Standpipe systems overview
Standpipe systems are inside piping systems similar to fire hydrants. Standpipes are often built into large buildings to aid firefighting. Some standpipes are dry until the fire department pumps water into them from outside. Others are full of water at all times and available for immediate use. Many wet standpipes have hoses attached. With these, occupants can fight small fires before the fire department arrives.
The technology
Standpipe systems are simpler than sprinkler systems. They consist of a system of pipes built in to the structure. Standpipes provide occupants an easy means to fight small fires. However, they do not offer automatic protection like sprinklers do.
Like sprinkler systems, standpipe systems may be wet or dry. Wet systems are ready for use at anytime. Some dry systems fill with water automatically when an alarm is triggered. These operate like deluge or pre-action sprinkler systems. Other dry systems remain empty until the fire department fills them. The fire department might fill the lines with water from a municipal water main, a gravity tank, or a pressure tank. Sometimes a combination of these sources supplies water.
Standpipe systems may be designed for use by the occupants, firefighters, or both. Occupant-use systems are usually wet systems. These are equipped with 1.5” hoses. Standpipes designed for firefighter-use may be either wet or dry. They provide firefighters either with a standard 2.5” hose connection or with larger 2.5″ hoses. They enable firefighters to respond to emergencies more quickly. Standpipes may be installed to supplement the sprinkler system.
Applications
Standpipe systems are a part of the construction in many larger buildings. They are sometimes added to buildings with sprinkler systems as a back-up measure. They are generally required in buildings which are tall, large, or highly specialized.
Call Global Fire Prevention today at (845) 781-0117 to learn how we can help protect your building.