Fire suppression systems (FSS) are critical for effectively preventing and extinguishing fires. However, to ensure these systems remain reliable and fully functional, regular maintenance and performance inspections are essential.
Why maintenance and inspection are necessary
All equipment degrades over time. Pipes, connectors, valves, and electronic components of fire suppression systems can lose their reliability due to wear, corrosion, pressure loss, or software failures. Without timely inspections and repairs, the system may fail to operate during a fire.
Moreover, operating without proper maintenance violates fire safety regulations and can result in fines or business suspension. Inspections confirm that the system is ready to perform key functions: deliver the extinguishing agent, activate actuators, and run the automated control and alert systems.
Regulatory framework
Maintenance and inspection are regulated:
- Technical regulations in the field of fire safety;
- UzTR. 536-039:2022 General Technical Regulations “On Fire Safety and requirements for fire extinguishing equipment”;
- The Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan, dated 30.09.2009, No. ZRU-226;
- No. 649 Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On approval of fire safety rules”;
- Passports and equipment instructions.
By law, maintenance can only be performed by an organization licensed by the Ministry of Emergency Situations. The personnel carrying out the work must have the appropriate qualifications and certificates.
Key maintenance procedures
A standard maintenance and inspection routine includes:
- Visual inspection of all components — pipes, nozzles, pumps, gas modules.
- Integrity checks — looking for corrosion, damage, or leaks.
- Testing actuators — valves, dampers, pumps.
- Monitoring pressure levels and extinguishing agent flow rates.
- Verifying automatic components — sensors, control panels, alarm systems.
- Preventive maintenance — flushing pipes, replacing worn or damaged parts.
- Test activations — simulating actual fire response scenarios.
- Documentation — preparing a service report with all findings and actions taken.
All tasks are performed in strict accordance with the design and technical documentation.
Inspection frequency
The frequency depends on the system type and is defined in the project documentation:
- Gas systems — every 6 months.
- Water- and foam-based systems — at least once a year.
- Unscheduled inspections — after malfunctions, repairs, or building modifications.
Regular servicing helps ensure reliability and regulatory compliance.
Who is responsible?
The owner of the facility is legally responsible for ensuring timely system maintenance. However, only certified contractors with EMERCOM licenses are allowed to carry out the work. Their technicians inspect, test, repair the systems, and provide the required documentation.
Conclusion
Maintaining and regularly inspecting fire suppression systems is a legal obligation and a critical safety measure. With proper oversight and timely maintenance, FSS can reliably protect people and property from fire-related hazards.