for light hazard occupancies such as:

Answer 29

• Schools & office bldgs • (Commercial & industrial occupancies release more heat – which require larger flows. Larger supply lines needed)

Question 30

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Sec: Fire Department Operations (NC #30) If possible, establish separate water supply to reinforce sprinklers. If fire requires supplying more than 1 handline for mop-up, it would be a good idea to:

Answer 30

Have a separate pumper supplying the handlines.

Question 31

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Sec: Fire Department Operations (NC #31) Another pumper should feed the sprinklers, using a hydrant on a main separate from the 1 supplying the handlines or master streams. This pumper should keep lines to siamese ___ & discharge at _____.

Answer 31

• As short as possible - 150 psi in volume

Question 32

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Sec: Fire Department Operations (NC #32) 1st reason for supplying sprinklers at 150 in volume: Engines rated to ___ in volume at 150 psi. Raising the pressure cuts down on:

Answer 32

• Discharge their maximum rated capacity. • Total volume discharged. • (remember – it’s the amount of water that we apply that puts out the fire, not just the pressure – impractical to supply additional lines bc they may require more than 200 psi)

Question 33

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Sec: Fire Department Operations (NC #33) 2nd reason - supplying sprinklers at 150 in volume: Condition of sprinkler system – when newly installed (most systems), the piping is hydrostatically tested at:

Answer 33

• 200 psi - (May be last time system subjected to a high pressure. If has been in place very long – may corrode, rust, freeze, expand, contract, etc – and when fd uses – may blow apart fittings & place OOS

Question 34

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Problems with Sprinklers (NC #34) 1 problem that sprinklers produce & ff’s must be prepared to cope with is fires in sprinklered buildings are often more ___ than those in unsprinklered buildings.

Answer 34

Vent itself before fire department arrival

Question 35

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Problems with Sprinklers (NC #35) Fires in sprinklered bldgs are smokier because → Fires in unsprinklered buildings progress further & will often:

Answer 35

Vent itself before fire department arrival

Question 36

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Problems with Sprinklers (NC #36) Fires in sprinklered buildings are smokier because → Sprinklers on other hand, detect fire, sound alarm & begin to apply water. This thwarts ___, so ___ levels increase initially, and water spray tends to ___, making them sink.

Answer 36

• Thwarts combustion, - CO levels increase, - Cool fire gases – making them sink.

Question 37

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Problems with Sprinklers (NC #37) Probably the biggest reason we think of such fires (fires in sprinklered bldgs) as smokier is because:

Answer 37

• The spray pattern creates a draft similar to that of a fog nozzle. - This pushes smoke and gases down to the floor.

Question 38

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Problems with Sprinklers (NC #38) Which 3 factors remove the fresh air layer often seen at fires?

Answer 38

• Increased CO • Sinking fire gases • Smoke being pushed down • (This mandates use of masks, even though intensity of heat is less)

Question 39

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Problems with Sprinklers (NC #39) In sprinklered fire, use masks even though heat is less – use of allows ff’s to extinguish remaining fire w/ out shutting down sprinklers first. ___ ventilation often required to move the cold smoke. Especially in ___ areas.

Answer 39

• Mechanical ventilation - Especially in below grade areas

Question 40

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Problems with Sprinklers (NC #40) Normally, the ___ is our 1st indication of a fire:

Answer 40

Sprinkler water flow alarm

Question 41

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Problems with Sprinklers (NC #41) Bldg w/ partial sprinklered system – recommended procedure to follow:

Answer 41

• Send ff to locate shut off & standby for orders to shut down → • When certain that fire won’t extend – shut down system → • Leave ff at valve to wait for further instructions.

Question 42

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Problems with Sprinklers (NC #43) Fig. 6-7: 3 potential paths a ff might take when exiting a fire in a mall or other large structure: And which option should be mandatory, as other options risk death:

Answer 42

• Path following show windows • Path following search rope/hose (should be mandatory) • Unguided path

Question 43

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Problems with Sprinklers (NC #44) When forced to travel by maintaining contact with a wall, you must follow:

Answer 43

The layout of the walls.

