Why maintenance matters
A fire system can look perfect on the wall and still fail: a pump that does not start, a valve left closed, an extinguisher with no pressure. Regular checks find these problems while there is still time to fix them.
Every week
- Run the fire pumps. Under NFPA 25, diesel fire pumps should be run every week in a no-flow (churn) test. Electric pumps are run weekly or monthly, depending on the setup.
- Check the diesel tank is full, with no leaks.
- Look at the fire alarm panel: it should show "normal", with no faults.
- Check main valves are open and locked or sealed in the open position.
Every month
- Extinguishers: gauge in the green, pin and seal in place, not blocked, and the label is readable (NFPA 10).
- Hose reels: the box is not locked or blocked, the hose is not damaged, and the valve turns.
- Exit routes: stairs and corridors are clear and exit doors open easily.
- Exit signs and emergency lights: they light up when tested.
- Fire tank: the water level is full.
Every year
- Full fire alarm test: test detectors, call points and sounders, as required by NFPA 72.
- Fire pump flow test: check the pumps deliver the right flow and pressure (NFPA 25).
- Sprinkler inspection: no painted, damaged or blocked heads, and nothing stored too close to them.
- Extinguisher service by a competent technician.
- Fire drill for all staff and tenants.
Every few years
Fire extinguisher cylinders need a pressure (hydrostatic) test. Under NFPA 10, that is every 5 years for CO2, water and foam extinguishers and every 12 years for most dry powder (DCP) extinguishers.
Keep a fire safety logbook
For every check, write the date, what was checked, what was found and who did it. In Islamabad, CDA is now carrying out fire audits and inspections (see our CDA fire safety checklist), and a clear logbook makes those inspections much easier.
The exact schedule for your building depends on its equipment and the standards it was designed to, so ask your fire engineer to confirm it.
Need help keeping your system ready?
We install and look after fire fighting systems, fire alarms and extinguishers in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Contact us to have your system checked.
Frequently asked questions
How often should a fire pump be tested?
Under NFPA 25, diesel fire pumps should be run every week in a no-flow test, electric pumps weekly or monthly depending on the setup, and all fire pumps need a full flow test every year.
How often should a fire alarm system be tested?
A full inspection and test of the fire alarm system should be done at least once a year (NFPA 72), with the panel checked for faults every week.
When do fire extinguishers need a hydrostatic test?
Under NFPA 10, CO2, water and foam extinguishers need a hydrostatic test every 5 years, and most dry chemical powder extinguishers every 12 years.
Need help with fire safety in Rawalpindi or Islamabad? WhatsApp +92 333 1496947 or call +92 324 19 64 707.
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