What is generally checked during an annual inspection of a sprinkler system's fire department connection?

During an annual inspection of a sprinkler system's fire department connection, checking for signs of damage or obstruction is crucial for ensuring the system's reliability and effectiveness in an emergency situation. The fire department connection is the point where fire services can connect their hoses to the sprinkler system to provide additional water supply during a fire.

By inspecting for damage, such as dents, corrosion, or leaks, and verifying that there are no obstructions—like debris or vegetation—that could impair the connection's function, the integrity of the sprinkler system is maintained. Any physical obstruction could prevent quick access or limit the capacity of water that fire services could draw when needed, potentially jeopardizing firefighting efforts.

While factors like water flow rate and system age are important in the overall assessment of a sprinkler system, the immediate accessibility and functionality of the fire department connection take precedence during an inspection. Pipe thickness, while relevant to the long-term durability of the system, is not specifically checked during such inspections unless there are visible signs of issues that need further evaluation.