What the FDC Is & How It Works

When it comes to fire safety, there are many systems in place to help protect us and our property. One critical component of community fire safety is the Fire Department Connection (FDC).

Understanding how the FDC works and how to keep it in optimal shape so it’s ready in an emergency is crucial for anyone responsible for building safety.

What Is an FDC?

The Fire Department Connection serves as a lifeline for firefighters during an emergency. It’s a dedicated connection point on the exterior of a building that allows firefighters to pump water directly into the building’s fire sprinkler or standpipe system.

This connection gives them quick access to a reliable water supply, allowing for a faster response to a fire, and can make the difference in saving a building.

FDCs come in different varieties to accommodate various building setups:

• Double inlet: This is the most common type and features two inlets side by side, allowing for multiple hoses to be attached.
• Storz connection: A single-hose connection that’s becoming more common, especially in newer installations or smaller structures, because of its quick connection capabilities.
• Multiple inlet connection: Used in larger and taller buildings with multiple fire protection systems.

How the FDC Works

The FDC is a crucial piece of equipment, but it’s only effective if it’s placed properly and maintained over time.

FDCs are generally made from brass or stainless steel so they can be dependable over time and sustain environmental wear and tear. They’re typically near the front of a building, somewhere easily accessible for firefighters, and within 100 feet of a hydrant.

The area around an FDC is required to be clear of obstructions like bushes, parked cars, or snow so that if necessary, firefighters can connect hoses quickly.

Process During an Emergency

1. When arriving at the scene, firefighters attach hoses to the FDC inlets and connect the other end to their engine, which pumps water from the nearby hydrant.
2. Once connected, water flows from the engine through the FDC and into the building’s sprinkler or standpipe system, with the goal of supplying sufficient water pressure to suppress the fire.

Importance of Proper Maintenance

Regular maintenance protects your system against common issues like debris, dirt, or other materials that can clog the inlets and prevent proper water connection.

FDCs are also often subject to harm from weather conditions or intentional tampering. Over time, the components of the FDC can also experience corrosion that will deem them unusable.

These issues are problematic if not checked regularly so they can be addressed before an emergency occurs. Neglecting FDC maintenance also has legal and safety implications and can result in fines or other penalties. Most of all though, FDC neglect puts lives at risk.

Regular inspections and maintenance can prevent compounding issues and ensure an FDC is effective and ready when it’s needed.

Regular Inspections & Maintenance Procedures

An FDC should be inspected and maintained annually at a minimum and should include:

• A thorough evaluation: An inspection should check the inlets for blockages and assess the condition of all the components, including the caps and valves, to ensure they’re functioning properly.
• Cleaning and lubrication: With each maintenance service, inlet caps should be cleaned, and components should be lubricated to prevent rust or corrosion.
• Repairs and replacements: Any damaged or worn parts should be repaired or replaced immediately to avoid operational failure during an emergency.

Contact the Experts at Unifour Fire & Safety

At Unifour Fire & Safety, we specialize in FDC maintenance, inspections, and repairs. We pride ourselves on being trusted partners that ensure your building is always prepared in the event of a fire.

The Unifour team includes only the most knowledgeable and experienced fire protection specialists who understand the ins and outs of what’s needed for comprehensive protection.

As a one-stop shop for fire protection services, we’re ready to assist 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact us to learn more about our FDC inspections and maintenance today.