Question 44

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Problems with Sprinklers (NC #45) Ventilation is a must in sprinklered bldgs – but it can be difficult to do. Laws of Nature are violated – smoke doesn’t rise as expected, at times it hangs low. That’s due to the twofold action of the sprinkler:

Answer 44

Cooling and pushing down (the smoke).

Question 45

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Problems with Sprinklers (NC #46) In many cases, the following are sprinklered because of the bldg code:

Answer 45

• Cellars • Sub-cellars • Window less areas

Question 46

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Problems with Sprinklers (NC #47) Alternatives available for Officers in command at such situations. Nozzle? Ventilation?

Answer 46

• Fog in immediate fire area since fire/water damage already done. • Fans will work in relatively small areas w/ opening to exterior (PPV extremely valuable in such situations)

Question 47

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Problems with Sprinklers (NC #48) Alternatives available for Officers in command at such situations (cont): In large structures or bldgs with limited openings or many small rooms, ___ may be the only possible way to move the quantity of air desired.

Answer 47

The building’s HVAC system

Question 48

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: A Suggested Strategy (NC #49) A Suggested Strategy → 1. Know beforehand the location of: 2. Commit supply lines to ___ early: 3. Get ___ in place.

Answer 48

1. Sprinkler system shut off & siameses. 2. Sprinkler siamese (w/ proper volume & pressure) 3. Handlines (staffed by mask-equipped M’s)

Question 49

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: A Suggested Strategy (NC #50) A Suggested Strategy → 1. Ventilate area, anticipate ___ & use ___: 2. Only after ___, shut down sprinkler system, drain it & restore it to service.

Answer 49

1. Difficulties & use proper techniques. 2. Only after fire is under control.

Question 50

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #51) The most common & simplest type of sprinkler system is:

Answer 50

The automatic wet system

Question 51

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #52) Fig. 6-8: ___ systems are the most reliable systems:

Answer 51

Automatic wet-pipe systems

Question 52

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #53) Fig. 6-8 (cont): Closed sprinkler heads, only heads affected by ___:

Answer 52

Heat discharge

Question 53

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #54) Fig. 6-9: Water flow in a wet-pipe system lifts a clapper (check valve), that ___. The clapper will close if:

Answer 53

• Sounds an alarm - Water flow stops or if a pumper pumps into FDC

Question 54

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #55) Automatic Wet System: Pipe system connected to supply source that has water in it all of the time, right up to ea. sprinkler head. Ea. system has an alarm valve that serves several functions. Primarily it is a ___ valve:

Answer 54

Check valve

Question 55

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #56) Automatic Wet System: Check valve does the following → Prevents ___ & opens to admit ___.

Answer 55

• Prevents water from flowing back out of sprinkler piping but, • Opening to admit water that’s flowing through the heads

Question 56

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #57) Automatic Wet System: Part of the clapper on the check valve covers a small pipe when the check valve is closed. When clapper opens to let water flow to sprinkler head, is also transmits an alarm by (2 methods):

Answer 56

• Allowing water to flow through small pipe, tripping electrical switches -or- - Turning the paddle wheel of a water motor alarm bell. - (if water flow stops, clapper falls back down, resetting it & covering the pipe)

Question 57

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #58) Automatic Wet System: If the water flow stops, the clapper (does what):

Answer 57

Falls back down, resetting it and covering the pipe.

Question 58

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #59) Automatic Wet System: False alarms can occur if there’s a large fluctuation of the water supply to wet systems. This happens when:

Answer 58

Pressure from the surge on the bottom of the clapper is greater than the pressure in the system on top of the clapper – clapper temporary lifts, and then resets.

Question 59

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #60) Automatic Wet System: If false alarms recur at same location, root out problem. 1st action is to:

Answer 59

Notify building owner that repeats won’t be tolerated.

Question 60

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #61) Automatic Wet System: If false alarms recur at same location → Sprinkler contractors can adjust the alarm piping so that water will flow for a longer period of time before it sets off the alarm, this delay can be for up to:

Answer 60

Up to 1 minute (few surges would last that long)

Question 61

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #62) Automatic Wet System: Alarms can also be triggered by startups and shutdowns of ___ at nearby factories:

Answer 61

Industrial pumps

Question 62

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #63) The 2nd most common type of sprinkler system:

Answer 62

The automatic dry pipe system

Question 63

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #64) Automatic Dry (or dry-pipe) System: Usually found in ___ areas:

Answer 63

Unheated areas – where freezing poses a threat to water in pipes.

