What is an acceptable means to inspect/supervise underground fire line isolation valves in a "roadway box?"
These are non-indicating and unsupervised valves on a fire line. They do not have a lockable lid and may be in a drive or roadway, i.e. subject to traffic. If you recommend a seal, please be descriptive of how that would be practical. NFPA 13 provides the following applicable guidance: 16.9.3.3.1 Valves on connections to water supplies, sectional control and isolation valves, and other valves in supply pipes to sprinklers and other fixed water-based fire suppression systems shall be supervised by one of the following methods: (4) Valves located within fenced enclosures under the control of the owner, sealed in the open position, and inspected weekly as part of an approved procedure. Thanks for your help. Sent in anonymously for discussion. Click Title to View | Submit Your Question | Subscribe
8 Comments
Peter
1/16/2025 08:14:17 am
You don't supervise underground valves in roardway boxes.
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Glenn Berger
1/16/2025 09:25:27 am
I concur with Peter's comment above. If necessary you can consult with security engineers on means that they use for similar applications. I have also seen the covers welded in place (not recommended) and also an unique keying system used.
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Jose Figueroa
1/16/2025 09:44:50 am
In my experience, most improperly closed valves (ICVs) are found in pits under roadways. On one occasion, I had to conduct a double-loop water test and discovered through deduction that a valve was missing beneath the roadway, with the valve access covered by asphalt.
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Jack G
1/16/2025 10:00:59 am
FM global has some good info on testing a roadway box.
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Author
1/16/2025 11:06:39 am
First, thanks for all the feedback.
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Dean Melanson
1/16/2025 12:12:35 pm
Just a reminder comment. Know who owns the street box valve before you do anything to it, especially welding or marking. In my community they are the property of the municipal water company and their maintenance does not directly fall to the property/building owner. You may need a permit and a water department presence to access and function the valve as they are responsible for it being in operable condition and being in the fully on position.
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Phil W
1/16/2025 03:24:24 pm
I always try to persuade clients to provide accessible valve chambers for section / isolation valves. Not always easy because of the costs but I've seen too many failed valves / failed connections requiring expensive excavation and repair.
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Katherine
1/17/2025 03:51:15 pm
Don't forget that if a box is on the property of a healthcare facility it is required by 101 to be supervised. 9.7.2.1, 2012 edition (current federal standard)
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