How often should fire service mains be inspected?

The recommendation for inspecting fire service mains annually is rooted in the importance of maintaining these critical components of fire protection systems. Regular inspections help ensure that fire service mains are functioning properly, free from blockages, leaks, or other issues that could impede water flow during an emergency situation.

Annual inspections allow for the timely identification of potential problems, thereby facilitating necessary repairs or adjustments before they become critical. This proactive approach is essential, as it ensures that the fire service mains will perform effectively when needed most.

Additionally, NFPA 24 emphasizes the need for regular maintenance and operational readiness of private fire service systems, making an annual inspection a best practice. While more frequent inspections could be beneficial in certain contexts, the annual schedule balances safety with practical resource management for most facilities.