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FMDS 03-10 ITM Private Fire Mains
FMDS 03-10 ITM Private Fire Mains
Table of Contents
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©2000 Factory Mutual Insurance Company. All rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced,
stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in whole or in part, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical,
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3-10 Private Fire Service Mains
Page 2 FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets
List of Figures
Fig. 1. Full registration fire service meter, exterior view showing bypass meter ....................................... 20
Fig. 2. Full registration fire service meter, section view w showing weighted lever valve (1)
and mainline torrent meter (2). ........................................................................................................ 21
Fig. 3. Waterflow detector check valve, section view showing weighted clapper arrangement. ................ 21
Fig. 4. Waterflow detector check valve, exterior view showing bypass meter. ........................................... 22
Fig. 5. Single check valve. ........................................................................................................................... 22
Fig. 6. Single check valve in concrete pit. ................................................................................................... 23
Fig. 7. Anti-water hammer check valve. ...................................................................................................... 24
Fig. 8. Double check valve. ......................................................................................................................... 24
Fig. 9. Gate valve. ........................................................................................................................................ 25
Fig. 10. Butterfly valve. ................................................................................................................................ 26
Fig. 11. Post indicator valve assembly. ........................................................................................................ 27
Fig. 12. Gate valve with indicator post. ....................................................................................................... 28
Fig. 13. Indicating butterfly valve. ................................................................................................................ 28
Fig. 14. Outside screw and yoke gate valve. .............................................................................................. 29
Fig. 15. Curb box with cover plate at grade level. ....................................................................................... 29
Fig. 16. Dry barrel hydrant. .......................................................................................................................... 30
Fig. 17. Wet barrel hydrant. ......................................................................................................................... 31
Fig. 18. Push-on joint. .................................................................................................................................. 32
Fig. 19. Standardized mechanical joint. ....................................................................................................... 33
List of Tables
Table 1. Description of Pipe and Joints ........................................................................................................ 8
Table 2. Area of Bearing Surface of Concrete Thrust Blocks .................................................................... 12
Table 3. Rod and Clamp Anchorage .......................................................................................................... 12
Table 4. Flushing Flows .............................................................................................................................. 14
Table 5. Recommended List of Hose House Equipment ........................................................................... 15
1.0 SCOPE
This data sheet covers the installation, arrangement, location and preventive and corrective maintenance
of private fire service mains and their appurtenances. This equipment includes manually operated valves,
hydrants, meters and outside hose equipment including hose houses and cabinets. The hydraulics of
underground mains, including hydrant and other orifice discharge coefficients and Hazen-Williams pipe
coefficients are covered in Data Sheet 3-0, Hydraulics of Fire Protection Systems. Cross connections and
the use of backflow preventers are covered in Data Sheet 3-3, Cross Connections. Guidelines for the
installation, maintenance and testing of pressure reducing valves are covered in Data Sheet 3-11, Pressure
Reducing Valves for Fire Service.
For the purpose of this data sheet, a private fire service main is that pipe between a source of water and
the water supply side of the first above ground connection to a sprinkler or standpipe system. When connected
to a public water system, the private fire service main begins at a point designated by the public utility, usually
at a manually operated valve near the property line. When connected to a fire pump, the main begins at
the system side of the pump discharge water control valve. A main connected to a gravity or pressure tank
begins at the system side of the tank’s discharge water control valve.
Some mains are used to carry water for both fire service and industrial use. This data sheet also applies
to these ‘‘combined service’’ mains.
1.1 Changes
September 2000. This revision of the document has been reorganized to provide a consistent format.
Provide ample clearance for valves with side mounted covers to permit clapper removal. Wafer check valves
have a shorter body length and many do not have covers. Check valves without covers must be removed
from the system for clapper replacement or repair.
2.1.1.7 Hydrants
2.1.1.7.1 When hydrants are required use Approved dry-barrel or wet-barrel hydrants.
2.1.1.7.2 It is not generally recommended that hydrants for private fire protection systems be installed with
pumper connections (also known as pumper-suction connections and steamer connections). The draft cre-
ated by the pumpers connected to the pumper connections could deplete the water supply to the automatic
sprinkler system.
2.1.1.7.3 Data sheets outline occupancies where hose streams from hydrants as supplementary protection
are required.
The number of hydrants may be modified according to varying conditions:
1. Hose connections at standpipes may reduce the total number of hydrants required. The water demand
requirements for hose connections at standpipes should be included when determining the total system water
demand.
2. Extra hydrants may be necessary to fight fires in yard storage and exposed buildings.
3. For buildings having long, blank masonry walls with few windows, hydrants are often unnecessary for con-
siderable distances unless required for protection of yard storage or other purposes.
4. Where the roofs of windowless buildings are of combustible construction, provide intermediate hydrants
roughly 300 ft (90 m) apart for use in the event of a roof fire.
5. Provide hydrants roughly 300 ft (90 m) apart along walls of buildings with windows for hose stream use
on indoor fires.
6. For buildings over 300 ft (90 m) wide, provide hydrants on opposite sides of the building, unless long,
blank masonry or metal walls are present (see 3 above).
7. Roof hydrants may be necessary to protect conveyors passing over buildings, for fighting fires in ducts
and applying hose streams through roof monitors and skylights.
8. Sometimes a hose header at the pump house may be substituted for a hydrant.
9. A wall hydrant supplied from oversized (4 in. [100 mm] minimum) sprinkler system piping may substi-
tute for a yard hydrant.
2.1.2.1 General
2.1.2.1.1 Use Approved underground pipe, joints and fittings for fire service mains. Acceptance of pipe, joints
and fittings that are not Approved is based on satisfactory experience and conformity to specifications of rec-
ognized engineering bodies. Cast and ductile iron, steel, and asbestos cement pipe are acceptable on that
basis. Plastic and other nonmetallic pipe and fittings are acceptable when they are Approved.
2.1.2.1.2 Underground pipe and fittings for fire service mains must be suitable for the working pressures
and the conditions under which they are to be installed.
2.1.2.3 Summary
Table 1 summarizes the various types of pipe, joints, anchorage, applicable standards and working pressures.
2.1.3.1 Size
2.1.3.1.1 Size connections from water supplies to restrict velocities to less than 20 ft/sec (6.1 m/sec) and mini-
mize friction loss at anticipated rates of flow. A minimum pipe size of 6 in. (150 mm) is recommended. If
the main does not supply hydrants a pipe size of less than 6 in. (150 mm) may be used if: a) hydraulic cal-
culations have determined that the main will supply the total demand at the appropriate pressure and b)
the main size shall be at least as large as the riser. Future needs and hose stream flows also should be taken
into consideration. Provide minimum 6 in. (150 mm nominal) diameter connections between hydrants and
mains.
