One of the best fire pump liability tips is to deploy clear communication with building owners or their designated representatives during a fire protection system impairment. This is important, not just to mitigate a contractor’s liability, but also to help safeguard their customers’ property and occupants through education and recommendations to maintain compliance with NFPA standards.
Fire Pump Liability Tips:
NFPA 20 Code Prohibits Using A Fire Pump In Lieu Of A Jockey Pump
When a jockey pump is out of service, owners may request that the fire pump remain running to maintain system pressure and avoid the cost and inconvenience of impairing the system(s). However, NFPA 20 explicitly prohibits this practice. Why? Using a fire pump in place of the jockey pump can lead to significant risks, including pressure surges, potential system failures, water damage, and flooding. Fire pumps are not designed for short-duration operations to compensate for pressure drops. The improper use of a fire pump in this way can compromise the integrity of sprinkler and standpipe systems.
Fire Pump Liability Tips:
RSP Provides Owner Notifications That Can Mitigate A Contractor’s Liability
To help our insureds manage this risk, Risk Suppression Partners provides comprehensive owner notifications that can be branded by our insureds and given to their customers. These notifications serve a dual purpose. First, they educate owners on code requirements. Second, these owner notifications provide written documentation of the impairment and the recommended course of action.
When a jockey pump is out of service, owners are advised that their fire protection system is impaired and that compliance with NFPA 25 requires proper notification and impairment procedures. Additionally, the notifications reinforce the responsibility of the building owner or their designated representative to maintain a safe environment. This may include implementing a fire watch, taking additional precautions, and notifying their property insurance carrier and AHJ.
Fire Pump Liability Tips:
A Release of Liability Form Is Another Options
As a last-resort measure, Risk Suppression Partners also offers a Release of Liability form for fire protection systems contractors that it insures. This document acknowledges that the owner has read the notification and understands the risks associated with operating a fire pump without a jockey pump and agrees to release the contractor from liability. It also includes indemnification language to mitigate the effect of claims brought against the contractor that may arise due to a building owner failing to comply with the contractor’s recommended course of action and NFPA standards.
These resources are readily available in our Customer Portal and via email, ensuring that our insureds can access them easily and when needed. By utilizing written notifications and, when necessary, the Release of Liability, contractors can guide owners toward informed decisions that safeguard all stakeholders’ interests.