Question 64

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #65) Automatic Dry (or dry-pipe) System: More complex than wet systems & consequently, fd’s have more problems with them. These problems occur bc pipes are filled with:

Answer 64

Air that’s under pressure

Question 65

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #66) Automatic Dry (or dry-pipe) System: Water for dry-pipe systems is held back in heated area by:

Answer 65

A dry-pipe valve

Question 66

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #67) Automatic Dry (or dry-pipe) System: Air must be continuously available to this system, either from ___. Otherwise, air pressure may drop to point where valve trips and sends an alarm.

Answer 66

A compressor or bottles & regulators

Question 67

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #68) Automatic Dry (or dry-pipe) System: Fig. 6-10: Automatic dry-pipe systems have a clapper than should ___ when the valve trips:

Answer 67

Lock in the open position

Question 68

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #69) Automatic Dry (or dry-pipe) System: Fig. 6-10 (cont): The dry-pipe valve’s clapper is larger than a wet-pipe clapper to allow:

Answer 68

A low air pressure (with priming water seal) on the top to hold back a higher water pressure below.

Question 69

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #70) Automatic Dry (or dry-pipe) System: The dry pipe functions similarly to the wet-alarm valve, with couple exceptions. In the dry-pipe, there is a ___ to hold air in the system:

Answer 69

Clapper

Question 70

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #71) Automatic Dry (or dry-pipe) System: In the dry-pipe, there is a clapper to hold air in the system. This clapper varies from a wet-system clapper in that it has:

Answer 70

A much larger top than bottom surface – allowing lower pressure on top to hold high pressure from the bottom.

Question 71

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #72) Automatic Dry (or dry-pipe) System: For most (dry pipe) valves, the air pressure on top will be about ___ psi. Which will hold back up to ___ psi. This is called a ___ valve:

Answer 71

• 30 – 40 psi • Up to 100 psi

Question 72

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #73) Automatic Dry (or dry-pipe) System: For most (dry pipe) valves, the air pressure on top will be about 30-40 psi. Which will hold back up to 100 psi. This is called a ___ valve:

Answer 72

Differential dry-pipe valve

Question 73

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #74) Automatic Dry (or dry-pipe) System: Another difference of the dry-pipe valve is that its clapper is equipped with a ___ feature:

Answer 73

Lock-open feature

Question 74

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #75) Automatic Dry (or dry-pipe) System: Lock-open feature - if pressure surges continually, clapper lifts & water is pushed in ea. time. System will eventually fill & may freeze/destroy system. Less obvious problem is water columning, which occurs when:

Answer 74

• Water above clapper is so high that the weight will hold the clapper closed - • Even after a head has opened & all of the air has bled out • (when happens – no water will be discharged on fire)

Question 75

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #76) Fig. 6-11: Dry pipes must be located in a heated room, to keep ___ & ___ from freezing:

Answer 75

Supply pipe and valve

Question 76

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #77) Fig. 6-11 (cont): If too much water is allowed into the dry-pipe system, the weight of the water can prevent:

Answer 76

The valve from opening during a fire

Question 77

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #78) Automatic Dry (or dry-pipe) System: A lock is installed to prevent this (water columning - previous card), so that if a flow equal to ___ occurs, the clapper is locked open and an alarm is sent:

Answer 77

1 sprinkler head

Question 78

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #79) Automatic Dry (or dry-pipe) System: Resetting dry-pipe systems:

Answer 78

• Won’t reset by themselves, • Alarm service can’t reset it, • Must arrange for services of qualified sprinkler contractor.

Question 79

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #80) Automatic Dry (or dry-pipe) System: When FF’s arrive at dry-pipe trip – no fire present & no water flowing, difficult decision - If decide to leave system on & silence alarm – they face 2 problems:

Answer 79

• If system trips for actual fire – another alarm won’t be received • If system freezes, it can’t flow water for fire – ice may damage pipes, fittings, systems.