2.1.4.4 Locate underground mains, except lead-ins, so as to maintain minimum 5 ft (1.5 m) clearance between
building foundation footings and near side of trench. Run mains outside buildings.
2.1.4.5 If placement of a fire service main inside a building is unavoidable, place the main in a covered
masonry or concrete trench. The trench may be sand-packed with a removable cover, or simply grate-
covered. Provide clearance around the main where it passes under or through a foundation wall so that
building settlement will not damage the main. Provide outdoor valves on each side of a building beneath which
a main passes so that an indoor break can be isolated.
2.1.4.6 Avoid overhead runs of fire service mains. Overhead mains are subject to mechanical damage.
2.1.4.7 In cold climates, building heat must be sufficient to prevent freezing of the main or the main must
be otherwise protected against freezing.
tracks or highways may need to be enclosed within a larger protective pipe, following the manufacturer’s rec-
ommendations. See also AWWA C600.
2.1.5.4.2 Special protection is needed to prevent freezing where mains pass over raceways or near embank-
ment walls. Avoid such locations whenever possible. Insulation cannot protect exposed mains from freezing
unless heat is added or there is sufficient flow of water to replace the heat loss. Wrap, box and heat exposed
mains containing static water on bridges.
2.1.5.5 Restraining
2.1.5.5.1 Unbalanced thrust forces occur in the water main where the piping stops or changes cross-
sectional area or direction. At bends, hydrants, reducers, tees, valves, wyes, dead-ends and offsets on pipe
systems, these unbalanced forces must be overcome to prevent the joints from separating.
2.1.5.5.2 Several methods of restraint are available to keep the piping system intact when subjected to these
unbalanced thrust forces. Thrust blocks, tie rods and clamps, and devices specifically Approved to counter-
act thrust forces without the use of thrust blocks, or a combination of these methods with the friction forces
between the pipe and the soil may be used as methods of restraint.
2.1.5.5.3 Thrust blocks may be used with steel, cast iron, plastic or asbestos cement pipe. Make them of con-
crete mix not leaner than one part cement, two and one-half parts sand and five parts stone or washed gravel.
Cast thrust blocks in place to bear against an area of undisturbed soil in the trench wall. Leave the pipe
joint accessible for inspection and repair.
2.1.5.5.4 A thrust block under a hydrant or valve to prevent upward movement requires rods bent over the
bells to hold the hydrant or valve to the thrust block. Locate thrust blocks under hydrants so as not to pre-
vent the hydrant from draining properly. Place small stones alongside the thrust block to provide a place
where water from the hydrant barrel may drain without washing away bearing surfaces.
2.1.5.5.5 If thrust blocks are to be used alone, Table 2 shows the required bearing area.
2.1.5.5.6 Tie rods and clamps may be used with ductile-iron pipe. Table 3 shows, for various pipe sizes, the
clamp size, bolt size, washer size (washers may be cast iron or steel, round or square) and the number of
rods needed when rod and clamp restraint is used. For pipes over 12 in. (300 mm) in diameter, the use of rods
alone is not adequate.
2.1.5.5.7 Approved devices may be used to resist thrust forces if they are specifically Approved for such
uses. Approved mechanical joints are not to be used with non-ferrous pipe because damage to the pipe may
occur. Mechanical joints should not be used unless full consideration of frictional and lateral soil resis-
tance has been engineered into the system design. The resistance to thrust forces is a function of the joint
mechanics and also depends on conduit frictional resistance, which is a function of soil properties (i.e., soil
pressure, cohesion friction and density) and lateral resistance. (Reference: Carlson, R.J., ‘‘Thrust Restraint for
Underground Piping Systems.’’ Cast Iron Pipe News, Fall 1975 or ‘‘Thrust Restraint Design for Ductile Iron
Pipe,’’ Second Edition 1989 Ductile Iron Pipe Research Institute).
2.1.5.5.8 These references outline the minimum length of pipe to be restrained on either side of the fitting.
Care must be taken to ensure that the joints are installed according to the manufacturers’ specifications. When
Approved mechanical joints are used, a visual verification of proper installation should be conducted, e.g.,
for bolt heads that shear and break off when a predetermined torque is achieved. Protective coatings should
be applied to exposed nuts, bolts, etc., prior to filling the trench to protect against failure due to corrosion.
2.1.5.5.9 The determination and selection of the proper methods of restraining underground pipe and its
appurtenances requires on-site planning prior to installation. Soil tests should be conducted to determine
the soil properties. The proper selection of the method of restraint depends on the soil characteristics as well
as other utilities (gas or electric) and structures (foundations) in the proposed excavation area.
2.1.5.6.2 Hydrostatically test all new yard piping at not less than 200 psi (1380 kPa, 13.8 bar) pressure for
two hours, or at 50 psi (345 kPa, 3.4 bar) over the maximum static pressure when the maximum static pres-
sure is above 150 psi (1034 kPa, 10.3 bar). If a booster pump is present, consider the pump shut-off (churn)
pressure in determining the maximum static pressure.
2.1.5.6.3 Slowly fill with water each section of the main to be tested. Expel all air by opening hydrants at
the high points of the system and at both ends, or by bleeding air through the sprinkler drains. Open wide
the valve controlling the admission of water before shutting the hydrants or drains. After the system has been
filled with water and the entrapped air expelled, close the valve that controls the section being tested and
begin applying pressure.
2.1.5.6.4 Increase the water pressure in 50 psi (345 kPa, 3.5 bar) increments until the specified test pres-
sure is attained. After each increase in pressure, make observations of the stability of the joints. In these
observations, include such items as protrusion or extrusion of the gasket, leakage or other factors likely to
affect the continued use of a pipe in service. During the test increase the pressure to the next increment only
after the joint has become stable. This applies particularly to movement of the gasket.
2.1.5.6.5 After the pressure has been increased to the required maximum value and held for one hour,
decrease the pressure to 0 psi (0 kPa, 0 bar) while observing for leakage. Then slowly increase the pres-
sure to the specified maximum and hold the pressure for one more hour while leakage measurements are
made. Do not use fire pumps to supply pressure because a pipeline break during testing could result in dam-
age from the large flow of escaping water. Instead, use a small hydrostatic test pump.
