INSPECTION, TESTING & MAINTENANCE OF FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS – IN ACCORDANCE WITH NFPA 25 & NFPA 72

Course Introduction

Regular inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) of fire protection systems are essential to ensure system readiness and code compliance in critical facilities. This advanced course provides a comprehensive understanding of NFPA 25 and NFPA 72 standards, equipping participants with practical skills to maintain fire suppression and detection systems efficiently and proactively.

Seattle International Institute presents this hands-on course for professionals responsible for the safety and functionality of fire protection systems. Participants will explore inspection procedures, testing intervals, maintenance planning, and documentation practices through real-world case studies and practical workshops. The course also addresses system performance optimization and early fault detection to enhance reliability in high-risk environments.

Course Objectives

• Understand NFPA 25 & NFPA 72 requirements for ITM of fire protection systems
• Identify key components and operational mechanisms of fire suppression and alarm systems
• Perform routine inspections and functional tests according to code and best practices
• Detect system deficiencies and implement corrective actions proactively
• Maintain comprehensive records and reports for compliance and audits
• Improve the performance and reliability of critical fire protection infrastructure

Target Audience

This course is designed for experienced professionals working in fire safety and facility protection roles, including:

• Fire protection technicians and inspection officers
• Maintenance engineers and facility supervisors
• HSE and fire prevention specialists
• Fire alarm and suppression system contractors
• Emergency response and safety team leaders
• Professionals responsible for fire systems testing and regulatory compliance

Course Topics

Day 1 – Overview of Fire Protection Systems and NFPA Codes

• Classification and components of fire protection systems
• Scope and structure of NFPA 25 and NFPA 72
• Legal and regulatory framework for ITM activities
• Roles and responsibilities of inspection personnel
• Case study: Compliance failure and system downtime

Day 2 – Inspection Procedures and Checklists

• Visual inspection requirements and frequencies
• Component-specific checklists (sprinklers, valves, alarms, panels)
• Obstruction investigations and physical access protocols
• Fire pump inspection protocols
• Workshop: Building a site-specific inspection checklist

Day 3 – Testing Methods and Fault Identification

• Functional testing techniques for suppression and alarm systems
• Flow tests, alarm activation, sensor calibration
• Common system failures and alarm panel diagnostics
• Testing frequencies and recordkeeping standards
• Practical exercise: Simulated testing procedure and reporting

Day 4 – Maintenance Planning and Corrective Actions

• Preventive maintenance scheduling
• Repair procedures and replacement criteria
• Managing system impairments and temporary outages
• Documentation practices and audit preparation
• Scenario: Emergency maintenance under operational pressure

Day 5 – Performance Optimization and Integrated Review

• Enhancing system reliability through proactive ITM
• Integrating inspection data with facility risk profiles
• Benchmarking system performance indicators
• Full-system walkthrough and mock evaluation
• Final exercise: Group presentation of maintenance plan and inspection report