Functionally test all fixed system audible and visual alarms, Flow test of all pumps for proper pressure and capacity.
Water Mist Systems are widely used for fire suppression in areas where traditional water-based systems may cause significant damage to equipment or electronics. These systems use a fine mist of water to suppress fires and are highly effective in extinguishing fires while minimizing water damage. As with other fire suppression systems, it is essential to ensure that Water Mist Systems are inspected regularly to ensure their effectiveness in case of a fire emergency.
Annual Inspection:
According to MSC regulations, Water Mist Systems must undergo an annual inspection by a qualified and authorized surveyor. The annual inspection includes a visual examination of the system and its components to ensure that they are in good condition and functioning correctly. The inspection includes:
- Check of System Components: The surveyor must check the system’s components, including the pump, nozzles, and piping, to ensure that they are in good condition and functioning correctly.
- Check of Water Supply: The surveyor must check the water supply to ensure that it is adequate and meets the system’s requirements.
- Check of Control System: The surveyor must check the control system to ensure that it is functioning correctly and can activate the system in case of a fire emergency.
- Check of Manual Activation Device: The surveyor must check the manual activation device to ensure that it is working correctly and can activate the system in case of a fire emergency.
- Check of Instructions and Documentation: The surveyor must check the instructions and documentation related to the system to ensure that they are up to date and reflect the current configuration of the system.
Five-Yearly Inspection:
In addition to the annual inspection, Water Mist Systems must also undergo a five-yearly inspection as per MSC regulations. The five-yearly inspection is more detailed than the annual inspection and includes the following:
- Hydrostatic Testing: The surveyor must carry out a hydrostatic test on the pump and piping to ensure that they can withstand the system’s operating pressure.
- Check of System Components: The surveyor must check the system’s components, including the pump, nozzles, and piping, to ensure that they are in good condition and functioning correctly.
- Check of Water Supply: The surveyor must check the water supply to ensure that it is adequate and meets the system’s requirements.
- Check of Control System: The surveyor must check the control system to ensure that it is functioning correctly and can activate the system in case of a fire emergency.
- Check of Manual Activation Device: The surveyor must check the manual activation device to ensure that it is working correctly and can activate the system in case of a fire emergency.
- Functional Test: The surveyor must conduct a functional test to ensure that the system is working correctly and can discharge water mist effectively.
- Check of Nozzles and Piping: The surveyor must check the nozzles and piping to ensure that they are not clogged or damaged.
- Check of Instructions and Documentation: The surveyor must check the instructions and documentation related to the system to ensure that they are up to date and reflect the current configuration of the system.
Once the inspections are completed, the surveyor must provide a detailed report that outlines the findings of the inspection, any repairs or replacements that need to be carried out, and any recommendations for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the system.
In conclusion, the annual and five-yearly inspections of Water Mist Systems are critical for maintaining the safety of areas with sensitive equipment. These inspections must be carried out in accordance with MSC regulations by qualified and authorized surveyors. By following these regulations, facility owners can ensure that their Water Mist Systems are functioning correctly and can effectively suppress fires in case of an emergency.