2.1.5.6.6 Measure the amount of leakage at the specified test pressure by pumping from a calibrated con-
tainer. For new pipe, the amount of leakage at the joints is limited to a maximum of 2 qts/hr (1.9 l/h) per 100
gaskets or joints irrespective of pipe diameter. The amount of allowable leakage may be increased by 1 fluid
ounce per inch valve diameter per hour (12 ml/hour for each cm of valve diameter) for each metal seated
valve isolating the test section. If dry-barrel hydrants are tested with the main hydrant valve open, so the
hydrants are under pressure, an additional 5 oz/min (150 ml/min) leakage is permitted for each hydrant.
2.1.5.6.7 On completion of all work except backfilling, ensure that representatives of the contractor and man-
agement make a joint inspection and witness the hydrostatic tests. The purpose of the inspection is to ensure
that there are no defects serious enough to prevent the system from being put into commission immedi-
ately. Ensure that a ‘‘Contractor’s Material and Test Certificate’’ as shown in Data Sheet 2-8N, Installation
of Sprinkler Systems (NFPA), is signed, in triplicate, by the contractor’s and management’s representa-
tives. One copy should be kept by management, one by the contractor and one sent to the FM Global district
office serving the area in which the installation is located.
2.1.5.6.8 After the pressure test, open the control valves wide and then fully open and close every hydrant
at the normal operating rate.
2.1.5.7 Backfilling
2.1.5.7.1 Accomplish backfilling according to the specified laying condition. The type and degree of compac-
tion of the backfill determines the type of ‘‘laying condition’’ which, in turn, determines in part the wall thickness
of pipe to be used. Additional backfilling details are given in AWWA C600 for cast- and ductile-iron pipe and
in AWWA C603 for asbestos cement pipe.
2.1.5.7.2 Use only backfill that is free of cinders, ashes, refuse, vegetable or organic material, boulders, rocks
or stones, frozen soil, and other unsuitable material.
2.1.5.7.3 With plastic pipe it is particularly important that adjacent backfill be clean, well-compacted sand. Spe-
cial precautions are needed where ambient or ground temperatures before backfilling are considerably higher
than normal water temperature, because plastic pipe expands at a rate greater than that of steel. Make pro-
visions for the contraction of plastic pipe that will occur upon filling the system. With polyethylene pipe, such
a provision can be made by ‘‘snaking’’ the pipe in the trench.
2.1.5.7.4 As a further precaution, fill the pipes with water prior to backfilling. Ideally, backfilling should be
done early in the morning when pipe and soil are nearly at the same temperature. Deposit selected backfill
material on both sides of the pipe for the full width of the trench. Tamp the backfill in thin layers not exceed-
ing 3 in. (76 mm) in depth to 12 in. (305 mm) above the top of the pipe. Compact thoroughly to provide solid
backing against the external surface of the pipe. For complete backfilling procedures for plastic pipe, fol-
low the manufacturer’s instructions.
2.1.5.8.2 When the water supply will not produce the stipulated flow rate, connections to a hydraulically-
designed system may be flushed at the demand rate of the system, including hose streams if hose or hydrants
or both are supplied from that connection. For pipe-schedule systems, when the water supply will not pro-
duce the stipulated flow rate, the maximum flow rate available should be used.
2.1.5.8.3 Provide for the safe disposal of water issuing from the test outlets to avoid property damage or
danger to personnel.
2.1.7.2.2 Hose houses should be constructed to provide good inside air circulation. Provide roofs that are sub-
stantial and watertight. Provide screening for protection against vermin
2.1.7.2.3 Install foundations that are above the yard level to ensure good drainage. Provide at least 6 in.
(152 mm) between swinging door bottom and the ground. Arrange doors and shelves to permit easy opera-
tion of the hydrant and attachment of the hose.
2.1.7.2.4 The type and amount of equipment needed for individual hose houses or cabinets depends on
the needs of the immediate area and the specific hardware used. Individual requirements may call for all 1-1⁄2
in. (40 mm) hose, all 2-1⁄2 in. (60 mm) hose, or some of each. Table 5 is to serve as a guide. The amount speci-
fied may vary depending on the user and on local occupancy and combustibility conditions.
2.1.7.2.5 Keep special firefighting equipment as needed at the facility’s fire department headquarters, e.g.,
breathing apparatus, protective clothing, forcible entry tools, power tools, hand lights, etc.
6. If excessive pressure surging (water hammer) is suspected as the cause of the breaks, try to discover
the source and take steps to eliminate or minimize the effects, as achieved through the installation of anti-
water hammer check valves or suitable pressure relief valves. Ridding the system of air, by flowing water, may
reduce the occurrence of water hammer.
2.1.10.1 General
2.1.10.1.1 Determine that there is no obvious leakage through sprinkler drain valves or hydrants, no tank over-
flows, nor any backup through pump suction lines. Make sure that the unaccounted water from the fire service
system is not being used for industrial purposes.
Figure 43 shows a water meter attached to a hydrant. The meter is used to measure all water delivered to
the test section.
2. Drop in water level. Measure the drop in level in a gravity tank. If the fire service system is also sup-
plied by one or more connections to public water, close the control valves in these connections during
measurements so that all water flowing to leakage will come from the gravity tank.
2.1.11 Maintenance
2.1.11.1.1 General
2.1.11.1.1.1 Single check valves on public water connections to private fire systems need internal inspec-
tion and cleaning at least once every five years.
2.1.11.1.2 Procedure
2.1.11.1.2.1 If there are several check-valved fire service connections from public mains, overhaul and clean
one check valve at a time, leaving the others in service. When there is only one connection, observe the fol-
lowing precautions:
1. If there is a secondary supply from a fire pump or from a tank, ensure that the secondary source will main-
tain pressure on the sprinklers while the public water connection is shut off.
2. If other supplies cannot be maintained in service or if there is no other supply, overhaul the check valve
while the plant is not in operation.
2.1.11.1.2.2 Clean rust and tubercles from the inside of the valve body —particularly around the seat ring,
between the clapper and its arm, around the hub of the clapper arm and in the space between the bottom of
the seat ring and the body. This will probably require removing the clapper. When cleaning around the seat
ring, care should be taken that the face of the seat ring is not injured. Remove any roughness or corro-
sion on the clapper face or seat ring that would prevent the clapper from seating tightly, using a piece of fine
emery cloth wet with water. Do not use a file or coarse scraper on the clapper face or seat ring. Scrape any
incrustation formed by hard water from interior bronze parts.
