N.Y.C. Admin. Code § FC 905: Section FC 905: Standpipe Systems

905.1 General.

Standpipe systems shall be provided where required by the construction codes, including the Building Code, this code or the rules. Fire hose threads used in connection with standpipe systems shall be approved by the commissioner. Standpipe systems in buildings used for high-piled combustible storage shall be in accordance with FC Chapter 32.

905.1.1 Standpipe system operator.

In buildings with a multi-zone standpipe system, such system shall be continuously under the personal supervision of a person holding a certificate of fitness, who shall be immediately available to assist the department in the operation of such system.

905.2 Installation standards.

Standpipe systems shall be installed in accordance with the construction codes, including the Building Code.

905.3 Standpipe elevation markings.

The elevation above grade of each floor level shall be conspicuously marked on or adjacent to the standpipe hose outlet on each floor of a building or structure more than 240 feet in height. The elevation shall be indicated in feet. In lieu of markings, durable signage may be posted adjacent to the standpipe hose outlet on each floor.

905.4 Standpipe elevation chart.

A chart listing the floor number (consistent with elevator operation) and corresponding elevation above grade of each floor level of the building shall be prepared for each building or structure more than 240 feet in height and kept at the fire command center or other approved location.

905.5 Fire department connections.

Fire department connections serving a standpipe system shall be marked in accordance with FC 912.

905.6 Reserved.

905.7 Cabinets.

Cabinets containing firefighting equipment, such as standpipes, fire hose, portable fire extinguishers and water supply control valves, shall not be obstructed from use or obscured from view.

905.8 Reserved.

905.9 Valve supervision.

Valves controlling water supplies shall be supervised in the open position so that a change in the normal position of the valve will generate a supervisory signal at the central station required by FC 903.4. Where a fire alarm system is provided, a signal shall also be transmitted to the fire alarm system control panel.

Exceptions:

1. Valves to underground key or hub valves in roadway boxes provided by the municipality or public utility do not require supervision.

2. Valves locked in the normal position and inspected as provided in this code in buildings not equipped with a fire alarm system.

905.10 During construction.

Standpipe systems required during construction, alteration and demolition operations shall be provided in accordance with Chapter 33 of the Building Code and FC 3313.

905.11 Reserved.

905.12 Maintenance.

Standpipe systems shall be maintained, including all required inspection, testing and servicing, in accordance with this section, FC 901.6 and NFPA 25.

905.12.1 Standpipe hydrostatic pressure and flow tests.

Upon order of the commissioner, but at least once every 5 years, the standpipe system shall be subjected to a hydrostatic pressure test and a flow test to demonstrate its suitability for department use. These tests shall be conducted in compliance with the requirements of the rules and shall be conducted at the owner's risk, by his or her representative before a representative of the department.