If a technician needs guidance on the maintenance of water-based fire protection systems, which standard applies?

• A. NFPA 70
• B. NFPA 25
• C. NFPA 13
• D. NFPA 101

Answer: (B)

Maintenance guidance for water-based fire protection systems is provided by NFPA 25. This standard outlines inspection, testing, and maintenance requirements to keep sprinkler systems, pumps, valves, and water supplies functioning properly. It covers what to inspect, how to perform testing, frequency intervals, qualification of personnel, and required recordkeeping. Following NFPA 25 helps ensure that any degradation or failure is detected and corrected before a fire occurs. The other standards address different topics: NFPA 70 covers electrical installations; NFPA 13 deals with the design and installation of sprinkler systems; NFPA 101 focuses on life-safety provisions in occupancies. Therefore, for guidance on maintenance of water-based systems, NFPA 25 is the applicable standard.