2.1.11.1.2.3 Clean the underside of the cover if necessary.
2.1.11.1.2.4 Make sure that the side plugs that hold the hinge pin in place are tightly screwed without bind-
ing the clapper arm. The clapper should be free to open wide and seat positively.
2.1.11.4.1 General
2.1.11.4.1.1 Ensure that hydrants are accessible at all times.
2.1.11.4.1.2 Ensure that the hydrant wrench is readily available.
2.1.11.4.1.3 Examine nozzle and cap threads and gasket.
2.1.11.4.1.4 Ensure that nozzles are tight; they may need caulking.
2.1.11.4.1.5 Examine the barrel for cracks.
2.1.11.4.1.6 Ensure that nozzles are accessible for attaching hose.
2.1.11.4.1.7 Lubricate threads on nozzles and caps.
2.1.11.5.3 Several lengths may be connected and tested together. Lay the hose without kinks or twists on
a flat, horizontal surface or on one sloping gently upward from the inlet end. At the outlet end, attach a shut-
off nozzle or a threaded cap with a petcock, or small valve, as an air vent. Mark the hose at the couplings
to show any movement of the coupling on the hose during the test.
2.1.11.5.4 With the air vent open, gradually fill the hose with water, taking care to replace all air. Close the
air vent after the hose has been filled. Move personnel out of range of the whiplash of any hose that may burst
during the test. Apply full test pressure for five minutes, then release.
2.1.11.5.5 Take burst or leaking hose out of service. Replace any coupling that has moved on the hose, is
found defective or has damaged threads. Replace gaskets that are worn or cracked, or if a coupling leaks after
tightening.
Fig. 1. Full registration fire service meter, exterior view showing bypass meter.
Single check valves may be installed in either horizontal or vertical pipe unless restricted to a specific
positioning as noted in the Approval Guide listing. For installation in vertical pipe the flow must be upward.
Figure 6 indicates a location where the check valve is installed in a water-tight, frost-proof concrete or masonry
pit.
Fig. 2. Full registration fire service meter, section view showing weighted lever valve (1) and mainline torrent meter (2).
Fig. 3. Waterflow detector check valve, section view showing weighted clapper arrangement.
Fig. 4. Waterflow detector check valve, exterior view showing bypass meter.
These hydropneumatic devices absorb pressure surges into a precalculated volume of captive gas and return
the absorbed water volume to the system in a controlled fashion. Surge arresters are installed on the sys-
tem side of the fire pump discharge check valve, and as close to the check valve as possible. Water hammer
arresters are covered in ANSI/ASME Standard, Water Hammer Arresters, ANSI/ASME A112.26.1.
Providing one or more pump connections on private fire service systems is particularly important where the
public water system is the only source of supply. To prevent loss of system pressure through the pumper
connection, install an Approved single check valve in each fire department connection, located as near as
practicable to the point where it joins the system.
An Approved automatic drip valve in the pipe is installed between the check valve and the outside hose
coupling of the pumper connection so that it discharges to a proper frost-free location.
Other information on the installation of fire department pumper connections and associated hose coupling
threads is covered in Data Sheet 2-0, Installation Guidelines for Automatic Sprinklers.
3.1.1.6.1 General
Manually operated valves are used to control individual sources of water supply, isolate equipment such as
check valves for maintenance, and allow sectionalizing of water main systems in the event of a break or
for the purpose of making repairs or extensions.
The indicator post consists of a cast-iron barrel, an extension flange that allows the height of the barrel to be
regulated, and a wrought-iron or mild-steel stem that operates the underground valve and simultaneously
moves the target (see Fig. 12). Indicator posts are available for installation on existing gate valves.
3.1.1.6.7 Hydrants
Types
Dry-barrel hydrants (see Fig. 16) are used in areas where freezing temperatures are experienced. Water is
admitted into the barrel only when the hydrant valve is opened. To prevent the water that remains in the bar-
rel from freezing after the hydrant is closed, a small drain hole opens as the hydrant valve is closed. ‘‘Traffic’’
model hydrants are available incorporating sections of intentional weakness at ground level so that if struck
by a vehicle, the hydrant will break off above ground level without the hydrant valve opening. The most com-
mon kind of dry-barrel hydrant is the compression type (see Fig. 16).
Wet-barrel hydrants (see Fig. 17) are used in areas where the temperature remains above freezing. They usu-
ally have a compression valve at each outlet, but may have one such valve in the bonnet that controls the
flow of water to all outlets.
Approved hydrants have either two or three hose outlets. Installations of hydrants having pumper-suction
outlets in private fire protection systems may cause water supply deficiencies. The draft created by pumpers
connected to pumper-suction outlets of a hydrant could deplete the water supply to sprinklers.
Uses
Hydrants are used to supply water for manual fire fighting. Outdoor hazards for which hose stream protection
is especially needed include storage of combustible materials and equipment, freight cars and loading
platforms and aboveground ignitable liquid tanks. Hose streams from hydrants or hose connections on
the roof are needed to protect combustible roof structures and equipment such as cooling towers, oil-filled
transformer installations, and large areas of smooth-surfaced roof coverings. For unsprinklered buildings,
hose streams are usually the main defense against fire.
In sprinklered buildings, occupancies such as those described below need hose streams from hydrants as
supplementary protection.
1. Warehouses and storage areas in manufacturing buildings. Storages of high piled combustible material
and those where smoldering or burrowing fires are persistent, particularly need supplementary protection
since reignition is possible after sprinklers are shut off.
2. Ignitable liquid occupancies. Hose stream protection is needed to cool exposed, ignitable liquid tanks
and their supports, and for use with portable foam generators.
3. Loading docks. Hose stream protection is needed to control a fire in a railroad car or trailer that is shielded
from sprinkler discharge.
Location
Sufficient public or private hydrants are installed to provide an adequate number of readily available hose
streams, as recommended by other FM Global Data Sheets, at any point in the property where fire may occur
outdoors. For the protection of buildings and contents, hydrants are located near access openings and at
points between, if necessary. This type of installation may result in uneven, though adequate, spacing of
hydrants.
3.1.2.1 General
Underground pipe and fittings for fire service mains must be suitable for the working pressures and the con-
ditions under which they are to be installed. The pipe and fittings must be able to withstand the severe
conditions that may be imposed by fire pump operation, pressure surges, the use of hose streams or opera-
tion of automatic deluge or water spray sprinkler systems.
