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Tag No.: K0061
Based on observation and interview, it was determined the facility failed to ensure sprinkler control valves were electronically supervised, according to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards.
The findings include:
Observation on 04/04/2012 at 3:12 PM, revealed the sprinkler system contained five (5) sprinkler control valves that were not electronically supervised. Sprinkler Control valves must be electronically supervised to at least sound locally when the valve is closed. The observation was confirmed with the Director of Plant Engineering and Maintenance.
Interview on 04/04/2012 at 3:12 PM, with the Director of Plant Engineering and Maintenance, revealed he believed the five (5) sprinkler control valves were not required to be electronically supervised since it was an existing sprinkler system. Further interview revealed in 2004 a new Emergency Department was constructed and the existing sprinkler system was added on to provide sprinkler protection for the new Emergency Department.
Reference: NFPA 101 (2000 edition)
4.6.12.2* Existing life safety features obvious to the public, if
not required by the Code, shall be either maintained or
removed.Reference: NFPA 101 (2000 edition)
18.3.5.1* Buildings containing health care facilities shall be
protected throughout by an approved, supervised automatic
sprinkler system in accordance with Section 9.7.
Exception: In Type I and Type II construction, where approved by the
authority having jurisdiction, alternative protection measures shall be
permitted to be substituted for sprinkler protection in specified areas
where the authority having jurisdiction has prohibited sprinklers,
without causing a building to be classified as nonsprinklered.
9.7.2.1* Supervisory Signals. Where supervised automatic
sprinkler systems are required by another section of this Code,
supervisory attachments shall be installed and monitored for
integrity in accordance with NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm Code,
and a distinctive supervisory signal shall be provided to indicate
a condition that would impair the satisfactory operation
of the sprinkler system. Monitoring shall include, but shall not
be limited to, monitoring of control valves, fire pump power
supplies and running conditions, water tank levels and temperatures,
tank pressure, and air pressure on dry-pipe valves.
Supervisory signals shall sound and shall be displayed either at
a location within the protected building that is constantly
attended by qualified personnel or at an approved, remotely
located receiving facility.