What Code Req'mt Triggers a Backflow Retrofit?

10/6/2022

While doing a sprinkler inspection it was found that the main check valve for the system failed. The system was installed before backflows were mandated on sprinkler systems.

I know that a backflow preventer needs to be installed in its place, but have been unable to find any code that says it does.

Anyone able to help?

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11 Comments

Anthony

10/6/2022 07:38:21 am

This will be part of the plumbing or heath code not from NFPA 13. Check your state or local building code for backflow prevention requirements.

Corey Eppinghaus

10/6/2022 08:05:00 am

As Anthony noted it will be in the plumbing code or health code you may also want to check to see if the municipality has a backflow prevention program, they might be able to force them to install one/repair.

Robb

10/6/2022 08:08:43 am

agreee 100% with Anthony. AWWA and UPC requires these, not the fire code. Is your sprinkler connected to Potable water system (public drinking water)- than yes a BFD is required. if connected to a private fire main -and not cross conencted to the city or campus water mains - than not required.

Anthonycert@yahoo.com

10/6/2022 08:14:37 am

Here in Metro NY backflow devices are initiated by the local Water District for their review and then forwarded if required, to the County Health Department.

I would check with the local Water supplier.

Jesse

10/6/2022 08:16:53 am

This is part of the plumbing code. You won't find it in 13.

Dan Wilder

10/6/2022 08:41:56 am

The system was installed with a check valve and assumed approved with that installation, its failure during a 25 inspection means repair or replace like for like not add a backflow and potentially change the hydraulics of the system.

If the local AHJ required the replacement with a backflow, they would also (likely) require a hydraulic evaluation of the system for the change. There is no provision to bring a system or portions of that system to current standards based on a NFPA 25 inspection for failed valve only....it would (potentially) allow the AHJ to require a permit to review the work and at that time they can identify on that inspection any additional deficiencies from a FD/AHJ perspective.

If you are a NFSA member, Terry Victor does a great presentation on NFPA 25 and there is a free one available from the canceled Annual Seminar.

Alex

10/6/2022 08:43:40 am

Hi,

As others have mentioned, the requirement of a backflow will fall under the Plumbing Code.

For example, the International Plumbing Code (2021 edition) 608.17.4 outline connections to automatic sprinkler systems and standpipe systems. The section states that "the potable water supply to automatic sprinkler systems and standpipe systems shall be protected against backflow by a double check backflow prevention assembly, a double check fire protection backflow prevention assembly or a reduced pressure principle fire protection backflow prevention assembly."

There are a few exceptions that you may fall under so worth a shot reading through the section.

Thanks,
Alex

10/6/2022 09:21:37 am

NFPA 1 (2018) contains the following:

NFPA 1:13.5.3* The installation of devices to protect the public water supply from contamination shall comply with the provisions of NFPA 13, NFPA 13D,NFPA 13R, NFPA 24, and the plumbing code.

NFPA 1:A.13.5.3 The installation of backflow prevention devices on services supplying water to existing fire protection systems can result in excessive pressure losses. Therefore, installation of backflow prevention devices to protect public health has to be
accomplished with due regard for the implications on fire
protection. The provisions of AWWA M14, Backflow Prevention
and Cross-Connection Control: Recommended Practices, should be used as a guide for determining the appropriate protection for public health. Hydraulic calculations and water supply analysis should be conducted prior to installation to determine the impact on fire protection.

Brian

10/6/2022 11:33:36 am

The type of system wasn't stated. If this is a dry system then only the single check in addition to the dry riser should be needed. Also is there a fire service main with a pit where the backflow device could already be located?

Often there are limitations to space for revised piping to include such a major modification. Perhaps if a backflow is deemed to be needed then putting outside in a pit could be valuable. You may also find that while evaluating the hydraulics that the underground supply could be undersized with the additional losses. Keep in mind to weigh the costs/ability to perform the modifications to the building versus the site.

Mark Harris

10/6/2022 12:29:21 pm

Agree that plumbing codes and water suppliers are where you will find the requirements. But think they are trying to conform to the EPA Safe Water Drinking Act of 1974 but as I recall fire sprinkler systems came into play with the 1986 amendments.

Brian mentions single check for dry systems and I have seen that reference over the years but in general think almost all installs today that are off a public water system will get an approved double check or RPZ assembly. I

From a service standpoint never liked the backflow in a pit because of the confined space entry requirements for the annual testing. If RPZ device could be a contamination issue if pit floods.

James Art

10/12/2022 01:12:44 pm

Backflows Devices are forbidden in CA:
Backflow devices are extremely negative for fire sprinkler systems.
They add friction loss, installation costs, and if properly maintained, ongoing costs, that do not help with fire protection.

And mostly they are unnecessary.
The water in supplied from a water company to the fire system is usually the same water supplied to drink.There is very little evidence that the water is toxic. It does pick up iron in steel pipe, same as in vitamin pills.

In California, the Health and Safety Code clearly states Backflows are NOT required for Class 1 and II systems*, and most water companies, are prohibited from requiring them.
See California Code, Health and Safety Code - HSC § 13114.7

An Excerpt:
(b) Automatic fire sprinkler systems described in subdivision (a) shall not require any backflow protection equipment at the service connection other than required by standards for those systems contained in the publication of the National Fire Protection Association entitled “Installation of Sprinkler Systems” (N.F.P.A. Pamphlet No. 13, 1980 edition).

NFPA 13 is clear then, and now that backflows are NOT required.

Note that many water co. and others just ignore this law!
And each individual is unlikely to fight the system.

*Definitions of Class 1 and II avail. here:
https://codes.findlaw.com/ca/health-and-safety-code/hsc-sect-13114-7.html- Basically with NO cross connections, etc.

What Code Req'mt Triggers a Backflow Retrofit?

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