Some of the most dangerous fire hazards are known to affect places where many people gather or convene. The reason for this is that, in as much as there is need for creation of safety, these facilities may also require equipment and material that are considered risky. The NFPA requirements for such places as auditoriums range from structural, design, and material to monitoring techniques (NFPA, 2012). Among other things, proper water flow is one of the most seriously considered aspects of the safety.
The first thing to note about these requirements include the materials needed. Water flow requires systems and equipment which facilitate water movement and flow at the required time, as well as, with the right precision of delivery. As such, the valves involved in fire control, piping, hose pipes and outlets, fire outlets, sprinklers, and pumps, among others that may be specified depending on additional features of the structures (Klaus, 2014). These items are required in standard qualities in order to stand the test of time and maintain safety for as long as possible.
Use your promo and get a custom paper on
"Proper Water Flow Requirements for an NFPA 25 Fire Protection System".
Functional requirements revolve around the effectiveness of the remediation process in case of an emergency. For example, an availability of a constant water source, the pressure regulations, and flow directions have to be taken into consideration. It is important to note that the pressure by which water flows or is released can play an important role in the outcome (NFPA, 2012). High pressure, which are often read as high quantities of gallons per minute or hour, end up producing foggy or misty sprinkles.
On the other hand, very low pressures can also be counterproductive in the process of ensuring fire safety. In this regard, it is a requirement that valves that control the pressure of flow be available in order to make sure that all sprinkler heads or hose ends have just the right pressure (Klaus, 2014). Apart from these, the design, orientations and location also needs to be considered (Klaus, 2014). For example, in a general purpose assembly, the fire control sprinklers need to be located at highly hazardous places such as the flammable furnishings, the machinery, and the highly populated sections for maximum protection. Coupled with continuous inspection and keeping of inventory, these requirements enhance safety against fire hazards.
- Klaus, M. J. (2014). Water-based fire protection systems handbook. Quincy, Mass: National Fire Protection Assoc.
- National Fire Protection Association. (2012). National fire codes. Quincy, MA [etc.: National Fire Protection Association.
