How frequently should dry and wet standpipe alarms be tested?

Standpipe systems, including both dry and wet standpipes, play a crucial role in fire protection by providing a reliable means for firefighters to access water during an emergency. Testing these standpipe alarms is vital to ensure they function correctly when needed.

The correct frequency for testing these alarms is annually. This schedule aligns with standard practices and regulatory requirements, which dictate that such safety systems be inspected and tested yearly to verify their readiness and functionality. Annual testing helps identify any potential issues or malfunctions that could hinder performance in an emergency situation.

Other frequencies, such as monthly, quarterly, or every five years, are insufficient for ensuring the reliability and efficiency of standpipe alarms. Monthly tests may be excessive and could lead to unnecessary wear and tear, while testing only once every five years does not provide adequate assurance that the system will function effectively when required, as issues could develop over that long period without any detection. Therefore, annual testing strikes a balance between ensuring thorough oversight and maintaining the systems' integrity without undue frequency.