Attention all CMS Federally inspected facilities:
We have been advised by CMS there is a policy change. With the adoption of the 2012 Life Safety Code and NFPA 25- 2011 edition, the 5-year internal pipe inspection for the sprinkler system is now a requirement. Previously the code allowed us to not cite facilities if there was no evidence of an obstruction, however the 2012 code now states one must be performed. See the code requirement below:
NFPA 25 2011 edition 14.2
14.2.1 Except as discussed in 14.2.1.1 and 14.2.1.4 an inspection of piping and branch line conditions shall be conducted every 5 years by opening a flushing connection at the end of one main and by removing a sprinkler toward the end of one branch line for the purpose of inspecting for the presence of foreign organic and inorganic material.
Everyone should check their last inspection report from their sprinkler company and read the notes. If it states you are due for 5-year internal pipe inspection, please take the necessary steps to get it scheduled. Effective immediately OSFM inspectors have been instructed they are to cite this as a deficiency.
If you have any questions, Contact:
Joel Beckner
Fire Prevention Public Education
Office of the State Fire Marshal
800 SW Jackson, Suite 104
Topeka, KS 66612-1216
(785) 296-0659 – phone
(785) 296-0151 – fax
joel.c.beckner@ks.gov
