Additional Valves Alongside Backflow Preventer?

5/1/2019

Is there ever a requirement to have additional valves on either side of a fire sprinkler backflow preventer assembly (which includes two vales already)?

My understanding is that if the center backflow body needs to be replaced, it can be replaced by closing the valves that are part of the assembly, removing the center body, and replacing it with the same model center body as the original backflow preventer. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe this still retains the listing of the backflow preventer.

Had a review comment for a project in Illinois that an additional OS&Y valve is required on either side of the backflow preventer, which is in addition to the ones provided with the backflow preventer assembly (Illinois Plumbing Code IPC 890.1130 g 2). To me this doesn't provide any benefit to the system, but only introduce additional repair/failure points and provides two more possible locations where the system could be put out of service.

Have you ever seen this before?

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6 Comments

Mike

5/1/2019 10:14:49 am

Every time i think I've heard it all when regards to plan reviews, I read something like this.

I've never heard of such a requirement.

I would say adding additional valves unnecessarily adds to the risk of a valve being shut.

I'm curious what their logic is.

Wes

5/2/2019 06:08:18 am

I'm with you - I've never seen this before across hundreds of designs and installations.

Dat Huynh

5/1/2019 10:50:33 am

Per NFPA 13 (2016 Ed.) Para. 8.16.1.1.2.5. The additional control valve shall not be required. However, NFPA is not AHJ

5/2/2019 06:58:31 am

Yes this is a requirement according to the Illinois State Plumbing Code. All valves should have tamper switches wired to the fire alarm system

5/2/2019 07:12:08 am

For a total of four valves for one backflow?

C. T. Carbonari link

5/2/2019 07:38:25 am

Backflow Prevention Assemblies (BFPA) acquire their Certifications/Listings when they are tested in a specific configuration assembled and shipped directly from the manufacturer. Technically speaking, there is an arguement that could be made that any field changes to the assembly "configuration" would invalidate the listing (an extremely weak and unrealistic one, for sure).

I've never heard of that being applied to a situation where a component (i.e. the center body) is being replaced "In Kind". Typically, it is applied when elbows or spool pieces are added.

In a traditional Fire Service installation, there would be a key valve at the underground point of connection with Water Main and a Valve at the Base of Riser inside the Building. These two valves would facilitate Isolation of the BFPA for replacement/service.

I whole heartedly agree with all previous comments above referencing the ridiculousness of this Plan Review Comment.

Don't forget to rotate the BFPA OS&Y Isolation Valves or add spool pieces to maintain wheel clearances.

I would love to see a picture of this installation to add to my Alice in Wonderland Wall of Insanity.

Additional Valves Alongside Backflow Preventer?

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