Free S-13 Valve Types, Sealing/Locking Requirements, and Normal Operating Positions Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the normal operating position for a control valve in a standpipe system?
- Partially closed
- Fully closed
- Fully open (Correct answer)
- Half open
Correct answer: Fully open
Control valves must be kept in the fully open position to ensure an unobstructed water supply is available to the standpipe system at all times. This allows for immediate use by firefighters or building occupants. Any other position would restrict flow and render the system ineffective.
Question 2: According to FDNY regulations, which of the following is required to secure a standpipe system control valve in its normal open position?
- A standard padlock
- A zip tie
- An FDNY-approved locking device or seal (Correct answer)
- A wire twist tie
Correct answer: An FDNY-approved locking device or seal
To prevent unauthorized or accidental closing, all control valves must be sealed or locked in the open position using a method approved by the FDNY. This ensures the integrity and readiness of the standpipe system. Standard padlocks or temporary ties are not sufficient.
Question 3: An OS&Y valve is in the open position when:
- The stem is not visible.
- The handle is parallel to the pipe.
- The stem is raised and visible. (Correct answer)
- The indicator flag shows 'SHUT'.
Correct answer: The stem is raised and visible.
An OS&Y (Outside Stem and Yoke or Outside Screw and Yoke) valve provides a clear visual indication of its position. When the stem is raised and visible outside the valve body, the valve is open; when the stem is flush or not visible, it is closed.
Question 4: What is the primary purpose of a check valve in a standpipe system?
- To regulate water pressure.
- To allow water to flow in only one direction. (Correct answer)
- To shut off the water supply for maintenance.
- To connect fire hoses.
Correct answer: To allow water to flow in only one direction.
A check valve is a one-way valve that prevents the backflow of water. In a standpipe system, it ensures that water from the Fire Department Connection (FDC) flows into the system and not back out, and it prevents water from the primary supply from flowing out the FDC.
Question 5: A Post Indicator Valve (PIV) is typically found where?
- On the roof, connected to the gravity tank.
- Inside a mechanical room next to the fire pump.
- On the highest floor at the hose connection.
- Outside the building, controlling the underground water main to the system. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Outside the building, controlling the underground water main to the system.
A Post Indicator Valve (PIV) is a type of control valve located outside the building, usually in the yard or parking area. It controls the underground water supply main to the building's fire protection system and provides a clear visual indication ('OPEN' or 'SHUT') of the valve's status above ground.
Question 6: If a Certificate of Fitness holder finds a sealed control valve that is not in the fully open position, what is the first action they should take?
- Break the seal and open the valve immediately.
- Immediately notify the building owner and the FDNY. (Correct answer)
- Wait for the next scheduled inspection.
- Close the valve completely before reopening it.
Correct answer: Immediately notify the building owner and the FDNY.
Finding a sealed control valve in any position other than fully open is a serious impairment. The Certificate of Fitness holder must immediately notify the building owner, who is then responsible for notifying the FDNY and taking corrective action. The C of F holder should not break seals or operate valves without proper authorization.
Free S-13 Valve Types, Sealing/Locking Requirements, and Normal Operating Positions Questions and Answers
What is the normal operating position for a control valve in a standpipe system?