Test and Drain Sign

Sprinkler System Plates

Sprinkler system plates comply with the requirements of NFPA 13. They identify crucial components of a Fire Sprinkler System and the system’s operation. Failure to properly identify a sprinkler system may not only result in code violations and owner/contractor liability, in a worst-case scenario system failure in a fire emergency may occur.

What is NFPA 13?

NFPA 13 is the standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems and provides "a reasonable degree of protection for life and property from fire through the standardization of design, installation, and testing requirements for sprinkler systems, including private fire service mains, based on sound engineering principles, test data, and field experience." The standard applies to water supplies, sprinklers, fittings, piping, valves, all materials and accessories.

Where do sprinkler plates and identification signs need to be installed?

NFPA 13 provides a comprehensive table with a sprinkler system signage summary including sign locations and requirements. Identification signs should be permanently marked weatherproof metal signs, secured with corrosion-resistant wire, chain, or other acceptable means.

Identification sign location varies by type, but in general these should be applied on valves controlling and supplying a sprinkler system. Such locations may include:

1. Control Valves, Drain Valves, Test Connection Valves, Alarm Valves, Dry Pipe Valves, Preaction Valves, and Deluge Valves.
2. Anti-Freeze Loops, Anti-Freeze Main Valves and Circulating Closed Loop Systems.
3. Auxiliary Systems
4. System Control Riser