Question 80

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #81) Automatic Dry (or dry-pipe) System: When FF’s arrive at dry-pipe trip – no fire present & no water flowing, difficult decision - If FF’s shut off and drain the system – what will happen if another fire occurs. Solution; shut down & drain system then:

Answer 80

Order owner (preferably in writing) to provide a security guard’s service throughout bldg until system is reset.

Question 81

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #82) Automatic Dry (or dry-pipe) System: The security guard should be taught how to ___ incase of fire.

Answer 81

Reopen system in case of fire

Question 82

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #83) Automatic Dry (or dry-pipe) System: If there is no threat of freezing, FF’s can leave system on as a ___, again with a security guard’s service to sound any necessary alarm.

Answer 82

Wet system

Question 83

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #84) Deluge Systems: A deluge system has open sprinkler heads, which allows:

Answer 83

Water to flow all at once, flooding the area.

Question 84

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #85) Deluge Systems: Deluge systems are often found as protection for ___ facilities.

Answer 84

Flammable liquid facilities (such as truck loading racks)

Question 85

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #86) Deluge Systems: Consist of a piping system connected to a water source controlled by an:

Answer 85

Automatic valve

Question 86

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #87) Deluge Systems: Connected to water source, open heads attached to piping throughout area. The heads have no ___, but are merely nozzles:

Answer 86

Heat sensing elements

Question 87

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #88) Deluge Systems: Area w/ deluge system is also protected by fire detection system connected to a deluge valve. When detectors sense fire, they open:

Answer 87

• Deluge valve → - And water flows into the system, all at once.

Question 88

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #89) Deluge Systems: are used to protect areas such as:

Answer 88

• Aircraft hangers & - Flammable loading docks. - (where extremely rapid fire spread is expected)

Question 89

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #90) Deluge Systems: When fd responds to bldg w/ deluge system – prepare to augment the supply of large volumes of water. When fire extinguished, FD must use great care in shutting down any control valves, because:

Answer 89

Large flow can create a dangerous water hammer if system is closed too quickly.

Question 90

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #104) Preaction System: By using closed heads to localize the flow, this system can:

Answer 90

Turn the water on and off again if the fire rekindles in a remote area.

Question 91

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #91) Preaction Systems consist of ___ system coupled with ___ system.

Answer 91

Automatic detection system coupled with an automatic dry-pipe system.

Question 92

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #92) Preaction Systems are often installed over (what type of equipment):

Answer 92

Expensive electronic equipment that may be damaged by water leak.

Question 93

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #93) Preaction Systems: The piping of a pre-action system is filled with ___:

Answer 93

Compressed air

Question 94

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #94) Preaction Systems: The piping of a pre-action system is filled with compressed air. Compressed air – connected to automatically operated valve that exhausts the compressed air only if:

Answer 94

The detection system (heat or smoke activated) senses fire

Question 95

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #95) Preaction Systems: The detection system for a Preaction System can be either:

Answer 95

Heat or smoke

Question 96

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #96) Preaction Systems: Fig. 6–14: Preaction systems are usually located over ___.

Answer 96

Very expensive water-sensitive equipment

Question 97

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #97) Preaction Systems: Fig. 6–14 (cont): Preaction systems combine a fire detection system with a ___ valve that supplies closed sprinkler heads.

Answer 97

Deluge type

Question 98

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #98) Preaction Systems: Fig. 6–14 (cont): ___ actuate the preaction valve.

Answer 98

Smoke or heat detectors

Question 99

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #99) Preaction Systems: This (card #94) lets the dry-pipe system fill with water when the detectors sense fire, which is usually a stage before:

Answer 99

2 or more.

Question 100

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #100) Preaction Systems: In some cases, ___ (how many) detectors must activate to prevent false alarm trips:

Answer 100

2 or more.

Question 101

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #101) Preaction System saves time in getting water to fire since it don’t require:

Answer 101

That all air bleeding out through a sprinkler before the dry valve trips.

Question 102

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #102) Preaction System differs from a deluge system in that is uses:

Answer 102

Closed sprinklers – so water discharges only over the fire area.