Low residual pressures, including the vacuum conditions that could realistically exist, will not cause accept-
able pipe to collapse or crack. Cast-iron, ductile-iron and asbestos-cement pipe have been tested where
the external pressure was raised to 25 psi absolute (172 kPa absolute, 1.7 bar absolute) while the internal
pressure was lowered to between 0.2 and 1.0 psi absolute (1.4 and 6.9 kPa absolute). There were no adverse
effects on the pipe.
Acceptance of pipe, joints and fittings that are not Approved is based on satisfactory experience and confor-
mity to specifications of recognized engineering bodies.
Use lined pipe for all new or replacement installations to offset the corrosive action of water. Portland cement
is extensively used for lining pipe today. Cement-mortar linings are covered in ANSI A21.4 (AWWA C104).
Coal-tar enamel linings are also available but less common.
Select fittings for use with cast-iron pipe that conform to ANSI A21.10 (AWWA C110). Also select fittings appro-
priate for the same range of working pressures as the pipe with which they are to be used.
Joints may be of several types, including push-on, standardized mechanical and poured-lead bell and spigot.
The last type is now rarely used. Special forms of push-on and standardized mechanical joints are Approved.
These joints are essentially bell and spigot, and depend on friction between parts and the surrounding earth
fill to prevent separation.
The push-on-joint (see Fig. 18) is made up by seating a circular rubber gasket of special cross section in
the bell and then forcing the spigot end of the pipe past the gasket to the bottom of the bell socket. No pack-
ing or caulking is required.
The standardized mechanical joint (see Fig. 19) consists of a single rubber gasket held firmly in place by a fol-
lower ring or gland bolted to the bell. The advantages are tightness, flexibility, speed and ease of installation.
Care must be taken to assemble the joint correctly. The spigot must be lubricated and the nuts tightened uni-
formly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The bolts and nuts must be coated with an asphaltic
material to avoid corrosion.
The bells of mechanical joint pipe usually will accommodate straight spigot ends from other cast-iron pipe hav-
ing the same outside diameter; if not, sleeves and adapters may be needed to connect old and new pipe.
The poured-lead bell and spigot joint (see Fig. 20) is made by placing a ring of packing material in the bell, fill-
ing the joint with molten lead, and caulking the lead for tightness. It is now rarely used.
Cast-iron or ductile-iron fittings conforming to ANSI/AWWA C110/A21.10 are used with ductile-iron pipe,
which is made for use with push-on and standardized mechanical joints.
As with iron pipe, select lined pipe for all new or replacement installations to offset the corrosive action of
water. Portland cement is extensively used for lining pipe today. Cement-mortar linings are covered in ANSI/
AWWA C104/A21.4. Coal-tar enamel linings are also available but less common.
3.1.2.2.3 Steel
Steel pipe manufactured in accordance with ANSI/AWWA C200 is acceptable for fire service use.
Because of its high strength, steel pipe is particularly suitable for use where it may be exposed to earth-
quake shock, or to the impact from vehicle loads on railroad tracks, highways and similar locations. Its greater
strength is also advantageous in unstable soil or on steep slopes.
Steel pipe for use as buried pipe is lined and coated for corrosion protection. Protective coal-tar enamel and
cement-mortar coatings and linings should conform to ANSI/AWWA C203 or C205 respectively. Pipe so pro-
tected is available directly from the mill; except for repair, coatings that may be applied in the field are
practical only on large jobs. Paint or otherwise protect exposed steel piping, as in pits, against atmospheric
conditions.
Steel pipe may be joined by welding, threaded joints or Approved flexible couplings for use with grooved or
plain pipe ends. Repair damaged linings and coatings. Do not field weld steel pipe having coal-tar enamel lin-
ing, because resulting damage to the lining cannot be effectively repaired. Welding should conform to ANSI/
AWWA C206. Suitable precautions against fire are essential when welding in tunnels. Expansion joints may
be needed in long tunnels. Hangers and supports should conform to the recommendations of Data Sheet
2-8N, Installation of Sprinkler Systems (NFPA).
Fittings other than couplings are cast iron. Anchorage is by thrust blocks.
3.1.2.2.5 Plastic
When using plastic pipe and fittings for fire service, select Approved products. Use the Approved pipe within
the limits of its Approval, and according to the manufacturer’s installation instruction. Where plastic pipe may
be exposed to a damaging chemical environment, consult the manufacturer. For example, pipe may be
exposed to chemical attack as a result of an oil spill on the ground surface above.
Approved plastic pipe is available in various types of material, including polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride and
glass fiber-reinforced plastic. All are lightweight and corrosion resistant. Thrust blocks are used for anchorage.
3.1.2.2.6 Polyethylene
Polyethylene pipe exhibits a typical elastic behavior to short-term stress, and its resistance to these stresses
is extremely high. It has been successfully used in installations such as river, lake and salt water cross-
ings as well as for underground service mains. Polyethylene pipe is generally chemically inert and is only
attacked by certain very strong chemicals. Water does not corrode polyethylene pipe so that the Hazen-
Williams flow coefficient, ‘‘C’’, remains practically constant throughout the life of the pipe.
Joints are made by the butt fusion process. The process is based on temperature-induced changes in the crys-
talline structure of polyethylene. At normal ambient temperatures and elevated temperatures to 200°F (93°C)
the crystalline structure of polyethylene is readily recognizable on microscopic examination. As the tem-
perature increases above 200°F (93°C), the structure becomes less distinct, and at 260°F (127°C), it
disappears entirely. This point is usually referred to as the crystalline melting point. In the butt fusion pro-
cess the pipe ends are trimmed and heated to a temperature above the crystalline melting point. The butt ends
are brought together under pressure and the material flows and mixes. As the material cools below the crys-
talline melting point, crystals form across the joining plane, essentially reforming the original material
structure (see Figs. 22 and 23).
To ensure mixing at the line of fusion, the viscosity of the two pieces must be the same, otherwise, the mate-
rials tend to flow at different rates under pressure, with the risk that the plane will not fuse. For this reason,
join by fusion only polyethylene materials of the same kind.
Polyethylene pipe may be connected to flanged, cast iron fittings or components with metal flanges. Poly-
ethylene stub ends that are compatible with the metal flanged components are joined to the pipe by the butt
fusion process (see Fig. 24).
Fig. 24. Stub end butt fused to polyethylene pipe. Note joining point.
3.1.3.1 Size
Connections from water supplies are sized to restrict velocities to less than 20 ft/sec (6.1 m/sec) to prevent
damage to fittings and valves. Friction loss at anticipated rates of flow can be minimized by properly siz-
ing the pipe.
