Just the head(s) affected. NFPA 25 requires sprinklers be inspected from the floor level annually. Any sprinkler that shows signs of any of the following shall be replaced: (1) Leakage (2) Corrosion detrimental to sprinkler performance (3) Physical damage (4) Loss of fluid in the glass bulb heat-responsive element (5) Loading detrimental to sprinkler performance (6) Paint, other than that applied by the sprinkler manufacturer, detrimental to sprinkler performance
If the other sprinklers in the area aren’t showing any of these signs, they do not need to be replaced per this requirement. This language appears in sections 5.2.1.1 and 5.2.1.1.1 in the current, 2023 edition of NFPA 25. Similar language has existed in previous versions of NFPA 25 (which your jurisdiction may be following) with one exception. Previous editions stated a sprinkler with paint other than that applied by the sprinkler manufacturer had to be replaced - it didn’t matter if it was detrimental or not. Painted located on the release mechanism, water seal or deflector would most likely be detrimental to sprinkler performance. Paint on the frame, such that it does not impede water flow, may not be. If the paint is not detrimental to performance, the sprinkler could remain in service per the new edition of NPFA 25 but not per the previous editions. This inspection replacement requirement is not be confused with the replacement requirement following testing. If one or more of sprinklers in a representative sample sent off for the field service test fail, then all sprinklers within the area represented by that sample shall be replaced (2023 Ed. NFPA 25 5.3.1.3 – similar language has appeared in pervious versions of NFPA 25), regardless of the inspection results. Note: The floor level inspection and the replacement of any sprinklers that fail that inspection should be done before sampling for the field service test. The field service test is not required annually. Consult your current edition of NFPA 25 for replacement or field service test intervals. Thank you, Grant Lobdell President Dyne Fire Protection Labs 2357 Ventura Drive Suite 108 Woodbury, MN 55125 Phone: 651-917-0644 Extension 606 Toll Free: 800-632-2304 Extension 606 Direct Line: 651-262-5606 Fax: 651-917-0646 Email: [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]> ________________________________ From: Charlie Sherman <[email protected]<mailto:[email protected]>> Date: December 22, 2023 at 10:40:03 AM CST To: [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]> Subject: [Sprinklerforum] Painted Heads Reply-To: Discussion list on issues relating to automatic fire sprinklers <[email protected]<mailto:[email protected]>> Hello, We were cited for a sprinkler that has been painted, and unfortunately is no longer in production. Residential townhouse type occupancy, college students. Is it necessary to replace all heads in the apartment, or can it be just the affected head? I have opposing opinions and am looking for some assistance. Is there any code or standard that references this issue? Thank you! Charlie Charlie Sherman Fire and Building Safety Coordinator Ithaca College Office of Public Safety & Emergency Management 953 Danby Road Ithaca, New York 14850 607-274-3333 [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]> _________________________________________________________ SprinklerForum mailing list: https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2flists.firesprinkler.org%2flist%2fsprinklerforum.lists.firesprinkler.org&c=E,1,2za1mY06Neme4Hdue8Rpcb8ahFP2TnfQH4dijHYaF86fURNNBbeAGcvQqNHVThlGRRurzn_VxGQk_IR3B3PSb8hJy-FqqytCsK-hQAh9d3BI7Q,,&typo=1 To unsubscribe send an email to [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]>
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