When speaking of fire protection systems, we often think of fire sprinklers and extinguishers placed strategically throughout the workplace. These pieces of equipment are the typical “go-to’s” for business owners looking to protect their place of business from costly and deadly fires. While these parts of fire protections systems do help reduce the spread of a fire, there is also a lesser known tool that can provide life-saving protection should a fire occur in the building. The little-known fire department connections are also helpful in reducing the spread of a fire.
Fire department connections, also known as FDC’s, consists of brass fittings located in the building that allow firemen to connect two hoses to the unit and provide a water supply to put the fire out. In fact, as fire codes continue to evolve and expand, many municipalities require fire department connections for both large to small buildings. What was once commonplace only in vast structures can know be found in smaller offices and outlets.
In this article, we take time to learn more about the types of fire department connections available and how these fire protection systems work.
Exposed FDC
The most common FDC, the exposed unit is mounted on the outside of the building and are typically backed by a stamped plate explaining what it is. For example, the plate could read: automatic sprinkler, standpipe, or automatic sprinkler & stand pipe.
Free Standing FDC
These units are placed on the ground and can typically be found on or around a sidewalk area. The connections are top-mounted at a 90 degree angle and a decorative plate may be placed at its base.
Flush Mount FDC
A flush mount fire department connection is mounted on the inside of building. In this design, only the plate and inlets are typically visible on the outside wall.
Another aspect to be aware of when speaking of fire department connections is why they can be helpful when other tools cannot. Hurricanes, tornadoes, flooding, and other natural disasters can interrupt the water flow to sprinkler systems making these fire protection systems less effective. In this circumstance, the fire department connection is the first, and only, line of defense in providing much needed water to extinguish the blaze.
If you already have a fire department connection in place, make sure it is clearly marked so that those that would need to access it know where it is. While many have stamped markings on the unit, you may want to consider adding additional signs. A clearly-marked placard or a free-standing sign near the area are both good ways to let the fire department know where your FDC is. Ensure that it is not covered or blocked by big, heavy items so it can tapped into quickly should the need arise.
Having a fire department connection at your place of business is not only a wise decision but often one necessary to comply with local codes. Knowing how these fire protections systems work and why they are so important will provide a first-line of defense for business owners in both small and large buildings.
Fire department connections, also known as FDC’s, consists of brass fittings located in the building that allow firemen to connect two hoses to the unit and provide a water supply to put the fire out. In fact, as fire codes continue to evolve and expand, many municipalities require fire department connections for both large to small buildings. What was once commonplace only in vast structures can know be found in smaller offices and outlets.
In this article, we take time to learn more about the types of fire department connections available and how these fire protection systems work.
Exposed FDC
The most common FDC, the exposed unit is mounted on the outside of the building and are typically backed by a stamped plate explaining what it is. For example, the plate could read: automatic sprinkler, standpipe, or automatic sprinkler & stand pipe.
Free Standing FDC
These units are placed on the ground and can typically be found on or around a sidewalk area. The connections are top-mounted at a 90 degree angle and a decorative plate may be placed at its base.
Flush Mount FDC
A flush mount fire department connection is mounted on the inside of building. In this design, only the plate and inlets are typically visible on the outside wall.
Another aspect to be aware of when speaking of fire department connections is why they can be helpful when other tools cannot. Hurricanes, tornadoes, flooding, and other natural disasters can interrupt the water flow to sprinkler systems making these fire protection systems less effective. In this circumstance, the fire department connection is the first, and only, line of defense in providing much needed water to extinguish the blaze.
If you already have a fire department connection in place, make sure it is clearly marked so that those that would need to access it know where it is. While many have stamped markings on the unit, you may want to consider adding additional signs. A clearly-marked placard or a free-standing sign near the area are both good ways to let the fire department know where your FDC is. Ensure that it is not covered or blocked by big, heavy items so it can tapped into quickly should the need arise.
Having a fire department connection at your place of business is not only a wise decision but often one necessary to comply with local codes. Knowing how these fire protections systems work and why they are so important will provide a first-line of defense for business owners in both small and large buildings.
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