Question 103

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #103) Preaction System: The most recent innovation in sprinklers uses ___ detectors to not only activate the system, but also shut it off when the area is cooled:

Answer 103

Heat detectors

Question 104

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #106) Preaction System: Its water-conservation feature makes is an excellent choice for a system that has:

Answer 104

• Limited water supply - (such as a pressure tank)

Question 105

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #107) Preaction Systems may be found where prevention of water damage is a must, such as (4 examples given). FF’s working in such areas, be aware of possibility of sprinklers suddenly activating.

Answer 105

• Computer rooms • Tape-storage areas • Electronic switch rooms • Telephone-switching centers

Question 106

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #108) Preaction System: Sudden activation can also occur if the structure has a ___ on a standard wet, dry, or preaction system:

Answer 106

On/off sprinkler heads

Question 107

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #109) On/off sprinkler heads have a ___ built right into them, and will cycle on and off continually. They don’t generally require any choking or replacement by FD personnel:

Answer 107

Heat sensing element

Question 108

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #110) Nonautomatic Systems is sometimes is confused with the ___ system:

Answer 108

Auto dry-pipe system

Question 109

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #111) Nonautomatic Systems: History → - 1st nonautomatic system goes back ___ years, - When fires in ___ of large urban areas defied FF’s efforts to descend:

Answer 109

• More than 100 years - Cellars & subcellars - Fire codes called for sprinkler systems to be installed, owners complained of $ to connect to a water supply – Compromise was install a system w/ no water supply connection other than FD siamese

Question 110

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #112) Nonautomatic Systems: The 1st attempts to provide some type of sprinkler system in such area involved so-called ___ systems:

Answer 110

Perforated-pipe systems.

Question 111

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #113) Nonautomatic Systems: Perforated-pipe systems – consisted of rows of pipes with small holes (size of holes?) drilled every few inches along the top and sides:

Answer 111

1/8 to ¼” holes

Question 112

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #114) Nonautomatic Systems: Perforated systems – pipes were run along the ceilings of the occupancy, connecting to siamese connection at the street level. They functioned like a modern ___ system:

Answer 112

• Deluge system - Water came out of every pore when the system was supplied by a fire hose

Question 113

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #115) Nonautomatic Systems: Perforated systems – some of these systems more than 100 years old and still exists in older buildings. Should be relied upon for fire protection, but may serve to indicate location of fire by:

Answer 113

Amount of smoke pouring out of the siamese

Question 114

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #116) Fig. 6-15: ___ systems were the very 1st nonautomatic systems. They are old & unreliable. Other nonautomatic systems use ordinary sprinkler heads on standard piping:

Answer 114

Perforated pipe systems

Question 115

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #117) Nonautomatic Systems: NY Telephone Switching Center fire of ‘75 – resulted in developing a variation of the nonautomatic system – the custom designed n/a system used ___ temperature sprinkler heads connected to piping & could withstand (heat & temp):

Answer 115

• 365 degrees • 1500 degrees F for 15 min. • (system used in telephone switching centers & alerted fd immediately) • (system remains nonautomatic to protect delicate electronic switching gear from accidental water leakage)

Question 116

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #118) Fig. 6-16: Many telephone switching centers were equipped with a special suppression system, a specially designed nonautomatic system, for their ___.

Answer 116

Cable trays

Question 117

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #119) In another move to reduce cost of fire protection systems (and thereby improve the chances of them being installed), ___ systems have been developed:

Answer 117

Combination standpipe and sprinkler systems

Question 118

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #120) ___ systems where a logical way to extend sprinkler protection into existing unsprinklered high-rise bldgs in the early 70’s.

