Which NFPA standard covers suction intake screens on open-source water supplies?

Which NFPA standard covers suction intake screens on open-source water supplies?

• A. NFPA 20
• B. NFPA 13
• C. NFPA 25
• D. NFPA 14

Answer: (A)

The main idea is recognizing that suction intake screens on open-water supplies are part of how a fire pump is installed. NFPA 20 covers the installation of fire pumps, including how the pump is supplied with water from various sources. That includes the suction side from open water sources and the protections needed to keep debris out of the pump, such as screens or strainers at the suction intake. Because this standard addresses the proper arrangement, protection, and performance of the pump and its water supply, it’s the right reference for suction intake screens on open-source water supplies. The other standards focus on different systems: NFPA 13 deals with sprinkler system installation, NFPA 14 covers standpipes and hose systems, and NFPA 25 concerns inspection and maintenance of water-based fire protection systems. Those don’t govern the design details of a pump’s suction intake from an open water source, so they’re not the appropriate guide for this topic.

The main idea is recognizing that suction intake screens on open-water supplies are part of how a fire pump is installed. NFPA 20 covers the installation of fire pumps, including how the pump is supplied with water from various sources. That includes the suction side from open water sources and the protections needed to keep debris out of the pump, such as screens or strainers at the suction intake. Because this standard addresses the proper arrangement, protection, and performance of the pump and its water supply, it’s the right reference for suction intake screens on open-source water supplies.

The other standards focus on different systems: NFPA 13 deals with sprinkler system installation, NFPA 14 covers standpipes and hose systems, and NFPA 25 concerns inspection and maintenance of water-based fire protection systems. Those don’t govern the design details of a pump’s suction intake from an open water source, so they’re not the appropriate guide for this topic.