3.1.3.2 Arrangement
Figure 28 shows some acceptable arrangements of manually operated control and check valves in connec-
tions from various water supplies to fire service mains.
3.1.4.1 Arrangement
Private fire service mains are arranged so as to minimize, insofar as practical, impairments (loss of protec-
tion) in the event the mains or their appurtenances are damaged, or in cases of system shutdown for other
reasons. Such damage can include main breaks and leaks, dropped valve gates and damaged valves and
hydrants.
The layout of plants varies widely, making it impossible to establish firm rules concerning the arrangement
of fire service mains and divisional valves. Judgment is applied to achieve economic but effective arrange-
ments. Underground mains are costly to install, thus making every effort to avoid unnecessary installations
is advised. Consider the following items when planning new installations.
1. Rarely is it practical to arrange the mains and division valves so that impairments have little or no effect
on the fire protection system. For example, a virtually impairment-free (but impractical) system is shown in
Figure 29.
Fig. 25. PVC pipe end with integral bell and steel-band-reinforced elastomeric gasket.
Fig. 26. Glass fiber-reinforced composite pipe joint formed by integral flanges and adhesive.
The two-riser installation shown in Figure 29 is impractical because it requires seven valves in addition to the
city gate valve, and an extent of underground main, the cost of which is out of proportion to maximum fore-
seeable fire loss, with all protection out of service. A more practical arrangement is shown in Figure 30.
Fig. 27. Glass fiber-reinforced composite pipe, cast iron fitting and transition gasket.
One-quarter as much underground piping and only two valves are needed. Clearly this system is not as
responsive to impairments but with only one-quarter as much underground piping, the exposure to impair-
ments is greatly diminished.
2. Rarely is an underground main necessary solely to supply hydrants. In a case without underground mains
in the vicinity of needed hydrants, wall hydrants fed from indoor sprinkler system piping can provide accept-
able alternative sources of hose stream supply.
One exception to this is the single-building plant where the hydrants are used to supply water for fighting
fires indoors. A wall hydrant cannot be relied upon to be in service for use with hose streams on a fire inside
the building, since there is too great a chance that the sprinkler system and therefore the water supply to
the wall hydrant will be shut off at a critical moment. Hydrants fed from underground mains may therefore be
necessary.
A second exception is where hydrant protection is necessary for yard storage remote from buildings. In this
case an underground main system used solely to supply the yard hydrants may be necessary.
3. Where multiple water sources are provided, it is not necessary that they all remain in service in the event
of an impairment. Only those (or that one) necessary to meet the total water demand need be available.
4. Where loops are provided so that multiple paths are available for water flow to a single point, the mains
forming the legs of the loop need to be sized only to carry that portion of the flow occurring under
no-impairment conditions. Where the hazard is such that a deluge system is provided, it may be advisable
to size the legs of the loop to carry the total water flow.
5. Arrange systems involving multiple water sources so that an underground main impairment is unlikely
to impair all sources (see Fig. 31).
6. Manifolded riser arrangements, though generally undesirable (see Data Sheet 2-8N), decrease the need
for looped mains (see Figs. 32 and 33).
In Figure 32 a manifolded riser arrangement has been used, and a loop around Building ‘‘A’’ would serve
little purpose. In Figure 33 the risers are more widely distributed, and the loop around building ‘‘A,’’ in addi-
tion to judiciously placed divisional valves, allows for some flexibility.
7. Where looped mains are present, divisional valves are provided so that sections of the loop may be iso-
lated. The maximum number of risers to be impaired simultaneously depends on the values exposed to loss
by the impairment, the possibility of temporary water supply connections to the impaired risers from
in-service hydrants or other sources, the expected frequency of fires (this may be deduced from the occu-
pancy), and the ease with which the area may be patrolled. As an example of the latter, a large, open building
with a mezzanine at one end from which the entire building may be surveyed is easier to patrol than sev-
eral widely separated smaller buildings.
As a general guideline, limit to about six the number of risers served by one divisional valve. Base the iden-
tification of needed valves on the combination of the above guideline and good judgment. If 13 risers are
served by two divisional valves, an additional valve is not needed unless judged necessary after careful
consideration.
8. Large, multi-riser, multi-source, multi-building plants usually benefit from looped main arrangements. In
such plants, extensive main installations are usually necessary, so that completing loops does not add sig-
nificantly to the cost.
9. Looped main arrangements can be economically advantageous, especially in the case of large build-
ings. The cost of several long runs of feed main indoors may exceed the cost of providing a looped main
to directly feed the risers on the far side of the building (see Fig. 34).
10. A major factor in the installation of underground mains is the cost of excavation. This is influenced largely
by the ground conditions. Rock formations that require blasting escalate cost, while clay soils, which do not
even require shoring, may be more economically excavated.
3.1.4.2 Location
Underground breaks have occurred where the main ran beneath the floor. Floor settlement is a major fac-
tor in the breaks. Repair of main breaks below the floor can be a lengthy and costly procedure. In addition,
the break can cause much damage, both to the structure (by washouts) and to the building contents.
Fig. 33. System with looped main substituted for manifolded riser arrangement of Figure 32.
Fig. 34. System where completion of underground main loop avoids long runs of indoor feed mains.
Bell holes are provided in the trench bottom to allow joint assembly, and to ensure that the pipe barrel will lie
flat on the trench bottom.
Except for bell holes and coupling holes, a level trench bottom is maintained so that the pipe is supported
along its full length.
Asbestos-cement pipe is particularly suitable for locations where ferrous pipe would be subjected to attack by
actively corrosive water, soil conditions or electrolysis. Where asbestos-cement pipe must be buried in highly
acid or alkaline soils, the manufacturer should be consulted. Protective coatings are sometimes available.
Stray electric current from an external source may follow a buried main until it reaches a location where the
resistance to ground is lower. Ionization occurs at these points where the current leaves the main, produc-
ing an effect similar to that of soil corrosion.
When stray electric currents are suspected, the extent and origin can be determined by professional ground
surveys. If the stray currents cannot be eliminated or diverted, and the main is not yet seriously corroded,
it can be protected by bonding all the joints and providing direct low resistance metallic ground connec-
tions. Cathodic protection is sometimes used. This technique imposes direct electric current from a galvanic
anode to the buried main. Cathodic protection is also effective against soil corrosion, but is rarely used in
fire protection installations due to the costs of installation and maintenance.
