GFSA Members,
Please see below from the State Fire Marshal.
System Impairments and Specifically Freeze-Related Impairments
Be advised, this shall be the policy on buildings under state authority per OCGA Title 25 and the recommendation to local fire authorities having jurisdiction.
To Whom It May Concern:
In light of the unprecedented cold weather being experienced throughout Georgia and the subsequent damage occurring to fire sprinkler systems, the following guidance is being provided by the State Fire Marshal’s Office:
It is my interpretation, per the authority granted under OCGA Title 25 that directs Impairment Coordinators to comply with the following elements found in NFPA 25. It is my recommendation that AHJ’s be familiar with these provisions and enforce them accordingly:
- Per NFPA 25, 2017 Edition Chapter 15, Section 15.6.1 where system impairments are attributed to damage caused by frozen and/or ruptured pipes the requirements of 15.5 shall be implemented by the impairment coordinator.
- Per NFPA 25, 2017 Edition Chapter 15, Section 15.5
(4) Where the system is out of service for more than 10 hours in a 24 hour period one of the following shall occur:
(a) Evacuation of the building or portion of building affected;
(b) An approved fire watch;
(c) Establish a temporary water supply;
(d) Implement a program to eliminate ignition sources and limit available fuel;
This shall be the policy on buildings under state authority per OCGA Title 25 and the recommendation to local fire authorities having jurisdiction. Please let me know if you have further questions.
Sincerely,
Craig D. Landolt CFCO
State Fire Marshal
Office of Commissioner John F. King
Two Martin Luther King Jr Drive SE
Suite 920 West Tower
Atlanta, Georgia 30334
C: 470-270-6499
clandolt@oci.ga.gov
Thank you.
Georgia Fire Sprinkler Association an AFSA Chapter
1525 Broadmoor Blvd NE, Buford, GA 30518