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Skilled Trades Project Requirements:
Sprinkler Work & Inspections
In completing sprinkler work or equipment, Contractors should check the following applicable notes to ensure regulatory and Code compliance with NYC Plumbing Code:
Color Coding
Exposed standpipes and sprinkler risers must be painted red; this color-coding must be certified (BC 903.6). All buildings must comply. Branch piping does not require color-coded painting.
*Note: Dedicated Sprinkler Valve handles must be painted Green; all painting must be complete before the hydrostatic test.*
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Color Coding |
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Sprinkler |
Standpipe |
Combination |
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Risers |
Red |
Red |
Red |
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Branch Lines |
Not Required |
Not Required |
Not Required |
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Handles |
Green |
Red |
Yellow |
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FDC |
Green |
Red |
Yellow |
Cutting and Capping
In gut rehabilitations and demolitions, a NYS licensed Professional Engineer or Registered Architect must obtain a variance from the NYC Fire Department’s Construction, Demolition & Abatement Unit to remove sprinklers when the scope exceeds four stories. Regardless of scope, FDNY notification is always required when any sprinklers will be taken out of service.
Roughing + Finishing
- Altered Sprinkler Systems. An LMP or LFSC must conduct hydrostatic pressure testing. NFPA-13 24.2.1.1 as modified by BC Appendix Q
- Removing Stories. An LMP or LFSC must conduct hydrostatic pressure testing before work begins. BC 1704.24.1.3.
- All sprinkler and standpipe work must have a Special Inspection; the Special Inspector must be named at the time of permit using a TR-1 form. BC 1704.1.
- Provide all the required paperwork at inspection. BC 1704.1.1.
- Seal OS&Y valve open on auto sprinkler supply lines. NFPA-13 7.2.4.7
- Sprinkler heads and head covers must not be painted. NFPA 13: 6.2.6.2.1
- Renovated Floors. Conduct testing at the sprinkler drain line/test tee. NFPA-13 7.3.1.7
- Hydrostatic Tests. Conduct at Fire Department connections; sprinkler head cannot be used as connection point for hydrostatic test. BC 1704.23.1, NFPA 13 24.2.1.10 as modified by BC Appendix Q.
Test Standards
Modifications of Sprinkler systems in excess of 20 heads shall be tested to hydrostatic pressure of 200 psi for one hour. NFPA-13 24.2.1.5 as modified by BC Appendix Q..
Special Inspections
Sprinkler work may require, per the Building Code, certain Special Inspection to be performed during, and at the end of construction, as per table below. The Registered Design Professional is responsible for indicating which Special Inspections are required at submission, and the owner must engage a responsible special inspection agency, per BC 1704.23.
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Sprinkler Systems |
Per NYC Building Code (BC 1704.23), sprinkler systems Special Inspections are required to verify that installation of materials and fitting hanger assemblies and signage, are pre-approved documents. In addition, ensure that painting of system complies with BC 903.6. This portion of the inspection may be conducted periodically at increments suitable to the progress of the work. Special inspector shall witness all required tests, both hydrostatic and flow tests and ensure submission of Form FP 85 to FDNY. |
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Fire Resistant Penetrations of Fire Rated Assemblies |
Per BC 1704.27 when Sprinkler Installation involves the penetration of fire-rated barrier assemblies, such as walls, floors, and roofs, drawing details must be provided that show the proper fire-rated barrier penetrations as required by BC Chapter 7. |
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Seismic Isolation Systems |
Per BC 1707.8, compliance of sprinkler system piping to ensure earthquake protection of building and its occupants. |
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Post-Installed Anchors |
Per BC 1704.32
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Required Sprinkler Inspections
Department inspections are required at various stages of completion, as well as at the final completion. Based on the project scope of work, the following sprinkler inspections may be required:
- Underground Piping. Bedding, pitch, materials, protection, flushing
- Roughing Work. Piping, valves, components, size, location, materials, hangers
- Test. Hydrostatic, , flow, alarm, Dry Pipe Valve, Booster Pump
- Finishes. Painting, escutcheons, signage, labeling, chaining of valves, central station monitor assigned
- Final Inspection. Sign-off
Contractor Self-Certification of Plumbing Inspections
For sprinkler work, Contractors have the option to either require a Department Inspection or submit a self-certification of the completed work. Contractor must submit a notice of intent to self-certify, with the dates of these self-certified inspections to the Department, (online inspection request) and follow-up with the submission of results for self-certified inspections (online inspection results).
The Sprinkler Enforcement Unit conducts a random audit of all self-certified notices to ensure compliance of inspected work with Code and regulations.
Inspection Requests
The Department’s online portal for scheduling appointments for required DOB inspections must be used. DOB NOW provides robust online accounts, making it easier to submit applications, make payments, schedule appointments, check the status of an application or inspection, pull permits, and make renewals.