NFPA Mandates Semi-Annual Clean Agent Inspections

Clean agent fire suppression systems in Tulsa and Oklahoma City, shield areas and sensitive equipment that would otherwise be destroyed by water suppression systems. Sensitive property protected by clean agent systems can include computers, server rooms, laboratories, document storage facilities, museums, art libraries, galleries, etc.

Therefore, these highly-effective and environmentally safe fire suppression systems are quickly becoming the fire extinguishing agent of choice for many OKC and Tulsa establishments. But like other fire suppression systems, they do need regular inspections and maintenance. Why are clean agents popular and what inspections are needed?

Clean agents like 3M Novec 1230 and FM200 use chemical gas release mechanisms that are non-toxic to humans and environmentally safe. These fire suppression agents are stored under pressure as a liquid and then vaporize when they are released in a fire. Thus, they don’t leave a residue behind and so no clean-up or downtime is necessary. Clean agents are also non-conductive and non-corrosive. These clean agent gases can permeate an area in just seconds, eliminating a fire in its beginning stage before it has a chance to grow.

3M notes, “Fast extinguishment helps keep fires small, giving them less chance to spread. Generally, a Novec 1230 system will extinguish a fire even before it reaches the “flame” stage.” Therefore, since they are fast, effective, and “clean” these systems are perfect fire suppression agents for a wide host of businesses and industries.

How regularly do these systems need to be inspected?

Semi-annually clean agent systems need to be inspected in order to check the agent quantity and the pressure of refillable containers in accord with NFPA 2001.

“Halocarbon agent loss greater than 10 percent requires container refill or replacement. Inert gas agent, not liquefied, pressure loss greater than 5 percent requires container refill or replacement,” NFPA reported. “Halocarbon weight loss greater than 5 percent requires container refill or replacement.”

During this semi-annual inspection, the clean agent containers will also be looked at to ensure they are without any physical damage.

Yearly, a detailed inspection of the clean agent system is also required by the NFPA. During this annual inspection, all systems must be inspected and tested for proper operation by qualified personnel, although a discharge of the agent is not required. Hoses must be inspected for signs of impairment. The room enclosure will also be inspected for sufficient tightness to see if any changes have occurred that could affect how the clean agent system would respond in a fire. The entire fire alarm system will also be tested and inspected annually.

Mac Systems in Tulsa and Oklahoma City will gladly handle your clean agent and complete fire suppression system inspections. Our NICET certified technicians can quickly identify any deficiencies and keep track of your inspection schedule so that your business is always code compliant. Call us today for total clean agent system design, testing, installation, inspection, and maintenance.