SPRINKLER SYSTEM EFFECTIVENESS

Effectiveness of Sprinkler Systems

Table of Contents

Abstract3

Introduction4

Background And Significance5

Literature Review7

Different Types of Sprinkler Systems & Correct Functions of Each System7

Water Fire-Fighting7

Fire Sprinkling System8

Deluge Systems9

System Of Water Mist Fire Suppression10

Foam Extinguishing11

Dry Powder Extinguishing Installation12

Gas Fire Suppression System14

Aerosol Fire Extinguishing Systems16

Beneficial Locations For Sprinkler Systems17

Impact Of Sprinkler Systems On The Job Of Firefighters18

Procedures23

Results & Discussion25

Recommendations28

References31

Abstract

Fire sprinkler systems have been around for more than two centuries and have seen significant improvements over the years. It's true that early versions weren't very reliable and caused significant water damage. But today, sprinkler systems are credited with reducing deaths and loss of property by more than 65 percent. Since each sprinkler head is automatically triggered by fire-specific temperature, just one or two sprinklers can quickly extinguish and/or contain a fire to the room where it started and cause little property damage. And because sprinklers use about six times less water than a fire hose, they're actually less harmful to your property than a visit from the fire department.

Sprinklers have been in use in the United States since 1874, and were used in factory applications where fires at the turn of the century were often catastrophic in terms of both human and property losses. In the US, sprinklers are today required in all new high rise and underground buildings generally 75 feet (23 m) above or below fire department access, where the ability of firefighters to provide adequate hose streams to fires is limited.[citation needed]

Sprinklers may be required to be installed by building codes, or may be recommended by insurance companies to reduce potential property losses or business interruption. Building codes in the United States for places of assembly, generally over 100 persons, and places with overnight sleeping accommodation such as hotels, nursing homes, dormitories, and hospitals usually require sprinklers either under local building codes, as a condition of receiving State and Federal funding or as a requirement to obtain certification (essential for institutions who wish to train medical staff).

Introduction

Indoor fire sprinkler systems are a very important part to the safety of life and materials. Whether used in industrial buildings, offices, of homes each sprinkler is designed to effectively stall or eliminate a fire. According to the National Fire Sprinkler System Association the problem is malfunctioning fire sprinkler systems cost businesses and taxpayers millions of dollars annually (National Fire Sprinkler Association 2010). The purpose of this research is to recognize the different ways that alter to the effectiveness of sprinkler systems and how these malfunctions can cause property damage and loss of life.

This research paper will use the descriptive research method to answer these questions: (a) what are the different types of sprinkler systems and what are the correct functions of each system, (b) Where is the most beneficial locations of sprinkler systems and what type of system would be most efficient in that location, (c) What are some common malfunctions of sprinkler systems and what can be done to prevent these malfunctions, (d) who is responsible for these malfunctions, (e) who is responsible for maintenance ...