3.1.5.4 Restraining
Unbalanced thrust forces occur in the water main where the piping stops or changes cross-sectional area
or direction. At bends, hydrants, reducers, tees, valves, wyes, dead-ends and offsets on pipe systems, these
unbalanced forces must be overcome to prevent the joints from separating. For example, a resultant force
of 43,500 lbs (193,500 N) can act on a 90° bend on a 12 in. (305 mm) pipe at a water pressure of 225 psi (1550
kPa). Technical information on thrust restraint can be found in AWWA Manual M11, Steel Pipe—A Guide
for Design and Installation and AWWA Manual M23, PVC Pipe-Design and Installation. Figure 38 shows
examples of joint restraint.
3.1.6.1 Purpose
Major impairments of fire protection, and therefore the potential for very serious fires, can occur when water
is shut off to make new connections to existing water mains. Tapping machines are valuable tools that per-
mit such connections to be made without shutting off the water. Use of this equipment, in addition to
maintaining normal protection, avoids postponing the work until periods of facility shutdown. Connections
can be made in any size not larger than the nominal diameter of the main to be tapped, and preferably one
size smaller.
Tapping tools are available for use with cast- and ductile-iron, asbestos-cement and some types of plastic
pipe. Factory Mutual Research Approves tapping valves. The components for tapping are a split sleeve with
a side outlet and a special tapping valve. The tapping valve is similar to a gate valve, but the seat open-
ing is larger, to allow clearance for the cutter. The outlet has a bell end with a special flange for bolting onto
the tapping machine.
Knowledge of the size and class, or the outside diameter, of the pipe and the diameter of the tap is required
when ordering tapping sleeves and valves. Make certain that the contractor or local water department has
suitable tapping equipment.
3.1.6.2 Operation
To make a tap, the split sleeve is assembled on the main with the face of the side outlet in the proper direc-
tion, and end joints are made watertight. The tapping valve is then attached (see Fig. 39) and the tapping
machine bolted to the discharge side of the valve. A tapping drill and shell cutter are attached to a shaft that
Fig. 37. Recommended depth of cover (ft) above underground mains (1 ft=0.3 m).
is inserted through the wide open gate until contact is made with the main. The drilling operation bores and
threads a center hole, and the cutter takes a disk from the pipe wall. When the cut is complete, the shaft hold-
ing the cutter, the threaded drill and the disk are withdrawn far enough to allow the tapping valve to be closed.
The machine is then unbolted and removed so that the branch main can be connected to the valve outlet.
It is vital that the disk be removed. Care must be taken in operating a tapping machine not to withdraw the
shaft until the cut is completed. Otherwise, the retaining thread may be stripped and the disk not with-
drawn with the cutter. If this does occur, a brief shutdown will be necessary and the disk can readily be
recovered by reaching through the open valve.
Approved tapping valves have flanges to accommodate indicator posts.
3.1.7.1 General
Fire hose is important in all types of occupancies when sprinkler systems are impaired, particularly while sprin-
klers are shut off immediately following a fire. Charged lines with shutoff nozzles are needed for prompt
application of water in the affected areas. The fire hose also can be used to temporarily provide water to sprin-
kler system risers from nearby hydrants or other risers in the event of an impairment.
Hose streams from hydrants should be available as standby protection in case the sprinkler system is unable,
for any reason, to cope with the fire.
For hydrants to be used effectively, sufficient hose and accessory equipment must be quickly available. The
equipment needed and its use depend on local facility conditions. Both should reflect the facility’s location
and size, and the probable needs of the Emergency Organization or public fire department.
Most public fire departments will not use hose provided by the facility, so it is not usually necessary to store
hose for their use. Underwriter playpipes for hoses are generally supplied to permit adequate flow testing
of the fire protection water supplies if meters are not used for flow testing.
Hose connections above roofs or at the tops of stairs to the roofs of large buildings may need the same
hose and accessory equipment as yard hydrants.
Fig. 39. Application of tapping machines to pipe under pressure (indicator post shown for reference only. Tapping is
normally done without the indicator post attached.)
The necessary amount and arrangement of small hose, in hose houses or cabinets at hydrants, will depend
on the layout of small hose stations within the building.
The type of nozzle will depend on the specific occupancy and protection requirements.
Hose houses may be designed of masonry or other materials to match the architecture of plant buildings.
Hose houses should be constructed to provide good inside air circulation. Provide roofs that are substan-
tial and watertight. Provide screening for protection against vermin
Install foundations that are above the yard level to ensure good drainage. Provide at least 6 in. (152 mm)
between swinging door bottom and the ground. Arrange doors and shelves to permit easy operation of the
hydrant and attachment of the hose.
The type and amount of equipment needed for individual hose houses or cabinets depends on the needs
of the immediate area. Individual requirements may call for all 1-1⁄2 in. (40 mm) hose, all 2-1⁄2 in. (60 mm) hose,
or some of each.
3.1.8.2.1 General
There are two basic cleaning methods: mechanical and chemical. Mechanical methods are used most fre-
quently. Lining materials include cement mortar, plastic (epoxy resin), and bituminous compounds. For
cleaning or lining, the run of pipe must be isolated. This may require the installation of temporary valves.
Impairment of sprinklers or other protective equipment during these operations must be handled according
to recommended procedures. Piping connected to a public water system must usually be disinfected after the
work is completed, and before service is restored. Verify the result of the cleaning and lining by conduct-
ing waterflow tests.
9. The discharge pipe and elbow are removed, and the pipe reconnected. All divisional valves are opened.
The sprinkler control valves are slowly opened (with the sprinkler drains open) and left open until water runs
clear so that debris from the lead-ins is flushed from the sprinkler drains rather than entering overhead piping.
The hydraulic method uses water pressure to force the cleaning tool through the pipe. The tool consists of a
series of overlapping steel blades and wire brushes mounted at the front end. A series of loosely fitting, flex-
ible cups is mounted behind the cutters, and water pressure against them forces the assembly through the
pipe.
Pipes 4 in. (100 mm) nominal diameter and larger can be cleaned by this method. Runs up to several thou-
sand feet can be cleaned in one pass, and bends of 90° can be negotiated.
The procedure is to insert the cleaning tool at the upstream opening and reconnect the pipe using mechani-
cal joints. The upstream valve is opened and pressure applied to push the tool through the main. The course
and progress of the tool can usually be followed by sound.
Another hydraulic method using a plastic sponge can be used to advantage in runs of pipe with many turns
and fittings. This method removes softer deposits by propelling a bullet-shaped cylinder of polyurethane
sponge through the pipe by water pressure. The sponges are available with various abrasive surfaces.
