Code Requirement for Cover on Flow Switch?

4/21/2022

Is there a specific code requirement to keep the flow switch cover installed on the device?

It is good practice to keep it on, but is there a code requirement especially when running a 110V horn-strobe from the flow switch?

As always thanks!

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9 Comments

Pete H

4/21/2022 07:39:01 am

The requirement for the waterflow switch that I know that might be relevant is that it has to be a listed assembly. Check the manufacturer spec sheet and/or the manufacturer's tech support on the switch with the horn strobe to see if it maintains its listing without said cover. If it does not, it is against code.

Anthony

4/21/2022 08:06:01 am

This^^

"Listed Assembly" is the key phrase here. All components on a fire sprinkler system down stream of the control valve must be listed.

Derek

4/21/2022 08:06:38 am

Nailed it.

Alex

4/21/2022 08:10:27 am

Hi,

Echoing Pete's response above. There is no specific code requirement that states a cover is required. Only section that I'm familiar with that requires protection is NFPA 72 (2013) 17.4.2. The section requires additional protection when initiating devices are subject to mechanical damage. Otherwise, the devices should be installed per the manufacture guidelines. Since flow devices come with the cover, I would state that it should be installed with it.

Alex

Craig Hanson

4/21/2022 08:27:48 am

The short answer is no. As far as the sprinkler side goes it is no different than a ball valve in the water motor gong line. We put tamper seals on those lines so that if it is opened they would have to break the seal. The water flow switches covers have tamper resistant screws that act for the same reason. The NFPA 25 does cover the inspection of these devices and replacing missing covers and the instillation guides for the potter switches talk about only removing the cover for short amount of times.

matthew mueller link

4/21/2022 08:28:32 am

There are many more than just listed assembly I'm certain. I'd imagine the electrical codes are in play, specifically since you mentioned the 110vac bell. I would personally view that as physical damage to a waterflow device that would be noted quarterly per NFPA 25 as well.

Karsten Smith link

4/21/2022 11:06:07 am

I asked the question, so first off thank you for those who responded. Matthew thank you for the insight to look at the electrical code. I have a NEC 2014 that I hadn't used since I took my NICET for fire alarm. I found the following code:

314.25 Covers and Canopies. In completed installations, each box shall have a cover, faceplate, lampholder, or luminarie canopy, except where the installation complies with 410.24(B).

The reason I asked the question is a new customer called asking us to provide a price to replace the existing flow switch that the HVAC contractor damaged while accessing the roof through the riser room.

Thank you!

Randy Kimbro

4/22/2022 08:29:21 am

Sometimes it is the general sections of the Code or NFPA that are the most helpful in these cases. As an AHJ, I would use NFPA 72 14.5.1 Maintenance to require the cover be installed on the flow switch. Our State Fire Marshal often uses this approach also.

14.5.1 System components shall be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's published instructions.

Without the cover, there is a good chance that dirt or debris would enter the switch over time and possibly render it inoperable.

Ame Davis

5/11/2022 12:27:57 pm

For all listed and Labeled (anything), this is the fast one that our fire department uses.

NFPA 1:10.1.7 Listed and Labeled. Listed and labeled equipment,
with the listing limitations and the manufacturers’ instructions.

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Code Requirement for Cover on Flow Switch?

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