Answer 118

• Combination standpipe & sprinkler systems. - (After spate of h/r fires demonstrated that all h/r fires must be sprinklered for safety of occupants)

Question 119

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #121) Combination Standpipe/Sprinkler Systems: Sprinkler system taps into existing standpipe riser, which permitted owners to install at less cost. In older bldgs, standpipe rises could easily flow 500 gpm. In NYC, common diameter for risers in taller bldgs:

Answer 119

8”

Question 120

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #122) Combination Standpipe/Sprinkler Systems: NYC – common 8” diameter for risers in taller bldgs since sprinkler systems were only required to flow anywhere from ___ in a light hazard office floor:

Answer 120

150 – 200 gpm

Question 121

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Types of Systems (NC #123) Combination Standpipe/Sprinkler Systems: Problem is that new buildings are being built this way, with ___ piping that removes all of the reserve (wiggle room) out of the system:

Answer 121

Hydraulically calculated piping

Question 122

Hydraulically calculated piping Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Size Up At Sprinklered Buildings (NC #124) In sizing up a fire, must consider auxiliary appliances (sprinkler, standpipe, foam & other suppression systems). We must 1st determine:

Answer 122

Whether or not an auxiliary system is present (at times presence is assured by bldg or fire code).

Question 123

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Size Up At Sprinklered Buildings (NC #125) Presence of automatic sprinkler systems is difficult to forecast. Of the method of ___ will indicate the presence of a sprinkler system:

Answer 123

• Alarm receipt - (valve alarm or water flow alarm, etc)

Question 124

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Size Up At Sprinklered Buildings (NC #126) Some exterior signs that a bldg is protected by a sprinkler system are (3):

Answer 124

• Presence of Siamese connection, • Sight/sound of the water motor alarm gong, and • Running water discharging from pipes coming through wall of bldg.

Question 125

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Size Up At Sprinklered Buildings (NC #127) A siamese connection may look the same for both sprinkler and standpipe systems. There should be a ___ on or adjoining the siamese to indicate its purpose.

Answer 125

• Marked metal plate - (some jurisdictions mandate color coding siameses to simplify the task of identifying)

Question 126

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Size Up At Sprinklered Buildings (NC #128) The best way to determine whether or not a sprinkler system is present is by:

Answer 126

• Pre-fire inspection & planning • (This also familiarizes fd w/ location of control types & operational status)

Question 127

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Size Up At Sprinklered Buildings (NC #129) U/A at sprinklered bldgs – 1st determine ___, since this will indicate our course of action?

Answer 127

Whether or not the building’s sprinkler system is operating.

Question 128

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Size Up At Sprinklered Buildings (NC #130) If serious fire found in bldg protected by sprinkler system – immediately call for assistance. In many depts, sprinkler alarms receive minimal response, based on the premise that greater than ___% of all fires are controlled by 1 or 2 sprinkler heads.

Answer 128

• 95% - (And even larger % of responses involve no fire at all but are minor malfunctions such as pressure surges or low air pressure in dry-pipe valves)

Question 129

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Size Up At Sprinklered Buildings (NC #131) Even if your dept sends a full response to sprinkler alarms, you should expect that some of the responders have become ___ about these type of responses.

Answer 129

Complacent (they are holding back a little, waiting for report from on scene – expecting to hear it’s a false alarm caused by a malfunction)

Question 130

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Size Up At Sprinklered Buildings (NC #132) Most sprinklered buildings are ___ use:

Answer 130

Commercial or industrial use

Question 131

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Size Up At Sprinklered Buildings (NC #133) If find a serious fire in sprinklered bldg – generally system will have been turned off. May be due to an arsonist closing the valve, meaning ___ may well be present:

Answer 131

Accelerants

Question 132

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Size Up At Sprinklered Buildings (NC #134)

With installation of sprinkler system especially in new construction – bldg codes often permit trade-offs, which means?

Answer 132

Cause system will make bldg safer, bldg code allows owner to install less costly & often more dangerous materials – since sprinklers will take care of any fire problem (most items only problematic if system is OOS)

Question 133

Ch. 6: Norman – Sprinkler Systems & Standpipe Operations Section: Size Up At Sprinklered Buildings (NC #135)

Fighting fire in non-sprinklered bldg different than fire in bldg w/ sprinklers that are OOS. Examples of conditions allowed in sprinklered bldgs as opposed to non-sprinklered:

Answer 133

• Use of materials w/ higher flame spread &/or smoke generating ratings for flr, wall, ceiling coverings (carpet, wallpaper, etc)
• Lower resistance ratings for structural elements and walls
• Increased exit travel distances – particularly dangerous for unsuspecting firefighters.