The rotating cutting tool method uses powered, rotating cutters or reamers, driven through a rotating, flex-
ible spring-steel cable. This method is used where pipe deposits are too dense or hard for successful removal
by the hydraulic method. Single runs are limited to about 300 ft (90 m) but complex piping layouts and 90°
bends can be negotiated.
The cable-and-winch method is often used for relatively short runs of pipe where water pressure is too low
or deposits too hard for the hydraulic method. The cleaning tool is pulled through the pipe by cable attached
to a power winch.
Hydrostatic tests are frequently used to determine the condition of underground piping. The tests are made
at 150 psi (1034 kPa, 10.3 bar) minimum pressure, but at least 50 psi (345 kPa, 3.5 bar) above the nor-
mal static pressure. Such tests merely indicate whether or not the yard system will withstand that pressure
at that time, and do not necessarily indicate the system’s true condition.
3.1.9.2.5 Corrosion
Corrosion of pipes is the deterioration of pipe material due to a reaction with the environment. Three gen-
eral types of corrosion are recognized: galvanic, electrolytic and biological. Soil corrosion or metallurgical
investigations may be required to determine the cause and type of corrosion.
3.1.11 Maintenance
3.1.11.2 Maintenance of Double Check Valves and Reduced Pressure Backflow Preventers
Details of testing and maintenance of double check valves, and of testing of reduced pressure backflow pre-
venters are given in Data Sheet 3-3, Cross Connections. Maintain reduced pressure backflow preventers
according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4.0 REFERENCES
4.1 FM Global
Data Sheet 2-8N, Installation of Sprinkler Systems (NFPA).
Data Sheet 2-81, Fire Safety Inspections and Sprinkler System Maintenance.
Data Sheet 3-0, Hydraulics of Fire Protection Systems.
Data Sheet 3-2, Water Tanks for Fire Protection.
4.3 Others
ANSI/AWWA C101/A21.1, American Standard Practice—Manual for the Computation of Strength and
Thickness of Cast Iron Pipe (Standard withdrawn in 1982).
ANSI/AWWA C104/A21.4, American National Standard for Cement Mortar Lining for Cast Iron Pipe and
Fittings for Water.
ANSI/AWWA C105/A21.5, American National Standard for Polyethylene Encasement for Gray and Ductile
Cast Iron Piping for Water and Other Liquids.
ANSI/AWWA C106/A21.6, American National Standard for Cast Iron Pipe Centrifugally Cast in Metal Models,
for Water or Other Liquids (Standard withdrawn in 1982).
ANSI/AWWA C108/A21.8, American National Standard for Cast Iron Pipe Centrifugally Cast in Sand-Lined
Molds, for Water or Other Liquids (Standard withdrawn in 1979).
ANSI/AWWA C110/A21.10, American National Standard for Gray Iron and Ductile Iron Fittings, 2 in. through
48 in., for Water and Other Liquids.
ANSI/AWWA C150/A21.50, American National Standard for the Thickness Design of Ductile Iron Pipe.
ANSI/AWWA C151/A21.51, American National Standard for Ductile-Iron Pipe, Centrifugally Cast in Metal
Molds or Sand-Lined Molds, for Water or Other Liquids.
ANSI/ASTM A-333, Standard Specification for Seamless and Welded Steel Pipe for Low-Temperature
Service.
ANSI/AWWA C200, AWWA Standard for Steel Water Pipe 6 in. and Larger.
ANSI/AWWA C203, AWWA Standard for Coal-Tar Protective Coatings and Linings for Steel Water Pipelines—
Enamel and Tape—Hot-Applied.
ANSI/AWWA C205, AWWA Standard for Cement-Mortar Protective Lining and Coating for Steel Water
Pipe—4 in. and Larger—Shop Applied.
ANSI/AWWA C206, AWWA Standard for Field Welding of Steel Water Pipe.
ANSI/AWWA C400, AWWA Standard for Asbestos-Cement Distribution Pipe, 4 in. through 16 in. (100 mm
through 400 mm), for Water and Other Liquids.
ANSI/AWWA C600, AWWA Standard for the Installation of Ductile-Iron Water Mains and Their Appurte-
nances.
ANSI/AWWA C603, AWWA Standard for the Installation of Asbestos Cement Pressure Pipe.
AWWA C900, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pressure Pipe, 4 in. Through 12 in., for Water and Other Liquids.
AWWA Manual M6, Water Meters-Selection, Installation, Testing and Maintenance.
AWWA Manual M17, Installation, Field Testing and Maintenance of Fire Hydrants.
AWWA Manual M11, Steel Pipe—A guide for Design and Installation.
AWWA Manual M23, PVC Pipe—Design and Installation.
ANSI/ASME A112.26.1, Water Hammer Arresters.
Cast Iron Pipe News, Fall 1975, Thrust Restraint for Underground Piping Systems, Carlson, R.J.
Ductile Iron Pipe Research Institute, Second Edition 1989, Thrust Restraint Design for Ductile Iron Pipe.
If Yes, continue.
If No, stop, and ensure that proper corrosion protection is provided.
(Answer ‘‘Yes’’ or ‘‘No’’)
Suitable pipe materials are used, or proper corrosion protection is provided for iron or steel pipe
based on the corrosiveness of the soil.
If Yes, continue.
If No, stop and ensure that proper corrosion protection is provided.
(Answer ‘‘Yes’’ or ‘‘Does Not Apply’’)
Suitable protection is provided against galvanic corrosion to ferrous pipe materials due to stray
electrical currents.
If Yes or Does Not Apply, continue to C.2.5.
If No, stop and ensure that proper corrosion protection is provided.
C.2.6 Backfilling
Backfilling using suitable fill material to the correct depth to prevent freezing will help ensure suitable long
term underground main performance. (Section 2.1.5.7).
(Answer ‘‘Yes’’ or ‘‘No’’)
Suitable fill material is used for backfilling.
If Yes, continue to C.2.6.1.
If No, stop and make sure suitable fill material is used.
(Answer ‘‘Yes’’ or ‘‘No’’)
C.2.7 Flushing
Make sure that proper flushing of all underground piping is conducted to ensure that foreign materials are
removed. (Section 2.1.5.8).
(Answer ‘‘Yes’’ or ‘‘No’’)
Flushing completed per accepted practices.
If Yes, continue to C.3.
If No, make sure flushing is completed and foreign materials are removed.